Intermodal transport works on a very simple principle: move cargo from one place to another while handling it as little as possible. This shipping method typically requires specialized equipment that can move shipping containers without disrupting their contents, which is why most shippers use intermodal transport companies for their shipping.
Intermodal transportation services operate in nearly every shipping capacity. Intermodal trucking companies carry goods that are pre-packed either on pallets or in special shipping containers to other intermodal sites. From the trucks, the goods are loaded onto a train or boat for further transport. If the item wasn’t already in an enclosed shipping container, it will typically be put in one at this step. After it has gone through this leg of its journey, it will be loaded back onto a truck and taken to its final destination. Think about these intermodal transportation basics:
1. Intermodal trucking companies are usually the first and last step in any intermodal shipping operation.
2. Trains perform most of the domestic or near domestic intermodal transport.
3. Waterborne companies make up the largest part of international intermodal shipping.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Use an intermodal trucking company for your basic shipping needs
While the majority of intermodal transportation is done through boats and trains, the early part is almost always trucks. You need a good overroad company to transport your goods from their point of origin to the next step in transports. At the other end of the transport chain, you need an overroad company to pick up your cargo and take it to its final destination.
I recommend: RSI Logistics has many overland shipping capabilities. They work throughout much of the continental U.S. using both trucks and trains.
Bridge Terminal Transport has a wide shipping area and specializes in ship to land transport.
Find a railway intermodal transportation service
One of the most efficient means of transporting cargo from one place to another is using trains. Trains have a low cost to operate, and they transfer that through low-cost shipping. Much of the domestic shipping in the U.S. and Europe is done using trains.
I recommend: JB Hunt is a well-known and respected logistics company. They ship all over the continental U.S., Canada, Alaska and Mexico. They work closely with both truck and waterborne intermodal companies.
CH Robinson has both a domestic and an international presence. They have a wide range of domestic shipping options but can also arrange rail shipping in Europe, if needed.
Locate waterborne intermodal shipping companies
When shipping internationally, waterborne transport is a safe and reliable method of moving cargo. Cargo ships rent out space to hundreds of different companies with every voyage. This means that the cost of moving the cargo is split between many different people, and the overall cost is very low.
I recommend: Freight Dynamics is a well-known logistics company that operates in nearly all areas of shipping, including waterborne.
Maersk maintains one of the largest shipping systems in the world: water, air, land and rail. They have a wide selection of waterborne transport systems available.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- The world of intermodal services is a web of companies, all working together to move cargo from one place to another. When starting out with intermodal shipping, find out if the companies you already deal with have ties to companies specializing in other forms of transportation. With a small amount of effort, you may be able to use companies and firms that you already feel comfortable with to take you cargo to many new places
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