It will be game over in the UK one day

[DeepIron]

Since companies often cannot afford timely shipping of goods by truck, they are forced to use the competition-starved and therefore inefficient and overly expensive railways.

Actually I'm quite happy to see the RR's getting "back in the game"... I've been a big fan of the rail transportation sector for many years. If I'm not mistaken, the cost per lb/mile is about the lowest when compared to other freight transport industries. I'd love to see a second "Railroad Renaissance" in this country like we had from the 1900's throught the 1950's.

The thing that hurt the railways IMO, were the all the years and huge amount of $$$ the FED used to "subsidize" AMtrak... I think the public in general attached negative views to this and the image of RRs suffered.

My consolation, as a truck driver, is that practically no matter where you look, it'll still take a truck to get goods to the retailers somewhere in the supply chain.

[UnderseaLcpl]

Originally Posted by DeepIron

Actually I'm quite happy to see the RR's getting "back in the game"... I've been a big fan of the rail transportation sector for many years. if I'm not mistaken, the cost per lb/mile is about the lowest when compared to other freight transport industries. I'd love to see a second Railroad Renaissance" in this country like we had from the 1900's throught the 1950's.

The thing, that hurt the railways, IMO, were the all the years and huge amount of $$$ the FED used to "subsidize" AMtrak... I think the public in general attached negative views to this and the image of RRs suffered.

My consolation, as a truck driver, is that practically no matter where you look, it'll still take a truck to get goods to the retailers somewhere in the supply chain.

Good points. We support trucks as well by using intermodal freight. And I share your dislike of Amtrak, they make our trains later because we have to get out of their way.
I'm actually kind of sad to see long-haul trucking suffering because it means we can charge ridiculous fees and provide totally inadequate service. I had one guy tell me "you guys are worse than the government" just a few weeks ago. His steel mill had to shut down for two days because we didn't bring his steel on time. Then we charged him for "yard storage" of his cars. Does that seem right to you?
We're an industry that is in desperate need of some competition, but I work there anyways because it pays well.

[DeepIron]

Good points. We support trucks as well by using intermodal freight. And I share your dislike of Amtrak, they make our trains later because we have to get out of their way.

The NTSC HATES it when you don't...

I'm actually kind of sad to see long-haul trucking suffering because it means we can charge ridiculous fees and provide totally inadequate service. I had one guy tell me "you guys are worse than the government" just a few weeks ago. His steel mill had to shut down for two days because we didn't bring his steel on time. Then we charged him for "yard storage" of his cars. Does that seem right to you?

Well, don't be too sad. It's true, fuel costs have caused some problems for the Trucking Industry. The Owner/Operators (OOs) have had to tighten the belt I think as a group. But, many OOs I know are doin' fine and it's for two simple reasons. The guys who can't operate efficiently are going bust, more freight for those who adapt. Secondly, the "price per mile" paid by shippers has increased a bit. This is forcing more scrutiny and less waste. So, in a strange way, everyone (accept those who can't adapt) should benefit by having a more streamlined and efficient system.
As far as charging extra fees, well, it's all part of gaining more efficiency IMO. When I was solo driving, a consignee or shipper had 4 hours to get me on the dock or my company started charging for the delay. Amazing how some customers sorted out their "have the goods on the dock when the truck get here" problems...
There's only "X number of trucks or RR cars", gotta keep them moving to make $$$...

We're an industry that is in desperate need of some competition, but I work there anyways because it pays well.

Competition will come IF the current state of affairs continues. The days of cheap conventional fuel are over so we should see some real capitalism at work. The one's that can adapt and be efficient will survive... BTW, nothing wrong with making a good living in my book!