Intermodal Freight Trucking - Cheapest & Fastest Way
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If you need to ship cargo domestically or internationally, you may have encountered intermodal freight trucking. People sometimes skip over this option because they do not understand it or think it will cost much more. However, this article will explain how intermodal freight trucking works and how it can save you money.
Firstly, when it comes to trucking freight, intermodal freight transport means that your goods will be shipped using different modes of transportation. This usually entails the transport of a shipping container using air, rail, sea, or road. An example of intermodal shipping would be an American cargo ship arriving in China that will have its cargo offloaded and transported via trucks to various provinces. The transport modes depend on your shipping requirements, delivery/transport time, and destination.
Intermodal trucking, in particular, refers to the trucking aspect of intermodal transport. It is usually the first and/or last mode of transportation that cargo goes through.
There are many advantages to intermodal freight trucking. The first of which is a reduction in cargo handling. A single shipping container throughout the process means the cargo will be handled less. This lowers the risk of damage.
Secondly, different modes of transport make accessibility easier. Air, sea, and rail freight have some limitations. Therefore, you can use these modes of transport in combination with trucking to get to your delivery destination.
Lastly, intermodal trucking can be the cheapest way to ship your cargo. Other modes of shipping, especially air freight, can be expensive. Thus, using a combination of sea and land transport can be cheaper. You can use an online truck freight shipping calculator to help you compare rates.
You can also consider full truckload/FTL freight shipping and less than truckload/LTL freight shipping. FTL freight shipping will be the fastest way to get your shipment to its destination. The truck will only be carrying your cargo, and you will have more control over the delivery/transport time. However, FTL shipping can be expensive if you don’t have enough cargo to fill a truck or shipping container.
LTL freight shipping refers to shipping less than a truckload. It can be a cheaper way to ship as you only pay for the space your cargo occupies. Thus, the max weight/size of your cargo and the delivery destination will be crucial factors in determining the cost. LTL freight shipping may be cheaper but also slower as trucks have to make multiple stops for deliveries.
The choice between intermodal and FTL shipping comes down to your requirements. If a quick delivery time is your primary goal, then FTL shipping will be your best option. Your cargo will reach its destination faster as there will be no delays and only one mode of transportation. It is also best if your cargo is fragile.
If you want to save on costs, intermodal trucking is your best option. However, delivery will take longer, and there is less flexibility with the overall schedule.
Intermodal freight trucking can be a great option if you have cargo to move. It applies to both domestic and international shipping. You can use a freight shipping calculator to understand which option best suits your shipping requirements.
