How to Choose the Right Intermodal Provider for Your Business

August 15, 2023
Intermodal cargo moving by rail

Intermodal transportation is a great way to move goods long distances efficiently and cost-effectively. However, with so many intermodal providers to choose from, it can be challenging to know which one is right for your business.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing an intermodal provider:

  1. Your freight needs. What type of freight do you need to move? How much freight do you need to move? How often do you need to move freight? The answers to these questions will help you narrow down your options and find a provider that can handle your specific needs.
  2. Your budget. Intermodal transportation can be more expensive than other modes of transportation, such as truckload or air freight. However, it is often more cost-effective over long distances. Make sure to factor in your budget when choosing an intermodal provider.
  3. Your service requirements. How important is on-time delivery to you? Do you need door-to-door service? Do you need a provider that can track your shipments in real-time? Your service requirements will also help you narrow down your options.

Once you have considered these factors, you can start comparing different intermodal providers. Here are a few things to look for when comparing providers:

  1. Experience. How long has the provider been in business? Do they have experience handling your type of freight?
  2. Reputation. What are other customers saying about the provider? Do they have a good track record of customer service?
  3. Pricing. Make sure to compare the pricing of different providers. Be sure to factor in all of the costs, such as drayage, storage, and insurance.
  4. Technology. Does the provider use the latest technology to track shipments and manage their operations? This can be important for getting real-time updates on your shipments and ensuring on-time delivery.

STG Advantage

As a leading provider of intermodal transportation services, we offer some unique advantages:

  1. A vast network with more than 15,000 53′ domestic containers positions us as one of North America’s premier and most accessible intermodal providers. Beyond sheer volume, our strategic affiliations with all Class 1 railroads and a unique capability to utilize both the Union Pacific in the west and the CSX in the east ensure your freight moves efficiently across the continent.

    By diligently analyzing your shipping patterns, we create optimized transit plans, adjusting as needed to consistently deliver the best outcomes.

  2. The latest technology to track your shipments and manage our operations. This includes our proprietary STG EDGE platform, which delivers real-time tracking updates, robust analytics, and unmatched access to data that delivers results.

    STG EDGE gives you a suite of proprietary tools for seamless, door-to-door movement. EDI integration secures capacity and facilitates constant communication with the railroads and dray providers to proactively alert you about any unforeseen delays.

  3. A team of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing you with the best possible service. Their combined years of expertise in the industry ensure that every client receives tailored solutions that suit their unique intermodal transportation needs. It’s not just about experience and knowledge; it’s the passion, dedication, and personal touch they bring to every interaction that truly sets them apart.

    This value is captured in our company slogan: “Our People Are the Difference.” Whenever you have questions or need assistance, rest assured that our team is always at the ready, emphasizing that with STG, you’re not just choosing a provider but a devoted partner.


Choosing the right intermodal provider for your business is an important decision, and considering your freight needs, budget, and service requirements, you can narrow down your options and find a provider that can meet your specific needs.

As North America’s leading coast to coast logistics provider, STG offers a wide range of services to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. We have a long history of providing reliable, efficient, and cost-effective intermodal transportation services and are also committed to providing excellent customer service.

Contact us today to learn more about our services.