Start with the destination Road transport may deliver directly to an address. A rail option needs to account for terminals and onward delivery to the warehouse. Compare the whole journey The cost of one leg is not the total delivered cost. Ask for collection, transfers and the final mile to be included where needed. Consider the schedule A planned large consignment and an urgent small shipment need different solutions. Share readiness dates, volume and the preferred arrival date. Request two options If both modes are suitable, compare proposals with the same scope of services and clearly stated restrictions.