Trac Intermodal Prepares Chassis Fleet for China Import Surge
Company positions 200,000 chassis ahead of tariff pause-related container influx
Trac Intermodal, the largest provider of intermodal chassis in the United States, is preparing its fleet of 200,000 chassis to accommodate an anticipated surge in container imports from China. The company expects increased shipping volume following a pause in tariffs, with the surge projected to arrive in late June to early July 2025. Trac executives are coordinating with customers to gather forecasting data and ensure chassis availability across all ports and terminals.
Jake Gilene, Trac's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, stated in an interview with FreightWaves that the company is actively preparing for a rebound in shipping volume this summer. The preparation involves strategic positioning of chassis in appropriate markets to handle the incoming container traffic. This proactive approach aims to prevent logistical bottlenecks as import volumes increase.
KEY POINTS
- •200,000 chassis being positioned
- •Import surge expected by July
- •Response to tariff policy changes
The company maintains a diverse fleet consisting of domestic, marine, and specialty chassis that support the movement of containers throughout the U.S. transportation network. Following supply chain disruptions during the pandemic, Trac implemented measures to enhance preparedness for future volume fluctuations. These measures included establishing strategic chassis reserves in collaboration with major railroad companies.
The anticipated import surge relates to recent changes in U.S.-China trade relations, specifically regarding tariff policies. The pause in certain tariffs appears to be stimulating increased shipping activity from China to the United States. This development represents a significant shift in trade patterns that transportation and logistics companies are now preparing to accommodate through infrastructure and equipment positioning.