SupplyChain Magazine August 2022 | Page 72

New intermodal rail route unveiled in US
LOGISTICS

New intermodal rail route unveiled in US

OceaNS Bridge Express is a new rail partnership in the US between Union Pacific Railroad and the Port of Virginia to provide an expedited rail service from the East Coast , giving shippers a new option to reach West Coast markets .
OceaNS Bridge Express will originate at the Norfolk International Terminal at the Port of Virginia and interchange with Union Pacific in Chicago , with connections to West Coast markets .
“ The current environment has led shippers and carriers to think creatively about moving their goods ,” said Shawn Tureman , VP Intermodal & Automotive Marketing for Norfolk Southern . “ In response , we took a customer-centric approach by providing a new option for shipping to markets in the Western United States .”
Union Pacific said its intermodal network “ is strategically positioned to provide container shippers an alternative with this overland service to the West Coast ”. the environment , trucking is a supply chain favourite because it ’ s cheaper , more flexible , and has greater reach than rail .
Planning is biggest barrier in the shift from road to rail “ The biggest barrier to shifting the emphasis from road to rail freight is planning ,” says Ken Sherman , President of US-based IntelliTrans , whose SaaS-based solutions help businesses manage complex supply chain needs .
“ Planning road transport is easy compared to other modes . You can potentially have numerous hauliers , brokers , and third-party logistics providers ( 3PLs ) to choose from for your shipment .”
72 August 2022