Comparing Intermodal Drayage Shipping Methods: Trucks and Trains

Intermodal drayage is the combination of transportation methods used to transport containerized goods, primarily by long haul truck between rail ramps, ocean ports and shipping docks. IANA stated in a post that in 2014, more than 16 million containers and trailers were transported by North American railroads-  a hefty 4.8 percent increase from 2013, and those numbers are increasing as intermodal drayage is quickly becoming the preferred and popular option to ship fast and efficiently while saving money and factoring in sustainable practices.

How can you improve the freight efficiency of your supply chain by incorporating intermodal drayage into the mix? First, it’s a good idea to become familiar with what rail and long haul trucking have to offer, so you can decide which combination works best for you.

America depends on its trucks

A post by Cerasis estimates that 9.4 billion tons of freight is shipped by US intermodal trucking companies every year- that’s 70%! Long and short haul carriers are depended on day and night, and even with rail becoming a more cost effective and green option to to ship long distances because of hefty fuel prices over the road, companies still rely heavily on truck flexibility, especially for short distance shipping and to bring freight from the rail ramp to its final destination. As long as there are roads and streets, trucks can go anywhere, with door-to-door service and they can be loaded and unloaded with ease.

Go green with the railway

Trains have been around for decades and are becoming widely used in logistics as companies turn to more eco friendly business practices. According to an article by Freight Arranger, rail freight releases 33% of the CO2 of a long haul truck, making it highly sustainable for long distance, cross country shipping in the US. Not only that, but trains can move four times more than trucks per gallon, saving considerably on fuel, energy and money. Overall, by incorporating the use of trains to move shipments over long distances with trucks finishing the job by moving cargo to the final destination, the Rocky Mountain Institute estimates it could save upwards of 25% of heavy truck fuel by 2050.

What are you waiting for?

Learn more about the numerous opportunities and benefits of intermodal drayage in Jacksonville, FL. US1 Network offers a vast network of drayage professionals and services to get your shipments moved with timely precision. Contact us today and let us know your needs!