Railinc
A new Railinc-NC State University partnership aims to identify opportunities for shifting long-haul shipments from truck to rail. The two organizations will explore how even modest shifts can yield “significant cost savings, environmental benefits, and infrastructure planning insights,” Railinc reported Dec. 17.
“By combining Railinc’s capabilities with the analytical capabilities of NC State, we can deliver insights that help industry leaders and policymakers make smarter, faster, and more confident decisions,” said Dr. Daniel J. Findley, Associate Director at NC State’s Institute for Transportation Research and Education. “Rail is often an overlooked option in freight, yet it can offer advantages in cost, capacity, and sustainability compared to other modes. This research helps identify where rebalancing is not only possible but practical—creating pathways for more resilient supply chains and stronger communities.”
“A 2% shift from truck to rail could meaningfully increase intermodal rail tonnage and help justify infrastructure investments,” NC State professor Dr. George List said. “We can pinpoint where that shift is feasible and cost-effective.”
“The rail industry has made tremendous progress improving freight efficiency over the years,” noted Railinc CEO Allen West=. “This kind of analysis can build on that foundation, informing current trucking shippers of the benefits of rail.”
In a related development, Railinc in September announced it would collaborate with Duke University’s Christensen Family Center for Innovation to “explore practical innovations that advance freight rail safety and efficiency.”
Further Reading:
- Railinc Launches RIGIS Routing + Mileage Application
- MineHub, Railinc Partner to Enhance Rail Shipment Tracking Data Capabilities
AllTranstek
Downers Grove, Ill.-based AllTranstek on Dec. 15 reported being identified as the prevailing auction bidder for the assets of Darien, Ill.-based RAS. The transaction is subject to final documentation and court approval, with closing expected in mid-January 2026, according to the company, which specializes in rail fleet management (325,000-plus cars in North America), technical consulting and engineering, rail mileage accounting, systems development, and on-site training and inspection.
RAS was founded in 2002 and currently provides management services to approximately 500,000 railcars for shippers, operating lessors, utilities, and short line railroads; the largest percentages of cars are covered hoppers and tank cars. The company also offers services such as payment and audit of maintenance bills, handling of bad-ordered and railroad-damaged cars, review and approval of contract shop estimates and invoices, mileage accounting, Umler management, OT-57 management, Ad Valorem taxes, and management reporting (including budgeting, forecasting, and performance analysis).
“Because AllTranstek already performs many of the same core services as RAS, this acquisition would allow us to step in immediately and maintain uninterrupted service,” said Jeff Wilson, President of AllTranstek. “Our focus would be on stability, client confidence, and strengthening the service delivery model while integrating RAS operations into AllTranstek’s platform.”
According to AllTranstek, its proximity to the RAS office, overlapping service offerings, and familiarity with RAS software would “allow for a smooth integration.” AllTranstek said that it “intends to retain key RAS personnel and work closely with clients and suppliers throughout the transition.”
Separately, Bourque Logistics and AllTranstek earlier this year announced their merger to provide “a complete and unified offering to rail shoppers, railcar owners, and their railcar maintenance providers.”
