Get to know Corporate Traffic Logistics’ Manager of Multi-Modal Operations, Jin Baisch. Previously, Baisch worked with the top four major east coast ports and the largest CSX intermodal facility in the Northeast and Southeast. With 18+ years of leadership and experience in the transportation industry, Baisch now leads Corporate Traffic’s multi-modal team, which provides logistics solutions for a variety of customers across the country.
In this exclusive Q&A session, we sat down with Baisch to learn more about his process and impact on operations at Corporate Traffic Logistics.
Why do you think it’s important that companies utilize more than one transportation method?
Multi-modal transportation is the use of multiple modes of transportation for a single shipment or supply chain. That could be from ocean vessel to truck, over to a rail operation, back to a truck, etc. It’s important that companies diversify their transportation strategies to mitigate risk. In case one of the modes gets disrupted, whether it’s due to roadblocks, hurricanes, or any weather event, there’s another mode that they can take still move their freight.
While my team specializes in intermodal and drayage services, we work with our customers to find the most efficient solution for their transportation needs, which may include full truckload, LTL, and flatbed.
What are the capabilities of multi-modal transportation that may be attractive to different customers?
At Corporate Traffic, our capabilities for intermodal and drayage as an IMC is that we can market it to all of our customers or clients and help them diversify their shipping strategies or solve their transportation needs. We are able to offer an alternative solution to our customers’ logistics.
We find that a lot of customers use only trucks to move their freight, but if it doesn’t need to be moved in a time-sensitive manner, intermodal may be a better, more cost-efficient option for them. Multi-modal may also be a good idea for companies who are looking to expand and go overseas, as we can assist in the drayage portion.
What changes have you seen in the intermodal and drayage market and how has Corporate Traffic adapted to those changes?
In recent times, the intermodal and drayage market has seen significant volatility. At the start of last year, there was a peak in demand, followed by a mid-year drop. Since then, the market has been gradually recovering. Customers are now favoring the spot market over long-term contracts due to ongoing rate variability.
To adapt, Corporate Traffic has enhanced its responsiveness and flexibility. We closely track rate trends to provide competitive pricing, optimize routes, and ensure capacity during peak demand. Stronger carrier partnerships maintain a reliable network. Our goal is to offer consistent value and reliable solutions in this dynamic market
Why do you think the market has been fluctuating so much recently?
We’re unfortunately still feeling the vibrations of the pandemic. There have been strikes and labor shortages on the West Coast, ports are becoming congested, and vessels are being held out at sea. In addition, we have a high capacity of truck drivers that have saturated the recent market while freight volumes have been down. So, their pricing is competitive compared to railroad pricing.
How do you think the market will change within the next three years?
Over the next three years, the trucking market’s direction will hinge on political developments, particularly post-elections. In the event of a severe recession, bankrupt carriers may face mergers and acquisitions, reshaping the industry’s landscape. Conversely, a robust market could foster the growth of smaller trucking firms, injecting diversity into the sector. Regardless of economic conditions, truck rates will remain dynamic, stratified by the financial health of shippers. Companies serving stable shippers may command higher rates, while those serving struggling shippers may need to adjust pricing strategies.
Technology will continue to be a driving force, with online portals and digital solutions supporting supply chain efficiency. These tools will enable companies to optimize logistics and gain visibility into cargo movements. In this evolving landscape, businesses embracing technology will have a competitive edge. In summary, the trucking market’s future hinges on political shifts, recessionary pressures, and potential growth, making adaptability and technology adoption crucial for success in this dynamic industry.