While intermodal freight options have been around for decades, this road plus rail mode has plenty of room to grow. So what's keeping it from doing so? In part, it's simply hesitation from shippers who have not yet tried intermodal who may be operating under a few common misconceptions. If that could describe you, we're here to help you uncover the untapped potential of intermodal shipping for your business.
When it comes to shipping, many companies shy away from intermodal options because they believe the routes are too complicated or lanes too inflexible. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Working with an IMC (intermodal marketing company) takes the complexity away from a shipper's perspective. The IMC handles all the planning and execution of an intermodal route, from origin dray to final mile delivery, ensuring a door-to-door process through a single point of contact.
Intermodal routes are meticulously planned and can be tailored to meet specific needs, providing a seamless transition between different modes of transport. Think of it as a well-choreographed dance—each mode of transport, whether it's rail or intermodal truck, moves in harmony to get your cargo from point A to point B efficiently - with the IMC serving as the choreographer.
The related hesitation regarding flexibility is also misguided, as most companies have at least some freight lanes that fit the qualities of a good intermodal lane. Those include a dray distance of under 50 (sometimes 100) miles to and from rail ramps, and a long-haul of 700 miles or more (though sometimes as little as 450 miles). With a little bit of planning, intermodal can offer routes that are just as straightforward - and nearly as flexible - as traditional trucking routes.
Another common worry is the potential for cargo damage via intermodal transport. However, the risk of damage tends to be no greater - and in fact, often smaller - than truckload shipments. Statistics from Union Pacific suggest just 0.2% of intermodal loads suffer damage. A typical intermodal move keeps cargo in a sealed container from origin to destination - meaning there's no handling at all for hundreds of miles. The smaller amount of time on the road also avoids worries about potholes or traffic accidents.
While traveling via the rail brings in harmonic vibration - a slow, steady vibration that causes the pallets to float at one speed - these are consistent throughout the journey and easily addressed. Shippers simply need to ensure they consider proper blocking and bracing when loading containers at their distribution centers - accounting for the weight and density (and type) of products as they pack their pallets to prevent shifting that could cause damage. IMCs and the railroads are happy to provide individualized guidance on packaging and packing to ensure the smoothest journey - as they also have a vested interest in avoiding any cargo damage or loss.
Time is money, and the idea that intermodal shipping is slower can be a deal-breaker for many companies. However, let’s set the record straight: there's no large gap between intermodal and over-the-road transit. It generally comes down to planning to account for shipping time. A good rule of thumb puts intermodal transit at truck, plus a day (two days if using multiple railroads). Getting into a routine around this transit can allow shippers plenty of time to ensure their cargo arrives when needed.
To take it a step further, there are plenty of scenarios in which intermodal can be just as fast, if not faster, than traditional over-the-road shipping, especially for longer distances. Intermodal leverages the strengths of each mode of transport—trucks for short hauls and rail for the long stretches. This combination often results in faster transit times, as trains can travel at higher speeds and with fewer stops compared to trucks. Plus, rail is less susceptible to road congestion, slowdowns at border crossings when it comes to Mexico shipping, and weather delays, making it a reliable option for timely deliveries.
Reliability is a cornerstone of effective logistics, and intermodal shipping has made significant strides in this area. Modern tracking technologies and real-time data updates mean you can monitor your shipment every step of the way, giving you peace of mind. Railroads also stick to consistent schedules, so as long as proper planning occurs, shipments will reliably reach their destination on-time.
An additional aspect of reliability not often considered is availability - as in, capacity that's ready to use. Depending on the freight environment, there may be situations which particularly constrain over-the-road capacity. However, rail networks generally have ample available capacity no matter the time of year or whatever fits and starts the freight market offers.
Moreover, railroads have invested heavily in infrastructure and technology to improve the reliability of their services. Combined with the flexibility of trucking for the first and last mile piece of the journey (with plentiful dray options), intermodal offers a highly dependable solution for your shipping needs.
Intermodal shipping is not just a viable option; it's the future of efficient logistics. With growing concerns about sustainability and cost-efficiency, intermodal offers a greener and often more affordable alternative to traditional trucking.
By combining the strengths of multiple transport modes, intermodal delivers a comprehensive, flexible, and reliable shipping solution. It’s time to bust the myths and embrace the benefits of intermodal shipping. Your bottom line—and the planet—will thank you.
To get started with intermodal, just reach out, and we'll get back to you to discuss how we can make it seamlessly fit your business.