Auto Transport Tips: Intermodal Auto Shipping
When you ship a car, most of the time it’ll be shipped on one single car hauler. This means that the carrier that arrives at pickup to load and ship your vehicle will also be the one to deliver it.
But with intermodal auto shipping, the opposite becomes reality – multiple haulers are used in intermodal transportation, and the reasons as to why can vary. However, you should know that intermodal auto shipping is not all that common.
It’s not popular among carriers usually, as it it results in a split in profit. It’s also not common among customers because reliability goes down and transit times tend to go up with intermodal transportation.
Is intermodal auto shipping common?
It’s not common, no. Intermodal shipping is most often used when there is a mechanical issue with your assigned carrier. You have to remember that auto transport trucks are vehicles, just like the things that they ship. Therefore, they’re subject to the same rigors of the road – and are plagued by the same mechanical issues as other vehicles.
There are several reasons why a carrier truck might be unfit to use mechanically, ranging from engine issues to problems with the lift hydraulics on their trailers. And a host of others, too – way, way too many to list out here. But if any of those problems are apparent, it means the carrier can’t be driven, which means another one needs found.
Intermodal shipping is also used for overseas shipments, but in this case it’s because it’s necessary. To get your vehicle to the port that it will depart from requires you to either drive it there or hire an over-the-road trucker to haul it there for you. Once at the port, it gets loaded onto a separate cargo ship.
This is technically intermodal transport, though most people don’t think of it as such – it’s mostly referring to multiple over-the-road carriers. Some companies may offer discounts for intermodal auto shipping, though that’s not something to bank on. Ultimately, if you’re interested in it, go ahead and ask an agent. Chances are they’ll tell you it’s more time consuming and more expensive, but you never know.
Looking for auto shipping services?
If you’re interested in auto shipping quotes and services, fill out our free quote request form. It’s free and easy, won’t take more than a minute, and will get you a free quote to ship your vehicle right away. We price our shipments to move when you need them moved. You can also contact us over the phone at 800-930-7417 to speak to an agent. They can answer questions, give you a quote, book a shipment, and more.
Since 2007 Dave has written all the content and blogs for American Auto Shipping and during this time added the duties of customer support and transport logistics.
He currently resides in Washington with his three kids and their mom and cat. A fan of Marvel movies and good stories, when not shipping cars Dave can be found working on his novel, enjoying a good book or playing some tournament HALO.
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