What Is Intermodal in Trucking?
Also called: Intermodal Freight, Intermodal Trucking, Intermodal Transportation
Intermodal freight moves in one container or trailer by more than one kind of transport, such as truck, rail and ship. FHWA describes it as using more than one mode to move goods, for example by truck for part of the trip and then by rail from a terminal. Trucks do the short legs between the terminal and the shipper or receiver. That truck leg is called drayage.
Last reviewed September 23, 2026 · Facts checked October 16, 2026
Key Points
- Intermodal means using more than one mode of transportation to move goods. FHWA's example is a shipment that goes by truck for one part of the trip and then by rail from a terminal
- The freight stays in one container or trailer, so it is not unloaded and reloaded at each change of mode
- An intermodal terminal is a place where different transportation modes and networks connect (FHWA)
- The truck leg between a terminal and the customer is called drayage
- The standard container size is the TEU, a twenty-foot equivalent unit (FHWA)
- Intermodal drivers often work shorter trips and may be home more often, but waits at terminals and appointments can eat into pay
What is intermodal freight?
Intermodal freight is freight that moves by more than one mode of transport in a single trip. The most common mix is ship, rail and truck. The freight travels in a container or trailer that is built to move between modes without being unloaded. FHWA describes intermodal as using more than one mode of transportation in moving goods, and gives a truck-to-rail handoff at a terminal as an example. The point is to use each mode where it works best.
How does intermodal trucking work?
A container arrives at a port or a rail yard. A truck picks it up on a chassis and takes it to the customer, or picks up a loaded container at the customer and takes it to a rail ramp. At the terminal the driver checks in, often with an appointment, and drops or picks up the box. Between terminals, a train or a ship carries the container over the long distance. Trucks handle the first and last miles. That short truck move is drayage.
Is intermodal the same as drayage?
No. Intermodal is the whole trip, using more than one mode. Drayage is the truck part of it. FHWA defines drayage as transporting rail or ocean freight by truck to an intermediate or final destination. When people say intermodal trucking, they usually mean drayage and the container work that goes with it.
What does an intermodal driver need?
You need a CDL for your truck, and a carrier that does intermodal work. You will probably need a TWIC to enter secure areas of marine terminals. To pick up containers and chassis from equipment providers, the motor carrier usually joins the Uniform Intermodal Interchange Agreement run by IANA. You also need to learn how to check in at a terminal, how to hook a chassis and how to check a container. Ask the carrier what training it gives.
Is intermodal trucking a good fit for you?
It depends on what you want. Intermodal work is often local or regional, so a driver may be home more often than an over-the-road driver. Pay is often by the load, so long waits at a terminal can cut what you earn per hour. Slow periods at ports can mean fewer loads. Compare offers by working out pay per hour and per week, and ask how waiting time and chassis fees are handled. Our earnings and cost tools can help you check the numbers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does intermodal mean in trucking?+
Intermodal means freight moves in one container or trailer by more than one mode, such as truck, rail and ship. In trucking, it usually refers to the truck leg between a terminal and the customer, which is called drayage.
How does intermodal trucking work?+
A truck picks up a container at a port or rail yard on a chassis and delivers it to the customer, or takes a loaded container from the customer to a rail ramp. A train or ship carries it over the long distance. Trucks handle the first and last miles.
Is intermodal trucking the same as drayage?+
No. Intermodal is the whole trip using more than one mode. Drayage is the truck part of it, between the terminal and the customer.
How do I get into intermodal trucking?+
Get a CDL, find a carrier that does intermodal work, and ask what training it gives. You will probably need a TWIC for marine terminals. The motor carrier usually joins the UIIA to interchange containers and chassis.
How much do intermodal drivers make?+
It varies by carrier, port and how many loads you can complete. Pay is often by the load, so waiting time matters. Compare offers by pay per hour and per week, not only per load.
Is intermodal trucking hard?+
There is a learning curve. You need to learn terminal check-in, appointments, chassis and container checks. Waits at terminals can be the hardest part. Ask the carrier about training and how waiting time is paid.
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This is industry terminology and typical practice. It is not legal or tax advice. Rates, fees, and rules mentioned are general ranges. Confirm the details on your rate confirmation, carrier agreement, or a current official source.