Schneider National, Inc., a premier provider of transportation, logistics and intermodal services announced the company has been granted authority to operate as a domestic carrier and logistics services provider in the People's Republic of China. Schneider Logistics (Tianjin) Co., Ltd. has been established under the new authority to provide these services in China. Obtaining licensing, a critical component of the company's international strategy, makes Schneider the only North American truckload provider to establish a domestic business in China.

"We see this as a great opportunity for customers in China, whether they be foreign-invested companies or Chinese-based businesses,' said Martin Winchell, managing director of Schneider Logistics China, a part of the Schneider National enterprise. "We will now be able to help customers build out their intra-China network and grow their business in the various provinces.'

Schneider Logistics (Tianjin) will offer domestic transportation, logistics (warehousing, crossdocking and third-party logistics) and other related services. The company will build these services through a combination of organic growth and acquisition in China. Schneider Logistics has established a new office location in the Tianjin Economic Technological Development area, in place to encourage regional development in the BinHai region in Northern China. The area is home to many foreign-invested companies in China.

"I'm very glad to see the establishment of Schneider Logistics (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., particularly given that Schneider will bring an advanced operating model, innovative technology and leading supply chain practices to the domestic market in China. China's WTO commitments open the logistics industry to foreign companies and Schneider can actively help lead the development of the industry and make substantial contributions to Chinese society. We wish Schneider future success as it grows with the development of the Chinese market,' said Mr. Mai Boliang, director and president, China International Marine Containers (Group) Co., Ltd.

"We're working it from the inside out ' a much different approach than when we first set our sights on the Chinese market more than five years ago,' noted Winchell. "After spending the last few years conducting primary research and development in China, we see the tremendous opportunity that lies in providing services to the domestic market as the economy grows and the disposable income of the average Chinese citizen is enhanced.'

In addition to meeting the domestic supply chain needs of its customers through its newly authorized services, Schneider plans to provide customers with international logistics services, which are still under development. Since 2005, Schneider has been offering supply chain consulting services from its office in Shanghai.

"Our challenge is applying Schneider's 70-year history in transportation and logistics to the Chinese market during this pivotal growth period,' Winchell concluded. "We are looking forward to growing our business through the hard work of our Chinese associates and giving back to the local communities we will live in for many years to come.'