EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The U.S. rail network is considered one of the most dynamic freight systems in the world. It not only moves more freight than any other freight rail network in the world but its usage also results in numerous benefits to its users and the environment.
Transport of goods via intermodal rail has experienced rapid growth throughout the past quarter century. In 2014, U.S. intermodal rail volume hit 13.5 million containers, a 125 percent increase since 1990 (Figure A). Intermodal’s growth trends are due, in large part, to the billions of dollars invested into its infrastructure which has resulted in a more fuel efficient, capacity expanding, and environmentally-friendly alternative to highway carriers.
