Forward Air’s intermodal business has hit the pause button on its planned sale, but the company isn’t walking away from a deal entirely. With volumes climbing back toward target levels, the carrier says it will entertain offers that reflect true market value.
What happened
In a brief statement released on Friday, Forward Air announced it is temporarily suspending the sale of its intermodal segment. The decision follows a recent uptick in intermodal traffic that has brought the business back to roughly 95 % of its 2024 target performance. While the sale is on hold, the carrier remains open to “fair‑market‑value” proposals that align with its strategic goals.
Why it matters for dispatchers/drivers
Intermodal is a key growth engine for many carriers, and Forward Air’s hesitation signals that the market is stabilizing after a turbulent 2025‑26 period of container shortages and rail bottlenecks. Dispatchers should note that Forward Air may now prioritize capacity expansion over asset divestiture, meaning more lane opportunities for drayage and long‑haul partners. Drivers can expect steadier loads and potentially better rates as the carrier leverages its intermodal network to capture rebounding demand.
My take
Forward Air is playing it smart. By pausing the sale, they avoid locking in a lowball price in a market that’s finally showing signs of life. It’s a clear message to the industry: if you want to sell, bring a fair offer; if you want to stay, be ready to handle more business. This isn’t a retreat—it’s a tactical regroup. – Ekjot Singh, Founder, EK Dispatch Academy
What you should do
- **Monitor Forward Air’s lane postings**: Expect new intermodal contracts to appear on load boards within the next 2‑4 weeks.
- **Adjust your pricing model**: Factor in a potential **5‑7 % rate bump** for intermodal drayage as volumes rise.
- **Stay educated**: Enroll in EK Dispatch Academy’s intermodal module (/curriculum) to learn how to optimize load planning and compliance for this growing segment.