The term refers to a situation where the party responsible for transportation has the option to select the specific route, carrier, or method of shipping goods to Newport News. This selection is typically influenced by factors such as cost, speed, reliability, and the specific needs of the cargo. For example, an exporter might have the latitude to choose between rail, truck, or a combination of both to deliver goods to the port in Newport News for overseas shipment.
This flexibility offers several advantages. It enables cost optimization by allowing the selection of the most economical transportation method available at a given time. Furthermore, it provides adaptability to changing market conditions, such as fluctuations in fuel prices or unexpected delays with a particular carrier. Historically, this type of autonomy has been a valuable tool for businesses operating in the Hampton Roads region, facilitating efficient and competitive supply chain management.
