What is Intermodal Drayage?
In the world of shipping and logistics, intermodal drayage is an all-encompassing term.
What is Intermodal Trucking?
Intermodal means using more than one mode of transportation when moving containers or cargo. Traditionally, intermodal services include a combination of ocean/shipping, truck, and rail.
What is Drayage?
Drayage is defined as goods transported a short distance, usually as a small part of a longer and more complex supply chain system.
With the use of today’s powerful, real-time warehouse management systems (WMS), intermodal companies can reduce the handling of cargo, improve security, allow for faster transportation and more control, and finally reduce damage and loss.
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What is Cross Docking?
Cross-docking allows for one central inbound dock, but several outbound docks at the same time, creating a network of distribution and an integral part of intermodal services. This allows companies to reach the maximum amount of destinations using the minimum number of routes.
Cross-docking is a type of freight movement system that promotes a flowing, seamless supply chain. Like intermodal drayage, materials can be received from truck, rail, or ocean containers.
In a non-intermodal supply chain system, cargo will leave the manufacturer, reach an inventory buffer (traditional warehousing) and then be sent to the customer based on sales.
In a cross-docking system designed for intermodal services, cargo is sent from the manufacturer via ship to a local port. The cargo may then be trucked to a local distribution center or cross docking terminal for cross-docking.
Once cargo is received at the cross-dock terminal, it is unloaded, sorted by destination, reloaded (usually within 24 hours), and sent directly to the final location.
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When to Use Cross Docking
Companies who are deciding between intermodal drayage and cross-docking have several points to consider. Companies who find themselves in the following situations should consider cross-docking solutions:
Companies who are shipping materials…
- …that do not need handling at a warehouse
- …that do not need to be stored or repackaged
- …to similar end points near each other
- …that can be screened quickly through automated systems and sent automatically, without needing a surplus inventory
- …that are time-sensitive or perishable
- …on a recurring delivery
- …where the destination point is greater than 300 miles from the port of entry (ex. Port of Mobile)
Cost-Effectiveness of Cross Docking
Most companies who switch to cross-docking as part of a modern intermodal services solution do so because of the savings in cost compared to intermodal drayage or point-to-point transportation systems. Cost can be saved by using cross-docking in the following ways:
- By cutting out warehousing and handling, there is no cost associated with storing or managing an inventory
- Less freight handling means less damage to products
- Cross-docking systems are well-calculated and managed through an automated warehouse management system, cutting out human error and saving money
- Long-hauls are avoided, cutting transportation, gas and routine service costs
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Things to Consider When Cross Docking
Cross Docking can save cost and time, but it is important to ensure that you are using a carrier who can handle your specific supply chain demands. Consider the following points when choosing a full service supply chain management company to manage your intermodal services.
- Transport carriers must have enough fleet for the cross dock to run smoothly at all times
- A computerized and automatically updated warehouse management system must be used to transmit real-time information to its users
- Cross Docking solutions should offer a competitive price compared to intermodal drayage of specific products or materials
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About BR Williams Trucking & Logistics
BR Williams, a family-owned Trucking, Warehousing, Fulfillment & Logistics Company has been serving customers since 1958. We specialize in removing the supply chain frustrations our customers have by developing custom-made solutions. We offer nationwide transportation services through our fleet and logistics division. Our multiple fulfillment and distribution warehouses in Alabama span over 1.7 million square feet. Our core values are HONESTY, INTEGRITY, SERVICE. We still serve our first customer that was established in 1958.
To discuss your supply chain needs, please contact us online or call (800) 523-7963
