Cross-border freight traffic is surging to record levels, with the Census Bureau reporting an astounding $415.4 billion in goods flowing between the U.S. and Mexico during the first half of 2024 alone. That means it's imperative to choose the best option to ensure this growing number of loads arrives reliably.
While intermodal shipping is widely recognized for its cost savings, sustainability, and efficiency, its advantages go even further. In this article, we'll explore how intermodal transportation enhances safety and cargo security compared to traditional truckload shipping. Read on to discover why intermodal shipping is the smarter, safer option for U.S.-Mexico cross-border transport.
1. Controlled Rail Movement
One of the primary advantages of intermodal shipping is the controlled movement of goods by rail. Rail transportation, a key component of intermodal, is inherently less susceptible to disruptions and theft compared to truckload shipping. Rail traffic moves along secure, fixed tracks and typically makes fewer stops, reducing their exposure to theft and other risks.
In contrast, truckload shipments are more vulnerable to theft at rest stops, during driver shift changes, or while waiting at border crossings. Rail routes are more closely monitored and are subject to stricter security protocols, particularly during cross-border movements, making it harder for criminals to tamper with shipments.
2. Fewer Touchpoints
Intermodal shipping involves significantly fewer direct human touchpoints than truckload shipping, especially at the border. This makes intermodal freight less vulnerable to theft and delays. While truckload shipments require a driver to cross the border, often subjecting the cargo to more inspections, intermodal shipments are typically transferred between modes without direct human involvement.
For example, trucks crossing into Mexico often face heightened security risks from organized crime at key border points. Trucking in the country is even considered a somewhat dangerous occupation due to the risk of hijacking and associated violence. In comparison, rail shipments typically experience fewer of these challenges, thanks to stricter security protocols and fewer handling points.
Learn more about the challenges of cross-border security and how rail mitigates them.
3. Secure Rail Terminals
Rail terminals are generally more secure than truck stops, especially in high-theft areas. These facilities often feature gated access, 24/7 surveillance, and restricted entry, making them safer places for containers waiting to cross the border. Additionally, many rail operators collaborate with local and federal authorities to ensure comprehensive security measures are in place at border terminals, such as those between the U.S. and Mexico.
This enhanced security helps reduce the risk of theft, especially for high-value cargo that may be more vulnerable in truckload shipments. For more on the topic, take a read on what the Union Pacific has to say about the work they are doing at intermodal terminals to keep goods safer with advanced security measures.
4. Technology and Tracking
Intermodal shipping also benefits from the use of advanced tracking technology. Rail operators like Union Pacific have implemented real-time monitoring systems that track containers from origin to destination. On top of that, those systems also provide visibility to when and where container doors are opened during transit.
The technology not only helps shippers monitor their cargo's progress, it helps them to pinpoint theft locations and identify patterns. All this information aids companies in taking proactive measures to protect their cargo by making it easier to understand exactly where thefts are most likely to occur.
By using GPS tracking and other monitoring tools, companies can significantly reduce the risk of cargo theft or damage during cross-border transportation.
For details on the latest tracking technologies used by major rail companies, explore Union Pacific’s technology updates.
5. Security and Pre-Clearance Advantage
One key benefit of cross-border intermodal shipping is the customs pre-clearance process. This allows freight to be cleared before reaching the actual border, minimizing delays compared to truckload shipments and reduces idle time at the border.
Trucks, on the other hand, often stop for extended periods at customs checkpoints, subjecting them not only to shipment delays, but to an increased exposure to theft while they sit.
6. Better Continuous Flow of Intermodal vs. Truckload
Furthermore, an advantage of intermodal shipping is the ability to maintain a more continuous flow of goods, particularly at the border crossings. Rail shipments often face fewer stops compared to truckload options, keeping cargo in motion and reducing the opportunity for theft or delays.
Unlike truckload shipments, which may be held up at rest stops, refueling stations, or border checkpoints (for inspections or simply due to traffic), intermodal containers tend to experience fewer interruptions, ensuring a more efficient transit process. This uninterrupted movement makes intermodal shipping a preferred choice for shippers looking to avoid costly delays and theft at critical points along the U.S.-Mexico border.
7. Staying Off Mexican Highways for Enhanced Security
Another significant advantage of intermodal shipping is that rail shipments largely avoid Mexico's highways which are particularly vulnerable to theft due to organized crime and poor infrastructure in some areas. By staying on the rail network, intermodal shipments are better protected, as railroads are subject to strict security measures, including surveillance and monitoring by both private security firms and law enforcement.
This reduced exposure to high-risk areas makes intermodal a more secure choice for cross-border shipments, especially for companies transporting high-value or sensitive goods.
Conclusion: Why Intermodal is Safer for Cross-Border Shipping
Intermodal shipping offers a more secure and controlled environment for cross-border shipments, thanks to fewer touchpoints, enhanced rail security, efficient customs processing, and the use of advanced tracking technologies. With increasing risks for truckload shipments at the border, particularly between the U.S. and Mexico, intermodal options provide a safer alternative for high-value and time-sensitive goods.
By leveraging the safety benefits of rail transport, companies can reduce the risk of theft and improve the overall reliability of their cross-border logistics operations.
Shippers seeking a competitive advantage in their supply chains should consider intermodal providers for their ability to help protect their products being shipped cross-border. Here at InTek, we pride ourselves on having your unique needs covered. Reach out to us, and we'll work with you on flexible solutions that fit you best. For more information about InTek, or logistics and supply chain issues in general, check out our Freight Guides.
