CPIM Practice Exam

Considering the service desired and the relative cost of the items, which would most likely be shipped by road for a fairly long line haul portion of a trip?

1. Regular shipment of cut flowers direct to a florist shop.

2. Regular shipments of iron ore direct to a foundry.

3. Regular shipments of grain direct to a mill.

4. Emergency maintenance parts direct to an auto plant.

The correct answer is: Regular shipment of cut flowers direct to a florist shop.

The correct choice for items likely to be shipped by road for a fairly long line haul portion of a trip pertains to the nature of the product and its shipping requirements. Regular shipment of cut flowers direct to a florist shop is typically transported by road due to its need for timely delivery and the perishable nature of the product. Flowers require careful handling and quick transportation to prevent spoilage, making road transport a viable option as it allows for more direct routes and rapid responses to logistical needs. In contrast, regular shipments of iron ore, grain, and emergency maintenance parts have different logistical considerations. Iron ore is usually shipped in bulk via rail or water routes due to cost efficiency over long distances. Grain is similarly transported with the emphasis on volume, often utilizing railroads or barges. Emergency maintenance parts might require quick transport but are generally shipped based on urgency, often via air to ensure the shortest delivery time, but this isn't reflective of a long line haul by road. Therefore, the need for quick delivery alongside the delicate nature of cut flowers highlights why they are most likely to be shipped by road, balancing the service required with the realistic parameters of cost and transport suitability for the given scenario.