IntermodalTransportlösung

Intermodal transport, also called intermodal transportation, is a method of moving freight using more than one mode of transport—typically road, rail, sea, or river—without handling the cargo when changing modes. The cargo remains in standardized intermodal containers or trailers that are transferred between ships, trains, and trucks using specialized equipment such as cranes and reachstackers. A single bill of lading covers the entire trip, while the container’s standardized dimensions (most commonly 20-foot and 40-foot) enable seamless transfers at intermodal terminals and ports.

Intermodal networks arrange shipments through hubs and gateways, using rail yards and container terminals to maximize efficiency and reduce road mileage. Intermodal transport is widely used for international and long-haul domestic freight, complementing pure road transport by improving energy efficiency and reducing congestion and emissions per ton-mile.

Historically, containerization in the mid-20th century enabled rapid growth of intermodal logistics. Since then, global trade and the expansion of rail and port infrastructure have made intermodal a central component of supply chains in many regions.

Operationally, shipments are planned to optimize mode changes, interterminal transfers, and last-mile delivery. Costs are influenced by equipment utilization, terminal efficiency, drayage fees, and modal availability. Challenges include capital costs for containers and chassis, coordination among carriers, regulatory differences, and terminal congestion.

Overall, intermodal transport has become a foundational approach in modern logistics, balancing speed, reliability, and sustainability in diverse freight corridors.