Intermodal Freight Transport associated with the transportation of freight in an intermodal container, using multiple modes of transportation like ship, rail or trucks, without any handling of the freight when changing modes of transportation. This process reduces cargo handling which improves security, reduced damage and loss, and allows cargo to be transported faster. Special containers are used for intermodal transport which are rectangular boxes capable of being places to special trailers. These steel containers are built to easily transported between different modes of transportation.
An example of how intermodal transportation scenario would process, would be with a truck bringing an empty intermodal container to a consignor to pick up a load. The container would be loaded with the cargo by the consignor and then shipped by the truck to the railroad yard. It is then placed on a trailer of a train and moved to its destination. At the destination, it is removed from the train and placed again to the trucks to be delivered to the consignee, where the cargo of the containers is unloaded. The container is then empty and ready for another freight.
When should you choose Intermodal Shipping?
Here are some points to consider when planning whether intermodal freight transport is worth for your shipments.
- Intermodal Freight Transport is more suitable for intermediate and finished goods in load units of less than 25 tons.
- Freight best suited for intermodal transport are typically longer haul moving more than 200-300 miles.
- Shipment with intermediate values are most likely to be transported by intermodal, High-value cargo are generally sent by direct methods like air cargo.
- Intermodal Transport is a good choice when freight flow needs to be continuous and in similar quantities.