Intermodal Trucking in Ames, IA

Market rates, top lanes, earnings estimates, and freight insights for intermodal owner-operators in Ames.

$2.13

Rate / Mile

$18,105

Est. Gross / Month

$11,768

Est. Net / Month

Midwest

Market Region

About Intermodal Trucking

Intermodal drayage involves hauling containers between rail yards, ports, and distribution centers. Short-haul but high-frequency work, concentrated around major rail hubs and port cities.

Intermodal Market in the Midwest

The Midwest is the crossroads of American freight, with Chicago serving as the undisputed hub. I-80, I-90, and I-70 carry enormous dry van volume connecting coasts. Automotive parts, consumer goods, and agricultural products make up the bulk of loads. Competition is fierce but volume is massive. Carriers based near Chicago, Indianapolis, or Columbus benefit from exceptional load availability in virtually every direction.

Top Intermodal Lanes from Ames

Chicago IL → Detroit MI

Indianapolis IN → Columbus OH

Minneapolis MN → Kansas City MO

St. Louis MO → Nashville TN

Why Ames for Intermodal

Key Industries

Higher education
Agricultural research
Government laboratories
Manufacturing
Technology

Key Highways

I-35US-30US-69IA-210

Top Shippers

Iowa State University
3M Ames plant
USDA
Barilla (nearby)

Distribution Centers Near Ames

ISU central receiving

3M distribution

USDA supply depot

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Intermodal Trucking in Ames — FAQ

The estimated intermodal rate in Ames is $2.13 per loaded mile. This reflects the Midwest regional market, local demand, and seasonal conditions. Actual rates vary by lane, broker, and load specifics.

Based on current market estimates, a intermodal owner-operator based in Ames can expect approximately $18,105 gross monthly revenue and around $11,768 net after typical expenses (fuel, insurance, maintenance). Actual earnings depend on miles driven, load selection, and operating efficiency.

Top intermodal lanes from the Ames market include: Chicago IL → Detroit MI, Indianapolis IN → Columbus OH, Minneapolis MN → Kansas City MO, St. Louis MO → Nashville TN. These lanes reflect the Midwest freight patterns and may vary by season.

Ames is located in the Midwest freight region with key industries including higher education, agricultural research, government laboratories. Access to I-35, US-30, US-69 provides strong connectivity. Rates are competitive with the national average.

Key highways for intermodal freight in Ames include I-35, US-30, US-69, IA-210. These corridors connect to major distribution centers and freight lanes across the Midwest region.