Intermodal transport moves freight using two or more transport modes while keeping cargo in the same loading unit, such as a container, between modes. The cargo itself is not unloaded at each transfer.
Which modes can be combined?
Common combinations include truck–rail–truck and truck–ocean–rail. Terminals transfer the container or trailer between carriers.
Intermodal versus multimodal transport
Intermodal describes movement by multiple modes and may involve separate contracts. Multimodal often refers to one transport contract covering multiple modes, though usage varies.
What are the potential benefits?
Benefits may include lower long-distance cost, reduced road exposure, access to capacity and environmental efficiency.
What are the operational risks?
Transfers can introduce missed connections, terminal delays, equipment incompatibility and fragmented tracking.
What should be documented?
Keep each carrier, terminal, transport document, handoff event, seal, free-time limit, responsibility and exception tied to the shipment.
