Several key factors play into how the shipment will be moved. Distance between the origin and the final destination (which often includes a set of intermediary locations), the size and weight of the shipment, the required exterior temperature environment and any time restrictions (perishability) of the product all effect the available transportation options. Short distances can be handled with a van or a truck, while a longer trip may require an airplane or a container ship. In this case, the cost / perishability ratio becomes a factor in modal choice.