Intermodal Access Setup for Carriers
Intermodal access — rail ramps, port terminals, and UIIA-based freight — runs on a specific credential path. Most carriers know they need it. Most don’t complete it correctly because the steps are sequential, the timing matters, and the failure points are not obvious until something gets stuck.
TLP manages the full setup path: SCAC, UIIA, rail/ramp onboarding, IDD where applicable, and port-side access steps. You get structured coordination, active follow-up, and a completed setup — not a list of things to figure out on your own.
TLP service fees are shown separately. Official and third-party fees are paid separately by the client.
Why carriers choose done-for-you help
Rail Ready Bundle
$599
TLP service fee
Official / third-party fees paid separately
Estimated timeline: 4–8 weeks
Best for carriers who want the full path from SCAC + UIIA through rail/ramp access setup.
Includes
Packages
SCAC + UIIA Setup
Official / third-party fees paid separately
Estimated timeline: 4–8 weeks
For carriers that need the foundation setup completed correctly before moving further
Rail Access Setup
Official / third-party fees paid separately
Estimated timeline: 2–6 weeks
For carriers that already have the foundation in place and need rail/ramp access setup support.
Port Access Setup
Official / third-party fees paid separately
Estimated timeline: 1–3 weeks with valid TWIC already in hand or 7–12 weeks if new TWIC enrollment is needed
For carriers adding TWIC and terminal / port-side access support.
Rail Ready Bundle
Most Popular
Official / third-party fees paid separately
Estimated timeline: 4–8 weeks
Includes SCAC + UIIA Setup and Rail Access Setup.
Full Intermodal Access
Official / third-party fees paid separately
Estimated timeline: 6–12 weeks
Includes SCAC + UIIA Setup, Rail Access Setup, and Port Access Setup.
Not sure which package is right for you?
Typical timelines
Processing times depend on insurer response times, rail/ramp and terminal reviews, credit checks or deposit requirements, TSA background checks, holidays and weekends, and how quickly the client provides documents and approvals.
Timeline counting should be understood from completed intake, signed authorization, and client payment of required official / third-party fees.
Official / third-party fees paid separately
TLP charges a service fee for coordination and completion management. Official application fees, memberships, driver credentials, and other third-party costs are paid separately by the client.
Some official costs depend on your path, driver count, insurance situation, and target ports.
What we need from the carrier
To move quickly, we need basic company, insurance, and driver information up front.
Our process and support policy
TLP’s service fee covers guidance, coordination, setup support, follow-up, and completion management.
Official and third-party fees are always paid separately by the client and are governed by the refund rules of the issuing organization.
If a file is delayed or cannot be completed solely because of a documented TLP process error, TLP will correct the issue at no additional TLP service charge. If completion is still not possible solely because of that TLP error, the affected TLP service fee may be refunded.
Using Amazon Relay as a use case?
Some carriers come to this service because they want to unlock Amazon-related intermodal or port opportunities. That is a valid use case. But this service is broader than one platform. It is an intermodal access setup service for carriers.
Need Amazon-specific guidance? See Amazon-related resources
FAQ
How do I know which package is right for me?
Start with a carrier review. We will look at your current setup, target lanes, and access goals and recommend the right path. If you already have SCAC and UIIA in place, you likely need Rail Access Setup only. If you are starting from scratch, the Rail Ready Bundle covers the full path.
What happens if my insurance doesn’t meet the requirements?
Insurance readiness is one of the most common friction points. We identify this early in the carrier review. If your policy needs adjustments, we coordinate with your insurance agent as part of the setup support.
Do I need only SCAC + UIIA, or the full rail bundle?
Some carriers start with SCAC + UIIA only. Others choose the Rail Ready Bundle to complete the rail setup path in one engagement.
Do I need rail only or port too?
Most carriers should choose the path that matches their operating plan. Port access should be added only when it matches the carrier’s lanes and goals.
Does this guarantee loads?
No. This service helps set up access. It does not guarantee freight, revenue, or platform load availability.
Can my insurance qualify?
Sometimes yes, sometimes not. Insurance readiness is one of the biggest failure points, which is why it should be reviewed early.
Are the timelines guaranteed?
No. The timeline ranges shown are estimates only and depend on third-party reviews, insurer response times, and how quickly documents are provided.
Do you offer refunds if a setup is denied?
TLP does not offer blanket denial refunds. If an issue is caused solely by a documented TLP process error, TLP will correct it at no extra service charge and address the affected TLP service fee accordingly. Official and third-party fees are not refundable by TLP.
Find out if your carrier is a fit for intermodal access
If you want the setup path managed clearly and professionally, start with a carrier review. We will help identify the right path, the likely friction points, and whether you need SCAC + UIIA only, rail access, port access, or a full bundle.