IANA launches intermodal volume index

Intermodal volume last month likely grew 3.1% compared to a pre-pandemic baseline, according to the Intermodal Association of North America’s (IANA) inaugural intermodal volume index (IVI).  

This newly introduced industry activity measure provides a “most likely” estimate of what’s currently happening in the intermodal sector, IANA officials said in a press release.  

“We are excited to unveil this monthly 'pulse check' on the health of North American intermodal freight which, in a single number, indicates whether the market is expanding, flat or contracting relative to its underlying trend,” said IANA Director of Economics Andrew Sibold. 

The projected IVI for April is 103.1, lower than March’s index but still above the 2017-2019 average, they said. The IVI anticipates the May index to increase to 106.2. 
 
"The April IVI is on par with what we would expect as later spring volumes pick up,” said Sibold. 

In the coming months, IANA plans to augment its volume projection capabilities to provide a forecast up to six months out.