Intermodal transportation refers to the transportation of freight from point A to point B using various means of transport. Each of these means of transport is associated with a unique supplier and, therefore, individual contracts.
Several carriers join forces to complete this task on the same route, but use different transportation methods: for example, train, plane, truck, etc. Intermodal freight transportation is a notable transportation strategy for maximizing the combination of price and service.
There are two types of intermodal freight: Container-On-Flatcar (COFC) or Trailer-On-Flatcar (TOFC). Under the TOFC model, an over-the-road (OTR) trailer is placed directly into the well, as opposed to an intermodal container. COFC, which emerged in 1984, is more cost-effective because four containers can be loaded into a well, compared to just two trailers.