Intermodal Transport (TOFC and COFC): Definition and Examples

What is intermodal transport?

Intermodal transport combines transportation modes within one freight journey. In U.S. rail-truck operations, a container or trailer moves between road and rail while the goods generally remain inside the loading unit. Trucks handle the connecting legs and rail handles part of the longer journey.

What do TOFC and COFC mean?

TOFC — Trailer on Flatcar: a trailer, or a container mounted on a chassis, is carried on a railcar. The arrangement is also known as piggyback.
COFC — Container on Flatcar: a container is carried by rail without its road chassis. Modern container trains often use well cars, including double-stack arrangements where infrastructure permits.

The distinction concerns the loading unit and how it travels by rail. It does not by itself determine the shipment's price, transit time or delivery appointment.

How an intermodal move works

For example, a truck collects a loaded container and delivers it to a rail terminal before cutoff. After the rail journey, another truck takes the container from the destination terminal to the receiver. Those road connections are commonly called drayage.

Planning must cover terminal cutoffs, train schedules, equipment availability, cargo securement and final delivery arrangements. Missing a terminal cutoff can affect the overall schedule even if the truck leg was short.

Planning transport with DAGO Express

Distinguish a request for dedicated road delivery from a request involving rail terminals or shipping containers. Provide the cargo details and required arrival time so the appropriate transport scope can be confirmed. This glossary entry explains the terminology and does not promise rail or intermodal services.

Frequently asked questions

Is intermodal the same as transloading?

No. In container-based intermodal transport, the loading unit changes modes while the goods stay inside. Transloading transfers the goods into another unit.

Is intermodal always faster than road transport?

No. Compare the complete door-to-door schedule, including terminal handling and connecting truck legs. Suitability depends on the lane and shipment requirements.

Related terms: drayage, OTR trucking, transit time.