Intermodal Freight Transportation

The Branch is responsible for the monitoring and promotion of intermodal freight in Canada. This involves the ongoing consultation with stakeholders and users of the system to identify barriers and optimize efficiency. The primary focus is on the seamless interface of transfer points between modes of transportation in a safe, secure and efficient manner.

Intermodal freight is the movement of freight by more than one mode of transportation. Today, a significant amount of freight involves multiple modes of transportation. For example, import goods arriving at a major container terminal would use 2-3 modes of transportation (e.g. marine, rail, and trucking).

Activities

• Identify barriers to intermodal freight transportation. This may involve physical, logistical or regulatory impediments, and stakeholder coordination.
   
• Undertake analysis and feasibility studies to assess potential intermodal freight initiatives and improve the logistical flow of freight.
   
• Work with shippers, carriers, stakeholders and provincial governments, in understanding, analyzing and identifying improvements to the movement of freight.
   
• Assess intermodal freight connectors and access to intermodal faciltities.

Studies

• Summary of Intermodal Freight Consultations (2004)
   
• A Review of Regulations Governing the Use of International Marine Containers in Canadian Domestic Cargo Carriage - December, 2005 (study available in Sept.)
   
• Access to intermodal terminals in Lower Mainland, B.C. (study available in Sept.)

Relevant Links

The Branch works closely with colleagues within Transport Canada as well as other government departments and provincial governments on intermodal freight transportation policy issues.

Contact

For additional information, please contact Brian Plant (plantb@tc.gc.ca).