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Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Size - By Transportation Mode, By Hub, By End Use, By Operation Model, By Automation Level, By Throughput Capacity, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Report ID: GMI15390
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Published Date: December 2025
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Report Format: PDF

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Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Size

The global intermodal transportation hubs market size was estimated at USD 47.58 billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 51.57 billion in 2025 to USD 114.79 billion in 2034, at a CAGR of 9.3%, according to latest report published by Global Market Insights Inc.

Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market

The growth of intermodal transportation centers is enhancing structural change within the global logistics systems, trading, and supply chains. The intermodal hubs of the modern era that incorporate rail and road network, maritime and air transport allow logistics operators, freight forwarders and infrastructural developers to optimize cargo movements without depending on one mode of transportation. This offers the operators less cost of operation, less transit times, and more modal flexibility, sustaining the increased demand for resilient and efficient freight systems.
 

The trend can be largely driven by the growing popularity of cross-border business, e-commerce fulfilment and supply chains that have heavy industrial inputs and that demand efficient multimodal connectivity that is supported by digital visibility and smooth cargo transition.
 

In June 2025, AD Ports opened the first stage of its Tbilisi Intermodal Hub in Georgia, introducing the first modern rail-linked bonded container terminal in the country. The project has a 60 percent share brought by UAE based operator and local partners. By early 2026, the hub will be further developed to enhance the trade route in the Middle Corridor.
 

The trend toward decarbonized logistics, energy change, and modernization of infrastructure is spreading globally and increasing the pace of adoption of advanced intermodal hubs. The increasing use of renewable energy, the creation of EVs, and the supply chains of critical minerals demand the optimization of the transportation of long hauls that intermodal nodes help to optimize with the efficiencies of rail and maritime and the flexibility of the last-mile road transportation. To make the transportation chain more sustainable and less carbon-intensive, operators are investing more in electrified cargo-handling devices, automated stacking cranes, IoT-enabled refer yards, and hydrogen-ready freight corridors.
 

The effects of post-COVID-19 enhanced the pace of digitalization and platform-based freight management in global logistics. In a bid to contain supply chain volatility and the need to avoid overreliance on a specific mode, shippers are turning to digital intermodal booking platforms that provide real-time tracking, route optimization, capacity visibility, and automated workflows to manage documentation. The introduction of Terminal Operating Systems (TOS), AI-driven demand prediction, and blockchain-driven trade documentation have greatly enhanced the visibility of operations in the customs field, containers, as well as multimodal scheduling, and established a more collaborative intermodal environment.
 

The need to have effective intermodal connectivity is on the increase due to the expansion of smart cities, industrial corridors, SEZs and mega logistics parks where integrated hubs become the central location of consolidating cargo between modes. Smart gate systems, autonomous yard vehicles, digital twins, and RFID/vision-based cargo identification are new features of advanced terminals, which enhance throughput, safety, and regulatory compliance and assist in achieving green logistics goals.
 

North America and Europe are well-established and a highly integrated intermodal logistics market that is fueled by huge freight levels in the energy, manufacturing, agriculture and retail distribution sectors. The area enjoys dense Class I tracks and elaborate port-rail-road connections and the existence of major intermodal carriers such as BNSF, Union Pacific, CSX, Norfolk Southern, J.B. Hunt and Schneider. Ports, rail electrification, and cross-border trade corridors (USโ€“Mexicoโ€“Canada) are highly invested in, which contributes to the further implementation of digital intermodal systems and IoT terminal management.
 

In Asia-Pacific, intermodal transportation hubs are developing at the fastest rate driven by high-scale investments in transport infrastructure, emergence of regional manufacturing, and the international trade route expansion. China, India, Japan and South Korea are on the forefront in the modernization of rail, smart port projects, multimodal logistics parks and the development of partnerships with the world through the public- private partnerships with international terminal operators.
 

China has already started to roll out high-capacity intermodal hubs constructed on the basis of automated cargo management, electronic customs and integrated urban freight systems with the assistance of government sponsored programs like the Belt and Road Initiative, PM Gati Shakti and Dedicated Freight Corridors in India and smart port digitization in Japan that are pushing the market into unprecedented growth.
 

Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Trends

The market is experiencing rapid growth in smart terminals equipped with autonomous yard vehicles, automated stacking cranes, and IoT-enabled asset tracking. These technologies enhance real-time visibility, minimize human error, and improve cargo throughput. Automation also supports predictive maintenance and optimized yard planning, enabling terminals to manage higher volumes efficiently while reducing operational costs and improving overall service reliability.
 

For instance, in May 2025, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Africa Global Logistics announced plans to invest over โ‚ฌ60 million in inland infrastructure over the next five years. The company will build operational hubs and dry warehouses some with cooling facilities in Ferkessedougou, Bouake, and San Pedro to streamline cargo flow for landlocked West African countries.
 

Seaports are increasingly developing inland container depots, dry ports, and multimodal logistics zones to extend their operational reach. This expansion improves hinterland connectivity, reduces congestion at coastal terminals, and enables smoother modal transitions. Enhanced integration between ports, rail corridors, and road networks strengthens supply-chain efficiency and supports larger regional trade flows, accelerating the growth of intermodal transportation hubs.
 

Intermodal hubs are attracting substantial investment from private equity and sovereign wealth funds seeking stable, long-term returns from strategic infrastructure assets. These investments support modernization, capacity expansion, and digital transformation initiatives. Capital inflows accelerate the development of advanced intermodal networks, enabling faster deployment of automation, electrification, and smart terminal technologies across global logistics corridors.
 

Digital freight platforms are transforming hub operations by offering end-to-end visibility across rail, road, air, and maritime routes. These systems integrate real-time capacity data, automated booking, predictive ETAs, and digital documentation. Such platforms reduce delays, optimize routing decisions, and support data-driven logistics planning, enabling more efficient and transparent multimodal freight operations within intermodal transportation ecosystems.
 

Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Analysis

Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market, By Transportation Mode, 2022 - 2034 (USD Billion)

Based on transportation mode, the intermodal transportation hubs market is divided into rail and road transport, air and road transport, maritime and road transport, and others. The rail and road transport segment dominated the market, accounting for around 52.58% in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of more than 9.6% through 2034.
 

  • The rail & road transport segment dominates the intermodal transportation hubs market due to its cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and extensive network connectivity. Rail provides a reliable solution for moving large volumes of freight over long distances, while road transport ensures flexibility in last-mile delivery. The combination of these two modes enables seamless cargo transfer between hubs, reducing transit times and operational costs. Many industrial and manufacturing corridors rely on rail-road intermodal services, making them a preferred choice for bulk goods, automotive components, consumer products, and construction materials.
     
  • Furthermore, governments and private operators continue to invest in rail-road intermodal infrastructure, including terminals, dry ports, and automated handling facilities. Increasing urbanization and demand for sustainable logistics solutions also contribute to its growth. The segmentโ€™s scalability, ability to connect inland regions with seaports, and integration with global supply chains further reinforce its market dominance.
     
  • In January 2025, DP World and NSW Ports announced a USD 258 million co investment to expand the rail terminal at Sydneyโ€™s Port Botany. The project will add five 600-meter rail sides to accommodate long regional trains, more than doubling annual rail capacity from 400,000 to 1 million TEUs.
     
  • The air and road transport segment will experience a CAGR of more than 10.6% owing to the rising demand for fast, time-sensitive deliveries, growth in e-commerce and express logistics, and increasing adoption of integrated multimodal solutions. Investments in regional airports, road freight corridors, and advanced cargo-handling infrastructure are enhancing connectivity, while digital tracking systems and AI-enabled route optimization improve efficiency. This segment benefits from the need for just-in-time delivery, cross-border express shipments, and specialized freight services, driving steady growth in air road intermodal hubs globally.
     
Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Share, By End Use, 2024

Based on end use, the intermodal transportation hubs market is segmented into manufacturing, oil & gas, construction, consumer goods and retail, automotive, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, and others. The manufacturing segment dominates the market accounting for around 27.2% share in 2024, and the segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 9.4% from 2025 to 2034.
 

  • The manufacturing segment holds the largest market share in the intermodal transportation hubs market due to its high dependency on efficient, reliable, and large-volume freight movement. Manufacturing industries require consistent delivery of raw materials to production sites and finished goods to domestic and international markets. Intermodal hubs provide seamless integration of rail, road, and port transport, enabling manufacturers to optimize supply chains, reduce transit times, and minimize logistics costs. The ability to handle bulk shipments and standard containers efficiently makes intermodal transport an ideal choice for sectors such as automotive, electronics, machinery, and manufacturing heavy equipment.
     
  • Furthermore, government initiatives and infrastructure investments supporting industrial corridors, inland container depots, and smart intermodal hubs have strengthened this segmentโ€™s dominance. The growing adoption of just-in-time production models and global supply chain integration also drives manufacturers to leverage intermodal hubs, ensuring timely delivery, scalability, and reduced carbon footprint, ultimately reinforcing the segmentโ€™s market leadership.
     
  • The consumer goods & retail segment is expected to expand at a CAGR of more than 11.8% due to rapid e-commerce growth, increasing demand for faster replenishment cycles, and the rising need for efficient multimodal networks to support high-volume, time-sensitive deliveries. Enhanced last-mile connectivity and urban logistics hubs are further accelerating adoption of intermodal solutions in this sector.
     

Based on automation level, the intermodal transportation hubs market is segmented into conventional / manual hubs, semi-automated hubs, and fully automated. Conventional / manual hubs segment dominates with around 53.4% share in 2024 due to its widespread presence, lower initial investment requirements, and easier operational management.  
 

  • The conventional/manual hubs segment dominates the intermodal transportation hubs market due to their widespread adoption, lower capital requirements, and operational flexibility. Many intermodal terminals, particularly in developing regions, continue to rely on manual processes for container handling, stacking, and transfer between transport modes. Conventional hubs allow operators to manage variable cargo types and fluctuate shipment volumes without investing in costly automation systems, making them ideal for small- to medium-sized terminals. Their simplicity and adaptability enable faster setup, easier maintenance, and minimal dependency on skilled technical staff, which is particularly important in emerging markets.
     
  • Moreover, the dominance of conventional hubs is reinforced by the gradual adoption of automation. While fully automated and semi-automated terminals offer efficiency and precision, they require high initial investment, advanced technology integration, and workforce training. Consequently, many operators continue to rely on conventional manual systems, ensuring that this segment retains the largest share in the intermodal transportation hubs market.
     
  • The semi-automated hubs segment will grow at a CAGR of over 10.9% due to increasing adoption of automated cargo-handling systems, rising labor cost pressures, and the need for faster, more reliable throughput across railroad and port-connected intermodal facilities. These hubs offer an optimal balance of efficiency and cost, enabling operators to modernize without the heavy capital burden of full automation.
     

Based on hub, the intermodal transportation hubs market is divided into seaport intermodal hubs, rail-road intermodal terminals, dry ports / inland container depots (ICDS), air cargo intermodal hubs, and urban multimodal logistics centers. The seaport intermodal hubs dominated the market.
 

  • The seaport intermodal hubs segment holds the highest market share in the intermodal transportation hubs market because global trade remains predominantly maritime driven, with over 80% of international goods transported by sea. Large container ports act as primary gateways for importโ€“export flows and serve as the starting and ending points of most long-distance freight journeys. Their extensive infrastructure deep-water berths, container terminals, on-dock rail, and dedicated freight corridors position them as the most critical nodes in global logistics networks.
     
  • Additionally, major seaports benefit from significant investment in capacity expansion, automation, and digitalization, which enhances throughput efficiency and attracts higher cargo volumes. Their seamless connectivity with rail, road, and sometimes inland waterway networks strengthens their dominance. The concentration of logistics services, FTZs, warehousing, and port-centric distribution centers further consolidate their leadership in the intermodal ecosystem.
     
  • The railโ€“road intermodal terminals segment is expected to witness the fastest growth due to increasing investments in rail corridor modernization, rising demand for long-haul freight efficiency, and the need to reduce road congestion and carbon emissions. As governments and operators expand double-stack routes, electrified rail networks, and inland terminals, railโ€“road hubs are becoming the preferred option for high-capacity, cost-efficient, and sustainable freight movement.
     
US Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Size, 2022- 2034 (USD Billion)

US dominated the intermodal transportation hubs market in North America with around 85% share and generated USD 13.97 billion in revenue in 2024.
 

  • The U.S. market is witnessing strong growth driven by rising investments in port modernization, rail expansion, and automated terminal infrastructure. Growth in e-commerce, industrial manufacturing, and cross-border trade with Canada and Mexico is strengthening demand for efficient multimodal connectivity. Major logistics players are integrating advanced technologies such as IoT sensors, RFID tracking, and digital freight platforms to optimize cargo visibility and reduce transit delays across hubs.
     
  • Additionally, the shift toward sustainable freight movement is accelerating adoption of rail-road intermodal solutions, which offer lower emissions compared to long-haul trucking. Federal infrastructure funding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is further enabling upgrades to inland ports, container yards, and intermodal terminals. These developments position the U.S. as a key market for advanced, technology-driven intermodal transportation solutions.
     
  • For example, in March 2025, South Carolina Ports Authority (SC Ports) announced the completion of a USD 55 million expansion at its inland terminal Inland Port Greer. The upgrade includes a 50 % larger container yard, an additional 9,000 ft of rail track, and new terminal buildings, boosting capacity to handle 300,000 rail lifts annually.
     
  • Canada is projected to grow at a strong CAGR in the intermodal transportation hubs market due to rising investments in port modernization, inland terminals, and rail corridor expansion, supported by strong trade flows with the U.S. and Asia. Strategic initiatives such as the National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF) and upgrades at key ports including Vancouver, Prince Rupert, and Montreal are enhancing multimodal efficiency and boosting the countryโ€™s intermodal capacity.
     

The intermodal transportation hubs market in Germany is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025-2034.
 

  • Europe accounts for over 26.04% of the market in 2024 and is the fastest-growing region with a CAGR of around 8.9% owing to large-scale investments in multimodal logistics corridors, expansion of rail-freight networks, and rapid development of smart ports.
     
  • Germany leads the intermodal transportation hubs market due to its highly developed logistics infrastructure, extensive rail-freight network, and strong integration between ports, inland terminals, and road corridors. The countryโ€™s major hubs such as Hamburg, Duisburg, and Bremen serve as critical gateways for European and global trade. Continuous investments in digital terminals, automated handling systems, and rail electrification strengthen Germanyโ€™s role as the logistics backbone of Europe.
     
  • Furthermore, Germanyโ€™s leadership in manufacturing, export-driven industries, and cross-border freight flows drives high demand for efficient multimodal connectivity. Government initiatives supporting the TEN-T corridors, green freight programs, and the shift toward low-emission transport modes are accelerating modernization of intermodal hubs. These advancements position Germany as a central, technology-driven leader in Europeโ€™s intermodal transportation ecosystem.
     
  • For instance, in May 2025, HGK Logistics & Intermodal GmbH (HGK L&I) announced that it has acquired the remaining shares from DB Cargo AG in the CTS terminal in Cologne and the DCH terminal in Dรผsseldorf, becoming the sole owner of both facilities.
     
  • The UK is emerging as a major growing market for intermodal transportation hubs due to increasing investments in rail-freight capacity, port-centric logistics zones, and inland distribution hubs. Strong government support for decarbonizing freight transport, expansion of Freeports, and modernization of major ports such as Felixstowe, Southampton, and London Gateway is accelerating multimodal connectivity and boosting demand for integrated intermodal infrastructure across the country.
     

The intermodal transportation hubs market in China is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025-2034.
 

  • Asia Pacific accounts for over 22.72% of the market in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 10.6% owing to massive investments in port expansion, rail freight corridors, and multimodal logistics parks. Strong manufacturing bases, booming e-commerce, and government-led infrastructure programs such as Chinaโ€™s Belt and Road Initiative, Indiaโ€™s Gati Shakti, and Southeast Asiaโ€™s logistics modernization projects are accelerating demand for advanced, technology-enabled intermodal hubs across the region.
     
  • China leads the intermodal transportation hubs market due to its extensive investment in large-scale logistics infrastructure, high-capacity rail networks, and world-class port systems. Major gateways such as Shanghai, Ningbo-Zhoushan, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou are integrated with advanced inland dry ports and multimodal freight hubs, enabling seamless cargo flow across rail, road, and maritime channels. Chinaโ€™s leadership in digital logistics technologies such as smart port automation, AI-driven yard management, and IoT-enabled freight tracking further enhances efficiency and reliability.
     
  • Additionally, Chinaโ€™s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has strengthened cross-border rail connectivity with Europe, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, significantly boosting intermodal freight volumes. The rapid expansion of e-commerce, manufacturing exports, and bonded logistics zones continues to drive demand for sophisticated intermodal hubs. Government-backed infrastructure policies and sustained investment priorities solidify Chinaโ€™s position as the global frontrunner in the intermodal transportation ecosystem.
     
  • On April 15, 2025, Xinhua reported that China has reached 52 fully automated ports, including the Nansha Phase IV terminal in Guangzhou where AI powered cranes and driverless vehicles operate autonomously.
     
  • India is emerging as one of the fastest-growing markets in the Asia-Pacific intermodal transportation hubs industry due to massive government-led infrastructure initiatives, including the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, development of Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC), and expansion of multimodal logistics parks. Rising e-commerce, manufacturing exports, and public-private partnerships are driving demand for integrated rail-road-seaport connectivity, smart dry ports, and automated freight terminals across the country.
     

The intermodal transportation hubs market in Brazil is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025-2034.
 

  • Latin America holds around 9.9% of the market and is growing steadily at a CAGR of around 8.1%. The developments are fueled by increasing investments in port modernization, rail freight corridors, and inland logistics terminals across key countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Chile. Expansion of container-handling capacity, public-private partnerships, and government initiatives to enhance cross-border trade and multimodal connectivity are driving growth.
     
  • Brazil dominates the Latin America intermodal transportation hubs market owing to its extensive logistics infrastructure, strategic port locations, and growing industrial and export activities. Major ports such as Santos, Rio de Janeiro, and Paranaguรก serve as key gateways for international trade, linking maritime transport with road and rail networks. Investments in inland container depots and multimodal terminals have strengthened the integration of different transport modes, enabling faster and more efficient cargo movement across the country.
     
  • Additionally, government initiatives such as the Logistics and Transport Infrastructure Program (PIL) and public-private partnerships are accelerating the modernization of intermodal facilities. Rising demand from the agriculture, mining, and manufacturing sectors, combined with growing e-commerce and trade flows with North America and Asia, is further boosting the development and capacity of Brazilโ€™s intermodal transportation hubs.
     
  • For example, in March 2025, Bracell announced a USD 300 million investment to modernize its logistics terminal at the Port of Santos. The upgrade includes automated cranes for unloading railcars and loading vessels, boosting intermodal capacity. The company said the move would reduce about 50,000 truck trips annually and cut CO emissions by 60%.
     
  • The Mexico intermodal transportation hubs market is rapidly expanding due to growing cross-border trade with the U.S., increased investments in rail freight corridors, and the modernization of key ports such as Veracruz, Lรกzaro Cรกrdenas, and Manzanillo. Government initiatives to improve multimodal connectivity, coupled with rising e-commerce, manufacturing exports, and industrial corridor developments, are driving demand for integrated inland terminals, dry ports, and smart logistics hubs, enabling faster, more efficient, and sustainable freight movement across the country.
     

The intermodal transportation hubs market in UAE is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025-2034.
 

  • MEA holds around 7% of the market and is growing steadily at a CAGR of around 7.2% due to increasing investments in port expansion, inland container depots, and rail-road connectivity across key countries such as UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. Strategic initiatives like Dubaiโ€™s multimodal logistics zones, Saudi Vision 2030 infrastructure programs, and Egyptโ€™s Suez Canal corridor development are enhancing regional trade flows.
     
  • The UAE dominates the MEA intermodal transportation hubs market owing to its strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, combined with world-class port infrastructure. Major hubs such as Jebel Ali Port in Dubai and Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi offer seamless integration of maritime, rail, and road networks, facilitating high-volume cargo movement. Continuous investment in automated terminals, smart logistics zones, and multimodal connectivity enhances operational efficiency and positions the UAE as a critical gateway for regional and international trade.
     
  • Additionally, government-backed initiatives such as the Dubai Logistics Corridor and Abu Dhabiโ€™s Industrial City expansions are driving the growth of intermodal facilities. Rising e-commerce, oil & gas exports, and free-zone developments further stimulate demand for integrated intermodal solutions, enabling sustainable, technology-driven logistics operations across the MEA region.
     
  • South Africa is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR owing to significant investments in modernizing its port and rail infrastructure, expansion of inland container depots, and development of multimodal logistics corridors connecting key industrial and mining regions. Government initiatives under the National Freight Logistics Strategy and public-private partnerships are enhancing connectivity between ports such as Durban and Cape Town and inland hubs.
     

Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Share

  • The top 7 companies in the Intermodal transportation hubs industry are Kuehne + Nagel, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, DHL Global Forwarding, Union Pacific Railroad, Maersk Line, DP World, and PSA International, contributed around 69.1% of the market in 2024.
     
  • Kuehne + Nagel is strengthening its intermodal capabilities by expanding integrated seaโ€“railโ€“road solutions and enhancing real-time visibility through its digital logistics platforms. The company focuses on sustainable transport corridors, optimized inland connections, and multimodal route planning. Investments in data analytics and cargo-flow optimization tools improve reliability and reduce emissions. Strategic partnerships with rail operators and ports support capacity expansion and end-to-end supply-chain integration across major global trade lanes.
     
  • J.B. Hunt is expanding its intermodal footprint by increasing container capacity, deepening rail partnerships, and enhancing its J.B. Hunt 360ยฐ digital marketplace. The company prioritizes integrated drayage, real-time tracking, and improved terminal efficiency to strengthen multimodal flows. Advanced analytics enable dynamic mode selection, while network optimization supports faster throughput. Strategic investments in electric trucks, depot modernization, and cross-border connectivity reinforce its presence in North American intermodal hubs.
     
  • DHL Global Forwarding is focusing on strengthening multimodal freight corridors linking ports, airports, and inland terminals. The company emphasizes digital control towers, real-time visibility, and integrated customs solutions to improve cargo flow through intermodal hubs. DHL is also expanding rail-based connections in Asiaโ€“Europe corridors, promoting low-carbon transport options, and investing in smart warehousing near major ports. AI-enabled planning tools optimize routing, transit times, and capacity allocation across global logistics networks.
     
  • Union Pacific is enhancing intermodal hub efficiency by modernizing terminals, improving on-dock rail connectivity, and expanding partnerships with ocean carriers and logistics providers. The railroad focuses on service reliability through precision scheduled railroading and advanced asset management systems. Investments in automated gates, predictive maintenance, and digital scheduling tools strengthen the flow of containers across inland hubs. UP also targets Mexicoโ€“U.S. trade corridors and sustainability improvements through fuel-efficient locomotives and low-emission operations.
     
  • Maersk is pursuing a fully integrated logistics strategy connecting ocean services with inland rail, depots, and terminals. The company is enhancing intermodal reliability through APM Terminals automation, inland barge and rail expansion, and digital end-to-end visibility via Maersk Logistics platforms. Sustainability remains central, with investments in green corridors, clean fuels, and low-emission landside transport. Maersk also deepens strategic partnerships with railroads and port authorities to streamline multimodal cargo flows.
     
  • DP World is advancing smart port and inland terminal ecosystems by integrating digital trade platforms, autonomous equipment, and synchronized logistics corridors. The company continues expanding its global network of ports, free zones, and inland hubs to provide seamless multimodal access. Efforts focus on reducing dwell time through automation, enhancing data-driven planning, and promoting low-carbon operations. Growth initiatives include rail-linked logistics parks, cargo-flow digitalization, and value-added integrated supply-chain services.
     
  • PSA International is scaling its global terminal network with a strong focus on automated operations, digital twins, and intermodal connectivity. The company invests in smart port solutions that integrate rail, road, and maritime flows to reduce bottlenecks. PSAโ€™s strategy includes developing inland hubs, expanding regional logistics partnerships, and enhancing real-time cargo visibility through advanced data platforms. Sustainability initiatives and next-generation automation further strengthen their role in global intermodal freight corridors.
     

Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Companies

Major players operating in the intermodal transportation hubs industry are:

  • BNSF Railway
  • C.H. Robinson Worldwide
  • DHL Global
  • DP World
  • J.B. Hunt Transport Services
  • Kuehne + Nagel
  • Maersk Line
  • Norfolk Southern
  • PSA International
  • Union Pacific Railroad

 

  • Intermodal transportation hubs are rapidly adopting digital orchestration platforms, integrating IoT, AI, and automation to improve cargo visibility, gate efficiency, and real-time decision-making. Smart terminals, digital twins, and autonomous equipment enhance throughput while lowering operational costs. This digital shift enables dynamic capacity planning and more resilient multimodal freight networks.
     
  • Collaborations among port operators, railroads, shipping lines, and technology providers are accelerating innovation and sustainability. Joint initiatives in green ports, automated yards, and low-emission infrastructure support ESG goals and regulatory compliance. Consolidation and strategic alliances strengthen integrated logistics ecosystems, positioning intermodal hubs for higher efficiency, reduced emissions, and synchronized global supply-chain connectivity.
     

Intermodal Transportation Hubs Industry News

  • In February 2025, Maersk launched the Gemini Cooperation with Hapag-Lloyd, redesigning its global network to boost schedule reliability, capacity, and service predictability. The optimized rotations and vessel deployment enhance transit-time consistency and reduce supply chain variability, increasing operational demands on terminals and strengthening intermodal connectivity across major global trade corridors.
     
  • In January 2025, Maersk signed an eight-year container handling agreement with Santos Brazil at the Port of Santos, securing dedicated terminal capacity. The partnership supports Brazilโ€™s rapidly expanding intermodal market and strengthens the portโ€™s role as a key Latin American logistics hub, enabling long-term volume stability and continued infrastructure investment.
     
  • In December 2024, DP World completed a USD 140 million expansion at Ecuadorโ€™s Posorja terminal, adding a second berth to boost capacity and handle larger vessels. The investment supports Ecuadorโ€™s export-led growth and aligns with DP Worldโ€™s strategy to expand in high-potential emerging markets through integrated port and inland logistics solutions.
     
  • In November 2024, PSA International announced a record 100.2 million TEU annual throughput, surpassing 100 million TEU for the first time. Growth across its global terminals and Singaporeโ€™s 40.9 million TEU contribution underline PSAโ€™s operational scale, network expansion success, and its central role in enabling global intermodal trade flows.
     

The Intermodal transportation hubs market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue ($Bn), Shipment (TEU) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

Market, By Transportation Mode

  • Rail and road transport
  • Air and road transport
  • Maritime and road transport
  • Others

Market, By Hub

  • Seaport Intermodal Hubs
  • Rail-Road Intermodal Terminals
  • Dry Ports / Inland Container Depots (ICDs)
  • Air Cargo Intermodal Hubs
  • Urban Multimodal Logistics Centres

Market, By End Use

  • Manufacturing
  • Oil & gas
  • Construction
  • Consumer goods and retail
  • Automotive
  • Food and beverages
  • Pharmaceuticals and healthcare
  • Others   

Market, By Operation Model

  • Public/Government-Operated
  • Private-Operated
  • PPP (Publicโ€“Private Partnership)
  • Concession-Based / BOT
  • 3PL / 4PL Operated

Market, By Automation Level

  • Conventional / Manual Hubs
  • Semi-Automated Hubs
  • Fully Automated

Market, By Throughput Capacity

  • Low Capacity
  • Medium Capacity
  • High Capacity
  • Mega Hubs

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

  • North America
    • US
    • Canada
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • UK
    • France
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Russia
    • Nordics
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • Philippines
    • Indonesia
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Mexico
    • Argentina        
  • MEA
    • South Africa
    • Saudi Arabia
    • UAE

 

Authors: Preeti Wadhwani, Aishvarya Ambekar
Frequently Asked Question(FAQ) :
Who are the key players in the intermodal transportation hubs industry?
Key players include BNSF Railway, C.H. Robinson Worldwide, DHL Global, DP World, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Kuehne + Nagel, Maersk Line, Norfolk Southern, PSA International, and Union Pacific Railroad.
What are the upcoming trends in the intermodal transportation hubs market?
Trends include IoT-enabled smart terminals, advanced automation, digital freight platforms, growth of ICDs and multimodal zones, plus rising investments in electrification and predictive maintenance.
Which region leads the intermodal transportation hubs sector?
North America leads the market, with the U.S. accounting for 85% of the regional revenue and generating USD 13.97 billion in 2024. Growth is driven by investments in port modernization, rail expansion, and automated terminal infrastructure.
What is the growth outlook for the manufacturing segment from 2025 to 2034?
The manufacturing segment, which held a 27.2% market share in 2024, is set to expand at a CAGR of over 9.4% till 2034.
What was the market share of the conventional/manual hubs segment in 2024?
The conventional/manual hubs segment dominated with a 53.4% market share in 2024, attributed to its widespread presence, lower initial investment requirements, and simpler operational management.
What is the expected size of the intermodal transportation hubs industry in 2025?
The market size is projected to reach USD 51.57 billion in 2025.
How much revenue did the rail and road transport segment generate in 2024?
The rail and road transport segment accounted for approximately 52.58% of the market in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of more than 9.6% through 2034.
What is the projected value of the intermodal transportation hubs market by 2034?
The market is poised to reach USD 114.79 billion by 2034, fueled by investments in infrastructure modernization, digital transformation, and the integration of advanced technologies.
What is the market size of the intermodal transportation hubs in 2024?
The market size was USD 47.58 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 9.3% expected through 2034. The growth is driven by advancements in smart terminals, automation, and increasing demand for efficient multimodal freight systems.
Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Scope
  • Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Size
  • Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Trends
  • Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Analysis
  • Intermodal Transportation Hubs Market Share
Authors: Preeti Wadhwani, Aishvarya Ambekar
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Premium Report Details

Base Year: 2024

Companies covered: 32

Tables & Figures: 140

Countries covered: 22

Pages: 206

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