Schneider National recently hosted a delegation from the government of the People’s Republic of China led by the Ministry of Communications. Eleven government and industry representatives traveled to Schneider’s corporate headquarters in Green Bay, Wis., and several other U.S. cities. During the visit, the delegates met with Schneider executives, government officials and industry leaders to learn more about the U.S. transportation and logistics industry, its infrastructure, challenges and how major industry carriers are working to address them.
In addition to the MOC, the National Development Reform Commission, Ministry of Public Security, and the State Commission of Work Safety sent delegates to explore policies and operating issues facing the North American industry. The group gained valuable best practices applicable to the Chinese transportation industry.
“The MOC is in the midst of completing an interstate highway system and related infrastructure, making this the perfect time to increase the focus on developing a more advanced freight management policy,” says Martin Winchell, managing director of Schneider Logistics China, a part of the Schneider National enterprise. “Improving safety and efficiency are the principle goals of the government and ensures that the transportation and logistics industry meets the needs of the fast-growing economy. The combination of infrastructure and more efficient transportation practices will increase the ability of the Chinese government to connect developed coastal areas with inland locations.”
“Through this benchmarking trip, we have learned a great deal about Schneider National and the transportation and logistics market in North America,” says Ya Hua Xu, deputy director-general, Highway Administration Division of the Ministry of Communications. “We are most impressed with Schneider’s ability to utilize technology and innovation to manage its own large fleet, while still cooperating with small- and medium-sized carriers to meet their customers’ needs. The business model built by Schneider is a win-win-win (customer, Schneider, small carriers) situation and should be replicated in China. We believe this is the future of the transportation and logistics industry in China.”
Delegates joined Schneider executives for meetings covering compliance, safety, driver training, technology, local, state and federal taxation, highway construction and maintenance. In Chicago, they toured CSX Bedford Park, home to the largest domestic and international rail interchange points in the United States, to gain an understanding of intermodal operations. Armando Beltran, director general of Schneider de México, met with the delegation in Los Angeles and led a discussion about the Mexican transportation evolution and how it parallels China’s growth.
Other presenters included Don McNamara, regional administrator, Region V for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, who provided an overview of U.S. highway safety initiatives; and representatives from a leading consumer packaged goods manufacturer and national retailer, who provided perspectives on the unique needs and challenges facing today’s shippers. Ya Hua Xu also led a roundtable discussion with shippers and Schneider executives on transportation and logistics strategies, and opportunities in China.
