Blog

Are you interested in moving intermodal freight and expanding your owner operator business? Download the free DrayNow app from the App Store or Google Play store, or click the button below.

The goal is to get in and out of the rail yards as quickly as possible, right? Just like everything else in the world, there’s an app to help you with that. The rail companies would also like everything to run smoothly, so they built apps that assist in every part of the rail process.  

By using these apps, carriers can have an easier time when planning their route, when they should leave for the rail, and the ingate & outgate experience. Just as DrayNow is here to streamline where to find loads and all of the information a carrier needs for a trip, these apps are here to cut down on time and make everything as seamless as possible.

For example, BNSF RailPASS aims to ease the process of getting into the rail yard by giving updates on the container you are aiming to pick up, as well as getting to see where it is located in the lot before even showing up. By seeing the status of the container in real-time, a carrier will have the most accurate information to ensure no one is showing up before a container has grounded.

Looking to pre-register before even getting to the rail? CSX lets carriers register for the rail through the ShipCSX app, cutting down on the time needed to sign up in person. Think of it as TSA pre-check, but free. If the option’s there, you may as well take it. And with apps like ExpressNS+, the ingate & outgate experience can find a home on your mobile device, too. Just plug in all of the necessary information, scan a QR code and you will be all set.

If you’re at a yard to pick up an empty container, they can also assist in finding empties without having to blindly search the yard or request assistance. Union Pacific’s UPGo app let’s a driver do just that with it’s easy to use tool.

And what if there’s any damage to the container? You guessed it. Report it on the rail app! Finding damage is already enough of a hassle. You shouldn’t have to partake in a wild goose chase looking for help on this matter.

New technology is introduced to intermodal all of the time, constantly serving to increase efficiencies and eliminate any bumps along the road. Combine the rail apps with using the DrayNow app, and you will have all of the answers via mobile. We all know that backups can occur at each yard, but if you’re looking to maximize your revenue, it’s time to utilize these apps as a fast pass to a successful trip.

For a visual accompaniment to this information, feel free to watch the video below going over how to work with the rails.