Globalization integrates production, distribution and consumption across borders creating one market. Global business has grown tremendously since WWII. Organizations like the WTO, along with innovations in technology and transportation constitute substantial movement toward globalization. Potential for creating new markets as well as cost savings push companies to consider globalization. Multi-national firms risk longer lead times, higher logistics costs and possible communication problems. Globalization increases the need for efficient supply chains where all modes of transportation are reliable. Congestion at seaports, on railways, at border crossings and on freeways occurring as a result of globalization causes potentially unmanageable strain on infrastructure.

The effects of globalization on freight transportation