What is Intermodal Transport?

Why Intermodal Matters

Intermodal shipping combines the strengths of each mode: the low cost of rail or sea over long distances, and the flexibility of trucks for the final delivery. Because the goods stay sealed in one container the whole way, there’s less handling, less damage, and less risk of loss.

Intermodal on the Cross-Border Corridor

Freight arriving by rail or ship in Southern California often finishes its journey by truck across the border — a classic intermodal move where smooth drayage makes all the difference.

Did you know?

Crown Xpress Transport helps support intermodal supply chains by coordinating the critical ground transportation that connects ports, terminals, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and final destinations.

With drayage and transportation capabilities serving the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, Crown can help coordinate container movements between marine terminals and the next stage of the supply chain. When a shipment involves multiple modes of transportation—such as ocean, truck, or rail—effective coordination between each handoff is essential to keeping freight moving efficiently.

Our operations team works closely with customers and logistics partners to align container availability, appointments, documentation, equipment, and pickup or delivery schedules. This helps create a smoother transition between transportation modes while reducing unnecessary waiting time and potential disruptions.

From port to truck and onward to its next destination, Crown helps connect the different stages of the journey through reliable transportation and proactive coordination.

Related Terms

Learn more about Drayage  Bonded trucking