BNSF recently began testing a new intermodal capacity management system for customers using selected eastbound services between southern California and the Midwest.
Called "RSVP," the system allows capacity to be established for certain intermodal trains according to destination, equipment type and service level. Customers will make reservations for train service prior to bringing loads to intermodal facilities. BNSF then will use the reservations to ensure train capacity is available for previously reserved space.
Testing is being conducted in the southern California to Chicago, Kansas City, St. Louis and Harvard corridors. It will last through June.
Source: The April 1999 issue of Progressive Railroading
