What is Intermodal?
Intermodal transportation involves moving freight using two or more modes of transport (truck, rail, ship) while keeping the cargo in standardized containers. The key advantage is that the freight itself is not handled during mode changes-only the container is transferred.
Common Intermodal Combinations
- Truck-Rail-Truck: Drayage to rail yard, rail move, drayage to destination
- Ship-Truck: Ocean container moved by truck from port
- Ship-Rail-Truck: Ocean container to rail to final destination
Intermodal Equipment
- COFC: Container on flatcar
- TOFC: Trailer on flatcar (piggyback)
- Double-stack: Two containers stacked on rail cars
- Chassis: Wheeled frame for containers
Benefits of Intermodal
- Cost savings (15-40% vs over-the-road)
- Reduced environmental impact
- Capacity for long-distance moves
- Less highway congestion
- Reduced driver shortage impact
Intermodal Considerations
- Longer transit times than truck
- Less flexible scheduling
- Requires drayage on both ends
- Distance typically 500+ miles to be cost-effective
For more details, see:What is Intermodal Transportation?