Once again, many problems, no simple solutions. The inherent problem with containerized traffic is minimal profits vs. the costs to operate and support it.

It also would seem to create an uneasy alliance between the shippers and the railroads. That is, a few shippers control the container business, while a few railroads control the surface movement of that traffic. They both rely on that slim profit margin to make it cost effective. At the same time, neither entity wants to do anything to upset that balance.

Following all of this is the general merchandice traffic, far more profitable, but requiring more handling. Nowadays these seem to be considered secondary in importance.

Throw in shortages of rested qualified crews, motive power, yard storage and usable mainline trakage, plus an abundance of slow orders and managers who couldn't railroad their way out of a paper bag.

It may get worse before it gets better.

Just observations and opinions, not encumbered by facts...

sda