An essential consideration for shippers to ask when starting a supply chain is understanding what is intermodal trucking. Before comprehending this domestic shipping type, the shipper must know what intermodal shipping is. Intermodal shipping is the freight movement using multiple methods of transport, such as land, air, and sea. It typically is for supply chains that include the movement of goods internationally. A common component of this kind of transport is Intermodal trucking. This article will explain the benefits and what you should know when using this transportation method.
What is Intermodal Trucking, And What Are Some Of Its Benefits?
Intermodal trucking is a transport method that Involves multiple shipping methods, including trucking. For example, this can consist of goods shippers importing to a seaport or airport by a vessel, and then a truck transports it to the final destination. The first and last parts of the supply chain typically use trucks, while the middle portion uses another conveyance method. Shippers typically use containers to move the shipment through different transport modes without unloading at each stop. Intermodal trucking has grown in recent years due to its numerous benefits for shipper supply chains. A popular benefit is the flexibility that this shipping method allows for.
Trucking is an ideal way to connect international supply chains due to the ability to access any place domestically. Trucks are not limited by airplane schedules, ocean geographics, and railroad tracks. There are also various methods of trucking, like expedited, heavy-haul, expedited, and more. Another benefit is the cost-effectiveness of this shipping method. Since Intermodal trucking is part of a supply chain with various conveyance types like vessels, thousands of containers can move simultaneously. This translates to cost savings since more containers can move than long-distance (OTR) trucking. Scalability is also advantageous, as shippers can adapt their supply chains to meet demands.
What Can Be Some Challenges?
While there are numerous benefits of using intermodal trucking, there are some challenges shippers should be aware of. Unlike multimodal transport, which uses one contact for various conveyance methods, intermodal uses multiple contracts. It can be challenging to communicate between the different transportation providers. A freight forwarder that can coordinate with numerous carriers simultaneously is ideal for ensuring a smooth shipment. Challenges may also arise from the other supply chain parts, directly affecting trucking. For example, port congestion can delay the first and last-mile domestic shipping logistics. In turn, this can create a ripple effect in the entire supply chain.
A1 Freight Solutions
A standard part of intermodal trucking is drayage services, which transport cargo short distances. Drayage can include moving goods to and from the port to a warehouse or another location. There are also other types, including inter-carrier, intra-carrier, shuttle, and expedited. Speaking to a freight broker is beneficial when deciding to use this service. Freight brokers like A1 Freight Solutions have experience connecting shippers with carriers that can move cargo. We provide drayage and various other services to ensure the success of your supply chain. A1 is with you during the journey until the foods reach the final destination. Reach us at info@a1fsinc.com for a quote to move your cargo anywhere in the U.S.