IMCs Ride Out a Rough First Half of 2001

The Intermodal Association of North America released second-quarter 2001 results as part of its Intermodal Marketing Co (IMC) Market Activity Report. Based on information provided by participating third parties, total intermodal loads fell 24.2% in the second quarter compared with the same period in 2000.

Total revenue figures, which include both highway and intermodal loads, also showed a drop of 17.9% from the previous year. The second quarter also saw highway loads and highway revenue off by 12.7% and 15.9%, respectively. However, some positive gains occurred as average revenue per intermodal load increased 7.2% compared with second-quarter 2000.

Quarterly statistics showed both highway and intermodal revenues down 11% from first-quarter 2001. Average revenue per load increased slightly, moderating the impact on intermodal revenue. Not all the news was negative though, as highway loads were 2% higher than in first-quarter 2001. Intermodal revenue per load has grown about $6.50 since the beginning of the year, although this growth has been uneven. The report suggests the slow upward trend in revenue per load is due to either a measure of rate stability or increased length of haul.

The IMC Markey Activity Report is produced quarterly and available via subscription. To order, access www.intermodal.org or phone 301-982-3400, ext 28.