How Intermodal Shipping Offers Enhanced Security
Intermodal shipping is growing in popularity, and with good reason. It offers several efficiencies above and beyond what traditional over-the-road (OTR) shipping offers. Let’s look at one of these benefits in particular: increased protection and security.
Intermodal shipping, which involves two or more different shipping modes (such as trucks, ships, and railroads) to move freight to its ultimate destination, is less vulnerable to the safety issues that commonly impact trucks driving on the road.
Trains, for instance, run on a dedicated track and schedule, which significantly reduces the risk of accidents, compared to trucks on the road, who have to weave in and out of moving traffic. This is especially important when they are carrying materials that are highly combustible or otherwise considered hazardous. The risks that are posed by inclement weather conditions and road construction are also minimized with intermodal shipping and containers.
In addition, freight that is loaded and braced correctly on train flatcars rarely sustains damage. Because of the enhanced safety offered by train shipping, there are fewer restrictions around the handling of dangerous materials. This means that the shipping process can be expedited.
Railyards are highly protected areas, with 24-hour surveillance that ensures no unauthorized personnel can gain access. Train cars themselves can also be locked securely and monitored through technology which eliminates the losses associated with break-ins and theft. This offers a superior level of security and protection for high-value freight.
Developments in machine learning and artificial intelligence are also making intermodal shipping safer. Advancements include Positive Train Control, which is a set of technologies that automatically stops trains to avoid specific kinds of accidents. Other tools include smart sensors that monitor the health of train components, such as wheels, and identify abnormalities that could indicate potential breakdowns before they happen.
With more and more businesses transitioning away from OTR, intermodal shipping is quickly becoming the future of freight transportation. At CIE Manufacturing, we continue to be industry leaders who provide the latest technology and processes to support our customers as they make the switch to intermodal shipping. Contact us to find out how we can help your business succeed today.