**Hub Group Scoops Up Marten’s Intermodal Biz — But What Does That Mean for Truckers?**

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

Introduction: Two giants make a move, and intermodal just got a shakeup

Hub Group, one of the heavy hitters in freight logistics, just agreed to acquire Marten Transport’s intermodal division. That might sound like two corporations playing Monopoly — but this move has real ripple effects for drivers, shippers, and anybody tied into the intermodal game.

Whether you're hauling containers, moving freight across rail lanes, or just wondering if your load board’s gonna look different next month — this deal might end up mattering more than you think.

Key Points: What’s actually happening here?

Here’s the skinny:

Hub Group is acquiring Marten’s intermodal business (not the whole company — just that division).

Marten will keep rolling with its core trucking, reefer, and logistics units.

The deal gives Hub more intermodal volume, more containers, and better leverage with railroads.

It’s a play to dominate the growing, but increasingly competitive, intermodal space.

Why it matters:
More freight consolidation means fewer players — and that usually means more control (and more pressure) on the smaller guys in the supply chain.

What’s Intermodal Again? (For the new folks)

Quick refresher: Intermodal freight is when shipments move using more than one mode of transport — like going from truck ➡️ rail ➡️ truck again. The containers stay sealed, but the carrier hands off parts of the journey.

It’s popular for:

Long-haul freight across the country

Cost savings on fuel

Predictable routes
But it can also mean:

Long wait times at rail yards

Lower pay-per-mile if you're the one doing pickup/delivery

Extra hands in the mix (and you get paid last)

Multiple Perspectives: How folks in the trenches are reacting

Hub Group HQ:
They're calling it a strategic growth move. “We’re expanding capacity, efficiency, and scale.” Translation: we want more control over freight lanes.

Marten:
Says they're focusing on their strengths — temperature-controlled freight, over-the-road trucking, and logistics. Basically, “we’re cashin’ out of rail, and doubling down on trucks.”

Intermodal Drivers:
Mixed feelings. Some are hoping Hub’s network means smoother dispatch and better freight flow. Others are nervous:

Will new management cut pay rates?

Will dispatch get more automated and less human?

Will Marten intermodal drivers be pushed out or absorbed?

Owner-operators & lease drivers:
Watching closely. Some rely on these intermodal lanes for consistent local/regional runs. If Hub brings in stricter rules, apps, or cuts pay… that steady money might dry up.

Industry Response: This ain’t just a handshake — it’s a strategy

This deal is part of a bigger trend: Mega-carriers gobbling up market share. It’s not just about freight — it’s about rail contracts, ports, and who gets the best rates.

Hub Group likely wants:

Stronger leverage with BNSF and other railroads

More door-to-door service under their brand

To squeeze out mid-size intermodal competitors

The industry’s been watching intermodal tighten up, especially with rail delays, chassis shortages, and fuel rollercoasters. Whoever owns the lanes owns the power — and Hub just added more chess pieces.

The Bottom Line: Fewer players = tighter lanes + more control

If you’re an intermodal driver, dispatcher, or broker — expect changes.
If you're Marten OTR? You're not affected… yet.
But consolidation always trickles down.

Expect:

New rules

New rates

New tech rollouts
And maybe fewer options when choosing who to run for.

The big guys just took another bite — make sure you're not the one left with crumbs.

Call to Action:

📢 Thinking long-term? These company moves should be your wake-up call.
Start building your own plan — don’t let corporate takeovers control your future.

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