Categoría: General

How U.S. and Canadian Terminals can boost Intermodal freight efficiency with advanced TOS solutions like Essentos
The growing need for modern terminal operating systems in North America

The logistics and intermodal freight sector in the U.S. and Canada has witnessed substantial growth over the past decade. With the increasing demand for faster, more efficient transportation solutions, terminal operators are under pressure to adopt technology that can keep pace with these demands. As freight volumes continue to rise, traditional methods of operation are no longer sufficient. This has created a critical need for more advanced and efficient systems to manage terminal operations effectively.

Intermodal terminals are a crucial component of the logistics supply chain. They serve as the connecting hubs for various transportation modes, including trucks, trains, and ships. Efficient terminal operations are key to minimizing delays and ensuring goods move smoothly between different transport modes. In order to stay competitive in the fast-evolving logistics landscape, North American terminal operators must adopt innovative solutions, such as modern Terminal Operating Systems (TOS) like Essentos.

Essentos is a powerful and flexible TOS that is designed to address the challenges that intermodal terminals face today. From automating processes to improving operational visibility, Essentos helps terminals become more efficient, responsive, and capable of meeting the growing demands of the logistics sector.

The challenges facing U.S. and Canadian intermodal terminals

While the growth of the logistics industry presents many opportunities, it also introduces several challenges for intermodal terminals. These challenges can significantly hinder operational efficiency, increase costs, and affect overall customer satisfaction. Some of the key challenges faced by U.S. and Canadian intermodal terminals include:
- Operational inefficienciesMany terminals continue to rely on outdated systems or manual processes, which can create bottlenecks in operations. Manual tracking, scheduling, and resource management are often slow and prone to human error. These inefficiencies can cause delays in cargo handling, which ultimately leads to longer transit times, higher costs, and less satisfied customers.
- Lack of real-time visibilityOne of the most significant challenges facing terminals today is the lack of real-time visibility into their operations. Without real-time tracking of inventory, equipment, and shipments, terminal operators struggle to make informed decisions about resource allocation and process optimization. This lack of visibility can result in inefficient workflows, underutilized resources, and delayed shipments.
- Rising regulatory demandsThe logistics industry, including intermodal terminals, is facing increasing pressure to comply with new regulations. These include stricter safety standards, environmental regulations, and security protocols. Meeting these regulations can be costly and time-consuming, especially for terminals that are still using outdated systems. The inability to track and report compliance efficiently can result in fines, legal issues, and a damaged reputation.
  
  In light of these challenges, it’s clear that traditional terminal management systems are no longer adequate. U.S. and Canadian terminals need a modern, integrated solution that can automate operations, improve visibility, and ensure compliance with evolving regulations.
Essentos: A game-changer for North American terminals

Essentos is a next-generation Terminal Operating System that provides comprehensive solutions to the challenges faced by intermodal terminals. By integrating automation, real-time visibility, and regulatory compliance features, Essentos helps terminal operators increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall performance. Here are the ways in which Essentos stands out:

1. Automation of key processes
One of the most significant advantages of Essentos is its ability to automate a wide range of terminal operations. From gate management and crane operations to inventory control and truck scheduling, Essentos automates time-consuming manual processes, allowing terminal operators to focus on more strategic tasks.

Automation leads to faster processing times, reduced human error, and lower labor costs. This is particularly important in a fast-paced environment where even a small delay can result in significant disruptions in the supply chain. By automating routine tasks, Essentos helps terminals achieve smoother operations and faster turnaround times.

2 Real-Time visibility for better decision making
Essentos provides terminal operators with real-time tracking and visibility into every aspect of their operations. Through a user-friendly dashboard, managers can monitor cargo movement, track resource utilization, and gain insights into terminal performance.

With real-time data at their fingertips, terminal operators can make informed decisions on the fly. Whether it’s adjusting schedules to accommodate delays, reallocating resources to prevent bottlenecks, or optimizing equipment usage, real-time visibility ensures that terminals operate efficiently and minimize downtime.

3. Compliance with regulations
The logistics industry is becoming increasingly regulated, with new safety, environmental, and security standards being implemented regularly. Essentos is designed to help terminals stay compliant with these regulations by automating compliance reporting and ensuring that all activities are tracked and documented.

Essentos provides features that automatically capture and record data related to safety checks, environmental monitoring, and security protocols. This makes it easier for terminals to comply with regulations, avoid penalties, and reduce the risk of legal complications. .

4. Scalable and flexible
As the intermodal freight sector continues to grow, so do the demands on terminals. Essentos is designed to scale with your terminal, whether you’re operating a small facility or managing a large hub. Its flexible architecture allows it to be customized to meet the specific needs of different terminals, ensuring that operators get the most out of the system.

This scalability means that as your terminal grows, Essentos will grow with it, allowing you to expand operations without the need for significant infrastructure changes or system overhauls.

5. Enhanced data analytics for improved performance
Essentos doesn’t just track operations—it also provides advanced data analytics tools to help terminal operators make data-driven decisions. By analyzing historical and real-time data, Essentos helps identify inefficiencies, track performance, and predict potential disruptions before they occur.

With powerful reporting features, Essentos allows terminal operators to track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as turnaround times, resource utilization, and cargo throughput. This data can be used to optimize operations, improve customer service, and increase profitability. .

How Essentos can transform U.S. and Canadian terminals

Implementing Essentos in a terminal can yield transformative results, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing customer satisfaction. Here’s how:

Faster operations: Automation of key processes leads to faster processing times, which in turn reduces turnaround times and increases throughput.

Reduced costs: By optimizing resource usage, automating tasks, and improving operational efficiency, Essentos helps terminals cut costs and improve their bottom line.

Improved customer experience: With real-time tracking and reduced delays, Essentos ensures that customers receive timely and reliable services, improving customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Greater operational flexibility: Essentos’ scalability and customization options allow terminals to adapt quickly to changing market demands, helping them stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.

Regulatory compliance made easy: With automated compliance features, Essentos helps terminals meet regulatory requirements without added complexity or administrative burden.

Why Essentos is the right solution for North American terminals

Essentos has been successfully implemented in terminals worldwide, providing real-time operational benefits that enhance performance and efficiency. Its advanced features, ease of implementation, and scalability make it the ideal solution for intermodal terminals looking to modernize and stay competitive in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.

By adopting Essentos, U.S. and Canadian terminals can achieve operational excellence, reduce costs, and ensure long-term success in the dynamic world of intermodal freight. Essentos offers a proven, reliable, and flexible solution that helps terminals optimize their operations, improve customer satisfaction, and stay ahead of the competition.

Why Essentos is the right solution for North American terminals

Essentos has been successfully implemented in terminals worldwide, providing real-time operational benefits that enhance performance and efficiency. Its advanced features, ease of implementation, and scalability make it the ideal solution for intermodal terminals looking to modernize and stay competitive in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.

By adopting Essentos, U.S. and Canadian terminals can achieve operational excellence, reduce costs, and ensure long-term success in the dynamic world of intermodal freight. Essentos offers a proven, reliable, and flexible solution that helps terminals optimize their operations, improve customer satisfaction, and stay ahead of the competition.

A future-ready solution for U.S. and Canadian terminals

In conclusion, as the intermodal freight industry continues to grow and evolve, U.S. and Canadian terminals must embrace innovation to remain competitive. Essentos offers a comprehensive TOS solution that addresses the most pressing challenges in the industry—automation, real-time visibility, compliance, and cost reduction. By adopting Essentos, terminals can transform their operations, boost efficiency, and provide better service to their customers.

Ready to optimize your terminal operations and stay ahead of the competition? Contact Essentos today and schedule a demo to see how our powerful TOS solution can help you achieve your goals.
14 de julio de 2025
How rail terminals in North America can cut costs and emissions with smart automation and why Essentos is leading the way
A new era of efficiency and sustainability in rail logistics

Rail freight is gaining momentum across the United States and Canada as a cleaner, more efficient alternative to long-haul trucking. While the rail network itself is inherently sustainable, many intermodal terminals that support it still rely on outdated, manual systems that limit their true potential.

Today’s operational challenges — labor shortages, volatile fuel prices, environmental compliance, and supply chain complexity — are pushing terminal operators to look for smarter solutions. And smart doesn’t mean more expensive. On the contrary, automation and digital tools can drastically cut operational costs, reduce emissions, and enhance service quality without massive capital expenditure.

This article explores how smart terminal operating systems (TOS) like Essentos are driving this transformation across North America. We’ll explain the real cost of inefficiency, the tangible benefits of automation, and why Essentos is the right partner for terminals ready to modernize.

The high cost of manual inefficiencies

Legacy processes come with hidden costs. In rail terminals, inefficiencies are often baked into daily operations — from clipboards and phone calls to siloed spreadsheets and delayed communications.

The result? Delayed trains. Missed service windows. Overworked staff. Underused equipment.

According to industry studies:
- A mid-size rail terminal loses up to 15% of its operational capacity due to poor process coordination.
- Labor-intensive workflows lead to avoidable human error and longer cycle times.
- Equipment idle time leads to unnecessary fuel consumption and higher maintenance costs.
These issues create a domino effect that impacts customers, increases emissions, and erodes profitability.

Why automation is a game-changer for terminals

Smart automation isn’t about replacing workers. It’s about enabling them to operate faster, smarter, and with fewer errors. A modern TOS can handle thousands of data points per hour — something no human team can match in speed or accuracy.

Here are some automation benefits for North American rail terminals:

Automated yard planning: Allocate space based on live train schedules and UTI data.

Optimized crane movements: Minimize empty moves and reduce crane idle time.

Digital truck coordination: Route trucks efficiently within the terminal to reduce congestion.

Real-time status tracking: Provide operators, customers, and authorities with live updates.

These capabilities help terminals process more volume with the same footprint — and with fewer emissions, thanks to reduced equipment runtime and better energy efficiency.

Essentos: designed for real-world rail terminals

Essentos is a new generation of TOS, built specifically for intermodal and rail-focused terminals. Unlike rigid legacy systems, Essentos is modular, cloud-ready, and designed to be implemented without disruption.

Key features include:

AI-powered automation: Predictive crane and yard operations based on live traffic, container types, and slot availability.

Seamless UTI and truck recognition:Use computer vision to automate identification and registration.

Smart billing and service tracking: Automate financial workflows and eliminate errors in invoicing.

Compliance-ready architecture: Fully compatible with regulatory requirements in the U.S. and Canada, including digital documentation and emissions reporting.

Essentos doesn’t just digitize your terminal — it transforms it into a smarter, greener, and more profitable operation.

Aligning with sustainability goals

In both the U.S. and Canada, logistics operators face increasing pressure to meet environmental standards. Government targets for carbon reduction are being backed by new regulations and incentives for green infrastructure.

Essentos supports sustainability by:
Reducing equipment idle time cutting diesel usage.

Providing detailed emissions tracking for ESG reporting.

Improving throughput without additional land or capital equipment.

Encouraging modal shift by making intermodal freight more competitive with trucking.

By improving energy and asset efficiency, terminals using Essentos can become a part of a broader shift toward greener freight across North America.

Faster ROI, lower risk

One of the biggest misconceptions about automation is cost. Many terminals assume they need a large investment to make a meaningful upgrade. In reality, modular platforms like Essentos allow for gradual implementation — with visible ROI in just months.

Examples from existing clients:

30% reduction in operational costs within 12 months.

60% faster processing times for intermodal units.

80% fewer billing discrepancies through automated invoicing.

Essentos provides the tools and support to upgrade operations without disrupting day-to-day activity — so terminals can modernize with confidence.

The time to act is now

Delaying digital transformation in terminal operations comes with increasing risks:

Competitors who automate will offer faster, cheaper service.

Improve service and speed

Align with environmental goals

Unlock new growth without expanding your footprint

Essentos provides the tools and support to upgrade operations without disrupting day-to-day activity — so terminals can modernize with confidence.

Let’s move freight smarter, faster, together.
14 de julio de 2025
Types of shipping containers:A complete guide to optimizing logistics
What is a cargo container and why is it essential?

In the world of global transport and logistics, cargo containers play a crucial role by enabling the efficient transportation of goods through various modes of transport, such as ships, trains, and trucks. These standardized containers not only simplify cargo handling but also help reduce operational costs, enhance safety, and streamline supply chain management.

The use of standardized containers has transformed logistics worldwide, allowing a continuous flow of goods between countries and continents. However, choosing the right container is critical, as each type is designed to meet specific needs depending on the type of goods being transported.

In this guide, we will explore the types of cargo containers, their most common applications, and how to choose the right container to optimize the logistics processes in your company.

The importance of choosing the right container for your cargo

Selecting the correct cargo container is a fundamental pillar in the logistics chain, as each type of merchandise requires specific conditions for safe and efficient transport. Choosing the right container not only affects the integrity of the products but also optimizes resources throughout the logistics process.

A well-chosen container can minimize loading and unloading times, facilitate handling at different points in the supply chain, and better adapt to the modes of transport used. This is crucial for companies looking to maximize operational efficiency and meet delivery deadlines, avoiding costly delays and ensuring customer satisfaction.

In addition, using the appropriate containers is a key strategy for improving cargo traceability, as it allows for better inventory control and facilitates incident management. In a globalized logistics environment, where precision and speed are essential, making informed decisions about the type of container can make a significant difference in a company’s competitiveness and profitability.

Main types of cargo containers
- Dry container
  
  Dry containers are used across a wide range of industries due to their versatility. However, if your cargo is temperature-sensitive or requires more specialized space, you may need to consider other container types.
  
  Features: The dry container is the most common type in the freight transport industry. With a closed and solid structure, it provides excellent protection against weather conditions.
  
  Uses: This type of container is ideal for dry goods, such as clothing, electronics, manufactured products, and industrial materials.
  
  Available sizes: 20 and 40 feet. The 40-foot container is the most widely used standard for general cargo shipments.
- Reefer container
  
  Reefer containers are essential to ensure that products arrive in optimal condition, especially when transported over long international routes.
  
  Features: Reefer containers are designed to maintain a constant temperature during transport. They are equipped with a refrigeration system that regulates the internal temperature, allowing for the transportation of temperature-sensitive products such as perishable food, pharmaceuticals, and flowers.
  
  Uses: Ideal for perishable products such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, and medications that require temperature control.
  
  Temperature: Reefer containers can maintain temperatures ranging from -25 °C to +25 °C, making them perfect for products that need to be kept fresh or frozen.
- Open top container
  
  Open top containers offer flexibility for transporting products that do not fit within the dimensions of a standard container, which is common in the transport of industrial goods.
  
  Features: An open top container is a container without a roof, which facilitates the loading and unloading of tall or bulky products. These containers have a tarpaulin cover to protect the cargo from the elements.
  
  Uses: They are ideal for bulky cargo such as heavy machinery, turbines, and any object that does not fit in a standard container.
  
  Available sizes: 20 and 40 feet.
- Flat rack container
  
  The flat rack container is perfect for items that require transport without height restrictions, as it has no roof or walls limiting the size of the cargo.Features: Flat rack containers are flat platforms without walls or a roof, designed to carry oversized or heavy products.
  
  Uses: Ideal for heavy vehicles, small boats, cranes, and industrial machinery.
  
  Available sizes: 20 and 40 feet.
- Bulk cargo container
  
  Bulk cargo containers enable the efficient transport of large quantities of unpackaged products, significantly reducing handling costs.Features: Bulk containers are designed to transport unpackaged goods such as granules, liquids, powders, and loose materials.
  
  Uses: Commonly used in the agricultural industry to transport grains, cereals, sugar, and minerals.
  
  Capacity: 20 feet.
- Tank container
  
  Tank containers are a safe and efficient option for transporting liquids that require specific storage and transport conditions.Features: Tank containers are designed for the transport of bulk liquids or gases. These containers are cylindrical and have a reinforced structure to withstand the pressure of transporting products such as chemicals or fuels.
  
  Uses: Used to transport hazardous chemicals, industrial oils, fuels, and other liquids or gases.
  
  Available size 20 feet.
- Platform container
  
  This type of container is mainly used for cargo that requires a solid platform to be secured during transport.Features: Platform containers are a base without walls or a roof, ideal for heavy and oversized cargo.
  
  Uses: Perfect for heavy machinery, vehicles, and large materials.
  
  Available sizes 20 and 40 feet.
- High cube container
  
  High cube containers are 40-foot versions of standard containers but with an extra foot in height, allowing for more internal space.Features: They are ideal for lightweight but bulky goods such as furniture, appliances, and clothing.
  
  Uses: Perfect for heavy machinery, vehicles, and large materials.
  
  Available sizes 40 and 45 feet.
How to select the appropriate container for your cargo?

Selecting the right container for your cargo is an essential step to ensure efficiency and safety in freight transport. To make the best decision, it is important to consider several key factors:

Type of goods: Identify whether your cargo is general, perishable, liquid, or hazardous. For example, perishable products require refrigerated containers (reefers), while liquids or chemicals may require tank containers.

Dimensions and weight: Check the dimensions and weight of the cargo to ensure that the selected container can accommodate it without issues. This is crucial to avoid overloading and to maximize available space.

Transport conditions: Evaluate the conditions your cargo will be exposed to, such as temperature changes, humidity, or sudden movements. Containers with special features like ventilation or thermal insulation may be necessary in some cases.

Route and regulations: Consider the specific regulations of each route or country your cargo will pass through. Some types of containers comply with specific standards that facilitate customs clearance and reduce legal complications.

Usage frequency: If your cargo is recurring, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a specific container that fits your long-term logistics needs..

Taking these aspects into account when selecting a container not only improves the protection of your cargo but also optimizes costs and ensures regulatory compliance at each stage of transport.

Key advantages of using the right cargo container

Space optimization: Specialized containers allow for maximum use of available cargo space, reducing transportation and storage costs.

Cost reduction: By choosing the right type of container for your cargo, you can significantly reduce handling costs and the risk of damage.

Safety and protection: Each type of container is designed to protect your goods during transport, ensuring they arrive in good condition regardless of external conditions.

Regulatory compliance: Containers comply with international transport regulations, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards.

Innovations in cargo containers: driving the logistics of the future

Cargo container innovations are revolutionizing the way goods are transported. Smart containers, equipped with technologies like IoT (Internet of Things) and advanced sensors, allow real-time monitoring of internal conditions such as temperature, humidity, and potential impacts. This continuous tracking capability not only enhances cargo safety, but also optimizes supply chain management by providing valuable data that can be used to predict and prevent issues before they occur.

Additionally, the trend toward more eco-friendly containers is gaining momentum. Made with recyclable materials and designed to be lighter, these containers help reduce the carbon footprint of transport, aligning with growing environmental regulations and consumer expectations for more sustainable practices.

Keeping up with these innovations is crucial for companies seeking to maintain a competitive edge in the logistics market. Adapting to new cargo container technologies not only optimizes current processes, but also positions businesses as leaders in efficiency and sustainability within the industry.

The right container for every need

Choosing the right cargo container is essential for any company involved in international trade. By understanding the features and benefits of different container types, businesses can significantly improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance logistics safety.

Whether you need to transport general goods, perishable products, or heavy materials, there is a suitable container for every need. Use this guide to ensure your company chooses the best available options in the industry.

Want to optimize your logistics operations? Discover how Essentos can help you efficiently manage your transport and ensure the safety and compliance of your international shipments. Contact us today!
14 de julio de 2025
Types of freight railcars in railway transport:A complete guide
The importance of freight wagons

Rail freight transport is one of the cornerstones of global logistics, thanks to its ability to move large volumes of cargo safely, economically, and sustainably. A key factor in its success is the use of freight wagons specifically designed for different types of goods.

From heavy materials such as minerals and chemicals to consumer goods and vehicles, each type of cargo requires a specific wagon that ensures its protection and optimises the logistics process. In this guide, we will explore the main types of wagons used in rail transport and their applications.

Types of freight wagons and their applications

Rail freight transport is one of the cornerstones of global logistics due to its ability to move large volumes of cargo safely, economically, and sustainably. A key factor in its success is the use of freight wagons specifically designed for different types of goods.

From heavy materials such as minerals and chemicals to consumer goods and vehicles, each type of cargo requires a specific wagon that ensures its protection and optimises the logistics process. In this guide, we will explore the main types of wagons used in rail transport and their applications.
- Closed wagons (general cargo)
  
  Description: Fully enclosed wagons that protect the cargo from external factors such as rain, dust, and impacts.
  
  Applications: Transport of fragile goods, consumer products, clothing, household appliances, and electronic devices.
  
  Capacity: Up to 60 tons.
- Hopper wagons (Bulk cargo)
  
  Description: Specifically designed for products such as grains, minerals, and coal. Loading is done from the top and unloading takes place by gravity through bottom hatches.
  
  Applications: Agricultural sector, mining, and chemical industry.
  
  Capacity: Up to 80 tons.
- Flatcars (Intermodal)
  
  Description: They are flat platforms that allow the transport of containers, heavy machinery, and vehicles.
  
  Applications: Intermodal transport in logistics terminals and ports.
  
  Capacity: Up to 40 tons per container.
- Tank wagons (Liquids and gases)
  
  Description: Specialized wagons designed to transport liquids such as fuels, oils, chemicals, and liquid food products.
  
  Applications: Energy, petrochemical, and food industries.
  
  Capacity: Up to 60,000 liters.
- Open wagons (Gondolas)
  
  Description: Wagons without a roof designed for weather-resistant materials such as metals, wood, and construction products.
  
  Applications: Construction and heavy industry.
  
  Capacity: Up to 70 tons.
- Car carrier wagons
  
  Description: Double-deck wagons designed for transporting vehicles. They are equipped with securing systems to ensure safety during transit.
  
  Applications: Automotive sector.
  
  Capacity: Up to 20 vehicles per wagon.
Advantages of freight rail transport

The use of specialized freight wagons offers numerous advantages for companies in industrial and commercial sectors:

Cost reduction: Rail transport is more cost-effective than other modes over long distances.

Sustainability: Lower carbon footprint compared to road transportation.

Operational efficiency: Automated loading and unloading at specialized rail terminals.

Security: Lower risk of accidents and theft.

High capacity: Ability to transport large volumes in a single trip.

Future trends in freight rail transport

The rail sector is constantly evolving, driven by digitalization and the development of advanced technologies:

Digitalization and automation: Use of intelligent systems for real-time management and monitoring.

Smart wagons: Equipped with IoT sensors that monitor temperature, location, and cargo status.

Sustainability: Introduction of electric and hybrid trains that further reduce CO₂ emissions.

Advanced intermodal transport: Greater integration between rail, road, and sea transport to facilitate global supply chains.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of goods can be transported in freight wagons?

All kinds of goods can be transported, from agricultural products and construction materials to chemicals, cars, and consumer goods.

How are freight wagons loaded and unloaded?

It depends on the type of wagon. Closed and tank wagons require specific equipment, while hopper and flat wagons allow for automated operations at specialized terminals.

What advantages does rail transport offer compared to other means?

It is more cost-effective over long distances, offers higher load capacity, and produces fewer carbon emissions.

Which companies primarily use rail transport?

Companies in sectors such as mining, agriculture, automotive, petrochemicals, construction, and retail distribution.

The future of freight rail lies in specialization

In an increasingly globalized world, choosing the right type of freight wagon is essential to maximize operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve competitiveness. Technology and sustainability will continue to drive innovation in rail transport, ensuring a more connected and efficient future. Companies around the world are already adopting these solutions to manage their supply chains more effectively. Are you ready to take your logistics to the next level? Choose rail transport and unlock its full potential!
14 de julio de 2025