Service
Intermodal Shipping
Intermodal combines truck drayage on each end with rail linehaul in the middle. It typically costs less than over-the-road on lanes over 700 miles, with 1-2 extra transit days.
Key specs at a glance
- Container
- 53 ft domestic
- Weight limit
- ~42,500 lbs
- Savings
- 10-25% vs OTR typical
When to use intermodal shipping
- Lanes over 700 miles
- Cost-sensitive, non-urgent freight
- High-volume repeatable lanes
What it costs and what drives the rate
Rates on intermodal shipping move with lane balance, fuel, seasonality, and how much notice you give. Freight booked three or more days out consistently prices lower than same-day coverage on the same lane. Accessorials such as liftgate, driver assist, detention, and tarping are quoted separately, and we list them on the rate confirmation rather than surprising you on the invoice.
The fastest way to a firm number is a complete freight description: origin and destination ZIP, commodity, weight, dimensions or pallet count, and the pickup window.
Frequently asked questions
Is intermodal slower than truckload?
Usually by 1-2 days on long lanes. The tradeoff is meaningful cost savings and lower emissions.
Can temperature-controlled freight go intermodal?
Yes on select lanes with refrigerated containers, but availability is limited.
Related pages
Get a intermodal shipping quote
Send us the lane, commodity, weight, and pickup window. You will get a firm rate and confirmed capacity, usually within the hour during business hours.