By Justin Franz 

Schneider announced a new partnership with CPKC and CSX Transportation to provide direct intermodal service between the southeastern United States and Mexico. The new service will operate over the recently acquired Meridian & Bigbee Railroad and will begin in December. 

It is anticipated that the service will connect growing markets in Mexico and Texas with Florida and Georgia. In a press release on November 11, Schneider officials said that the new service will provide a competitive advantage to shippers who previously relied on over-the-road transportation in the Southeast. By switching to rail, freight traffic will have a smoother crossing of the U.S.-Mexico border, eliminating potential delays and exposure to freight loss. 

“This represents a major leap forward in our industry combining the best-in-class service of two renowned railroads, and it will transform the intermodal landscape,” said Schneider Executive Vice President and Group President of Transportation and Logistics Jim Filter. “Our customers can now enjoy unparalleled efficiency and reliability in their supply chains.” 

The new service will operate over the Meridian & Bigbee. CPKC has acquired the Genesee & Wyoming railroad between Meridian and Myrtlewood, Ala., and CSX will operate lines currently leased by MNBR from it east of Myrtlewood. The MNBR operates on 168 miles of track in Alabama and Mississippi. However, MNBR will not cease to exist and will continue to serve local customers on the former MNBR-owned lines.