Intermodal Transport

Enables cargo to be consolidated into economically large units (e.g., containers, bulk grain railcars) optimizing use of specialized intermodal handling equipment to effect high-speed cargo transfer between ships, barges, railcars, and truck chassis using a minimum of labor to increase logistic flexibility, reduce consignment delivery times, and minimize operating costs. (MARAD1)

Moving ocean freight containers by various transportation modes. The fact that the containers are of the same size and have common handling characteristics permits them to be transferred from truck to railroad to air carrier to ocean carrier.

Moving ocean freight containers by various transportation modes. The fact that the containers are of the same size and have common handling characteristics permits them to be transferred from truck to railroad to air carrier to ocean carrier.