Derrel E. Chappell has been named director, wholesale business development, for Schneider National's Intermodal division. The move underscores the company's commitment to establishing a significant intermodal wholesale channel
that maximizes shippers' overall transportation spend.

"The intermodal marketplace has shifted dramatically during the past year," said Steve Van Kirk, vice president of commercial operations for Schneider National's Intermodal sector. "Not only have relationships between the railroads and intermodal carriers changed, but transit times and rates have also been affected. These dynamics make it an ideal time to bring a wholesale offering to the marketplace, giving intermodal shippers more creative, cost-effective solutions for moving their freight."

Chappell brings more than 40 years of rail-industry experience to the role. He will be responsible for Schneider's relationship with intermodal marketing companies and third-party logistics providers, development of the company's wholesale strategy, and growth of strategic customer relationships. Most recently, Chappell was with Pacer Stacktrain/APL.

"I have a great passion for connecting railroads, intermodal transportation companies and shippers and collaborating to find the best solution to meet a specific customer need," said Chappell. "Bringing together Schneider assets and award-winning service with a marketplace craving innovative and reliable solutions is an exciting opportunity," said Chappell.

According to Van Kirk, Chappell's expertise in bringing fresh, out-of-the-box ideas to wholesale customers, including product development, made him a strong candidate for the position. Case in point: Chappell was a key member of the team that first capitalized on the opportunity to move double-stack containers into Mexico. "Derrel is highly skilled at knowing how to leverage the existing intermodal framework and knows where and when to push the limits. This kind of innovation and risk-taking make him a great asset to intermodal marketing companies, third-party logistics providers and shippers," Van Kirk noted.