National truckload carrier Con-way Truckload is launching a regional truckload service for shipments of l less than 600 mi., the company has announced. The regional service will also include cartage for truckload shipments of less than 100 mi. with drayage services also planned.
“This is the ideal time for us to enter the regional, cartage and drayage business,” said Herb Schmidt, president. “About 70% of the freight in the transportation market travels less than 550 miles, and it’s a segment that tends to stay healthy even during challenging economic conditions. Between those factors, our access to secure, state-of-the-art facilities and our ability to take on the business without building additional infrastructure, this is a strategic growth opportunity with tremendous potential.”
The new service has been going through an 18-month pilot program in 11 states. By the end of the year, the company plans to have 325 trucks dedicated to regional truckload service with plans to add 300 more in 2010.
