Intermodal Trucking in Tennessee
Complete intermodal owner-operator guide for Tennessee (TN) — estimated market rates, top freight lanes, key industries, and regulations affecting intermodal carriers in the Southeast region.
Intermodal Market Rates in Tennessee
Rate Per Mile
$2.16
+2.9% vs national avg
Est. Gross Monthly
$18,360
Est. Net Monthly
$11,934
After ~35% expenses
Tennessee vs National Average
| Metric | Tennessee | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rate/Mile | $2.16 | $2.10 | +2.9% |
| Fuel Tax | 26.4c/gal | ~32c/gal | Below avg |
| Freight Volume | very high | moderate | - |
Intermodal Market Overview — Southeast Region
The Southeast is one of the nation's strongest dry van markets, fueled by Atlanta's role as a distribution hub and Florida's massive consumer base. Savannah and Charleston ports generate steady import freight, while automotive manufacturing in Tennessee, Alabama, and South Carolina adds reliable contract lanes. Deadhead rates are generally favorable thanks to high freight density along the I-75 and I-85 corridors.
Top Intermodal Freight Lanes
Lanes are based on the Southeast region where Tennessee is located. Actual lane availability varies by season and market conditions.
Industries Driving Intermodal Demand in Tennessee
Tennessee's major shippers including Nissan (Smyrna) and GM (Spring Hill) 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 Tennessee for Intermodal
Nashville, TN
Key hub on I-40 corridor
Memphis, TN
Key hub on I-40 corridor
Knoxville, TN
Key hub on I-40 corridor
Chattanooga, TN
Key hub on I-40 corridor
Clarksville, TN
Key hub on I-40 corridor
Tennessee Regulations Affecting Intermodal Operations
- Memphis FedEx SuperHub — overnight freight capital
- Nashville fastest growing for distribution
- Intermodal chassis weight must be verified at Tennessee port/rail facilities
- Container weight mismatch liability — carriers should verify VGM before leaving TN terminals
Fuel tax in Tennessee: 26.4 cents/gallon. No toll roads. Mild; occasional ice storms; Smoky Mountain fog; spring tornadoes.
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