BNSF Announces Storage Policy and Flip Changes at Logistics Park Chicago & Los Angeles Intermodal Facilities to Increase Capacity Effective August 2, 2021

Date
Jul 1, 2021

BNSF continues to see historically strong demand for intermodal services across our network. To support this demand, BNSF is taking the necessary steps to ensure that capacity is available in key markets.  
 
While high dwell is causing challenges across BNSF’s entire intermodal network, our Logistics Park Chicago (LPC) and Los Angeles intermodal facilities have been particularly challenged. BNSF has taken several actions to address these challenges, including adding additional ground stacking capabilities and expanding our use of off-site parking. However, the final mile delivery is not keeping pace with container availability, which is key to maintaining fluid hub operations. 
 
In response, BNSF is implementing the following changes at LPC and at our Los Angeles- Intermodal Facility effective Monday, August 2, 2021.
 
Storage Policy Changes at LPC
BNSF’s LPC facility will now be identified as a Group 1 facility (formerly Group 2) for the purpose of calculating free time. As per the BNSF Intermodal Rules and Policies Guide, Group 1 facilities receive free time on day of notification, plus 24 hours. Also, the applicable storage charge for units at LPC on the 5th day of storage will be increased to $500 per day.
 
In addition, BNSF will provide a one-day storage credit for any unit out-gated from LPC on weekends (Saturday or Sunday) for storage calculations. This credit will go to the party who pays or guarantees storage and may be applied to any pending or future intermodal storage.
 
Adjusted Flip Charge at Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, BNSF is increasing the flip charge to $200 for any drayman, shipper and/or other party requesting the flip not covered under BNSF normal lift provisions. 
 
The changes noted above will be reflected in Items 14 and 37 and Appendix F of the BNSF Intermodal Rules and Policies Guide prior to implementation date.
 
Carrier and Driver Options for Increased Efficiency
Along with the announced storage policy changes at LPC, there are a handful of transportation partners providing off-site capacity solutions in and around the facility. Contact information is provided below for reference:
 
Customers may also send an email to IMDLDRAY@bnsf.com with any questions regarding available capacity solutions near LPC. We also encourage customers to utilize our suite of web and mobile tools to track shipments.
 
Enhanced API Provides Unit Location Within a Stack
Finally, BNSF is also offering dray carriers the ability to get real-time information regarding the location of a container in a stack via an API (Application Programming Interface) connection with BNSF. With the newly enhanced “Unit Details” API, users can pull data that presents a real-time view of the specific location of units anywhere along the BNSF network, including within container stacks at LPC. This will allow dray carriers to be more efficient in prioritizing their dray dispatching and prioritize work orders based on which units are most accessible.  
 
Please visit our BNSF API Center to find helpful information on: How to Get Started, Registration Requirements and FAQs. More information on the “Unit Details” API can be found by clicking on the Developer Console tab, then scrolling down to the Intermodal section, then selecting the “Unit Details” listing. If you have any questions, contact BNSF’s API Support team at CustomerAPI@bnsf.com. 
 
BNSF remains focused on providing our customers with the high level of service you expect from us. For additional information and any questions, please contact your BNSF marketing representative.
 
As always, your business is important us. Thank you for choosing BNSF as your freight transportation provider.