Definition: Mode of transport

Category: External trade

"Mode of transport" at the external frontier is one of the items of statistical data that are available for both intra-EU and extra-EU trade, although, from 1 January 2001, to reduce the burden on enterprises this information is not required from those below the "specific threshold" relating to intra-EU trade.

The mode is defined for outward flows as the active means of transport with which goods are presumed to leave the statistical territory of the Community for exports or of the Member State of dispatch for dispatches. For inward flows it is defined as the active means of transport with which the goods are presumed to have entered the statistical territory of the Community for imports or of the relevant Member State for arrivals.
The modes of transport required to be distinguished by EU legislation are:-

 Sea transport
 Rail transport 
 Road transport
 Air transport
 Postal consignment
 Fixed transport installations
 Inland water transport
 Own propulsion

In addition, the legislation suggests further detail that Member States may wish to adopt in a harmonised way.