Intermodal volume has been on a consistent upward trend through 2026. AAR data shows intermodal carloads running ahead of the prior year for 12 consecutive weeks, with the Northeast-to-West-Coast and transcontinental corridors showing the strongest volume gains.
OTR spot rates are running approximately 58% above year-ago levels heading into late July — and pre-peak tightening is beginning earlier than usual this year. Rejection rates out of the Northeast are climbing above 9% in some markets. On lanes over 750 miles, the spread between OTR spot and intermodal all-in is running 20–50% depending on the corridor.
This week’s standout: Newark, NJ to Los Angeles, CA all-in at $2,175 via intermodal — compared to $4,800–$5,500+ OTR spot out of the Northeast right now.
Cross-border US–Canada intermodal volume is elevated as shippers manage tariff exposure and lock in cost certainty. Our direct CN Rail and CPKC contracts give us capacity access on this corridor that many providers don’t have — one rate, one contact, customs coordination included.
Send us the origin, destination and service requirements and we’ll evaluate how intermodal fits the lane.
