Jan 1, 2006 12:00 PM

Intermodal volumes realized a 4.5% increase in growth during second quarter 2005, adding another consecutive quarter to intermodal's unrivaled streak, according to Intermodal Market Trends & Statistics, a quarterly publication of the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA). Growth during the quarter echoed recent trends, with sustained gains in international volume offsetting modest domestic declines.

The overall rate of intermodal growth did slow somewhat — increasing at half the rate observed during full year 2004 — with international growth rates also slightly slowing, but still well above historic averages. Domestic volume fell at a slightly faster pace than Q1 2005, reflecting a probable early-spring economic “soft patch,” combined with increased truckload capacity, tight domestic container supply, and evolving railroad marketing strategies. Domestic container results improved from the previous quarter, but were tempered by significantly lower trailer volumes.

Intermodal Market Trends & Statistics is published quarterly by IANA and is available on a subscription and individual copy basis. For subscription information, e-mail Melka Johnson at melka.johnson@intermodal.org or phone 301-982-3400 (x351).