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Intermodal transport is often touted as an environmentally sustainable mode of transport, especially when considering its share of the total supply chain. This article addresses the topical and sensitive issue of supply chain assessment in terms of the carbon footprint and energy effi ciency of external transportation from the point of production to the customer. The long transportation distances overseas and the variety of operational sea container services result in signifi cant variations in delivery times from Asian markets. In addition, disruptive events such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the Ukraine confl ict have led to longer transportation times and lower reliability of various maritime services. The study examines the variety of existing direct container services from Asia to the Northern Adriatic. In addition to the two direct container services already established, another dedicated container service has been established primarily to serve a large retail chain in the European market. The “newly established” container service is characterised by its limited port coverage and the use of relatively small container ships with a maximum capacity of 5.500 TEU. The comparisons between the services highlight the diff erences in transport time and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, as well as the energy effi ciency of container transport. The study empirically confi rms the widespread assumption that larger and modern container ships off er environmental benefi ts, provided that cargo space is used effi ciently and ship operators adopt slow steaming. However, the study also highlights the signifi cant diff erences in GHG emissions between diff erent services and emphasises the need for more comprehensive information and awareness among cargo owners to design sustainable supply chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]