REPOST: Beyond the Tracks: The Next Frontier of American Rail with Martin Lew

Rail freight industry is exploring innovations like longer trains, digitization, cleaner energy, and inland terminals to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Rail transportation is suitable for high-volume freight over long distances, typically 500-600 miles or more, with a minimum volume equivalent to four to eight truckloads.

Railroads move freight in two primary components: intermodal (containers on flatcars) and carload/merchandise commodities.

Rail transportation enables efficient, low-carbon freight movement, reducing emissions by 75% compared to trucking.

Trucking goods by rail instead of road has sustainability advantages and helps address the shortage of long-haul truck drivers.

Commtrex is a platform connecting rail shippers with service providers across the US, Canada, and Mexico, providing visibility and facilitating communication.

Short-line railroads transport freight from Class 1 railroads to the final destination, often using transloading facilities for last-mile delivery.

The freight visibility platform Commtrex assists shippers in locating facilities and services required for rail transportation.

Rail freight provides cost savings, sustainability benefits, and supply chain diversification/flexibility for shippers moving commodities or bulk goods.

Commtrex connect shippers, logistics providers, railroads, facilitating rail freight growth to support nearshoring and environmental goals.