Overall intermodal traffic in North America fell 6.1 percent in second quarter 2016, the first volume decline in 25 consecutive quarters, according to data from the Intermodal Association of North America.
Intermodal Definition
From Wikipedia: Intermodal freight transport involves the transportation of freight in an intermodal container or vehicle, using multiple modes of transportation (rail, ship, and truck), without any handling of the freight itself when changing modes. The method reduces cargo handling, and so improves security, reduces damage and loss, and allows freight to be transported faster. Reduced costs over road trucking is the key benefit for inter-continental use.
Growth Snapped
American Shipper reports Intermodal Growth Streak Snapped in Q2.
- North American intermodal volumes in second quarter 2016 fell 6.1 percent to 4.27 million units compared with the prior year, according to the Intermodal Association of North America’s (IANA) second quarter Intermodal Market Trends & Statistics report.
- The second quarter decline followed 25 consecutive quarters of year-over-year growth.
- Intermodal trailer volumes dropped 28.6 percent, continuing a multi-year downward trend, while international shipments fell 9.3 percent and domestic container loads grew 3.4 percent.
Mike “Mish” Shedlock
