What is Intermodal Trucking?
Intermodal trucking, sometimes referred to as drayage, is the act of using a truck to move international cargo in specially designed containers from point A to point B. Usually this is either the first or last step in the overall intermodal transportation process.
The containers that intermodal drivers haul are large, weather-hardy, and fit securely on several types of transport vehicles so that they can be moved easily between ship, plane, train, and truck.
1. Schedule and Home Time
cdl students If consistent home time and a healthy work/life balance are important to you, intermodal trucking might be a good choice for your next driving job. Drivers will tell you that the biggest benefit of this line of work is the consistent schedule and shorter routes. Drivers will usually complete at least one route, (most times more) in a single shift and be home every night.
2. Less Manual Labor and Loading
At each stop the container moves to, there’s specialty equipment there to pick up the containers and place them on the trucks. It’s usually no touch for the drivers, which means less wear and tear on your body, and more time moving down the road.
3. Flexibility
Most intermodal drivers find the real perk of the job to be the flexibility that it provides them.
If you think that you’re up to the challenge of being an intermodal truck driver, do some research on companies in your area that specialize in this line of work. Keep in mind that intermodal trucking jobs will be much easier to find the closer you are to large ports and railyards.
Intermodal trucking can be a great option for truck drivers who are looking for a new job over the road and want to try something different than typical dry and reefer hauling.
