Why Intermodal?

1

Myth: Intermodal is not as reliable as over-the-road.

Reality: BNSF’s vast 32,500-mile network and ability to offer its shippers all the capacity they require allow BNSF Intermodal to deliver shipments with an on-time performance that rivals over-the-road only options. The most service-sensitive shippers, including the nation’s top LTL, refrigerated and parcel carriers, rely on BNSF Intermodal to move nearly a million shipments a year.

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2

Myth: Speed of intermodal is not truck competitive.

Reality: BNSF operates the fastest intermodal network in the industry. In fact, in many routes, BNSF provides speeds that meet or even beat single-driver, over-the-road transit times.

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3

Myth: Intermodal is just too complicated.

Reality: BNSF works closely with shippers to create a simple, effective intermodal transportation solution. A wealth of e-tools and apps help simplify the process. The Intermodal Advisor Tool, for example, makes it easy for shippers to see transit times, cost savings, products and services available and emission reductions.

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4

Myth: TMS/bid practices don’t optimize intermodal use.

Reality: BNSF helps its customers approach bids in a way that ensures they receive not only the broadest responses and most options from carriers, but optimal solutions that best meet their needs.

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5

Myth: Intermodal requires extensive supply chain change.

Reality: BNSF works closely with its customers to create a transportation solution optimized to their needs and helps them address necessary changes in the supply chain.

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6

Myth: I know where intermodal works.

Reality: With its own 32,500-mile network and partnerships with other railways and motor carriers, BNSF can create a seamless, door-to-door intermodal solution to virtually any market in the United States. Reconsider intermodal. You might be surprised where it can take your business.

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7

Myth: More theft occurs with intermodal than truck.

Reality: BNSF is vigilant on matters of security. BNSF offers comprehensive safety and security services, and features its own uniformed police patrol to combat trespassing and cargo theft. Security breaches in intermodal transport are comparable to those in over-the-road only options.

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8

Myth: Greater lading damage occurs when shipping intermodal.

Reality: BNSF is best-in-class and superior to over-the-road only options for safe and damage-free shipments. The BNSF Load and Ride Solutions team offers expertise and industry best-practice methods to properly load and brace freight.

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9

Myth: I can never tell where my shipments are located.

Reality: BNSF offers multiple e-tools and apps to track shipments. Real-time Customized Tracking Reports give complete visibility of freight on BNSF’s Intermodal network.

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10

Myth: Intermodal units often become stranded.

Reality: BNSF’s intermodal shipments achieve an on-time performance that rivals over-the-road only options. True, when a service interruption does occur, there is somewhat less flexibility with rail than with over-the-road only options. However, BNSF’s customers typically find the significant cost savings of intermodal outweigh the marginal impact of rare service interruptions.

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