Evergreen joins chassis exodus

Evergreen joins chassis exodus    Add Evergreen Line to the growing list of companies planning to exit the container chassis business.
   The Taiwanese carrier said beginning Aug. 15 it will phase out providing chassis for import and export cargo in Boston, and gradually expand the program to other areas within the United States.
   CMA CGM told customers last week they would begin a similar phase out in the fall. Other companies ending routine provision of chassis in some or all cities include Atlantic Container Line, OOCL and Maersk Line, which set up a new business whereby it rents its chassis to draymen.
   “The U.S. is the only country where ocean carriers provide chassis,” Evergreen said “And it is neither efficient nor economical to continue to do so.

Related News •   CMA CGM to phase out chassis •   ACL to phase out chassis fleet •   OOCL: No chassis in Boston, Miami •   Maersk Line starts chassis business •   Maersk expands chassis program

   “Burgeoning world trade is impacting valuable waterfront terminal space and projected growth of commerce makes the ongoing storage of chassis no longer viable. Limited expansion real estate availability mandates that chassis can no longer be maintained by the shipping companies,” it added.
   “Drayage companies and owner-operators are fully qualified to manage and maintain chassis fleets with greater ease and cost-effectiveness, while providing the same standard level of service to the importers and exporters,” Evergreen contended.
   “It is expected that the move will also save hours for truckers, reduce turnaround times save fuel, significantly reduce air pollution,” it added.