Chicago South Shore and South Bend Railroad (CSS) has recently expanded its fleet with the acquisition of 100 new wagons designed for steel coil transport.
The order was fulfilled by two North American manufacturers, Greenbrier Companies and National Steel Car, each supplying 50 wagons. These 48-foot, 115-ton capacity wagons can hold up to five steel coils and are equipped with covers for all-weather transport. The design includes transverse troughs that secure the coils without the need for additional support materials.
This is the second significant investment in coil steel wagons by CSS since 2007, reflecting its commitment to supporting customer growth. CSS President Todd Bjornstad highlighted the benefits of the new wagons, which are expected to improve safety, efficiency, and environmental impact of rail shipping options.
CSS services steel producers in the Midwest, including Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc. at Burns Harbor, IN, and U.S. Steel’s Midwest Plant in Portage, IN. The new wagons will facilitate the transport of steel coils across the North American rail network, with ready interchange to all Class I railroads and numerous short line and regional railroads. Ownership of the equipment by CSS ensures immediate availability for reloading after deliveries.
Peter Gilbertson, CEO and President of Anacostia Rail Holdings Company, owner of CSS, emphasized the company's strong financial position, which enabled the purchase. He noted that the new wagons would enhance CSS’s ability to provide critical last- and first-mile services, adding value to customer supply chains.
CSS operates 127 miles of line, providing rail freight service between Chicago and South Bend, IN, and Chicago and Kingsbury, IN, with connections to all Chicago-area railroads and the Port of Chicago.
