Intermodal Railway Operators Key Terms

Learn the terms associated with intermodal railway operators

By Gail_Roberts

Intermodal transportation refers to transporting freight by two or more methods of shipping, such as ship and train or truck and train. If you plan to become an intermodal railway operator, or are researching the industry and career, you should become familiar with some special terms. Learn about special programs for intermodal operators, training institutes and industry terminology. Some of these key terms include the Intermodal Association of North America, the North American Container System, the Intermodal Security Training Exercise Program, the Intermodal Transportation Institute, Rail Security Sensitive Materials and the EPA's SmartWay Transport program.

Intermodal Association of North America (IANA)

Many companies that hire intermodal railway operators are members of the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA). This trade association promotes intermodal transportation, provides members with resources for professional development and participates in proceedings that impact the industry.
Try: Read about the benefits of the Intermodal Association of North America.

North American Container System (NACS)

Intermodal railway operators should be familiar with the North American Container System (NACS), which is a program that aids in the free interchange of domestic 48-foot and 53-foot containers among participating railroads.
Try: Inbound Logistics provides a little more insight into the application of this program for companies.

Intermodal Security Training Exercise Program (I-STEP)

The Intermodal Security Training Exercise Program (I-STEP) exists to prepare intermodal operators in the unique security issues that face the industry. The training is conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Try: Get more information on the Intermodal Security Training Exercise Program (I-STEP) at FBO.gov and the Transportation Security Administration.

Intermodal Transportation Institute (ITI)

The Intermodal Transportation Institute (ITI) is a part of the University of Denver. It is an academic institute on intermodal transportation systems, offering an executive master's program for intermodal transportation leadership.
Try: Visit the Intermodal Transportation Institute - University of Denver for more details.

Rail Security Sensitive Materials

Toxic-by-inhalation materials (TIH), poisonous-by-inhalation materials (PIH), explosives and radioactive materials in bulk comprise what the government calls rail security sensitive materials. These materials can be dangerous during intermodal transportation and are subject to specific regulations set by the TSA.
Try: BNSF Railway provides a further explanation of these materials and the special regulations that apply.

SmartWay Transport

SmartWay Transport is a program in which the EPA collaborates with the freight industry to make transportation more energy-efficient. Intermodal operators and their employers can partner up with the program to save money, reduce emissions and become socially responsible leaders in the industry.
Try: Read about intermodal shipping with the SmartWay Transport program at EPA.