Here is an example of the possible process:
- A factory in China loads a container, sealed and locked.
- The container is loaded on a railcar and transported to the shipping port.
- There it is offloaded from the train and loaded onto a cargo ship.
- The ship travels across the Pacific to a port in California.
- There it is offloaded from the ship to a railcar and transported to Reno.
- Again offloaded to a truck and hauled to Las Vegas.
- There it is finally opened and processed, however the customer desires.
Ok, obviously I left out a few steps, but the point is there. There is an exception to the opening and that is of course for Customs inspections or other law enforcement related legal reasons.
But the freight is moved along from point A and ends at point B with minimal handling.
Why Would Someone Use Intermodal Trucking Companies?
Well I thought after the brief explanation it would be obvious. There is less handling of the freight so the transportation process is quicker.