2008 Domestic Intermodal Posts Best Results Since 2004

2008 Domestic Intermodal Posts Best Results Since 2004: Fourth Quarter Shows Expected Declines; Domestic Loads Drop Slightly

CALVERTON, MD, February 20, 2009 – Domestic intermodal volume posted a solid 2.9% overall gain in 2008, according to the new Intermodal Market Trends & Statistics, a comprehensive intermodal volume data report published by the Intermodal Association of North America. Although overall volumes declined slightly by 2.1% in the fourth quarter, domestic container performance remained healthy through the end of 2008. While its overall growth slowed to 4.4% - less than a half of Q3’s gain – growth in 53-foot containers was an exceptionally strong 10% for the quarter.

International intermodal volume declined in every IANA region during Q4 2008; dropping a total of 11.1% and continuing its steady decline for the seventh consecutive quarter. This quarterly loss contributed to the largest year-over-year drop of intermodal loadings – 7% – since IANA began keeping quarterly records in 1998. International containers had been the main driver of intermodal growth prior to 2007.