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Re: VCRR is the Ports Problem-Even if the Operator may suck....
Author: FUD
Date: 10-01-2019 - 11:04
It's definitely in the Port's interest to address track condition. But as a practical matter they aren't hauling Beemers. They're hauling Kias and Hynundais (same company) and maybe Mitsubishis. At one time, Hueneme was where Mazdas were offloaded (mine was, in the early 2000s), but not sure if that's the case any more.
You're correct that if the Port doesn't support the traffic it will go elsewhere. Several other ports have auto transload (ship to train) facilities. But they have other issues too, like getting UP to provide the line-haul service (UP has never been especially good about that, and it's seemingly gotten worse since PSR). Ports that are not locked to UP service may have an advantage in the future.
Then, as seen in another post: [www.reuters.com]
Given the automakers using Hueneme at this time (see the lawsuit article), how likely is it that UP will improve service? That's the Achilles Heel of shortlines: they can (and often do) provide excellent service to on-line customers, until they reach the Class 1 interchange. After that, who knows?
You're correct that if the Port doesn't support the traffic it will go elsewhere. Several other ports have auto transload (ship to train) facilities. But they have other issues too, like getting UP to provide the line-haul service (UP has never been especially good about that, and it's seemingly gotten worse since PSR). Ports that are not locked to UP service may have an advantage in the future.
Then, as seen in another post: [www.reuters.com]
Given the automakers using Hueneme at this time (see the lawsuit article), how likely is it that UP will improve service? That's the Achilles Heel of shortlines: they can (and often do) provide excellent service to on-line customers, until they reach the Class 1 interchange. After that, who knows?
