INTERMODAL FREIGHT PROGRAM-PHASE II, DEMONSTRATION MANAGEMENT

The Intermodal Freight Program was established to develop and demonstrate profitable improved rail intermodal service (the movement of highway trailers and/or containers on rail flatcars). Emphasis was placed on developing the use of multiple frequency dedicated trains in intermediate distance markets (200-600 miles) dominated by trucks. Railroads operating demonstrations approved under the program were eligible for federal assistance covering 40 to 60 percent of operating losses during periods required to attain profitability. From June, 1978, through May, 1980, the Milwaukee Road operated a demonstration between Chicago and the Twin Cities (Minneapolis/St. Paul). The demonstration involved four dedicated intermodal trains each way each weekday in the corridor. Labor cooperation produced improved productivity in the service and improved capital utilization was attained through rapid equipment turns. A highly reliable service was developed. Milwaukee intermodal traffic in the corridor doubled from predemonstration levels with the additional business being attracted primarily from the highway. Profitability was attained during peak volume periods and possibilities for profit enhancement were identified. The experience gained during the demonstration should be of value to carriers considering similar services.

• Corporate Authors:

  Association of American Railroads

  50 F Street, NW
  Washington, DC  United States  20001-1564

  Federal Railroad Administration

  Office of Research and Development, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Authors:
  • YARDLEY, C F
• Publication Date: 1980-7

Media Info

• Features: Appendices; Figures; Tables;
• Pagination: 131 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Cooperation; Development; Flat cars; Freight traffic; Freight transportation; Intercity transportation; Intermodal services; Labor agreements; Level of service; Marketing; Operating costs; Piggyback transportation; Productivity; Profitability; Profits; Railroads; Research; Scheduling; Trailers
• Identifier Terms: Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad
• Uncontrolled Terms: Research and development; Services
• Old TRIS Terms: Cargo transportation
• Subject Areas: Freight Transportation; Railroads; Research;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00326368
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: FRA/ORD-80/69 Final Rpt.
• Contract Numbers: DOT-FR-708-5169
• Files: NTIS, TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: Dec 30 1981 12:00AM