Some weeks or months can be busier than others when it comes to the shipping industry, as major holidays and events necessitate more truck vs. train shipping processes.
Peak season, typically ongoing from August to December, consists of major events like Labor Day, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. It’s a common sight these days when people buy more things because of more discounts and promotions on nearly all items.
Since many businesses ship their products using shipping containers during this season, choosing either truck vs. train shipping can be tricky without knowing the needs of each shipment.
Also Read: Preparing for 2025 Shipping Industry Trends: An Outlook
Factors to Consider During Peak Season Shipping
As the spike in shipment for various retail items peaks during this season, this situation can result in delayed shipments, increased rates, and more significant logistical challenges. Important things to think about while deciding between truck vs. train shipping are:
- Capacity: Can the transportation mode handle your shipment volume?
- Cost: Is it cost-effective, considering peak season surcharges?
- Speed: Will it arrive on time?
- Flexibility: Can it adapt to sudden changes?
- Reliability: Are there any delays or disruptions?
Once you know the factors that may impact your shipping process, let’s see how both transportation modes stack up.
Truck Shipping
Many businesses use truck shipping due to its versatility and reach. From large cities to rural locations, trucks can deliver products practically anywhere there is a road. Trucking companies can better adjust to shifting demands during peak season by adding more routes or trucks as necessary.
Advantages of Truck Shipping
- Flexibility: Trucks can deliver door-to-door, making it highly adaptable for businesses of all sizes.
- Speed: Trucks are often faster across short to medium distances, especially if the shipment is urgent.
- Availability: Trucking services are more widespread even during peak seasons, making them a more accessible option.
- Real-Time Tracking: Most trucking companies offer GPS tracking that allows you to follow your shipment’s progress.
Disadvantages of Truck Shipping
- Capacity Issues: Trucks may face capacity constraints during peak seasons, leading to delays or increased costs.
- Higher Costs for Long Distances: The cost per mile for trucking becomes significantly higher over longer distances than railways.
- Weather Dependence: Weather conditions like snow, ice, or heavy rain can severely impact truck shipping processes.
- Traffic Congestion: Trucks are subject to road congestion, particularly in major cities, which can significantly lower deliveries.
Recommended Highways for Truck Shipping
Knowing which highway has the best access for freight operations can maximize efficiency during peak season. Here are some of the most recommended highways for truck shipping:
| Highway | Route | Notable Cities Along the Way | Best Use |
| Interstate 80 (I-80) | From San Francisco, CA, to Teaneck, NJ | Sacramento, Chicago, Cleveland | Cross-country shipments, major hubs |
| Interstate 10 (I-10) | From Santa Monica, CA, to Jacksonville, FL | Los Angeles, Houston, New Orleans | Coast-to-coast, southern regions |
| Interstate 95 (I-95) | From Miami, FL, to Houlton, ME | Miami, Philadelphia, New York | East Coast shipments |
| Interstate 40 (I-40) | From Barstow, CA, to Wilmington, NC | Albuquerque, Memphis, Nashville | Central U.S. shipping, transcontinental options |
| Interstate 5 (I-5) | From San Diego, CA, to Blaine, WA | Los Angeles, Portland, Seattle | West Coast shipments |
These major highways provide extensive coverage and connections between key cities that can speed up deliveries during peak season.
Train Shipping
Despite being often overlooked, train shipping offers an equally highly efficient transportation mode. Trains are ideal for moving large volumes of goods over long distances, making them a perfect choice for peak-season shipping, especially for industries like manufacturing or retail.
Advantages of Train Shipping
- Cost Efficiency: Train shipping is typically more cost-effective than trucking for long-haul shipments, especially during peak season when truck rates surge.
- Capacity: Trains can carry significantly more freight than trucks, which is useful for large shipments.
- Less Traffic and Weather Impact: Traffic congestion and weather conditions impact trains less significantly than trucks.
- Eco-Friendly: Trains use less fuel per ton of moved freight, making them a more sustainable option.
Disadvantages of Train Shipping
- Limited Flexibility: Trains run on fixed schedules and routes, which can make them less adaptable for last-minute changes or door-to-door delivery.
- Slower Transit Times: While cost-efficient for long distances, trains are generally slower than trucks, which can harm time-sensitive shipments.
- Handling and Transfers: Train shipments often need additional handling when transferred to trucks for final delivery, leading to extra delivery times and risks.
Recommended Railways for Train Shipping
Choosing the most efficient railways can significantly impact your delivery times and costs if you use train shipping. Some of the most recommended U.S. railways include:
| Railway | Route | Key Stops | Best Use |
| Union Pacific Railroad | West Coast to Midwest and Southern U.S. | Los Angeles, Denver, Houston | Long-haul shipments, bulk goods |
| BNSF Railway | Nationwide coverage, especially the western U.S. | Seattle, Chicago, Dallas | Cross-country shipments, intermodal services |
| CSX Transportation | East Coast and Midwest | Miami, New York, Detroit | Short- and long-haul across eastern U.S. |
| Norfolk Southern Railway | Eastern U.S. routes | Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta | Intermodal and long-distance freight |
| Canadian National Railway (CN) | Cross-border shipping between Canada and the U.S. | Vancouver, Toronto, New Orleans | International shipments, heavy goods |
These railways cover vast distances and connect to critical shipping hubs, which can help your goods move quickly and efficiently across the country.
Comparison: Train vs. Truck Shipping
Here’s a quick comparison of the two shipping modes:
| Factor | Truck Shipping | Train Shipping |
| Cost | Higher for long distances, flexible for short | Lower for long distances, higher for short |
| Speed | Faster for short distances | Slower overall but reliable for long distances |
| Capacity | Limited to individual truckloads | Higher capacity, ideal for bulk shipping |
| Flexibility | Highly flexible, door-to-door service | Fixed routes, less adaptable |
| Environmental Impact | Higher emissions per ton | Lower emissions per ton |
When to Choose Train Over Truck and Vice Versa
- Choose truck shipment when flexibility is crucial, especially for short-distance or urgent deliveries. Trucks work wonders for small cargo, last-mile deliveries, and items that must get to their destinations quickly.
- Choose train shipping when transporting heavy loads over long distances, particularly if the shipment is not urgent and cost is an issue. Nothing beats train shipping, when it comes to cross-country shipping or big items like manufactured goods and raw materials.
Conclusion
Choosing one of either transportation modes during peak seasons eventually comes down to your business needs. Despite the pros and cons of both modes, using the best shipping container to keep them safe during freight from trusted vendors like Tradecorp is a must. With over 35 years of experience in the shipping industry, Tradecorp knows exactly the best container type for all your business projects. Fill out the quote form to find your ideal container and we’ll reply ASAP!