Schneider National unveils intermodal service for liquid bulk chemicals

Schneider National Bulk Carriers recently launched a bulk intermodal service that will move 40-foot tank containers of liquid bulk chemicals across the United States by rail and road.

Current origins are Houston and Marion, Ohio, and current destinations are Los Angeles, Seattle and Portland, Ore. Future origins include Chicago; Charlotte, N.C.; Memphis, Tenn.; Philadelphia; Newark, N.J.; Reserve, La.; and Savannah, Ga. Schneider National Bulk Carriers plans to eventually expand the service into Canada and Mexico.

Because of the company's expansive network and consistent rail schedules, customers can expect their liquid bulk chemical shipments to arrive within 24 hours of the time it would take to move the freight solely by truck, Schneider National Bulk Carriers officials said in a press release. Local Schneider National drayage drivers will move the shipments to and from rail ramps.

"With concerns about driver capacity becoming more prominent for both carriers and shippers, we need to offer solutions for moving our customers' products in innovative ways," said George Grossardt, vice president and general manager of Schneider National's bulk division. "It quickly became apparent that opportunity existed on the railroads, so we invested our time and energy into creating a solution that would allow for maximum payload and efficiency while still meeting our high safety standards."

The bulk intermodal service will offer shippers who are focused on sustainability a smaller environmental footprint since trains emit three times less carbon than trucks and use less fuel, Schneider National Bulk Carriers officials said.