News / Intermodal struggles to be alternative mode for US container transport

With the trucking sector losing steam and soaring fuel prices pushing shippers to rein in costs, intermodal traffic should be on the ascent in the US, but the latest numbers show a continuing downward trend.

According to the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), intermodal volumes dropped 6.6% in the first quarter, year on year. International registered the steepest drop, falling 15.5%, while IANA’s intermodal trailer count was down 12.8%.

The seven intermodal corridors with the highest traffic density, which account for ...