How It Works

• An intermodal driver uses a special form of trailer that, with the use of a crane, can be detached from both wheels and chassis. With wheels detached, the trailer becomes a freight container that can be easily loaded onto a train or into a boat. When the freight container reaches its destination and must be transported to another location, it is reattached to another set of wheels and chassis (trailer bed frame) and is driven to the location by another driver.
  
  

Wheeled Intermodal Transport

• In wheeled intermodal transport, the driver simply uses a modified version of a traditional truck and trailer. Neither the wheels nor the chassis are detachable; however, the trailer does come equipped with a locking mechanism that allows it to be locked down to a train trailer that has been specifically designed for the purpose. This method allows for a faster switch between methods of transportation because it does not require the detaching of the wheels; however, it does require a more specialized type of train and a well-trained crew.
  
  

Why Intermodal Transport?

• During international or long-distance transport, it might be impractical or even impossible to transport cargo entirely by truck. For example, trucks take longer and use more fuel than a train. However, because of the fact that many factories or shipping industries are not located directly adjacent to a train station, they are forced to ship their cargo by truck. By using an intermodal driver to transport their cargo from factory to train station; a factory can save both money and transport time.
  
  

The Driver's Function

• An intermodal driver serves a somewhat different purpose than a traditional truck and trailer driver. Because the driver is usually only traveling a short distance, the driver is usually employed under contract by the shipping company. This kind of driver will usually own his own truck or drive one that is supplied by the company. The intermodal driver will arrive at the factory company to pick up a trailer and drive it to the train station. This can mean anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours driving. Once his cargo has been delivered, the driver will return to the factory for another load.