WHAT IS MODAL-X?
Modal-X is a dynamically priced, door-to-door Intermodal product that targets transactional freight opportunities. Modal-X utilizes the strength of the Norfolk Southern Intermodal network and the operating efficiency of Thoroughbred Direct Intermodal Services (TDIS) in select lanes.
Each Day, NS and TDIS offer door-to-door Intermodal transportation for purchase via the internet by transportation companies looking for next day pick ups. The Intermodal ramp pairs are defined on the website, and customers can request transportation from and to any location. The rates posted are to service a 50 mile radius around the origin/destination ramp cities. If your actual origin or destination are outside of the 50 mile radius you will be advised about a possible surcharge to reach those markets.
MODAL-X WEEKLY PERFORMANCE STATS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Modal-X?
Modal-X is a dynamically priced, door-to-door Intermodal product that targets transactional freight opportunities. Modal-X utilizes the strength of the Norfolk Southern Intermodal network and the operating efficiency of Thoroughbred Direct Intermodal Services (TDIS) in select lanes.Each day, NS and TDIS offer door-to-door Intermodal transportation for purchase via the internet by wholesale customers for the week. The Intermodal ramp pairs are defined on the website, and customers can request transportation from and to any location within a 50 mile radius of the origin/destination ramp cities. (Out of route charges will apply for locations outside of the 50 mile radius.) Prices will fluctuate based on market demand driven by truck price alternatives.
How do I access Modal-X and do I need a password?
The Modal-X application is located at www.modal-x.com. If you are a new user, you will need to register on the site by providing a few pieces of information. Existing users need only to enter their email address and password in order to submit a load.
How do I register for Modal-X?
Go to Launch Modal-X. This will take you to the log in page, click on register now on the right hand corner. It will prompt you to enter your email address and other contact information. You will need to create a password. This will give you instant access to the site.
What is Flash player 9?
This is required to run the Modal-X website. Flash Player 9 allows you to enjoy the most expressive, engaging experiences on the Web that combine interactive, rich content with video, graphics and animation. You can download it at www.adobe.com/products/flashplayer
What kind of equipment will be used for Modal-X?
Modal-X utilizes 53’ dry containers and/or trailers. There is no price distinction between equipment types.
Will TDIS use information I provide to solicit accounts I currently handle today?
TDIS is a wholesale transportation carrier selling only to other transportation providers. Standard account clearance practices will be employed to make sure business currently moving under a firm rate via NS/TDIS is protected. Rates provided via the Modal-X application are only good for the load being presented. Modal-X cannot protect you from other transportation companies.
Can I request transportation via Modal-X for a customer managing an equipment pool or requiring a drop and hook?
At this time Modal-X must be for a shipper/receiver operating a live load/live unload facility. Future enhancements may allow for more flexibility.
Who can use Modal-X?
Modal-X is designed as a tool for our wholesale customers. Any wholesale customer (motor carriers, brokers) may use Modal-X. NS and TDIS will always verify the identity of each user.
What account clearance is performed?
NS will take steps to protect an incumbent wholesale customer, especially one that has signed up for the NS Committed Capacity Program (CCP). Loads tendered to NS through this program do not count toward load counts under the Committed Capacity Program.
What happens if I need to cancel my request?
Load cancellations may result in a penalty if a load is cancelled after TDIS receives the load confirmation. Let us know as soon as possible by contacting customer service at 1-877-250-2535 or email tdiscust@ns-direct.com
What carriers will pickup my load(s) for delivery?
TDIS will be the carrier providing pickup and delivery of shipments through its contracted operators.
Can I elect to use my own carrier?
No. Transportation purchased through Modal-X will be handled door to door by TDIS.
What is an out of route charge and how is it calculated?
Anything over 50 miles requires an Out of Route charge. We will go as far as 200 miles out of route. On extremely busy days, TDIS may limit the range if will service to conserve power for local usage. Modal-X will calculate the out of route charges for your consideration based on the origin and destination zip codes.
How is the All in Price calculated?
After you select the pick up date and enter the origin and destination zip codes, the All in Price can be calculated for your consideration. The all in price includes the base line haul, any out of route charges, the applicable FSC for that day, Hazmat and NY borough charges if applicable. The All in Price will not include will not include other standard truck like accessorial charges that may incur while in transit.
How do I submit a load request?
Click on the rate tab. Select your origin, then select your destination and date for pick up. Click on continue. Enter the beneficial owner, origin and destination zip and the number of loads. You can also select the pick up time. If it is a Hazmat load, select Yes. Click on Compute All in Price. Once you receive the rate, click on Buy now if rate is acceptable.
What is My Account?
My account provides your request history. You can view and check the status of your current requests, update your account information and buy repeated transactions again. Current requests will be placed in one of five statuses:
- Pending - means you have clicked the Buy Now Button
- Accepted - means we have acknowledged and we are waiting for prenote
- Received - means your paper work is in hand and we are setting up dispatch
- Entered - means the dispatch has been scheduled
- Cancelled - means you have withdrawn the order
What is Buy Again?
Buy again allows you to submit a request that you have tendered in the past. With this option, you do not need to enter the information again. The rate will be recalculated with the current door-to-door rates and FSC prices.
What if I forget my password?
At the log in page, there is an option called “forgot password”. You can click on this, enter your email address and click “submit”. Your password will be emailed instantly.
Can I set up a “group” log in?
Each account is unique to you. However, if you have a group email address, your account can be set up with a general log in.
If I submit a request, does that mean my load is automatically accepted?
Your load is not automatically accepted when you click Buy Now. After your request is sent, you will receive an email confirming or denying the request within 15 minutes. To date, acceptance percentages are better than 98%. Reasons for rejecting a request would be account clearance conflicts, capacity sold out before your screen could be refreshed, or drayage limits had to be imposed limiting out of route capacity. You can also check “ My Account” to see the current status of your request.
General Questions
I have repetitive business for a large customer and I have submitted a load request using Modal-X. Can I get that rate published in a quote to use over the next 30 days?
No. The market determines the price of Modal-X on a given day. Modal-X Requests only exist on that given day; there is no commitment to repeat that price level. TDIS offers Firm Pricing Options for customers interested in pricing and capacity stability.
Who will be billing and collecting for transportation?
TDIS will be arranging for the billing and collecting under the Modal-X program.
If TDIS utilizes an EMP or NACS container, will I be responsible for the REZ1 charges?
No, TDIS will pay REZ1 for any accrued per diem charges.
Are there any other restrictions or conditions?
Yes. Modal-X is governed by the TDIS rules circular agreement. By using the Modal-X website, you are agreeing to those terms. Please consult the Terms and Agreements page for complete information.