While intermodal services and drayage services (also known as short-haul transport) are similar, they differ in the broader concept of logistics, each with its unique transportation approach. As your intermodal services and drayage services company, we would like to break down the differences in a simple and comprehensible manner. In this guide, we’ll explain what these services are, the key differences, and more.
To learn more or request a quote for intermodal or container drayage services, in the Chicago area and the Midwest, contact CW Freight today.
What Is Drayage Service?
This is a short-distance trucking service, typically within a specific region. For example, when cargo arrives at a port, a truck is used to transport the cargo from the port to a distribution center or rail yard to a warehouse. This local movement of cargo, connecting transportation hubs and facilitating the movement of good between different modes is what defines drayage services.
What Is Intermodal Service?
Intermodal transportation service moves cargo over long and short distances using multiple modes of transportation. For example, when cargo arrives at a port, the cargo is picked up using a truck, off-loaded at the rail terminal, and from here, it is shipped using rail to its destination. This seamless integration of multiple transportation modes is what defines an intermodal service.
Key Differences Between Intermodal and Drayage Services
Here are some key differences between the two types of services:
- Scope of transportation: Drayage services have a limited scope, focusing on short-distance trucking, mainly within the region. On the other hand, intermodal services cover both short and long distances, offering more flexibility.
- Modes of transport: Drayage services rely primarily on a single mode of transportation, mainly trucks. In contrast, intermodal services combine multiple transportation modes, such as trucks, rails, and ships.
- Role in supply chain: Intermodal services manage the entire cargo shipment process across the supply chain. On the other hand, short-haul drayage services serve as a connector, handling first-mile or last-mile short-distance movements.
- Cost-efficiency: Drayage services are less expensive compared to intermodal services. Drayage trucking services focus on short distances, making them less expensive. Intermodal services tend to be costlier because they cover long distances.
- Environment impact: Intermodal services are more environmentally friendly because they use rail and ships as part of their transport, which produce fewer emissions. On the other hand, short-haul drayage services are less environmentally friendly as they use trucks, which produce a significant amount of emissions, polluting the air. However, partnering with environmentally friendly intermodal drayage companies can help reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact.
Differences Between Long-Haul Trucking, Intermodal, & Short-Haul Transport Services
Long-haul trucking is another important part of the logistics and supply chain process. Here are some key differences between all three methods:
- Distance coverage: As the name implies, long-haul trucking services cover long distances, while drayage services cover short distances. Intermodal services, on the other hand, can cover both.
- Service scope: Long-haul trucking services provide a comprehensive door-to-door service, while drayage services typically handle primarily first-mile and last-mile transport. Intermodal services, on the other hand, cover the entire journey, integrating multiple transportation modes throughout the journey.
Contact Us Today for Our Unmatched Transportation Services in the Chicago Area
Are you looking for reliable and experienced drayage services and intermodal services in the Chicago area? Look no further than CW Freight. Our team of experts leverages the appropriate transportation service based on your requirements to streamline your logistics needs. To learn more about our services or request a quote for intermodal and container drayage services, contact us at 773-234-0010 or contact us online.