NS opens new Chicago rail transfer facility

Jan 9, 2002 12:00 PM

Norfolk Southern Railway Company today announced the opening of a new Thoroughbred Bulk Transfer (TBT) terminal operation in Chicago IL. The terminal is located at 1702 E 103rd St and has convenient access to Interstates 90 and 94. TBT facilities handle the transfer of bulk products, such as plastic pellets and liquid sweeteners, from one mode of transportation to another. Bulk transfer permits off-rail shippers and receivers of varied commodities to combine rail's long-haul efficiencies with truck's convenient door-to-door delivery.

Bulkmatic Transport Company was selected to operate the facility. "Bulkmatic has a reputation for quality service and experience gained through running 14 other TBT facilities across the Norfolk Southern system," said Mike Webb, manager of Modalgistics, Norfolk Southern's new supply chain and distribution services group. "The equipment and services provided by Bulkmatic will enable shippers to increase distribution in the Chicago area with truck-served customers and allow them to gain the benefits of rail economics."

The Chicago TBT facility has 60 car spots with room to expand and can handle both dry and liquid bulk products. It is fully paved and has features that include, security, full fencing, lighting, 24-hour access, and truck scale. All TBT terminals are open facilities that allow access by qualified motor carriers.

Norfolk Southern now has 23 TBT and other bulk transload facilities in 14 states. Additional TBT terminals are in Atlanta and Dalton GA; Baltimore MD; Buffalo NY; Charlotte and Winston-Salem NC; Chattanooga TN; Cincinnati, Cleveland and Columbus OH; Jersey City (Croxton), Elizabeth and Paterson NJ; Miami and Jacksonville FL; Mobile AL; Petersburg VA; Pittsburgh PA; Spartanburg SC; and Willis MI.