THE 10 BEST Intermodal Services in PORTLAND, OR
| Business Name | Key Services | Best For | Address | Hours | PS Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portland Container | Container Drayage, Off-Dock CY, Container Sales | Large Scale FCL Drayage Operations | 9449 N. Burgard Way, Portland, OR 97203 | Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM | 4.6/5 |
| Hub Group | Intermodal Transportation, Rail Services, Temperature Controlled | Nationwide Intermodal Networks | 3162 NW Front Avenue, Portland, OR 97211 | 24/7 Operations | 4.3/5 |
| Terminal Transfer Inc | Bonded Warehousing, Container Drayage, CES | Import/Export Container Services | 15745 N Columbia Blvd Ste 100, Portland, OR 97203 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM | 4.5/5 |
| J.B. Hunt Transport | Full Truckload, Intermodal, Dedicated Services | Consistent Daily Home Time | 4320 N Suttle Rd, Portland, OR 97217 | 24/7 Customer Support | 4.2/5 |
| Independent Dispatch Inc | Freight Forwarding, Intermodal, Regional Trucking | Personalized Service & Reliability | 214 NE Middlefield Rd, Portland, OR 97211 | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.7/5 |
| Schneider National | Rail Dray, Port Drayage, Bulk Transport | Multimodal Shipping Solutions | 12986 NE Whitaker Way, Portland, OR 97230 | 24/7 Dispatch | 4.1/5 |
| Northwest Container Services | Daily Direct Rail Service, Container Transport | Pacific Northwest Rail Connections | 11920 N. Burgard Rd, Portland, OR 97203 | Mon-Fri: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.4/5 |
| XPO Logistics | LTL, Intermodal Brokerage, Cross-Border | Asset-Based LTL Transportation | 2055 NW Savier St, Portland, OR 97209 | Mon-Fri: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.0/5 |
| Union Pacific Brooklyn Terminal | Double Stack Rail, Container Loading | Major Rail Hub Operations | SE Powell Blvd & SE 17th Ave, Portland, OR 97202 | 24/7 Operations | 4.3/5 |
| Complete Distribution Services | LTL, Truckload, Intermodal Rail | Cost-Effective Freight Brokerage | Downtown Portland, OR (Multiple Locations) | Mon-Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 4.2/5 |
#1. Portland Container – Best for Large Scale FCL Drayage Operations
Key Highlights:
- Moves more than 1,300 containers weekly throughout the Pacific Northwest region
- Operates 30+ acre secured off-dock facility with advanced security monitoring
- Maintains a fleet of 400+ chassis and 90+ company trucks for maximum flexibility
Portland Container stands as one of the largest FCL drayage providers in the Pacific Northwest market. They handle over 4 million miles annually with dedicated safety teams and in-house fleet mechanics. Their location near the Oregon-Washington border makes them perfect for businesses needing quick access to major highways.
The company provides daily service to all major ports in Seattle and Tacoma along with container ports throughout Oregon and Washington. Their equipment variety includes twelve, eight, six, and four pin chassis with various axle combinations. This flexibility allows them to haul up to 57,000 lbs every single day.
Portland Container offers electronic dispatch, GPS tracking, and real-time information updates. Clients consistently praise their ability to handle night and weekend shipments with the same level of quality service. Their comprehensive approach includes container yard services, drayage operations, and container sales for businesses of all sizes.
#2. Hub Group – Best for Nationwide Intermodal Networks
Key Highlights:
- Operates 50,000+ intermodal containers across North America
- Provides temperature controlled intermodal solutions for sensitive cargo
- Ranked #2 among intermodal carriers in the United States
Hub Group brings over 50 years of experience to Portland’s intermodal landscape. Their terminal on NW Front Avenue serves as a crucial connection point for businesses shipping throughout the country. The company specializes in combining rail efficiency with truck flexibility to optimize shipping costs.
Their proprietary technology enables real-time tracking and network optimization for customers. Hub Group maintains strategic partnerships with major railroads including Union Pacific and BNSF. This gives them access to extensive rail networks spanning thousands of miles.
The company recently expanded its temperature controlled capabilities, making them ideal for food distributors and pharmaceutical companies. Hub Group’s commitment to sustainability shows through reduced fuel consumption and environmentally friendly business practices. They offer dedicated account management to ensure smooth operations for every client.
#3. Terminal Transfer Inc – Best for Import/Export Container Services
Key Highlights:
- Offers 250,000 sq ft of bonded warehouse space in Portland
- Provides Centralized Examination Station services for customs inspections
- Features 100+ years of combined logistics knowledge in their team
Terminal Transfer Inc operates as a complete warehousing and transportation solution provider. Their main facility sits within one mile of all major container terminals including the Port of Portland Terminal 6. This prime location dramatically reduces transit times for import and export shipments.
The company runs a customs bonded facility equipped with 26,000 sq ft of additional secured outdoor storage. Their intermodal container division uses a fleet of 30+ trucks servicing Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Experienced drivers possess complete knowledge of operating procedures at Portland and Seattle area terminals.
Terminal Transfer provides comprehensive services including CFS operations, transloading, and 3PL distribution. Their equipment fleet includes multiple axle chassis configurations, liftgate-equipped trailers, and specialized hauling equipment. Customers appreciate the personal attention and quick turnaround times for customs examinations.
#4. J.B. Hunt Transport – Best for Consistent Daily Home Time
Key Highlights:
- Operates the largest company-owned intermodal fleet in North America
- Features 116,000+ containers and 100,700+ chassis all company owned
- Provides 70% of drivers with daily home time through regional routes
J.B. Hunt Transport revolutionizes the intermodal driving experience with their focus on driver satisfaction. Their Portland operations at N Suttle Rd offer consistent routes and familiar freight patterns. The company maintains 100% ownership of containers and chassis, eliminating common equipment availability issues.
Drivers enjoy access to private express gates that reduce yard wait times significantly. About 80% of J.B. Hunt’s intermodal freight requires no touch, creating safer working conditions. The company provides comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
J.B. Hunt’s scale allows them to serve major metropolitan areas and cross-border destinations efficiently. Their technology platform enables real-time visibility into shipment status. Businesses choose J.B. Hunt for reliable capacity and on-time performance across diverse shipping lanes.
#5. Independent Dispatch Inc – Best for Personalized Service & Reliability
Key Highlights:
- Family-owned and operated business since 1980 with personalized attention
- Named “Best Places to Work” by Oregon Business Magazine multiple times
- Won Oregon “Grand Champion” Safety Carrier award three times
Independent Dispatch Inc (IDI) brings a personal touch to the intermodal shipping industry. Located on NE Middlefield Rd, this family-run operation treats every customer like their most important account. They specialize in moving valuable products including metals, machinery, lumber, and paper safely across North America.
IDI operates a regional truck fleet handling Portland and Seattle/Tacoma port and rail drayage. Their intermodal marketing services connect customers with optimal rail solutions. The company maintains long-standing relationships with employees, vendors, and customers spanning decades.
What sets IDI apart is their commitment to responsive communication. They return calls immediately and visit customers in person to understand their needs. IDI handles complex freight with ease, managing operations from end to end. Their warehouse facility provides flexible short and long-term storage solutions for import-export operations.
#6. Schneider National – Best for Multimodal Shipping Solutions
Key Highlights:
- Conducts over 1 million drayage movements annually across North America
- Partners with 60 rail networks for comprehensive coverage
- Offers satellite tracking technology for real-time freight visibility
Schneider National operates a major facility on NE Whitaker Way serving the entire Pacific Northwest region. They provide seamless connections between truck, rail, and ocean transport modes. Their intermodal services reduce transit times by 10% compared to traditional over-the-road shipping.
The company uses lightweight chassis and containers to increase capacity by 20% on average. Schneider’s uniformed company drivers and company-owned equipment minimize regulatory risks for shippers. Their Rail Dray services help optimize entire drayage networks while boosting sustainability.
Schneider maintains strategic relationships with Class I railroads including Union Pacific, BNSF, and CSX. This enables them to move freight efficiently throughout the eastern core, Southeast, and cross-border to Mexico. Their FreightPower online marketplace gives customers complete freight management capabilities with transparent pricing.
#7. Northwest Container Services – Best for Pacific Northwest Rail Connections
Key Highlights:
- Operates Daily Direct overnight train service six days weekly
- Owns specialized 5-well double stack container cars unique worldwide
- Provides direct trucking and train-to-dock services for containers
Northwest Container Services Inc (NWCS) specializes in connecting Portland with Seattle and Tacoma via efficient rail service. Their facility on N Burgard Rd has partnered with Union Pacific Railroad since 1986. The Daily Direct service grew from three days weekly to current six-day operation.
NWCS owns their railcars, giving them scheduling flexibility unavailable to competitors. Their unique 5-well double stack cars were custom designed by Gunderson Inc specifically for NWCS operations. This equipment design maximizes efficiency for Northwest shipping patterns.
The company focuses primarily on meeting steamship line customer cutoffs while serving all clients diligently. NWCS provides container and chassis repositioning with inventory management services. Their expertise in Pacific Northwest logistics makes them the go-to provider for regional intermodal needs.
#8. XPO Logistics – Best for Asset-Based LTL Transportation
Key Highlights:
- One of the largest asset-based LTL carriers in North America
- Provides comprehensive freight brokerage and intermodal services
- Features nationwide terminal network for consistent coverage
XPO Logistics operates facilities on NW Savier St providing full-service transportation solutions. They excel at combining less-than-truckload shipping with intermodal capabilities. Their asset-based approach ensures equipment availability and service reliability.
The company’s technology platform delivers real-time tracking and supply chain visibility. XPO offers dedicated account management with responsive customer support teams. Their intermodal division facilitates one of the most comprehensive double-stack networks in North America.
XPO maintains relationships with independent drayage carriers throughout Portland and surrounding areas. This network flexibility allows them to handle capacity surges during peak seasons. Businesses appreciate XPO’s ability to provide quotes quickly and execute shipments efficiently across multiple transport modes.
#9. Union Pacific Brooklyn Terminal – Best for Major Rail Hub Operations
Key Highlights:
- Operates 110-acre intermodal rail yard in southeast Portland
- Features Precision Gating Technology for faster processing times
- Provides 24/7 operations with dedicated UPGo app support
Union Pacific’s Brooklyn Intermodal Terminal serves as a critical freight hub for the entire West Coast. Located between Powell and Bybee Boulevards, this facility handles massive volumes of containers daily. The yard supports north-south freight movement and ships thousands of Christmas trees seasonally.
The terminal features advanced Precision Gating Technology that streamlines truck entry and exit procedures. Drivers using the UPGo app enjoy dedicated lanes for even faster service. Union Pacific connects Portland to destinations throughout the United States via its extensive rail network.
The facility operates around the clock, seven days weekly to accommodate shipping schedules. Union Pacific’s scale and infrastructure make them essential for businesses needing reliable capacity. Their intermodal services combine the efficiency of rail with the flexibility of trucking.
#10. Complete Distribution Services – Best for Cost-Effective Freight Brokerage
Key Highlights:
- Established freight broker operating since 1987 in the industry
- Specializes in LTL and truckload services throughout North America
- Provides multiple transport modes including rail and air options
Complete Distribution Services (CDS) brings decades of logistics expertise to Portland businesses. Their freight brokerage model connects shippers with qualified carriers for optimal pricing. CDS handles everything from small LTL shipments to full truckload and intermodal movements.
The company’s professional logistics experience allows them to satisfy diverse transportation needs. They arrange dry van, refrigerated, flatbed, intermodal rail, and air freight services. CDS maintains relationships with reliable carriers to ensure competitive rates and on-time delivery.
Their broker approach provides flexibility without the overhead of maintaining equipment fleets. CDS focuses on customer service and building long-term partnerships with both shippers and carriers. Businesses appreciate their straightforward pricing and ability to handle last-minute shipping changes efficiently.
How Does Intermodal Shipping Reduce Transportation Costs?
Intermodal shipping cuts costs by using rail for long distances instead of trucks. Rail transport uses less fuel and can move more containers at once compared to highway trucks. This efficiency translates to savings of 15% to 25% on longer hauls over 500 miles.
Companies also save money through reduced driver costs and equipment wear. Rail shipping requires fewer drivers since one train can move hundreds of containers. The containers stay sealed during transfers between truck and rail, reducing cargo handling expenses and damage risk.
Another cost benefit comes from better capacity planning. Intermodal services help businesses avoid detention fees and empty miles. Smart routing through Portland’s rail hubs allows companies to optimize their entire supply chain network.
What Types of Cargo Work Best for Intermodal Transport?
Full container loads traveling distances over 300 miles work perfectly for intermodal shipping. This includes manufactured goods, consumer products, automotive parts, and industrial materials. Anything that fits standard 20-foot, 40-foot, or 53-foot containers qualifies for intermodal service.
Non-perishable goods benefit most from intermodal transport since rail transit takes longer than direct trucking. Items like electronics, clothing, building materials, and packaged foods ship well this way. Temperature-controlled containers handle refrigerated and frozen products during longer journeys.
Heavy or bulky cargo gains major advantages from intermodal shipping. The weight capacity of rail cars exceeds truck limits significantly. Portland intermodal services regularly move metals, machinery, lumber, and agricultural products efficiently across the continent.
How Long Does Intermodal Shipping Take from Portland?
Intermodal shipping from Portland to major West Coast cities takes 1 to 3 days typically. Destinations like Seattle or Los Angeles receive containers quickly due to established rail routes. Portland’s connection to Union Pacific and BNSF networks ensures reliable transit times.
Cross-country shipments to the Midwest take approximately 5 to 7 days on average. Chicago, Kansas City, and Dallas benefit from frequent rail service from Portland. The daily trains departing Brooklyn Terminal keep goods moving steadily toward eastern destinations.
International shipping through Portland adds 2 to 4 weeks depending on the final destination. Container ships from Asia arrive at Portland ports regularly. The intermodal system then efficiently distributes goods throughout North America via rail and truck connections.