In the fast-moving world of intermodal freight, time is money—and few issues eat into both like excessive dwell time. Whether its containers sitting idle at railyards, trucks waiting at terminals, or cargo delayed in transition, every hour of dwell time creates a ripple effect that impacts costs, service reliability, and customer satisfaction.
What Is Dwell Time in Logistics?
Dwell time refers to the period cargo spends idle in a terminal or railyard before moving to its next mode of transport. In intermodal freight, this typically happens when containers await transfer between trucks and trains—or vice versa. While some dwell time is unavoidable, prolonged delays can quickly snowball into logistical headaches.
The Hidden Costs of Dwell Time
Higher Operating Costs
When trucks are stuck waiting at rail terminals or ports, it means fewer turns per day. That leads to increased labor costs, higher fuel consumption during idle time, and decreased fleet utilization.
Missed Delivery Windows
Intermodal freight relies on tight schedules. Even a few hours of dwell time can result in missed delivery appointments, costly rescheduling, or penalties for late deliveries.
Customer Frustration
Delays in transit often lead to poor customer experience. When businesses don’t receive goods on time, it affects their operations, inventory, and, ultimately, their bottom line.
Equipment Imbalance
Prolonged container dwell times disrupt asset availability. Railcars, chassis, and containers sitting idle are resources not being used elsewhere, which puts pressure on the entire supply chain.
Intermodal Rail Delays: A Growing Challenge
With growing congestion at major U.S. rail hubs and ports, intermodal rail delays have become a major concern for shippers and logistics providers. Labor shortages, weather events, and outdated infrastructure all contribute to extended dwell times. And as volume increases, the need for precise coordination becomes even more critical.
How ABI Minimizes Dwell Time
At Asset Based Intermodal (ABI), we understand the urgency of every load. Here’s how we help reduce dwell time:
Live Tracking & Real-Time Updates
Our logistics platform provides real-time data to help preempt delays and streamline communication across partners.
Pre-Pull & Drop-and-Hook Services
We offer flexible container handling to keep freight moving—even when terminals are congested. From Yard Pulls to prevent storage charges, to container parking for other Asset Based providers in our arena.
Strategic Terminal Relationships
Our strong partnerships with rail yards and port operators give us access to priority processing and faster container releases.
Texas-Based, National Reach
With service hubs in Dallas, San Antonio, and Laredo, we optimize routes to reduce dwell and wait times across the Southern U.S. corridor.
Final Thoughts
In intermodal freight, dwell time isn’t just a delay—it’s a liability. For every hour a container sits still, costs increase and opportunities are lost. That’s why proactive logistics strategies, strong partnerships, and local expertise are essential to minimizing intermodal rail delays and keeping freight on the move.
Looking to reduce dwell time and improve your bottom line?
Call Asset Based Intermodal for a competitive rate and discover how we keep your freight moving on time each time. Call us at: 972.487.9900
