What Is Intermodal Shipping?
Intermodal shipping uses standardized containers that move seamlessly between different transportation modes—typically truck, rail, and sometimes ship—without unloading the cargo itself.
How Intermodal Works
- Drayage pickup: Truck picks up container from shipper
- Rail terminal: Container loaded onto train
- Line haul: Rail moves container long distance
- Destination terminal: Container unloaded from train
- Final delivery: Truck delivers to consignee
Intermodal Equipment
Containers
- 53-foot domestic: Standard US intermodal container
- 40/45-foot international: ISO containers from ocean shipping
- 20-foot: Less common domestically
Rail Equipment
- Stack trains: Containers stacked two high
- Spine cars: Single container on articulated rail cars
- TOFC: Trailer on flat car (less common now)
When to Use Intermodal
Good Fit:
- Distance over 500-700 miles
- Transit time flexibility (1-2 days longer than truck)
- Cost-sensitive, high-volume freight
- Consistent lanes with good rail service
Not Ideal:
- Short distances
- Time-critical shipments
- Remote locations far from rail terminals
- Inconsistent volume
Cost Comparison
- Intermodal typically 10-20% cheaper than truckload
- Savings increase with distance
- Fuel surcharges often lower
- Consider total cost including drayage
Transit Time Considerations
- Generally 1-3 days longer than direct truck
- Terminal handling adds time
- Schedule reliability varies by lane
- Weather and congestion can cause delays
Major Intermodal Lanes
- Los Angeles to Chicago
- Los Angeles to Dallas/Texas
- Chicago to East Coast
- Pacific Northwest to Midwest/East
Working with Intermodal Providers
Options:
- Rail directly: BNSF, Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern, CSX
- IMCs (Intermodal Marketing Companies): Brokers that consolidate volume
- Asset-based providers: J.B. Hunt, Schneider, Hub Group
Booking and Documentation
- Book in advance for best rates and capacity
- Provide accurate weights and dimensions
- Meet terminal cutoff times
- Track shipments through provider portals
Sustainability Benefits
- Rail is 3-4x more fuel efficient than truck
- Lower carbon emissions per ton-mile
- Supports corporate sustainability goals
- May qualify for green logistics programs
Common Challenges
- Limited flexibility for changes
- Terminal congestion during peaks
- Weather disruptions
- Last-mile drayage availability
- Equipment repositioning
Best Practices
- Build intermodal into regular lanes
- Allow buffer time for connections
- Develop backup truck capacity
- Monitor performance and adjust
