Ocean Imports on the Rise — Intermodal Trucking Gets a Q3 Boost

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

Just when you thought the ports had quieted down, maritime freight is back in a big way — and it’s sending shockwaves through the intermodal world. Ocean-to-truck freight is ticking upward, and Q3 is shaping up to be a strong season for anyone moving containers, port drayage, or last-mile intermodal.

So what’s behind the surge? What markets are hot? And how can truckers and fleet owners get a piece of this multi-modal pie?

Let’s unpack it — no cranes required.

Imports Rebound — But Quietly

Here’s what the big boys are seeing: import volumes are creeping up at major U.S. ports — not just on the West Coast but also the East and Gulf. After a slowdown in 2023 due to inflation, overstocking, and supply chain bloat, shippers are once again restocking shelves and prepping for peak season.

According to the latest data:

Port of L.A. and Long Beach are both up year-over-year

Savannah, Charleston, and Houston are seeing increased volume, especially for retail and construction goods

New York/New Jersey is steady and strong

More ships = more containers. More containers = more truck moves.

Why It Matters for Truckers

This isn’t just good news for ports and rail yards. It’s money in motion for truckers and dispatchers who know where to be.

Here’s how it plays out:

Port drayage demand rises

Rail yards need more local and regional moves

Retailers and 3PLs push for faster transloading

Spot market rates firm up in key intermodal zones

If you’re anywhere near a port or inland rail hub, it’s time to get proactive.

Top Markets to Watch

You don’t need to be everywhere — just in the right places. These cities are already seeing increased container movement:

Los Angeles/Long Beach – West Coast import kingpin

Savannah, GA – Explosive growth thanks to e-commerce

Houston, TX – Energy gear, bulk cargo, and growing retail imports

Chicago, IL – The inland intermodal juggernaut

Newark, NJ – Still the go-to for Northeast freight

If you’re within 100 miles of these? Opportunity’s knocking. Time to open that door.

Intermodal = Smart Freight (If You Know How to Work It)

Intermodal isn’t just for the big guys. Even owner-operators can get in on the game — if they know what to watch for:

Pros:

Shorter hauls, more turns

Less wear on equipment

Fewer backhaul headaches in strong networks

Cons:

Appointment times can be strict

Rail delays and chassis shortages are still a thing

Access fees and port paperwork can be a pain

But if you’ve got patience and a system, intermodal runs can keep you loaded consistently — especially when over-the-road freight gets choppy.

Tips for Cashing in on Q3 Intermodal

Want to catch the wave before it crests? Here’s your playbook:

✅ Partner with intermodal brokers or IMCs (Intermodal Marketing Companies)

✅ Get TWIC-certified if you’re near ports

✅ Use container tracking tools to avoid surprise delays

✅ Pre-load your paperwork — don’t waste time at the gate

✅ Watch chassis availability — bring your own if you can

Also, now might be the time to invest in port-friendly equipment or build relationships with warehouses near rail yards. Fast turnarounds = better margins.

What’s Next?

Q3 looks strong — but will it last? That depends on:

Consumer spending in late summer

Retail stocking strategies heading into the holiday season

Port labor stability (still a wild card in some areas)

Rail congestion or weather delays

Either way, the early signs are positive. If you’re in the intermodal space or thinking about it, now’s the time to move.

Bottom Line — Ride the Intermodal Wave

Maritime imports are rising, intermodal volume is climbing, and Q3 is handing truckers a chance to rack up reliable, well-paying hauls. Don’t sit on the sideline — the lanes are shifting, and smart players are already repositioning.

If you can navigate the port process, dodge the paperwork landmines, and hustle smart? This quarter could be your sleeper hit.

👉 Need help building a plan beyond the ports? Visit RetireFromTrucking.com
👉 Looking for tips, support, or a smarter trucking path? Hit LifeAsATrucker.com