The transfer of freight from one mode or container type to another at an intermediate facility, such as moving bulk commodity from a railcar into trucks for final delivery, or consolidating LTL shipments into carload quantities. Transloading allows rail to serve customers without direct rail access. Transload facilities are a critical link in multimodal supply chains.
A facility where freight is transferred between railcars and trucks or other modes, enabling rail service to shippers without direct rail access. Transload facilities may handle bulk commodities, packaged goods, or intermodal containers. They serve as an economic alternative to private sidings for shippers with moderate rail volume.
A railroad-owned track at a public facility where multiple shippers can load or unload cars that do not have private sidings. Team tracks provide rail access to small shippers who lack the volume to justify a private siding. They are increasingly rare as freight has shifted to carload and intermodal service.
A facility equipped with cranes, reach stackers, or other lifting equipment to transfer intermodal containers and trailers between railcars and trucks. Intermodal terminals are the interface between the rail and trucking networks and are located in major metropolitan areas and port cities. Throughput capacity and truck gate efficiency are critical performance metrics.
A company that provides outsourced logistics and supply chain management services including transportation procurement, freight brokerage, warehousing, and distribution on behalf of shippers. 3PLs frequently negotiate rail contracts and manage intermodal moves for their clients. They add value through scale, expertise, and technology platforms.