While the shipping season typically peaks in late fall, the 2024 intermodal industry saw an early surge in rail traffic due to various global factors. As logistics planners raced to move end-of-year merchandise ahead of potential disruptions, containerized imports saw a sharp increase, fueling intermodal rail gains across the U.S. This early peak, while initially surprising, is part of a larger trend that intermodal companies must be ready for.
At Jansteel, we understand the importance of being prepared for these fluctuations, and our custom chassis solutions are designed to help your operations stay flexible, efficient, and ahead of the curve—no matter when peak season hits.
Custom-Built Chassis for High Demand Periods
An early peak season can put unexpected pressure on transportation systems, especially in the intermodal sector, where flexibility and efficiency are crucial. When rail traffic surges, as it did in August 2024, companies that are equipped with durable and adaptable chassis are better positioned to manage the increased load.
Jansteel offers custom-built chassis that are engineered to handle the heavy demands of peak shipping seasons. Whether your operations need reinforced chassis to carry heavier loads or flexible configurations such as the 20′ to 40′ tandem or 3-axle chassis to manage fluctuating container sizes, Jansteel’s solutions ensure you’re always ready for the next peak.
Handling Grain, Petroleum, and Other Commodities
During periods of high demand, intermodal rail traffic isn’t just driven by containerized goods. Commodities such as grain, petroleum, and chemicals also see significant increases, as seen with the 41.2% boost in grain shipments during the fall harvest. To manage the variety of goods being shipped, companies need reliable equipment that can adapt to different load types.
Jansteel’s chassis are designed with versatility in mind, offering custom axle configurations, reinforced goosenecks, and flexible paint and coating options to meet the specific requirements of your cargo. Whether it’s high-demand periods for grain, petroleum, or other commodities, our chassis are built to withstand the unique challenges of transporting diverse loads across long distances.
Durability for Long Hauls and Fluctuating Demand
The surge in rail traffic during early peak seasons often results in more frequent and longer hauls. Intermodal companies need equipment that not only performs well under these increased demands but also holds up over the long haul.
At Jansteel, our chassis are constructed with Grade A steel, hot-rolled beams, and weather-resistant coatings, ensuring they are built to endure heavy use and tough conditions. This durability means that your chassis can keep up with fluctuating demand without the need for frequent repairs or replacements, giving your fleet the reliability it needs to stay operational during peak times.
Maximizing Efficiency with Low-Maintenance Solutions
When container and trailer volumes rise rapidly, minimizing downtime becomes even more critical. Companies that rely on equipment requiring constant maintenance risk missing out on opportunities during peak shipping seasons. Jansteel’s low-maintenance chassis solutions allow for quick, easy servicing, reducing the risk of unexpected downtime and helping you keep up with the fast pace of early peak shipping.
Features like bolted frame designs and replaceable harness systems ensure that maintenance is both efficient and cost-effective, enabling your fleet to stay on the move during critical periods.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for Future Peaks
While the early peak in 2024 may have caught some companies off guard, the trend of shifting peak seasons is something intermodal operators should be prepared for in the future. Global supply chain disruptions, labor unrest, and other unforeseen factors are likely to continue impacting shipping timelines. By investing in custom chassis solutions from Jansteel, you can ensure that your fleet is ready to adapt to these changing conditions and remain flexible no matter when peak demand strikes.
Partner with Jansteel for Peak Season Readiness
At Jansteel, our custom-built chassis are designed to meet the demands of high-volume shipping periods, offering durability, flexibility, and efficiency when you need it most.
Ready to learn more about how Jansteel can help you prepare for the next peak season? Contact us today to discuss how our custom chassis solutions can keep your fleet ahead of the game.