Multimodal transportation and the benefits to your business

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What does multimodal transportation do for your supply chain?

Multimodal transport is the combination of multiple modes of transportation, such as truckload, intermodal, dedicated or brokerage throughout a shipper’s supply chain to meet their goals. 

A multimodal carrier like Schneider will consult with shippers to evaluate their needs and utilize solutions like Schneider Capacity Stacking to select the most appropriate combination of transportation modes. By doing this, shippers benefit from a strategic solution optimizing supply chain service, cost, and capacity with a single asset carrier. 

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Keep moving with Schneider Capacity Stacking℠

Schneider Capacity Stacking keeps your business running efficiently and effectively with multimodal, dedicated, and dynamic shipping pricing solutions. This customized approach brings shippers the capacity and resiliency needed in disruptive market cycles. 

The difference between Multimodal and Intermodal

Multimodal

During a multimodal shipment, Schneider will create a single contract of carriage. This contract protects the freight from point A to point B, through a combination of multiple modes used throughout the supply chain. By doing this, shippers benefit from a strategic solution optimizing supply chain service, cost, and capacity with a single asset carrier.

The benefit of this type of movement is that Schneider can simplify the communication process by working with an individual carrier or agent who will ensure their products are shipped safely and efficiently. They will also receive clear communication with shipping updates, tracking notifications, and more.

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multimodal truck image
intermodal multimodal transportation photo of truck and rail cars

Intermodal

Intermodal transportation is used to move freight long distances by rail. It offers shippers truck-like reliability built around their business — giving them more options and more control. Intermodal freight is packed into a 53’ container and transported the short distance to and from the rail yard via truck. It travels the majority of the distance on the rail.

This movement is considered a single intermodal shipment though the container is transported via the two different methods of truck and rail to reach its destination.

More about intermodal transportation

A multimodal carrier like Schneider can help you determine which modes of transportation are best for your supply chain, and actually manage all aspects of those freight movements for you.

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See what one multimodal shipper says

Awards and recognition across multiple modes

At Schneider, we are honored to be recognized as an industry leader in multimodal transportation. Recent accolades include:

FIVE Quest for Quality awards, Logistics Management 2023 — Expedited, Intermodal, Bulk, Dry Freight and 3PL TMS

FIVE Quest for Quality awards, 2020 — Expedited, Intermodal, Bulk, Dry Freight and 3PL TMS

2020 inbound logistics top 10 3PL provider

Inbound Logistics Top 100 Trucker, 2023

General Mills Dry Carrier of the Year, 2020

General Mills Platinum Carrier of the Year Award, 2023

Target Middle Mile Award for Best Transportation Innovator, 2020

SmartWay High Performer, 2023

Multimodal transport utilizes a combination of multiple modes

van truckload

Truckload

Ensure on time, secure delivery.
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container ship

Port drayage

Take control of your imports and exports.
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less than truckload

Less-than-Truckload

Simplify the complexities and challenges of LTL.
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intermodal

Intermodal

Get unmatched capacity, reach and savings.
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refrigerated

Reefer

Move your temperature-controlled cargo anywhere.
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brokerage

Brokerage

Connect to thousands of qualified carriers.
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Bulk

Bulk

Upgrade to safer and more reliable solutions.
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Flatbed truck

Flatbed

Gain access to endless flatbed options.
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dedicated services

Dedicated services

Get your freight when, where and how you need it.
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Multimodal transport resources and case studies

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Learn more about how Schneider’s North American network can best service your business.

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