Can regional lines of intermodal railways save you money? Intermodal companies use more than one means of transportation to haul cargo, some of which are railroads, ships and trucks. Cargo is loaded in specialized metal containers at the beginning a journey and is transferred from one mode of transportation to the next. The containers remain loaded until they reach the final destination or distribution point. Therefore, intermodal transport is efficient, and may save you both time and money.

Regional railways are a vital leg of the overland transportation system. Shipping everything by truck would unnecessarily cumber the already congested roadways. Besides, many carriers are scrounging for truck drivers as is. Without regional railway transport almost all deliveries would be delayed. Some indefinitely.

Consider the following while looking for regional railways in the US.

1. US regional lines of intermodal railways perform operations within specific areas of the country.

2. Regional express railways offer even faster service than standard rail lines.

3. Find intermodal businesses near you.

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

Find regional railways in your state

It is not easy to decide which company is best for you. The size of the company and time in business are two factors to help determine if a company is reliable.

I recommend: One of the largest intermodal companies in the United States is J.B. Hunt. A map of their regional intermodal service areas is available on its website. The Vermont Rail System began operations in 1964. It serves Vermont and the surrounding area, providing intermodal transport in conjunction with other carrier businesses. Check its website to see a map of its service area.

Look into regional express railway service for prompt delivery

Regional express railways are the quickest way to move your products in many areas. The express runs do not make as many stops as standard rail services so your shipment has fewer delays. In some areas, you can find express intermodal passenger or commuter service.

I recommend: Schneider National provides express intermodal shipping by rail, ship and truck. It serves the cities of San Bernardino, Kansas City, Phoenix, and others. The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) provides public transportation by means of light rail vehicles, commuter rail cars and passenger buses. You can run an online trip planner before traveling through any of six Utah counties at the UTA website.

Use a trusted regional lines of intermodal railways directory

Railroad associations are a good place to start to find regional lines of intermodal railways in your area or that will connect your cargo to the region of the United States to which it needs to ship.

I recommend: The Intermodal Association of North America is a major association representing the interests of the intermodal freight industry. You can see a directory of intermodal terminals and carriers at its website. The American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association is an association of regional independent short line railroad businesses in the United States, many of which offer intermodal carrier services. Find a map of its members and operational regions at its site.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If protecting the environment is a major goal for your business, ship with a regional railway using well cars. A well car sits lower than a flat car, so cargo containers can be stacked piggyback. This allows double the cargo in one shipment, saving shipping costs and reducing fuel expenditures. A ton of cargo on a train loaded with well cars and double-stacked containers averages more than 400 miles per gallon of fuel. You will save transport costs and help air quality through reduced emissions.