RailPulse to use telemetry data as definitive record for demurrage disputes

RailPulse, LLC says it will simplify the resolution of demurrage and storage charge disputes by using location and time data from its platform as the definitive record for participating subscribers and member railroads.

The new framework takes effect Oct. 1 and will apply to participating subscribers and RailPulse member railroads, including CPKC, CSX, G&W, IAIS, NS, UP and Watco, subject to limited exceptions.

Demurrage and storage charges are assessed when railcars remain at a facility beyond agreed time limits. RailPulse says disputes have historically been complicated by multiple and sometimes conflicting sources of information.

Under the new framework, participating parties will use a shared dataset of telemetry-based location and time data, including arrival, departure and dwell events derived from certified devices on subscriber-equipped railcars.

Accessorial charges will continue to be billed through each railroad’s existing processes, but RailPulse data will provide shippers with a more precise record when bringing demurrage and storage disputes to their rail providers.

“The new standardized framework is another step in the vision for RailPulse as delivering a better overall customer experience,” said Mike McClellan, RailPulse founder and senior vice-president and chief strategy officer at Norfolk Southern. “Having standardized data that shippers and railroads alike agree on resolves a long-standing friction point.”

“For shippers, demurrage and storage disputes can absorb significant time and attention before the underlying issue is even addressed,” said Steve Skeels, chief mechanical officer, Nucor Corporation. “When railroads and shippers are working from more precise data, the process becomes more disciplined, more transparent and better suited to reaching resolution without unnecessary back-and-forth.”

“The rail industry benefits when all parties are working from the same facts. RailPulse’s use of trusted, neutral telemetry data as a standard for dispute resolution is a meaningful step forward for transparency, efficiency and stronger collaboration across the rail ecosystem,” said Makoto Yokoo, vice-president supply chain and logistics, Bunge North America.

RailPulse says the framework is part of a broader effort to establish shared standards for railcar operational data. It expects the approach to provide greater consistency in how location-related demurrage and storage disputes are evaluated and resolved as participation expands.