Intermodal Trucking in Missoula, MT

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

$2.22

Rate / Mile

$18,870

Est. Gross / Month

$12,266

Est. Net / Month

Mountain West

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 Mountain West

Mountain West dry van operations face unique challenges from long distances between freight hubs and high deadhead percentages. Denver and Salt Lake City are the primary load origins, with Phoenix adding significant volume in the south. Carriers who can secure round-trip freight between these hubs perform well, but one-way loads into rural areas often require repositioning. The I-70 and I-80 corridors are critical arteries.

Top Intermodal Lanes from Missoula

Denver CO → Salt Lake City UT

Phoenix AZ → Albuquerque NM

Boise ID → Salt Lake City UT

Las Vegas NV → Denver CO

Why Missoula for Intermodal

Key Industries

Timber & Forest products
Healthcare
Education
Tourism
Craft brewing

Key Highways

I-90US-93US-12

Top Shippers

University of Montana
Community Medical Center
Roseburg Forest Products

Distribution Centers Near Missoula

Sysco Western Montana

Universal Forest Products

Costco regional

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Intermodal Trucking in Missoula — FAQ

The estimated intermodal rate in Missoula is $2.22 per loaded mile. This reflects the Mountain West 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 Missoula can expect approximately $18,870 gross monthly revenue and around $12,266 net after typical expenses (fuel, insurance, maintenance). Actual earnings depend on miles driven, load selection, and operating efficiency.

Top intermodal lanes from the Missoula market include: Denver CO → Salt Lake City UT, Phoenix AZ → Albuquerque NM, Boise ID → Salt Lake City UT, Las Vegas NV → Denver CO. These lanes reflect the Mountain West freight patterns and may vary by season.

Missoula is located in the Mountain West freight region with key industries including timber & forest products, healthcare, education. Access to I-90, US-93, US-12 provides strong connectivity. Rates are competitive with the national average.

Key highways for intermodal freight in Missoula include I-90, US-93, US-12. These corridors connect to major distribution centers and freight lanes across the Mountain West region.