IANA launches online ‘street turns’ platform

The Intermodal Association of North America said the web portal component of its new online platform to facilitate so-called “street turns” for its members is now available, and it will offer a mobile app and system-to-system API later this year.    The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) has initiated an online platform to help more efficiently facilitate so-called “street turns” for its members.
   Street turns or “street interchanges” involve a driver dropping off a container and chassis, then picking up another, or a trucker moving an import box and reusing that same box for an export.
   “The opportunity for significant industry-wide benefits occurs when equipment can be re-used without being returned to its pick-up location,” the association said.
   The IANA Street Interchange Application will also validate a motor carrier’s Uniform Intermodal Interchange and Facilities Access Agreement (UIIA), which is administered by IANA; and document transfer of liability, indemnification and damage, under the terms of the UIIA, to the appropriate motor carrier.
   “IANA’s latest Intermodal Information Service benefits the industry on multiple fronts, including driver productivity, terminal efficiency and reduced empty miles,” said Joni Casey, IANA’s president and chief executive officer, in a statement. “This online solution demonstrates what the industry can achieve when modes agree to partner.”
   “We have participated in a small beta test, and we believe this online vehicle may have the ability to expand our street interchange reach exponentially,” added Tom Barattini, director corporate logistics for Hapag Lloyd (America).
   IANA said the web portal component of the application is now available, and introductory webinars are scheduled from today to July 13. IANA will offer a mobile app and system-to-system application programming interface (API) later in the year. The new program is available to all UIIA participants at no charge, the association said.
   For more details about the new platform, access the IANA website.