Container intermodal transportation is difficult in rural areas. This seminar will review all aspects of intermodal shipping. The characteristics of intermodal shipping make it difficult for shippers located in rural areas. Location, service, and rates at an intermodal terminal may dictate the marketability of a product because shipping costs many times makes the product uncompetitive.

The largest barrier for many companies using intermodal shipping is the location of intermodal loading facilities. An intermodal loading facility located within a reasonable distance is essential to justify using intermodal transportation. As distance to an intermodal terminal increases, rate savings decrease, and due to increased drayage costs. Moreover, increased distance increases transit times and results in overall increases in logistics costs.