Transloading is key to a flexible, resilient supply chain

In today’s logistics landscape, supply chain flexibility is critical. Businesses must navigate shifting market demands, infrastructure challenges, and economic fluctuations while keeping transportation costs in check. Norfolk Southern transloading solutions seamlessly connect rail and truck, helping shippers move freight more efficiently.

Transloading allows businesses to take advantage of rail’s cost savings and reliability while maintaining truck access. This multimodal approach ensures even companies without direct rail access can benefit from rail’s scale, sustainability, and efficiency.

Norfolk Southern’s Great Lakes Reload facility in Chicago, Illinois transloading bulk steel products.

Great Lakes Reload shows the impact of transloading

Norfolk Southern’s Great Lakes Reload facility in Chicago demonstrates how transloading transforms supply chains. Since Norfolk Southern acquired the facility, which is operated by the Transload Group, in 2024, NS’s volume has increased 62% in one year.

Located in one of the country’s largest logistics hubs, the facility supports industries such as steel, cement, lumber, and other bulk commodities. Its 386,000-square-foot climate-controlled warehouse, 13 overhead cranes, and 18 indoor rail spots streamline freight transfer and optimize storage.

“Transloading bridges the gap for businesses that aren’t directly connected to rail,” said Stefan Loeb, vice president of business development and first and final mile markets at Norfolk Southern. “Our investment in the Great Lakes Reload facility is part of our commitment to providing flexible, customer-focused solutions.”

Norfolk Southern’s Great Lakes Reload facility in Chicago, Illinois transloading bulk paper products.

Helping businesses scale and reduce costs

Great Lakes Reload enhances service in Chicago and beyond, giving bulk shippers cost-effective, reliable rail freight options.

“Transloading allows businesses to scale their supply chains quickly,” said Chuck Marias, spokesperson for Great Lakes Reload. “With Norfolk Southern’s support, we’ve seen rising demand for these solutions. Companies want to cut costs and improve logistics, and transloading delivers on both.”

Businesses can integrate rail into their supply chains without direct track access. Rail moves freight more cost-effectively over long distances than trucks alone, making transloading an ideal solution for businesses seeking savings and efficiency.

Transloading supports sustainability and efficiency

Beyond cost savings, transloading creates a more sustainable supply chain. Rail transportation can reduce emissions up to 90% in some cases when compared to truck. Businesses that incorporate transloading reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining just-in-time delivery.

Find the right transloading facility with NSites.com

With more than 300 transload facilities across our network, Norfolk Southern makes it easy to find the right solution. Our optimized facility location tool, NSites, helps businesses identify transloading options near key markets.

Strengthen your supply chain with transloading. Visit NSites.NorfolkSouthern.com today to find a facility or connect with our team.