Schneider to expand bulk intermodal trailer service in North America

Schneider yesterday announced plans to expand its bulk intermodal trailer service for chemical shippers throughout all of North America, including new reaches into Canada and Mexico.

The truckload, intermodal and logistics service provider expects to double the number of bulk intermodal trailers it manages in the next year to meet growing demand. The service enables shippers to transport liquid bulk chemicals using a 40-foot tank trailer that can be used via rail and over the road, Schneider officials said in a press release.

The trailers stand 11 feet, 5 inches high and can haul up to about 48,000 pounds, enabling customers to load 5 percent to 6 percent more product compared with a traditional over-the-road truckload move, they said.

Schneider has alliances with five major North American railroads, including hazardous materials certification with four primary railroads. The company manages 14 intermodal ramps in North America and plans to add more ramps over the next year.

"As the driver market continues to tighten, chemical companies of all sizes are struggling to get long-haul bulk capacity. When customers move loads on the rail with Schneider Bulk, it frees up drivers for their other over-the-road loads," said George Grossardt, senior vice president and general manager of Schneider’s Bulk division.