Despite there being some differences, intermodal and drayage trucking are connected. There is specific terminology that is used when speaking about shipping and logistics. These terms can get confusing when referring to different aspects of the supply chain industry. It can be said that drayage and intermodal are two terms that are often interchanged with each other. Like most things, it depends on the context. However, it’s also important to understand what distinguishing intermodal from drayage. Here is more background knowledge of drayage and intermodal and the differences between the two.
Intermodal Shipping
Intermodal shipping simply means that you are using two or more modes of transportation in your shipping plans. One can choose to move a container through a combination of truck, rail, air, and ocean. It is expected to make use of containers that can be easily shifted from one mode to another. Time and labor should not be wasted in supply chain management.
Drayage Trucking
Of course, drayage trucking refers to the transportation of products or goods in a short distance in drayage containers. What makes this interesting is that drayage is one part of a bigger shipment. These bigger shipments are usually a part of intermodal shipping when you zoom out. Drayage is essentially the transfer of cargo from one mode to another within the intermodal system.
Intermodal Complexity is Manageable
On the shipping end, intermodal and drayage trucking is interrelated, but carriers or brokers do not see it that way for themselves. Here is where you will find the differences between intermodal and drayage services. A carrier or broker will primarily handle one particular transport even though there may be more modes involved. For example, a transportation company would focus on drayage trucking from one location to the next. Pricing is a big difference when you are dealing with intermodal. You need to be ready to seek good cost breakdowns for the services you require. Intermodal also has a more complex process in play, so many pieces need to be situated appropriately and without mistakes.
You are much better off with partnering with a shipping provider that can handle it all. 3PL companies have many members that have the expertise of both intermodal and drayage trucking. With their understanding, you can be rest assured that the shipping will run as it’s meant to. You will save time and money, over other things as well when going through a 3PL.
If you need a 3PL service that hits these shared key points, then you should check out HTL Freight. We have the experience and expertise required to make your shipping operations run smoothly. To find out more, you can contact us. Additionally, if you want to get started today, you can click here and request a freight quote.
