Do they use reefers and dry container trailers? Are most of the trucks mid-roof or condo? Does Schneider, and swift run both types of containers? What's the process of delivery and pick up?
I did intermodal out of Chicago in it's infancy( the 80's) but not much has changed. Intermodal does use reefers, but I'd say 95% of the business, is "non-time sensitive" dry van goods. Most the intermodal trucks you see are old mega-carriers trucks, and generally not needed. Most intermodal places have hubs in major cities, so deliveries are generally regional, and with shippers tending to "load the wagon", a lighter tractor is the way to go. The old condo trucks are usually drivers living in them. I was leased to a "power only" outfit in Green Bay, did okay, but if I did it today, I'd get my own spread axle aluminum chassis, as a "house chassis", is usually pretty shot. Many still use tube tires and no sliders. As a company driver, it won't pay much, and there are probably better gigs for a driver. I think an O/O could make it today, if they don't go out and buy one of those $200grand Peterbilts. Don't laugh, I've seen it, just not for too long. Good luck. Give a location, Chinatown can help.
