Rail Freight and Logistics

Rail Freight and Logistics

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More and more freight is being moved by rail. Rail freight is seen as a greener, more sustainable way to transport goods, and through modal shift makes a contribution to the development of low carbon economies. In emerging markets rich in natural resources, the movement of minerals and other commodities by rail is frequently the most efficient, effective mode of transport. Rail plays a key part in the logistics chain, often interfacing with maritime and road hubs and supplying businesses locally and around the world.

Freight and logistics share many of the challenges of passenger rail networks and operations, but some challenges are particular to railways. The business drivers can be very different, and the commercial and operational challenges significant. There is also the frequent challenge of mixed use, where freight has to compete with passenger services for sufficient capacity to operate and grow.

You may be an established operator on a mixed-use railway or dedicated network. You may be seeking to build, operate or invest in new freight and logistics networks and services in challenging environments. What you need is legal support that has a deep understanding of the freight and logistics sector, recognizing the similarities with the passenger industry, but also the differences.

Dentons has been involved in rail freight and logistics for as long as we have been involved in the rail industry. We have worked on difficult, complex mixed-use systems and tackled the associated regulatory issues. We have worked on new build railways and logistics networks around the world, including those with maritime and road interfaces. And we have knowledge of the end customer, having worked in postal and logistics markets and for manufacturers and suppliers who use rail freight services.

Insights

Post-Chevron and Beyond – Administrative Law Resource Center

July 10, 2024

At the end of the Supreme Court’s 2023-24 term, the Court’s conservative majority effected a sea-change in federal administrative law, asserting a stronger role for the courts in the regulatory state and bringing into question the legality and viability of many regulatory programs.