Category: Intermodal

This announcement was last updated on April 3rd, 2023.

RailGateway.ca is proud to announce the expansion of its container offering, now providing intermodal transportation services for clients seeking refrigerated, heated, and temperature control shipping containers on all their Canadian domestic routes.

“RailGateway.ca is committed to providing our customers with the best possible service,” says CEO Francine Goulet. “We are thrilled to be able to offer these specialized containers that meet a wide range of needs in order to meet the growing demand for this type of service.”

RailGateway.ca offers a variety of container services for clients with unique shipping requirements and budget needs.

Refrigerated containers are perfect for keeping food and other perishables cold during long-distance transport, while heated containers are ideal for transporting plants or items that need a consistent temperature throughout transit.

Temperature control containers can help protect sensitive cargo from extreme temperatures as well as humidity levels, making them an ideal choice for many types of goods.

The addition of these specialized containers allows RailGateway.ca customers to transport goods safely and efficiently across Canada with minimal disruption or damage during transit time.

The new offerings provide flexibility for businesses looking for reliable transportation solutions at competitive prices without sacrificing quality or safety standards.

“Our goal is always to provide the most cost-effective and efficient solution without compromising on quality,” says Goulet.

Francine Goulet, CEO RailGateway.ca

“These new containers will help us deliver on that promise while ensuring our customers have access to a wide range of options when it comes to their shipping needs.”

As one of Canada’s leading providers of intermodal rail transportation services, RailGateway.ca continues to innovate and expand its offerings in order to meet the ever-changing needs of its customers nationwide.

With the addition of these specialized containers, they can now provide even more comprehensive solutions tailored specifically to each client’s individual requirements and budget constraints – making them Canada’s number one choice for intermodal rail transport.

Rail Gateway offers temperature-controlled containers to serve the needs of its customers better.

• Temperature-controlled containers for shipping perishables and other sensitive goods
• Protect your cargo with our climate-controlled containers
• Heated or refrigerated containers available on all routes
• Dedicated customer service staff to assist you with every step of your shipment

Looking for a rail freight quote? Request your free, zero-obligation quote here.

Reefer services are available across Canada. For cross-border shipping and shipping to or from Mexico to Canada, please contact us directly using our contact us form.

RailGateway, Canada’s number one choice for intermodal rail transport, is proud to announce discounted rates on their Chicago to Edmonton and Calgary route.

This new preferred route has seen an increase in demand, and RailGateway is committed to meeting that need while offering competitive rates.

“We are thrilled to offer discounted rates on this route. Our customers have been asking us for more options when it comes to transportation between Chicago and Alberta, and now we can provide them with the best of both worlds: cost-effective solutions and exceptional service,” said the CEO of RailGateway.ca, Francine Goulet.

Francine Goulet, CEO RailGateway.ca

RailGateway.ca offers a variety of services for customers looking for a reliable way to move freight from Chicago to Alberta.

Their intermodal rail transport system is the most economical way to move large quantities of goods from one location to another.

The company’s fleet consists of different types of containers, including heated, refrigerated, and temperature-controlled.

Customers can also take advantage of RailGateway’s tracking services which allow them to keep an eye on their shipments throughout transit.

The company is dedicated to providing superior customer service in addition to its cost-effective solutions. “At RailGateway, we understand how important it is for our customers to get their goods safely and securely delivered on time,” said Goulet. “Our team works hard every day to ensure that our customers are happy with the service they receive.”

In addition to the discounted rates offered on the Chicago-Alberta route, RailGateway also provides a variety of other services, including customs clearance assistance, rail shipment logistics, tracking, and more.

Customers can rest assured knowing that they are receiving quality intermodal transportation services at affordable prices with RailGateway at the helm.

If you’re looking for reliable intermodal rail transport from Chicago to Alberta at discounted rates, then request your rail freight quote today.

1. Save on transport costs
2. Get your cargo to its destination safely and efficiently
3. RailGateway is Canada’s #1 choice for intermodal rail transport
4. Experienced staff who are knowledgeable in the industry

At RailGateway, we understand how important it is for our customers to get the best possible service and value.

With our discounted rates on this Chicago-Alberta route, you can save money while also getting your goods safely delivered in a timely manner.

Our experienced staff are knowledgeable in all aspects of intermodal rail transport so that you have peace of mind knowing your cargo will be taken care of every step of the way.

If you’re looking for reliable intermodal rail transport from Chicago to Alberta at competitive prices, request your quote today.

Partnering with RailGateway.ca for Optimal Savings

CP Intermodal Solutions

RailGateway.ca is Canada’s leading intermodal service provider and the preferred partner of CP Rail Intermodal. We offer full intermodal solutions for customers to optimize their shipping costs and increase efficiency. With our CP Rail Intermodal solutions, you can get access to preferred rates and discounts on your shipping needs.

Experienced & Trustworthy Service

We pride ourselves on our experienced and trustworthy service. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the best service and support so that you can get the most out of your intermodal shipping. With our experienced and knowledgeable staff, you can trust that you’ll get the most out of your shipping needs when you partner with us.

Get the Preferred Rates & Savings You Need with CP Rail

When you choose to partner with RailGateway.ca, you’ll get access to the preferred rates and savings you need when it comes to CP Rail Intermodal. We are committed to providing optimal savings and helping our customers increase their efficiency. Get the most out of your shipping needs when you partner with the leading intermodal service provider – RailGateway.ca.

The Advantages of Working with RailGateway.ca

1. Guaranteed lower rates and discounts on rail intermodal shipping when partnering with RailGateway.ca

Streamline logistics operations and reduce costs by taking advantage of CP Rail Intermodal’s preferred rates through RailGateway.ca

2. Access to the most comprehensive network of rail services for the best transit times

Enjoy expedited transit times with access to Canada’s leading provider of intermodal services, RailGateway

3. 24/7 customer service and support from knowledgeable experts in the railroad industry

Benefit from a team of experts who have decades of experience in the railroad industry that are available to provide assistance 24/7.

4. Connectivity with CP Rail, providing access to a wide range of routes and services across Canada. 

Significant savings on shipping costs through preferred rates and discounts with CP Rail Intermodal.

5. Comprehensive rail rate information, enabling customers to make informed decisions about their shipping needs.

Increased efficiency in the supply chain process with fast turnaround times and reliable service standards throughout each shipment journey. 

3. Unparalleled customer service from experienced intermodal experts, ensuring seamless transition and satisfaction for your shipment needs.  

Maximized flexibility in meeting specific freight requirements such as temperature control, security protocols, and cross-border shipping management services.

As Canada’s leading Intermodal service provider, RailGateway.ca is the preferred partner for CP rail intermodal. Our customers enjoy preferred rates and discounts with CP rail intermodal, as well as access to our extensive network of rail transportation partners.RailGateway.ca is the only service provider you need to keep your business moving.

Get the most out of your shipping budget – partner with RailGateway.ca and get preferred rates and discounts when you use CP rail intermodal.

Get the Best Intermodal Transportation Rail Freight Rates in Canada with RailGateway

40+ Years of Experience Providing Quality Intermodal Services

RailGateway is the preferred partner of CN Intermodal and Canada’s number one leading intermodal service provider. With over 40 years of experience, RailGateway has the lowest intermodal transportation rail freight rates in Canada for full-load containers. Our clients have come to trust our services, knowing that they are getting the best quality and most reliable intermodal solutions.

Save time and money

When you choose RailGateway for your intermodal transportation needs, you can save time and money. With our competitive rail freight rates, you can cut costs without sacrificing quality. Our experienced team of professionals will help you get the lowest rates available, allowing you to get the most out of your transportation budget.

Contact us today

If you’re looking for the best intermodal transportation rail freight rates in Canada, contact RailGateway today to see how much you can save. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be glad to answer any questions you may have and help you get the best rail freight rates available. Get started today and save on your intermodal rail freight transportation costs.

Why work with us

• RailGateway offers the most competitive intermodal transportation rail freight rates in Canada for full-load containers. Our expertise, gained over 40 years of experience in the industry, allows us to provide lower prices than competitors and ensure our customers get the best value for their money.

• We are CN Intermodal’s preferred partner, meaning you can trust that our services are backed by one of the top-tier rail companies and will be carried out with professionalism and care.

• RailGateway’s team is made up of a dedicated group of professionals who understand your needs and work hard to meet them every step of the way. We make sure your cargo is handled safely throughout its journey and always strive to provide exceptional customer service.

With RailGateway you don’t have to worry about expensive costs when shipping your cargo via rail- our low intermodal transportation rates mean you can save money while getting your goods delivered on time, every time.

By partnering with CN Intermodal, you know that your shipment will be handled by experienced professionals who ensure that your items are secure throughout the entire shipping process- giving you peace of mind knowing that your goods will arrive safely at their destination without any unexpected delays or problems along the way!

Our team is committed to providing outstanding customer service- we make sure all of your needs and questions are answered promptly so that you never have to worry about any issues related to your shipment or delivery dates!

I’ve been using RailGateway for my shipping needs for years and I’ve always been impressed with their service. They are always professional and courteous, and they always get my shipments to their destination on time. I would highly recommend RailGateway to anyone who needs a reliable and affordable shipping solution.

– Mark G. Freight Logistics Manager

Save big on intermodal transport rates with RailGateway.ca. Request your rail freight quote today to receive our preferred CN Rail Shipping Rates.

Intermodal transportation is a growing trend in logistics, but why is intermodal growing? Transportation and logistics companies are focusing on reducing costs, saving time, and increasing efficiency. This article will look at the top 14 intermodal transportation trends that matter in intermodal growth for 2023.

Top 14 intermodal trends for 2023

1. Increase in Cross-Border trade
2. Smart Intermodal
3. Increased automation
4. Growing demand for Intermodal logistics solutions
5. Growing use of digital freight platforms
6. Leaner Intermodal fleet operations
7. Increased focus on sustainability
8. Advances in sustainability and greener technology
9. Better tracking
10. Innovation in technology
11. Port congestion
12. B2B eCommerce
13. Driver shortages
14. Warehousing operations

Intermodal freight transportation back on the rise

The intermodal freight transportation industry has seen its fair share of ups and downs. But Intermodal transportation is on the upward climb.

According to a report on Research and Markets.com, the global intermodal freight transportation market is expected to grow by $50.45 mn from 2022-2026, experiencing a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 6.38% during the forecast period.

So what does that mean for logistics professionals?

What’s trending in Intermodal Transport

Trend #1: Increase in Cross-Border Trade

With the global trade slowdown, cross-border trade is becoming more prevalent. Cross-border trade is a significant factor in the growth of intermodal transportation, as it provides an efficient and cost-effective way to move goods.

Trend #2: Smart Intermodal

Smart intermodal solutions are becoming popular among logistics professionals. Smart intermodal solutions use data to track intermodal shipments, optimize routing and scheduling, and coordinate communication between different transport modes and intermodal terminals while providing real-time tracking.

Trend #3: Increased Automation

Automation is becoming increasingly popular in the intermodal transportation industry. This includes automated loading and unloading systems, yard management systems, intelligent planning tools for route optimization, and more. Automated systems can help improve efficiency and reduce costs for logistics companies.

“Automation and robotics are two trends that will impact the industry in a big way, as AI-driven technology leads to improvements in efficiency and accuracy.”

Francine Goulet, CEO of RailGateway.ca.

Trend #4: Growing Demand for Intermodal Logistics Solutions

The demand for intermodal logistics solutions has been growing steadily over the past few years. Many companies are turning to third-party logistics providers to manage their intermodal operations due to their expertise in the field and ability to handle complex supply chain logistics.

Trend #5: Growing Use of Digital Freight Platforms

Digital freight platforms are becoming increasingly popular in the logistics industry as they provide visibility and real-time tracking for shippers. These platforms can help streamline processes, reduce delays, and improve communication between all parties involved in the supply chain.

Trend #6: Leaner Intermodal Fleet Operations

Leaner intermodal fleets are becoming increasingly popular due to their cost savings and environmental benefits. They involve using fewer vehicles with lighter weights that require less fuel to operate, which reduces operating costs and emissions.

Trend #7: Increased Focus on Sustainability

In 2021/22, we reported on the advances in greener technology, and we’re pleased to report that sustainability continues to be a major trend in the intermodal transportation industry.

Companies are focusing on reducing their carbon footprint, increasing efficiency, and improving energy usage. This includes the use of more fuel-efficient vehicles, renewable energy sources, and green initiatives such as recycling and reuse.

Trend #8: Advances in Sustainability and Greener technology

Probably the most exciting trend is the advancement and development of battery-electric trains. Intermodal freight companies are racing to bring the first electric Intermodal train to market – for both intercity and intermodal transportation services.

In November 2021, CN Railway purchased Wabtec’s FLXdrive battery-electric freight locomotive, the region’s first 100-percent battery heavy-haul engine, in support of CN’s sustainability objectives.

This new technology is an essential building block in moving toward a lower carbon future.

“Sustainability initiatives such as using low-carbon fuels, reducing emissions from fleets, and using renewable energy will become increasingly important factors for business success.”

Francine Goulet, CEO of RailGateway.ca.

Trend #9: Better tracking of existing freight transportation systems and more visibility

With intermodal shipments on the rise and outdated systems falling behind, electronic scanning technology to make the shipping process faster and more efficient will become more prominent.

A demand for a more efficient shipment of goods has motivated the rail industry to improve operations by implementing precision scheduled railroading (PSR).

Intermodal freight companies need to keep up with these changes for the sake of their customers and business growth. Real-time or live tracking, tracking with hands-on video, and GPS reporting are all up-and-coming or evolving.

Intermodal software can help Intermodal freight operators manage load boards, track incoming shipments, update drivers on the status of their cargo, and even allow customers to track their shipments online.

Best of all? Intermodal software is often cloud-based or SaaS (software-as-a-service)

“In 2023, intermodal transportation will continue its technological advancement, with more connectivity between modes and better tracking of cargo.”

Francine Goulet, CEO of RailGateway.ca.

Trend #10: Innovation in technology and intermodal services

Intermodal transportation providers are investing in new technologies to offer never-seen-before services.

CN Rail’s (Canadian National Railway) partnership with Google Cloud to deliver an enhanced customer service experience has helped modernize railway services in Canada.

And the adoption of new technologies like Positive Train Control (PTC), designed to address human error, is ushering in an exciting new era of efficiency and safety for US railroads – source Association of American Railroads (AAR), Assistant VP Luisa Fernandez-Willey

Trend #11: Port congestion

Global freight forwarders are bracing themselves for another year of backlogs … or are they?

According to Greg Knowler of JOC.com (The Journal of Commerce Online), despite recent carrier “hype” over persistent congestion levels, rising prices and interest rates might slow down consumer demand and result in a rapid drop in global container shipping demand.

… there will be no shortage of solutions or surprises for the market this upcoming year.

Looking to move your freight from Ontario out West? Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, whichever city we can help.

With over 40 years of experience, RailGateway is the number one choice in Canada for full-load Intermodal freight transportation and cross border to and from the US via the Mississippi Corridor. Request your rail freight quote here. Let’s help you save today.

Trend #12: Transportation companies embracing B2B eCommerce

B2B eCommerce is the most efficient way for companies to connect online. And Intermodal B2B eCommerce allows smaller companies to share orders and take advantage of bulk purchasing.

Trend #13: Driver Shortages

An ongoing truck driver shortage, a declining workforce from retirement, and those who can’t afford to drive – is causing worry in the Intermodal industry.

In order for Intermodal companies to stay profitable, they need to be able to transport goods as quickly as possible. The truck driver shortage makes that nearly impossible.

Coyote.com reports that the industry is seeing a -38% in truck driver posting activity (2021/22 figures). While American Trucking Associations’ chief economist Bob Costello’s forecast anticipates a 64,000 driver shortage in 2023 and a new record high of more than 82,000 in 2024.

Trend #14: Investment in warehousing operations

As Intermodal companies expand their Intermodal services, an increasing number are investing in Intermodal warehouses to meet customer demand for last-mile delivery.

Warehouse investments — both in infrastructure and technologies such as robotics, automation, AI, and machine learning — are key to increasing efficiency. Investing in warehouses will help Intermodal companies better serve their customers with faster delivery times and improved customer service.

The warehousing industry is emerging as the latest asset class for investors looking to expand their portfolios. Whether it’s an investment opportunity or a strategic move, investing in your own warehouses can be beneficial for your business.

In 2023 we can expect more conversations about warehouse locations, design, technology integrations, and operational strategies to make sure Intermodal companies stay ahead of the competition.

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As global freight forwarders brace themselves for another year of backlogs, Intermodal companies are looking for solutions to keep up with rising prices and interest rates.

Keep an eye on these trends to ensure that your business stays updated with the latest developments in intermodal transportation.

Whatever surprises the market has in store this upcoming year, RailGateway is here to help you save. Request your FREE no-obligation rail freight rate quote today!

This post was last updated on December 12th, 2022

Canada is a country with diverse natural resources, and it’s also home to some of the largest Intermodal Terminals. The Intermodal Terminal Network in Canada has grown over the last several decades and as global trade continues to grow, more Domestic Intermodal Terminals flourish across this great nation.

Which Intermodal Terminals rank among the top ten in Canada? Read on to find out.

A Look at the Top 18 Intermodal Transport Terminals in Canada

Canadian National Railway Company (CN)

*From East to West but in no particular order

For a complete look at CN’s interactive map of intermodal terminals and yards, visit www.cn.ca.

CP Rail facilities and intermodal terminals

*From East to West but in no particular order

• Lachine Intermodal Terminal (Quebec)
• Vaughan Intermodal Terminal (Kleinburg, ON)
• Winnipeg Intermodal Terminal (Manitoba)
• Regina Intermodal Facility (Saskatchewan)
• Edmonton Intermodal Terminal (Alberta)
• Calgary Intermodal Terminal (Alberta)
• Vancouver Intermodal Terminal (Pitt Meadows, BC)

Download CP Rails North American Rail map here.

11 Contributing Factors of a Top Rated Intermodal Terminal

Intermodal terminals are designed for a specific use, and a number of factors can affect their performance.

Intermodal terminals should be able to handle large trucks efficiently and have basic functions and terminal infrastructure processes in place.

These terminals offer many different advantages, including:

– Proximity to major trade corridors, ports, and population centers  

– The ability to handle a wide range of cargo types 

– A lower environmental footprint

When analyzing intermodal terminals for your transportation needs, consider the following:

1. Do you require the use of rail-mounted gantry cranes? Is this an important factor in the execution of your intermodal transportation process?
2. Is there a local terminal manager? What kind of local support is there?
3. Are double-sided rail access mounts and ladders available? Will your shipments require the use of one?
4. What international and domestic relations does the terminal have? Is expansion into European countries and other markets important.
5. Is there sufficient parking space?
6. When handling equipment, what intermodal operators are involved?
7. Is there a dedicated operational company?
8. Will you require and/or is it rail-side access?
9. What is local demand like?
10. What market segments does the terminal or yard specialise in, if any?
11. Is there interim storage facilities available in cases of delays or emergencies?

Defining what Intermodal Transportation is.

Intermodal transport is the transfer of goods from one transport mode of transportation to another, such as when cargo is transferred from a ship to a train.

Time and cost of transportation, availability of services, and legal and insurance issues are just a few of the factors that must be considered when selecting a shipping method.

There are many actors involved in the transportation of products, such as shippers and logistics providers, as well as government agencies.

Intermodal shipping containers allow for the more efficient and less costly movement of goods because they can be transported on land, water, or air.

Intermodals are typically used for manufactured products that ship in large volumes and have standardized sizes for packaging or units.

Intermodals provide an alternative to traditional break-bulk cargo handling methods by simplifying the loading and unloading process at ports, and at rail and road network points as well.

By reducing labor costs and time required at each intermodal terminal stop, intermodal services can also save energy and emissions by requiring fewer trucks on the road.

Intermodal Transport Services

Canada has over 41,700 route kilometres of rail network tracks, 559 marine port facilities, 1.13 million two-lane equivalent public roads, and 81 airports – a report by the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC).

The report, with project funding partners such as Alberta Transportation, Metrolinx, Ministère des Transports du Québec and the Region of Peel is a look at the history, purpose, and operation of goods movement in Canada.

Canada’s trade is built off the backbone between three main corridors:

1. The Western Asia-Pacific Corridor. Established in 2006 with the launch of the Asia–Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative (APGCI)

2. The Ontario-Quebec Corridor. The principal economic corridor of Canada supports $560 billion of trade.

3. And the Atlantic Corridor. A transportation network of intermodal and rail terminals that connect North America to European countries, and markets in the Caribbean, Latin America, and Asia via the Suez Canal. 

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Canada is a vast country with people and goods moving in and out of the country every day. Intermodal terminals are responsible for this movement, giving Canadian businesses access to markets all over the world. With so many different modes of transportation available, it can be difficult to keep track of who is running what terminal or where they’re located.

At RailGateway we want to simplify the intermodal supply chain process and industry by offering our clients unparalleled customer service while saving them time and money.

Whether you’re shipping from Moncton to Vancouver, Toronto to Winnipeg to Calgary, and back again – we have the experience you need to ship your cargo from the east coast to the west. Contact us for your FREE no obligation rail freight quote.

This post was last updated on December 23rd, 2022.

Wondering what the top intermodal transportation advantages in 2023 are? In this blog post, we’ll discuss seven reasons why intermodal transportation should be on your radar for any company looking to improve its logistics distribution in 2023 and beyond.

The Advantages of Intermodal Transportation: 7 Reasons Why a Canadian Business Should Branch Out Into Intermodal Freight Transport

1. Lower transportation costs

Intermodal transportation saves you money. Intermodal freight logistics are sometimes thousands of dollars less than truckloads, often leading to better on-time shipments.

Even where modal transit costs just slightly less than the cost of carrying one load, savings are usually significant over a more extended period.

Businesses that are a good fit for intermodal can expect to save between 10% to 15%.

2. Scalability of your Operations

It is scalable as you need it to be. Intermodal transportation opens up your options for international distribution.

Moving cargo shipments across the country cost-effectively and sustainably means greater expansion opportunities. The less time your products spend in transit, the faster and further you’re able to ship your products to increase your customer reach.

Intermodal transportation is also excellent for businesses with growing shipping volumes. With full load services, you can partner with intermodal carriers to ship more freight volume, filling in entire containers that could result in exciting scale savings for your company.

3. Intermodal Rail Transport Makes it Better for the Environment

Intermodal transport is more environmentally friendly than other modes of transportation, especially if trains are involved. 

Train transportation is four times more efficient than a truckload. A fully loaded intermodal train removes 280 vehicles off the road and reduces the need for air freight transportation.

With fewer trucks on the roads, there’s also a reduction in noise pollution, and highways are less congested.

4. Efficiency

Moving freight with different transport modes increases productivity, with less time spent loading and unloading intermodal containers.

Every minute counts in the shipping industry. And every lost minute can be costly for a business.

When it comes down to shipping—the faster the merchandise can be delivered, the less money will needlessly get spent on storing or delivering that shipment later.

5. Reduce Risks

Intermodal is safer than other transportation modes, especially when it comes to railroads.

Not only are accidents rarer, but shipping on rail cars also means more predictable logistics. (Yay to no traffic.)

Overall, because shippers carry cargo into intermodal containers from origin to destination, the risk of theft is considerably reduced. Avoiding multiple cargo handling in and out of different shipping containers or trailers prevents breakage risks.

6. Keep control over your intermodal shipments

With intermodal transportation, you have better control over each leg of the journey with track and trace capabilities than shipping with a multimodal transport operator.

Why? Because with a multimodal shipping company, you will negotiate a single combined bill of landing. Whereas, with an intermodal operation company, you can negotiate and keep control of each part of the shipment.

This also applies if an issue arises. With multimodal transportation, you will have to “wait and see” how the company can fix the problem, but overall, they handle each part of the shipment. With intermodal, you can change plans along the way and find solutions with other carriers if needed.

7. Reliable capacity and transit times

Intermodal transportation offers dependable, scheduled service with confirmed capacity and lower costs.

Rail intermodal is often the only transportation mode to handle large and heavy cargoes. The ability to offer reliable, scheduled service with confirmed capacity is an essential advantage for intermodal transportation.

This becomes especially important as businesses look to expand their reach into new markets.

In the end, intermodal transportation is a great way to get the most out of the logistics industry by using not one but several shipping modes. By combining the benefits of each transportation type, intermodal can provide an efficient and cost-effective way to move your freight.

Intermodal Shipping Is Growing. Work With an Intermodal Partner You Can Trust.

Intermodal transportation is on the rise, and it’s not going anywhere. In 2019 intermodal transport work was responsible for more than 37.2M tonnes of containers on flat cars shipping.

Intermodal is a smart business move that can help you sustainably grow your company and, with the right partner on your side, help you save beyond anything you’ve imagined.

RailGateway is a Canadian company that provides intermodal rail services, moving full loads across the country at an affordable rate.

With seamless service and quality customer care, RailGateway has ensured its success in this industry by giving customers what they want: on-time, affordably priced intermodal transport.

RailGateway wants to make your life easier. Get your intermodal rail quote today to see the difference we can make for you.

When it comes to choosing the best mode of transportation for your supply chain, there are a lot of factors to consider. And as with anything in life and business, each option has its own set of pros and cons that you’ll need to weigh before making a decision.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most common modes of transportation used in logistics and outline the benefits and drawbacks of each one.

By the end, you should have a better understanding of which option is best for your business. Scroll down to read more.

The 7 modes of transportation

1. Air transportation or air transport
2. Rail transportation (passenger and freight)
3. Ship transport (also known as maritime shipping or maritime transportation)
4. Road transport or truck load
5. Water transport (barges and canals)
6. Intermodal transportation (a combination of road transportation and freight trains)
7. Multimodal transport (a combination of multiple modes of transportation methods)

What are the different modes of transport in logistics?

There are four main modes of transport in logistics: truck, ship, train, and air, and the best option for a particular shipment will depend on a number of factors.

Trucks are the most versatile mode of transport, as they can be used for shipments of all sizes and types. However, trucking is also the most expensive option, and it can be subject to delays due to traffic or inclement weather conditions.

Ships are best suited for large shipments and international trade that needs to be transported over long distances. Maritime transport is relatively slow but cost-effective.

Trains are an efficient and environmentally friendly option for shipping freight that needs to be transported over long distances, typically 1000+ km or 750 miles. Rail transport is also fast and reliable, but it can be expensive and routes are limited. In addition, train schedules can be inflexible, which can make it difficult to coordinate shipments.

Industries shipping large volumes or requiring the movement of heavy goods preferably use railway and road transportation (also known as intermodal transportation) as well as shipping by sea over other modes. This method can accommodate larger materials thus becoming an ideal alternative to air travel which is better suited for parcel shipping and small packages.

Air freight is the fastest of the transport modes but also the most expensive. It’s best suited for shipments that are time-sensitive or need to be delivered to remote locations where trains and transport cars are unable to service.

Now that we’ve gone over the different modes of transportation, let’s take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks of each one.

Benefits and drawbacks of truck transportation

Truck transportation is the most popular mode of transport in North America, as it offers a number of advantages, including:

-Trucks can transport shipments of all sizes and types.

-Trucking is a door-to-door service, which means your shipment will be delivered directly to the recipient’s location.

-Trucking is relatively fast and provides a high degree of flexibility when it comes to delivery times.

-Trucks can transport shipments to and from remote locations that are not serviced by other modes of transport.

However, trucking also has a few drawbacks, including:

-With gas and petrol prices at an all-time high, trucking is an expensive mode of transport.

-Trucking can be subject to travel restrictions and delays due to traffic or weather conditions.

Benefits and drawbacks of rail transportation

Rail transportation is a fast and efficient way to move freight, and it offers a number of advantages, including:

-Rail transport is faster and more cost-effective than trucking, making it ideal for long-distance shipments.

-Rail transport is more energy-efficient which makes it better for the environment.

-Rail transport is more reliable and predictable than trucking, as trains run on set schedules.

Of course, rail transportation also has a few drawbacks, including:

-Rail transport can be more expensive than trucking.

-The routes for rail transport are limited, which can make it difficult to coordinate shipments.

-Train schedules can be inflexible

Benefits and drawbacks of maritime transportation

Maritime transportation is a slow but cost-effective way to move freight, and it offers a number of advantages, including:

-Maritime transport is the most economical option for shipping large volumes of freight.

-Maritime transport is less likely to be affected by weather conditions than other modes of transport.

Drawbacks of maritime shipping include:

-Maritime transport is relatively slow, which can make it unsuitable for time-sensitive shipments.

-Cargo ships are subject to travel restrictions.

-The routes for maritime transport are limited, which can make it difficult to coordinate frequent shipments.

Benefits and drawbacks of air transportation

Air transportation is the fastest way to move freight internationally, and it offers a number of advantages, including:

-Air transport is the fastest option for freight transportation.

-Air cargo is less likely to be affected by weather conditions than other transportation modes.

-Air shipping is ideal for time-sensitive shipments.

Air transportation drawbacks:

-Air transport is the most expensive of freight transport.

-Air transport is subject to travel restrictions and delays due to air traffic control and passenger planes.

-Environmental concerns

How to Choose the Best Type of Logistics Transportation for Your Company? 

There are a few factors you should take into account when deciding what type of transportation is best for your company, including:

-The type of goods you need to ship.

-Your shipping budget.

-The time frame for delivery.

-The distance of the shipment.

-Whether or not you need door-to-door service.

-The frequency of shipments.

-Environmental concerns.

Weighing all of these factors will help you decide which mode or combination of modes, of transportation is best suited for your company’s needs.

In our next update, we’ll investigate how and when to use which transportation mode.

Ready to get started with intermodal transport? At RailGateway, we make it simple to find the right mode and carrier for your freight and our competitive pricing guarantees you the best rate for your shipment. Get started today with a free rail quote.