Intermodal: A Top 20th Century Transportation Innovation

In this historical survey of intermodalism, the author reports that intermodalism was second only to the conversion from steam to diesel for its impact on the rail industry. Although its origins date back to the late 19th century, when tractors and circus wagons traveled on railroad flat cars, intermodalism's true push didn't start until after World War Two. Regulatory restrictions imposed by the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), however, kept the practice from expanding as quickly as it could. With the passage in 1980 of the Staggers Rail Act, which relaxed many restrictions, intermodalism began to grow. The introduction of freight containers for cargo transport was also a huge boost. At the same time, railroads were investing in cars that could carry double stacks. The large trucking firm run by J.B. Hunt was also an important player. Finally, with the near-universal adoption of containers, railroads responded with intermodal corridors and special lines. By 2003, intermodal cargo became the largest revenue generator for Class Is, surpassing coal.