Guide to Short Lines of Intermodal Railways

Keep your business moving with providers of intermodal short line railways

By Lisa J. Jackson, Writer / Editor

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find the best intermodal short line railway companies for your business

A great resource for finding any intermodal railway line is a railroad association. The organization will have easy ways of identifying and finding railway company that best suits your business needs so you can ship or receive cargo.

I recommend: You can locate an intermodal terminal by city or carrier through the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA). You can search the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) site of US regional independent short line railroad businesses by name, location, commodities hauled, or by interchange to find the intermodal railway short lines you require.

Get from here to there with a short line railway company

There are numerous short rail line companies across the continent to help you get cargo from point A to point B. The route may not be in a straight line, but short line railroads are an efficient way to make a delivery.

I recommend: Aberdeen & Rockfish Railroad offers short rail lines between the CSX Railroad and Norfolk Southern Railroad if your shipping needs involve North Carolina. Get in touch with the Fort Worth & Western Railroad if your shipping requirements involve north central Texas or connection with central and western Mexico.

Seek out the intermodal carriers who can save you the most money

Intermodal short line railways generally offer the most expedient way to transport freight. By working with an intermodal carrier company on a regular basis you can get comfortable with the service and maintain a handle on your operating expenses in the short and long term.

I recommend: CrossRoad Carriers services the Federal Government as well as transportation brokers, trucking companies, and international and domestic freight forwarders. BNSF Railway Company ranks among the top intermodal transporters in the world.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Consider joining a railroad association if your short line intermodal transport needs are long term. Review the benefits offered and see if membership is viable. The connections you'll have access to may be priceless.