A location where goods are transferred from one mode of transport to another is known as a break-of-bulk point. These locations serve as crucial nodes in transportation networks, facilitating the efficient movement of goods. A common example involves the transfer of cargo from a ship to trucks at a port, enabling distribution to inland destinations. This process is fundamental to global supply chains.
The significance of these points lies in their capacity to streamline logistical operations, potentially reducing transportation costs and improving delivery times. Historically, these locations were often associated with cities that developed as major trading centers due to their strategic positioning on trade routes. Their presence stimulates economic activity in surrounding areas by creating jobs related to warehousing, transportation, and distribution.