In today’s competitive logistics environment, shippers are constantly looking for ways to move freight more efficiently, thereby reducing transportation costs, while meeting growing sustainability requirements.
Intermodal freight, leveraging multiple modes of transport, typically rail and truck, offers a compelling alternative to over-the-road trucking for many businesses. It combines the long-haul cost efficiency of rail with the flexibility of trucking, creating a resilient, eco-friendly solution. It should come as no surprise, then, that intermodal freight volume increased 8.5% in 2024, according to the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA).
VCPB Transportation has built a strong reputation as a trusted provider of intermodal services, delivering customized, scalable solutions for shippers across North America. But how do you know if intermodal is the right choice for your company? Start by asking these five key questions.
Intermodal freight works best when you have consistent, high-volume shipments, where economies of scale keep costs competitive. Rail carriers operate on fixed schedules and routes. The more containers you move, the more you can spread fixed costs and maximize savings.
For companies shipping regular lanes, from weekly retail replenishment or steady flows of raw materials, intermodal can be significantly more cost-effective than full truckload. Even for seasonal peaks, intermodal capacity often remains more available than long-haul trucking.
VCPB Transportation offers scalable solutions that match your shipping needs, whether you’re moving freight regionally, nationally, or internationally. From single-lane contracts to networkwide programs, VCPB can scale operations up or down as your business demands.
While intermodal has made great strides in speed and reliability, it still involves slightly longer transit times compared to direct truckload. But for shipments that are not ultra time-critical, the trade-off is often worth it. This is especially true when the upside includes predictable schedules and lower costs.
The key is planning and coordination. VCPB optimizes routes, schedules, and carrier selection to minimize dwell time and avoid unnecessary handoffs. With real-time tracking technology, you can monitor your freight across both rail and road segments. VCPB’s proactive communication ensures you’re informed of any potential delays before they impact delivery.
For shippers with production schedules, retail resets, or vendor delivery deadlines, this predictability becomes more valuable than shaving a few hours off transit times.
One of the most compelling reasons to consider intermodal is cost savings. Moving freight by rail is significantly more fuel-efficient than trucking. According to the Association of American Railroads, trains can move 1 ton of freight more than 470 miles on a single gallon of fuel. This translates to lower fuel expenses, reduced tolls, and fewer driver labor costs.
When combined with the ability to move multiple containers per train versus individual truckloads, the cost advantage compounds quickly.
VCPB leverages strategic partnerships with leading Class I railroads, regional carriers, and drayage providers to secure competitive rates for its customers. This network approach allows shippers to tap into better pricing power while still enjoying seamless service from origin to destination.
Rail transport produces up to 75% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than trucking, making intermodal one of the most environmentally friendly freight options available. For companies focused on ESG targets, carbon reduction commitments, or sustainability reporting, this is a game-changing advantage.
By shifting more freight to rail, shippers reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing reliability or geographic reach. Many companies now calculate and report emissions savings from intermodal shipments as part of their ESG compliance efforts.
VCPB actively helps customers align logistics strategies with sustainability goals, providing data on emissions reductions and advising on mode shift opportunities. This support helps businesses not only ship smarter but also demonstrate environmental stewardship to stakeholders.
Intermodal shines in long-haul applications, especially for moves over 700 miles, offering efficient solutions for cross-border trade with Mexico and Canada. Rail networks connect major freight hubs across the U.S. With seamless truck drayage on either end, shippers can reach virtually any destination.
VCPB maintains an extensive intermodal network that spans major U.S. corridors and key border crossings. For international moves, VCPB’s expertise in customs brokerage and cross-border logistics ensures smooth clearance and compliance, reducing delays and minimizing risk.
Whether you’re exporting finished goods to Canadian retailers or importing raw materials from Mexican suppliers, intermodal offers a reliable, cost-effective way to keep goods flowing.
Intermodal isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but when it fits, the advantages are clear: lower costs, improved sustainability, and dependable nationwide coverage. The key is partnering with a provider that can navigate the complexities of multimodal coordination and deliver tailored solutions.
VCPB Transportation brings the experience, network, and technology needed to make intermodal work for your business. From initial lane analysis to ongoing optimization, we are dedicated to ensuring every shipment moves efficiently, cost-effectively, and sustainably.
If you’re ready to explore whether intermodal is right for you, VCPB is here to help. We can answer your questions, run cost comparisons, or map a trial lane to prove out the value. Start shipping smarter with VCPB Transportation, your trusted partner in intermodal logistics.
VCPB Transportation
600 Meadowlands Pkwy Secaucus, NJ 07094
(201) 770-0111
