You’ve likely seen containers moving on trains and wondered if that’s a better option than a standard truck. This is called “Intermodal Shipping”—using two or more modes of transport (usually rail and truck) to move freight
Why Choose Intermodal?
- Cost Savings: For long-distance shipments (over 500 miles), rail is much cheaper than fuel-heavy long-haul trucking.
- Eco-Friendly: Trains are incredibly fuel-efficient. One train can carry the load of hundreds of trucks, cutting carbon emissions by up to 75%.
- Consistent Capacity: When truck drivers are in short supply, the rail system offers a reliable alternative to keep your goods moving.
When to Stick with Trucking? If your shipment is urgent or covers a short distance, a standard truck is usually faster. Intermodal takes a bit longer due to the transferring of containers at rail ramps.
Conclusion Intermodal is perfect for non-urgent, heavy, or long-distance freight. If you want to go green and save green, it’s time to look at the tracks.