(a) Explain five factors affecting the choice of transport of frozen products.
(b) State five disadvantages of air transport.
Explanation
Factors affecting the choice of transport of frozen products:
(i) The reliability of the transport company in delivering goods must be taken into consideration before making his choice.
(ii) The seller should consider the mode that will provide safe and secure delivery for the frozen products.
(iii) Speed/urgency: The most suitable means for delivery of the product before spoilage should be considered.
(iv) Distance: If the destination is far air transport will be preferred for frozen product.
(v) Customer’s directives should be considered when deciding which mode should be used.
(vi) Availability of choices: The availability of refrigerated ships, aircrafts and motor vehicles will be considered when choosing the means.
(vii) Nature of the means: Frozen products should be moved with refrigerated containers.
(viii) The cost of transportation charged by available means will be considered in choosing the mode.
(ix) Weather conditions: The owner of the goods will consider a means that will not be subjected to weather changes that will harm the goods to be sent.
(x) The quantity/volume of goods to be carried will influence the choice of the means.
(b) Disadvantages of Air Transport:
(i) The weight of the goods carried is limited as bulky goods cannot be carried.
(ii) The cost of transport is higher when compared to other forms of transport.
(iii) Air transport is subject to high degree of risks e.g. bad weather makes landing difficult.
(iv) Arrival and departure procedures are cumbersome.
(v) Air transport does not complete a journey. It requires other forms of transport e.g. taxis to complete the journey.
(vi) Inflexibility as flights are scheduled and fixed.
(vii) The maintenance cost of airplane is expensive.
(viii) Accidents when they occur are fatal.