Intermodal vs Truckload: What's the Difference?

Two of the most common methods of shipping freight across the United States are intermodal and truckload shipping. While both get your freight where it needs to go, they differ in cost, speed, handling, and flexibility.

Key Takeaways

• Intermodal uses multiple modes of transportation, including rail, cargo vessels, and semi-trucks.
• Truckload shipping moves freight via a single truck and trailer.
• Intermodal is generally more cost-effective for long-haul freight with 500 miles or more to travel. 
• Truckload is often faster and more flexible, especially for time-sensitive and short-distance shipments.

Understanding the differences between intermodal and truckload shipping can help you avoid delays, reduce costs, and find the right carriers for your freight.

What Does Intermodal Mean in Freight?

Intermodal freight refers to the movement of cargo using two or more modes of transportation. In the U.S., this often involves a combination of truck and rail. However, intermodal shipping also encompasses air freight and container shipping vessels. 

A typical intermodal shipment looks like this: freight is loaded into a container at its origin point, hauled by truck to a rail terminal, transported long-distance by train, then picked up by another truck for final delivery. 

Related: How to Ship Freight by Rail: Costs, Benefits, and Key Terms

What is the Difference Between Truckload and Intermodal?

While truckload and intermodal transportation methods serve the same end goal, they differ in application. From transit time to handling procedures, each mode offers advantages in some situations and challenges in others.

For greater clarity, I’ve compiled some of the most common decision-making factors for choosing between intermodal and strictly truckload freight shipping in the table below.

Each of these categories plays a role in determining which shipping method aligns with your operational priorities. Let’s take a closer look at the two most critical aspects: cost and speed of delivery.

Is Intermodal Cheaper Than Truckload?

Cost is one of the top concerns for shippers. In many cases, intermodal shipping offers significant savings compared to truckload.

Rail is more fuel-efficient over long distances, and intermodal leverages that benefit to lower transportation costs. However, taking advantage of intermodal’s lower cost requires certain conditions.

When intermodal saves you money:

• Freight is traveling 500+ miles
• You don’t need next-day or expedited delivery
• Your freight can handle transfers and longer transit times
• Fuel prices are high, making rail more cost-effective

When truckload is worth the extra cost:

• Tight delivery windows or urgent timelines
• Freight is fragile or high-value, requiring minimal handling
• You need flexible pickup or drop-off options

While intermodal can save you a substantial amount of money, it’s important to match the savings opportunity with considerations like delivery times and special handling requirements.

Related: How to Calculate Freight Shipping Costs

Is Intermodal Faster Than Truckload Shipping?

Transit time is another vital factor to consider. When comparing the two modes, truckload shipping almost always delivers faster results.

Truckload shipments travel directly from origin to destination, avoiding delays associated with terminal transfers or train schedules. It’s ideal for shippers with time-sensitive freight who can’t afford unexpected stops or slowdowns.

Intermodal shipping, on the other hand, involves multiple steps: truck pickup, rail transit, and truck delivery. While rail is efficient, the coordination between these legs can introduce extra time into the overall delivery schedule.

Choose truckload if:

• Delivery times are strict, or you need to work in specific delivery time windows
• The route is under 500 miles long
• Your business needs reliable same- or next-day delivery

Choose intermodal if:

• Your shipment can be delivered within a more flexible timeframe
• The speed of the shipment’s arrival isn’t critical to the consignee

The bottom line here is that while truckload almost always wins in speed, intermodal may still be the better choice if your timeline allows for it.

When to Use Intermodal vs Truckload

While we’ve discussed the primary differences between these two freight shipping options, examining some hypothetical scenarios will give you an even better idea of when to choose truckload over intermodal and vice versa.

Scenario One

• Freight: Non-perishable consumer goods on pallets
• Distance: Approximately 2,000 miles
• Timeline: Delivery needed within 5–6 days
• Challenge: Reducing costs for recurring weekly shipments

In this case, intermodal is the clear winner for the following reasons:

• Rail offers a significantly lower cost per mile over this long haul
• Transit time aligns with delivery needs
• Freight is non-urgent and non-fragile, ideal for intermodal transfers

The combination of long distance travel and a generous delivery time makes intermodal ideal for these consumer goods.

Scenario Two

• Freight: Palletized consumer electronics
• Distance: Approximately 540 miles
• Timeline: Delivery required next day
• Challenge: Avoid damage, theft, or delay during transit

This shipment would be best served via truckload shipping for reasons such as:

• Relative ease of assuring next-day delivery
• Minimal handling reduces risk of damage or loss
• Intermodal's added transfer points pose unnecessary risk

For short range, high-value shipments such as this, FTL will usually be your go-to choice.

Take the Confusion Out of Logistics With USA Truckload Shipping

Deciding between intermodal and truckload shipping doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right logistics partner, you can make data-driven choices that lead to efficiency and cost-savings for every load you ship. 

At USA Truckload Shipping, we connect shippers with carriers that fit their budget, schedule, and service expectations. Whether you're moving a few loads a month or managing complex national distribution, our team can help.

What we offer:

• Full truckload (FTL) shipping solutions
• Expedited freight
• Nationwide drayage services
• And more

Call us today at (866) 353-7178 or fill out a request for proposal online. From warehousing to freight shipping and beyond, we’re ready to help your business meet all of its logistics challenges head on.