Intermodal Trucking in Indiana
Complete intermodal owner-operator guide for Indiana (IN) — estimated market rates, top freight lanes, key industries, and regulations affecting intermodal carriers in the Midwest region.
Intermodal Market Rates in Indiana
Rate Per Mile
$2.38
+13.3% vs national avg
Est. Gross Monthly
$20,230
Est. Net Monthly
$13,150
After ~35% expenses
Indiana vs National Average
| Metric | Indiana | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rate/Mile | $2.38 | $2.10 | +13.3% |
| Fuel Tax | 33.0c/gal | ~32c/gal | Above avg |
| Freight Volume | very high | moderate | - |
Intermodal Market Overview — Midwest Region
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 Freight Lanes
Lanes are based on the Midwest region where Indiana is located. Actual lane availability varies by season and market conditions.
Industries Driving Intermodal Demand in Indiana
Indiana's major shippers including Amazon MQJ1/IND1-IND9 and Eli Lilly (Indianapolis) generate consistent intermodal freight. The state's very high freight volume and 8/10 owner-operator friendliness score make it a strong market for intermodal carriers.
Top Freight Cities in Indiana for Intermodal
Indianapolis, IN
Key hub on I-65 corridor
Fort Wayne, IN
Key hub on I-65 corridor
Gary, IN
Key hub on I-65 corridor
Evansville, IN
Key hub on I-65 corridor
South Bend, IN
Key hub on I-65 corridor
Indiana Regulations Affecting Intermodal Operations
- Crossroads of America — I-70/I-65 intersection busiest
- Standard federal compliance
- Intermodal chassis weight must be verified at Indiana port/rail facilities
- Container weight mismatch liability — carriers should verify VGM before leaving IN terminals
Fuel tax in Indiana: 33.0 cents/gallon. Indiana Toll Road (I-80/90) — E-ZPass; ~$20 crossing. Cold winters; lake-effect snow in north; I-65 ice storms.
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