In the second quarter of 2024, total intermodal volume rose 7.9 percent year-over-year, driven by expanding international trade volumes. The growth was largely attributable to international containers, which surged 13.3 percent. However, trailer-on-flatcar transportation declined 20.6 percent, dampening overall gains. Significant volume increases were also recorded across seven high-density trade corridors in the United States. The Federal Reserve's decisions in the coming three months will determine whether this growth momentum can be sustained.
Key Takeaways:
Intermodal volumes increased 7.9 percent in the second quarter of 2024.
International container volume grew 13.3 percent.
Trailer-on-flatcar (TOFC) transportation declined 20.6 percent.
The highest growth of 21.5 percent was recorded in the Midwest-Northwest trade corridor.
Federal Reserve decisions will determine future growth prospects.
