In today’s world, efficient transportation is crucial to global trade. Intermodal freight containers help move things around the world. They changed how things are transported, and now they are an important part of transportation. With their unique features of durability, security, and versatility, intermodal freight containers have transformed the global logistics landscape.
Shipping containers can help businesses move things around. They can carry different types of cargo and save money on transportation costs. That is why many businesses like to use them. In this blog, we will explore the revolution of intermodal freight containers and how they are transforming global trade.
What Is Intermodal Container Freight?
Intermodal freight is when you move things like materials in a special container using different kinds of vehicles. These can be ships, trucks, and trains. These containers are usually built according to standardized guidelines set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
The standard measurements of the container make it so that the freight won’t need to be moved to a different container when it’s being transported. This saves time and energy.
Understanding Intermodal Freight
The introduction of standardized shipping containers has resulted in quicker transportation of products and raw materials at a reduced cost. The US military is often credited with the adoption of the Department of Defense’s standards in the 1950s, which later became the basis for the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Intermodal transportation is different from multimodal transportation. Intermodal means using more than one company to move goods. Multimodal means using only one company.
Multimodal transportation is when a delivery company uses more than one type of vehicle to get something from one place to another. They use only one bill, and the same company takes care of everything.
Benefits of using Intermodal Transportation
Intermodal freight transportation is becoming more beneficial with the advancement of logistics strategies. By using a combination of different transportation methods, such as trains and trucks, intermodal transportation offers various shipping options. This can greatly improve the transportation process and the overall success of your company. To summarize, the benefits of intermodal freight transportation include having multiple options for transporting goods.
Lower price value
Shippers want to reduce their shipping expenses, and they can do this by taking advantage of low and predictable pricing. Using this method can save you money. It also makes it easier to load and unload goods, which means that you spend less money on handling costs.
Decreased cargo handling
Intermodal freight transportation involves incorporating trains into the transportation process. Trains can carry more things and go faster than other vehicles. This means they can get there quicker and with more stuff.
Disadvantages of using Intermodal Transport
Intermodal freight transportation involves significant infrastructure costs, including the operation of heavy-duty cranes for the transfer of containers between different modes of transport. Unfortunately, this also means that the staff involved in the process are often at a higher risk due to the use of heavy equipment. It is crucial to invest in safety measures and training to ensure their well-being. Additionally, adequate rail and road access is essential for seaports to ensure efficient transportation of goods. This requires the availability of nearby railways and roads that can support the timely arrival and departure of trucks and trains.
Why Is Intermodal Transportation Important?
Based on the benefits mentioned earlier, it can be inferred that intermodal freight transportation is an efficient method for transporting goods over long distances. This is mainly due to the containers being suitable for multiple modes of transportation, including ground and sea. As a result of the improved transport efficiency, the company’s effectiveness also increases, which can ultimately lead to increased revenue.
The Intermodal Shipping Process
The first step is packing and loading the cargo into the container. It is very important to choose the right container for transporting cargo. The container needs to be strong and protect the cargo from getting hurt. After it is packed and secure, it will be sent to a port where it can get on a ship.
Shipping is intermodal, which means the container is moved from one type of transport to another. The container ship moves it across the ocean to a different port. Then the container is transferred again, this time onto a train or truck.
When the cargo is shipped, the container is not opened. This makes sure that nothing bad happens to the goods in transit, like damage or theft. It also ensures that the goods arrive in good condition just like when they started their journey.
The standardization of the containers also plays a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency of the intermodal shipping process. The containers are made in a special way that follows the rules of the international organization for standardization. This helps them move from one form of transportation to another without having to unpack or repack the cargo inside. This saves time and money.
When Should You Choose Intermodal Shipping?
Intermodal shipping is a good way to move cargo between vehicles like trucks and ships. A big box holds the cargo and it won’t break or get lost. The following are the cases when you need to consider choosing intermodal shipping:
- Intermediate goods (less than 25 tons)
- Long-distance shipments (more than 300 miles)
- Intermediate value cargo
- Continuous cargo needs
- Similar quantities of cargo
Conclusion
Intermodal freight transportation has revolutionized the global logistics landscape. Containers enable goods to be shipped quickly and cost-effectively, reducing the handling time and costs associated with traditional cargo transport. By taking advantage of this form of transport, companies can save money while ensuring their goods arrive safely at their destination. It is important for companies to find out the good things about intermodal shipping so they can make the right decisions about their delivery needs.
On- site storage containers offers a range of shipping containers to meet your needs, with more than 60 depots throughout the United States and Canada. Their inventory includes standard 20ft and 40ft units, as well as open-top and double-door cargo containers. To start your intermodal transport, you can visit their website or call (888) 405-8772.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Intermodal freight containers come in various sizes to accommodate different types of cargo. The two most common sizes are the 20-foot container and the 40-foot container. Additionally, there are specialized containers such as high cube containers (which provide extra height) and open-top containers (used for oversized cargo).
Yes, intermodal freight containers can be used for transporting perishable goods. There are specialized containers known as refrigerated or reefer containers, which have built-in temperature control systems to maintain a specific temperature range. These containers are widely used for transporting perishable items such as fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, and pharmaceuticals, ensuring that the goods remain fresh and undamaged during transit.
Intermodal freight containers play a crucial role in facilitating efficient global trade by providing standardized units for transporting goods across different modes of transportation. These containers can seamlessly transfer from ships to trucks or trains without the need to unload and repack the cargo, reducing handling time and minimizing the risk of damage or loss. Moreover, their standardized sizes and stacking capabilities optimize vessel and storage space, enabling more efficient use of transportation resources.
Intermodal freight containers are designed to provide security for transporting valuable goods. They are made of durable materials such as steel and are equipped with robust locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, modern containers often have advanced tracking systems, allowing shippers to monitor the location and condition of the cargo throughout the shipping process. These security features help protect valuable goods and provide peace of mind to shippers.
Intermodal freight containers contribute to sustainability in several ways. First, their standardized design and efficient use of space optimize transportation resources, reducing fuel consumption and emissions per unit of cargo. Second, intermodal transportation itself is a more sustainable option compared to using a single mode of transportation, as it utilizes multiple modes such as ships, trains, and trucks, which can be more energy-efficient. Lastly, the durability and reusability of these containers reduce the need for disposable packaging materials, minimizing waste in the shipping industry.
