Rail freight has long been a preferred mode of transportation for the movement of goods across countries, tracing its roots back to the advent of steam trains in the early 1800s. Even today, rail transport continues to be a reliable and efficient option, particularly for intermodal shipments involving Trailers on Flatcar (TOFC) or Containers on Flatcar (COFC).
TOFC, also known as ‘piggyback,’ refers to the loading of trailers and their containers onto flatcar trains. These arrangements typically take place within port facilities or train cargo depots. At intermodal facilities, specialized port cranes, such as rubber-tired gantry cranes (RTGs) or reach stackers, are employed to load the containers and trailers onto the flatcars.
The utilization of TOFC trains can be traced back to 1926 when the Chicago North Shore & Milwaukee Railroad pioneered the use of train flatcars to optimize their cargo handling operations. During the 1930s, TOFC services experienced significant growth, offering distinct advantages in terms of cost and convenience compared to inland haulage via road freight. The period spanning the late 1950s to the 1980s witnessed the expansion of the TOFC network, encompassing 42 railroads and witnessing an upsurge in utilization.
Presently, in today’s increasingly high-risk cargo theft environment, the inclusion of barrier security seals and connected GPS devices on (TOFC) and (COFC) shipments is a necessity. To ensure the integrity of goods being shipped, prevent contraband, and provide end-to-end visibility of customers’ shipments, it is crucial to implement robust security measures.
By leveraging high-security ISO 17712 barrier security seals alongside TydenBrooks’ state-of-the-art GPS tracking and monitoring devices, you invest in your supply chain security teams ability to holistically protect your valuable cargo across the entirety of your supply chain. In support of those efforts, today’s blog highlights invaluable and practical advice on the best TydenBrooks solutions to enhance cargo security.
Trailer-on-a-Flatcar
Container-on-a-Flatcar
For 150 years, TydenBrooks has understood the importance of cargo security for rail freight operations. Securing the trailer or container doors, specifically the hasps and locking bars, is critical to safeguarding valuable goods and ensuring their safe arrival at their destination. Equally important is having visibility of the cargo inside these conveyances to mitigate the risk of theft, pilferage, or damage. As long time members of the American Association of Railroads (AAR), we are dedicated to providing you with top tips and expert solutions to achieve these crucial goals.
With our extensive range of high-quality tamper-evident security seals, and innovative connected GPS tracking and monitoring devices, we offer comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our products are designed to withstand the rigors of rail transportation and provide unparalleled security and visibility throughout the journey.
Securing the World
We are committed to empowering you with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect your valuable shipments throughout the entire supply chain. Don’t compromise the safety and security of your rail shipments. Partner with TydenBrooks to fortify your cargo protection strategies and achieve peace of mind in today’s dynamic and challenging logistics landscape.
Connect with our leading supply chain security experts at 1-800-458-7325 or [email protected] for a free cargo security consultation.
