Intermodal involves more than one transportation mode. Could it work for you?
You may have heard of intermodal, but have you used this vital supply chain solution before? When a load is shipped intermodal, it means multiple modes of transportation — typically rail and road — are involved. Learn about the benefits of this solution and if intermodal is the right move for your business.
More on intermodal
To qualify as intermodal, freight cannot be handled between modes, meaning the load does not leave the container. For example, a shipment from Los Angeles to New Jersey might involve a truck to transport the goods from the factory to the port, a train to get it across the country, and another truck to deliver the goods to their destination.
Utilizing multiple modes while keeping the shipment in the container it’s loaded into can be a significant advantage for your supply chain.
How intermodal can benefit you
These are the primary benefits of intermodal transportation:
Cost-effectiveness
Because rail is often a cheaper transportation option for longer distances, intermodal can reduce overall shipping costs. By combining different transportation methods, you can get cost-saving benefits while still getting the door-to-door service you need.
Freight safety
Since your load stays in the container instead of being taken out and reloaded, it can reduce handling and the associated risk of damage. Rail lines are also highly secure, which can further protect freight.
Flexibility
The ability to use multiple transportation modes allows for more flexibility in route planning and the ability to navigate around delays or disruptions. If a disruption occurs, you can side-step it using an alternative transportation method.
Sustainability
Rail transportation has a lower carbon footprint per shipment than road transportation. This is because multiple shipments (sometimes hundreds) can be transported on a single train.
Does intermodal make sense for you?
Now that you know the benefits of intermodal transportation, it is time to determine if this mode is right for your business. Here are some common reasons to choose intermodal:
Long-distance shipping
Intermodal shipping provides significant benefits for shipments that need to cover long distances. Because rail is extremely efficient per mile compared with road transportation, intermodal is consistently used for long hauls.
Complex supply chains
Multiple modes may be required when a load needs to traverse different regions, and you need flexibility throughout. If your supply chain is complex, you can utilize these different modes to avoid capacity constraints and tap into potential cost savings.
Consistent volume
If you have regular shipments moving more than 500 miles across the country, intermodal can provide the reliability and predictability you need to ensure goods arrive on schedule.
ArcBest can help with intermodal
ArcBest is here to help with all your domestic intermodal needs. Contact us today to find out how your business can benefit from intermodal shipping or start your intermodal program with ArcBest.
