Are you considering a new railcar loading system? You’ll need a provider who knows the ins and outs of loading equipment, fall protection systems, and more. Keep reading to learn how partnering with a full-service company like Northern Platforms will help deliver expert results. 

Key Takeaways

• Railcar systems count on several elements (loading platforms, gangways, loading arms, and more) for efficient loading and unloading. All these elements must work hand in hand.
• Ad hoc approaches leave companies vulnerable to operational delays and ineffective systems.
• Partnering with a full-service company like Northern Platforms early on in the process generates the best possible railcar loading system.

Why Turnkey Railcar Loading Systems Win

1. Everything Works Together Seamlessly

Railcar loading systems can be complicated. In order to function properly, your gangway, loading arm, and platform need to work hand in hand. However, when you opt for multiple products from multiple contractors, you risk compatibility issues, which can have both short-term and long-term effects on your system.

On the other hand, turnkey providers help eliminate compatibility issues from the start. With a unified system, every component works together flawlessly, eliminating operational concerns and significantly reducing installation stress.

2. They Draw on Decades of Experience 

When you opt for an experienced and full-service safe access provider, you will have countless years of experience at your disposal. While piecemeal providers might only have experience in their niche, a company like Northern Platforms has been designing, building, and maintaining complete systems for over 20 years. We’ve tackled everything from simple systems to multi-hatch configurations. We also have expertise in many different industries, including natural gas liquids (NGLs), refined fuels, agricultural products (fertilizer, NH3, UAN) and more. 

3. They’re Infinitely Customizable 

When it comes to railcar loading systems, there is no “one size fits all.” You and your contractor will need to consider many different factors and circumstances to ensure your new rack seamlessly integrates into your operations. Here are some questions that you should keep in mind:

• What type of railcars are you regularly performing work on? 
• How are your railcars being moved around the site? 
• What are the limits of your existing system? 

Based on your answers to these questions and more, an experienced and full service provider can design a system that is directly based on your needs. This might include selecting the ideal loading arm, choosing the right fittings, and adding additional safety features like wheel chocks, blue flags, and spill containment pads. 

4. They Have One Contact From Start to Finish 

One of the biggest operational advantages of partnering with a turnkey provider? Your project will have one contact from start to finish. Avoid the headache of juggling multiple vendors, timelines, contacts, and invoices and let Northern Platforms take care of everything from installation to ongoing maintenance and repairs!

Northern Platforms: Western Canada’s Experts in Railcar Loading Systems

Western Canadian companies depend on reliable, functional, and long-lasting railcar loading racks. But without proper designs, project management, or products, these essential systems can fail you when you need them most. 

Avoid operational delays and costly mistakes—opt for a full-service provider who oversees your project from beginning to end. At Northern Platforms, we guarantee expert fall protection systems, high-quality products, and customer service that puts you and your operations first. Ready to upgrade your railcar loading rack? Contact our sales team to learn more about our products or schedule your site visit today!