i think direct ships are the least expensive way to ship. barge freight is less expensive that train(down the Mississippi for example) from orient to baltimore, the "train bridge" was the least expensive way to ship. LA to BAlt by train.

long distance trains are frequently built in sections, depending upon where the cargo is going. so a train from LA may drop off the back 10 cars or so in chicago, on the way to boston or nyc.

most rail right-a-ways are owned by the railroads. they are property, and the taxing jurisdiction usually screws them, and charges some outrageous property tax. trucks are on subsidized right away, trains are on taxed right away.

some significant percentage of truck long haul freight is moved on train. in the past, the trailers themselves were put on the rail cars. i think now, most of the freight moved in that manner is moved by container.

most automobiles are moved for delivery to near destination by train.

since the freight companies own almost all the rail, a passenger train will usually be "sidetracked" to allow a freight to come through.