The Beginning of an Industry Game-Changer

It all started on a cold February morning in 1990 when J.B. Hunt’s first intermodal load departed Chicago, marking the debut of a trailblazing partnership between trucking and rail companies. This collaboration was the brainchild of J.B. Hunt founder Johnnie Bryan Hunt and Santa Fe Railway President Mike Haverty (now BNSF Railway). Aptly named “Quantum,” the service embodied a forward-thinking approach that promised a lasting impact on the freight transportation industry.

“Intermodal started as an idea to bring two services together and create a customer-focused, efficient solution,” said Shelley Simpson, president and CEO of J.B. Hunt. “This dream was brought to life by teams working closely together, never losing faith in the belief of a better way to move freight, one rooted in integrity, respect, safety, and excellence. It changed freight transportation forever and set the company on a path of continued innovation, sparking 35 years of growth and expansion.”

From Humble Beginnings to Market Leadership

The service that began with just 150 trailers has grown into North America’s largest intermodal operation. Today, J.B. Hunt Intermodal (JBI) boasts a fleet of over 122,000 company-owned containers and 6,500 tractors. The groundbreaking concept of double-stacking containers proved pivotal, enhancing efficiency while significantly cutting load and unload times—a benefit that attracted a steady stream of customers over the years.

By the early 2000s, intermodal service had evolved to become a distinct business unit within J.B. Hunt. This strategic shift allowed the company to dedicate its focus to enhancing service quality and operational performance. By 2003, JBI had become J.B. Hunt’s largest revenue generator—a title it still holds today.

The milestones kept coming. JBI moved more than one million loads in a single calendar year for the first time in 2010, and by 2018, that number had climbed to an impressive two million loads annually. Fast forward to 2024, and the company shattered records yet again, setting new benchmarks for quarterly, monthly, and weekly intermodal volumes.

Partnerships That Drive Progress

Over its 35-year history, J.B. Hunt has built enduring relationships with all major rail providers across North America. These partnerships have been essential to refining operational efficiency and introducing innovative features. Notably, the company established onsite terminals and express gates to streamline service for its customers.

Expanding to meet international freight demands, J.B. Hunt opened its first transload facility in 2021. These have since grown to serve key ocean ports and the largest land entry point into the U.S. Additionally, a significant collaboration in 2023 saw J.B. Hunt team up with BNSF Railway and GMXT to launch a Mexico service via Eagle Pass, Texas. That same year, the company reintroduced its iconic Quantum service to serve the evolving needs of highway freight clients.

Sustainability at the Core

J.B. Hunt Intermodal is leading the shift from over-the-road freight transport to rail, which offers a far more sustainable alternative. Rail transport reduces a shipment’s carbon footprint by an average of 65% compared to traditional highway trucking. Over the last decade, JBI’s efforts have prevented the emission of approximately 30 million metric tons of CO2e. This environmentally-conscious approach forms a key part of the company’s commitment to sustainable growth.

Source: Truckers News

Image: J.B. Hunt

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Leading the Way to a Sustainable Future

Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Schneider has secured its position as an environmental pioneer, becoming the first major transportation company to achieve six million zero-emission miles. This milestone highlights Schneider’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and industry leadership.

“Reaching six million zero-emission miles is a testament to our steadfast dedication to sustainability and innovation,” stated Mark Rourke, Schneider’s president and CEO. “Leading the way in adopting electric vehicle technology not only benefits the environment but also serves as an example of the broad service capabilities and flexibility we can offer to customers.”

This accomplishment has prevented over 20 million pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) from being released into the environment—the equivalent of removing approximately 2,100 gas-powered vehicles from the road for an entire year.

A Record-Setting BEV Fleet

Today, Schneider operates one of the largest battery-electric vehicle (BEV) fleets in North America, with around 100 Freightliner eCascadias supplied by Daimler Truck North America (DTNA). Charging infrastructure at Schneider’s Southern California Operations Center includes 16 dual-corded 350 kW chargers, capable of simultaneously powering up to 32 trucks.

“Schneider is a great example of the kind of forward-thinking entrepreneurship our industry needs,” said David Carson, senior vice president, sales and marketing at DTNA. “They’ve achieved over 6 million zero emission miles, which is a reminder for us all to keep working on overcoming challenges together on the path to zero emissions. At DTNA, we’re committed to the shift to zero emissions, alongside pioneers like Schneider, who are showing us what’s possible.”

Supporting Businesses in Sustainability Goals

Schneider’s electric fleet enables customers to meet their sustainability objectives. This was evident in 2023 when Schneider became the first carrier to complete global zero-emission shipments for PepsiCo. During this partnership, over 31,000 zero-emission miles were logged within months.

“PepsiCo is proud to celebrate this milestone driven by Schneider in California,” said David Allen, VP and chief sustainability officer at PepsiCo Foods North America. “Together, we’ve demonstrated how cross-industry partnerships can reduce emissions and create a healthier, cleaner environment.”

Enhancing Driver Experience

Schneider’s drivers have also embraced the advantages of electric vehicles. Thanks to quieter operation and smoother performance, BEVs are transforming the day-to-day lives of long-haul drivers.

“Once you drive an electric truck, you won’t want to go back to a diesel truck. The ride quality and the quietness make a huge difference in our daily operations,” shared Marty Boots, a seasoned Schneider driver.

Improving Air Quality for Southern California

Schneider’s BEV operations are centered in Southern California—a region with critical air quality challenges. This aligns with sustainability objectives set by initiatives like the California Air Resources Board and the Joint Electric Truck Scaling Initiative (JETSI). Funding from JETSI, the U.S. EPA, and the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust has played a role in expanding Schneider’s electric fleet.

“Achieving six million zero emission miles is more than a milestone — it’s a clear demonstration of how innovation in transportation can lead to cleaner, healthier air for our communities,” said Wayne Nastri, South Coast AQMD’s executive officer. “By embracing battery electric vehicles, Schneider is setting a great example for the industry while directly contributing to improved air quality and public health in regions like Southern California.”

Expanding Beyond Electric

Schneider isn’t stopping with BEVs. The company is actively exploring other eco-friendly alternatives like renewable natural gas and hydrogen-powered engines. Their current fleet of non-electric tractors runs entirely on biodiesel blends, underscoring their comprehensive commitment to a greener transportation future. Schneider has also set ambitious goals, striving to reduce its CO2 emissions per mile by 60% by 2035.

Redefining Sustainable Logistics

The achievement of six million zero-emission miles underscores Schneider’s leadership role in sustainable logistics. This milestone fosters benefits across the board—from reducing environmental impact to enhancing driver satisfaction and empowering clients to meet their green goals.

For more details on how Schneider is transforming the future of transport, check out their Sustainability Page here.

Source: The Trucker

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According to a release from Schneider, a leading transportation provider, consumer demand for refrigerated products has been on the rise since 2020. Tricia Greyshock, President and CEO of the National Frozen and Refrigerated Foods Association, states, “The maintenance and trend of at-home dining goes beyond simple cost-cutting. Our research indicates that consumers are finding real value in preparing meals at home, with 61% reporting it allows them to eat healthier. The refrigerated foods industry continues to evolve with innovative products that combine convenience, nutrition, and variety – we expect to see further expansion in refrigerated offerings that cater to the evolving wants and needs of home cooks.”

The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) reports that refrigeration sales have surged by 32% over the past five years. Nearly 64% of adults say they prefer cooking at home to save money and manage their budgets, leading to a spike in demand for meal prep services and ready-to-eat options.

Schneider National Inc., recognized as a major player in temperature-controlled logistics, continues to expand its refrigerated freight capabilities to meet growing industry needs. Their advanced technology and extensive fleet are geared towards ensuring that delicate goods remain fresh in transit without compromising on quality or safety.

Refrigerated shipping requires meticulous attention to detail, as it involves navigating complex regulations to keep consumer goods fresh. Specialized trailers, known as reefers, must maintain specific temperature ranges throughout transportation. Schneider’s state-of-the-art tools, such as remote temperature monitoring systems, play a critical role in maintaining product integrity. According to John Bozec, Schneider’s Senior Vice President, “Refrigerated transport is a unique capability a full-service provider like Schneider is able to offer within our larger Dedicated portfolio, providing custom-based solutions that match what our customers need when they need it. We know the most important aspect of refrigerated transport is delivering ‘on time and on temp’ and our team of experts have built longstanding collaborative relationships with customers in the space by ensuring reliability, capacity, and consistent best-in-class service.”

Schneider is committed to sustainability, as noted in their press release. Their efficient fleet operations translate into reduced emissions and lower fuel usage, thanks to innovative route and network planning. This dedication to a sustainable future further solidifies their reputation as a top provider in the field, evidenced by their recent recognition as a 2024 Top Food Chain Provider by the Food Shippers of America.

For more information about Schneider’s dedicated services and how they can optimize your refrigerated shipping needs, visit Schneider’s Dedicated Freight Solutions.

Source: The Trucker

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