The transportation industry moves cargo, passengers, and information using land, sea, air, and space. It includes multinational companies, manufacturers, and IT professionals. Logistics and professional organizations are also important.
The transportation industry is a global industry that meets the need to move cargo, passengers, and information as efficiently as possible. The transportation industry uses land, sea, air, and space to get things where they need to go. Many multinational companies play some role in this industry, be it maintaining infrastructure, building equipment, or supplying personnel. This industry is generally in a steady state of growth, except in very poor economic conditions.
In terms of cargo, the transportation industry handles a variety of goods and provides numerous services to consumers and customers. Freight can be transported by ship, plane, pipeline, or truck, and for small orders can be divided for transportation by car and other smaller modes of transportation. Concerns with freight forwarding include the ability to secure supplies, deliver loads accurately, and reduce transportation time. Freight, storage and delivery rates may vary. Some products need more protection and careful handling and are therefore more expensive.
Passengers move on buses, planes, boats, and smaller vehicles like cars. The passenger transportation industry includes a number of commercial airlines, train companies, and bus services, as well as the companies that service them. Manufacturers of products for the transportation industry work to supply the necessary equipment, while people such as information technology professionals develop the infrastructure to support it. Airlines, for example, rely heavily on automated, real-time systems to update reservations and manage flights.
Information technology is a key part of the transportation industry. Many companies use computer systems to handle information and must be able to transmit information reliably and securely between destinations. This is a part of the larger logistics industry that supports transportation professionals. Without the ability to transmit, control and secure information, many companies would be unable to offer the services their customers expect, from package tracking to secure ordering. Logistics also includes the development of packaging, inventory control systems, and related products and services.
In many nations, professional organizations represent the industry. They work with legislators and other policymakers to establish a favorable business climate and address concerns such as the threat of terrorism in ports. These organizations also engage in advertising campaigns and public outreach to make members of the general public aware of the services offered by the transportation industry. They can also set and enforce standards and help their member companies with issues like litigation and regulatory compliance.
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