Benefits of Intermodal Trucking

Benefits of Intermodal Trucking

Intermodal trucking consists of moving goods using specialty containers. What makes intermodal trucking unique is that the containers work with a wide range of transportation modes, including trucks, railways, planes, and ships to move cargo from point A to its final destination. The use of specialty containers eliminates the need to repackage goods along the way, which provides increased security, cost savings, and a reduced environmental footprint for companies.

What are some of the many benefits of intermodal trucking and why is it gaining popularity in the middle of increasing logistics demand and a severe shortage of truck drivers?

#1 Intermodal trucking lowers costs

Depending on what you’re transporting and where it’s going, intermodal shipping could save you money. Weight capacity, length of haul, dry distance between intermodal points, and types of intermodal transit involved all represent variables that can make intermodal shipping a more cost effective option than other shipping methods.

Of course, lowered shipping costs is only a side benefit for most companies. If you’re thinking about using intermodal shipping, you’re probably looking into it because of the myriad of other perks it brings to the table, so let’s dive deeper.

#2 Intermodal truck drivers enjoy a better balance

Although many truck drivers find the diversity of the career invigorating, others prefer a more consistent schedule that keeps them close to home. Intermodal truck drivers generally run short hauls between local warehouses and shipyards or railyards and that means there’s no long distance hauling involved. Unlike other truckers, intermodal truckers will rarely spend more than a day or two away from home.

Usually, intermodal trucking deals with parties that operate during standard work hours (i.e. 9 to 5), which means firm appointments for drivers. While they might need to cross a state line or two to reach their destination, intermodal truck drivers are generally staying in a relatively small vicinity. That means fewer hours on the road, fewer nights away from home, and more time to spend with friends and family around home.

In contrast, over-the-road trucking schedules tend to travel longer distances over longer periods of time, with some staying on the road for weeks on end. In short, truck drivers who desire routine, predictability, and spending more time at home can find a healthy work-life balance in intermodal trucking.

#3 Intermodal trucking offers increased security

The specialty containers used in intermodal transport are easily moved from truck bed to rail car, plane, or to ship. Meanwhile, that container is never opened or left unattended. By eliminating the need to repack cargo in-between transitions, packaged goods remain safely sealed until unloaded at their destination.

This added layer of security is simply a by-product of the process, but it’s a perk that many companies take advantage of. Not only does it reduce the chance of theft, but it reduces the risk of damaged and lost goods, too, all while speeding up the process.

#4 Intermodal trucking makes for safer work

Since intermodal shipping containers are loaded and unloaded using special equipment, truck drivers benefit from less time out of the driver’s seat and more time logging miles. Meanwhile, the lack of cargo changeover also increases safety for everyone, including the drivers, the environment, and the goods being hauled.

For example, when hazardous materials are primarily transported via railroad versus over-the-road trucking routes, everyone is safer. That’s why intermodal trucking is extra appealing to companies dealing with hazardous goods.

Additionally, as far as the spin on safety goes, implementing intermodal transportation means that highway congestion is reduced, emissions are lessened, and delivery delays are avoided. Plus, less cargo on the road means less chance of a trucker getting into an accident.

#5 Intermodal trucking reduces emissions

Transporting goods using intermodal methods can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of shipping companies. For instance, using railways or cargo ships to transport large volumes of freight produces far less CO2 emissions than over-the-road trucking.

Additionally, the containers used are made of long-lasting durable materials designed to increase space efficiency and eliminate the need of disposable, single-use packing materials.

#6 Intermodal trucking is flexible and predictable

In spite of the many changes society has undergone over the last 18 months, businesses continue to emerge and expand. This is great for the economy, however it also causes an increase in OTR costs, highway congestion, and limited capacity. When businesses take advantage of intermodal transport, higher volumes of goods can be moved in a timely manner and at reduced rates which are passed down to consumers.

Bottom line, intermodal shipping offers flexible and customizable solutions that can benefit all industries. With the option to choose from multiple transport modes, scheduling and meeting deadlines is easier, moving large volumes of goods can be done more efficiently and securely, and overall expenses can be reduced.

Don’t Miss Out!

Intermodal trucking is just the tip of the iceberg. Looking for more news about trucking and logistics? Visit the TCI blog and sign up for our free newsletter.

Want to learn more about a career in the trucking industry? Whether you’re interested in intermodal or over-the-road trucking, TCIrecruiting.com has a number of positions available all across the country.

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