NS launches new reservation system at intermodal terminals

Norfolk Southern Railway next week will begin deploying a new reservation system, called the Thoroughbred Resource Planning System (TRPS), on its intermodal terminals to improve the efficiency and reliability of intermodal freight transportation.

The system is designed to match intermodal train capacity with the flow of inbound containers, ensuring smoother operations and improved service. The primary objective is to eliminate variability in the intermodal network. By standardizing train sizes, NS can smooth out volume fluctuations throughout the week, company officials said in a press release.

Over the past three months, a team of 118 NS employees and external consultants developed the system to match intermodal train capacity with the inbound flow of containers.

Starting Sept. 4, those doing business at NS terminals need to log into AccessNS to become familiar with the new functionality. For the first two weeks, customers can see how the screens operate, watch as reservations fill upon unit ingate, and explore the different screens where they can see the new data. Each new page will have a “Help” button with more information on what the screen is for and what functions exists for customers within the screens.

“How To” guides will be available within AccessNS to help navigate the new functionality, NS officials said.