When to Use Intermodal Shipping in North Charleston, SC

Intermodal shipping is a combination of a couple different common forms of cargo transportation. The idea is that freight can be moved from its origin point to its final destination without having to be handled during the changing of modes. In each of the stages of shipping, a different carrier manages the load.

This is becoming a more popular type of shipping and logistics method for a wide variety of businesses, as it cuts down on the time and cost of transportation, despite it often involving several modes of transportation.

Here are some quick examples of a few of the benefits of intermodal transportation in North Charleston, SC:

• Cut costs for transportation: Transportation costs can get expensive in a hurry for companies that rely on cross-country or international shipping. Combining different modes of shipping allows for greater savings opportunities, as some methods (such as rail) can be much less expensive than other methods (such as air). This means greater savings on fuel, and the ability to move freight in containers that do not require individual handling to cut labor costs.
• Environmentally friendly: Alternative modes of transportation give you a greater ability to cut down on carbon emissions and fuel usage. If you’re relying less on trucking, that will result in less overall air pollution.
• Safety and reliability: Intermodal methods of transportation give you a guaranteed capacity level, as well as a certain level of convenience you won’t find with other common shipping methods. Plus, with rail, there is a much lower likelihood of accidents and a complete avoidance of highway congestion, which means you’re much more capable of getting your freight to its destination on time.

The best situation in which you can benefit from intermodal shipping is for long-distance shipments of at least 750 miles. Longer shipments often require higher fuel consumption, particularly if you’re relying on trucks, but using rail can help cut down on fuel usage. Any time you have a trip that’s going to take longer than a day, it’s best to combine transportation modes to get the most savings and save the most energy.

The process is also beneficial if you have shipments of low and medium value. High-value goods are probably better transported via air, which is faster and more direct. But for lower-value shipments, intermodal transportation is an ideal choice.

Finally, if you regularly ship similar products in similar quantities, then it makes sense to combine modes, because you know what you’re going to get out of your shipments just about every time. If you frequently have multiple LTL shipments, it makes sense to go intermodal with them rather than continuing to rely solely on LTL truck shipping.

If you’re interested in saving some money, protecting the environment and adding a lot of reliability to your shipping—and who wouldn’t be—All Points Transport encourages you to consider using our services. You can greatly benefit from intermodal shipping in North Charleston, SC in a variety of ways. We look forward to answering any questions you have.

Categorised in: Intermodal Shipping