Port of Nevada Launches Intermodal Service to Oakland

The Port of Nevada, an inland port near Reno, has launched a new direct intermodal service for imports and exports in partnership with the Port of Oakland in California. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving Union Pacific Railroad, the ocean carrier CMA CGM Group, and the Port of Oakland. The new service will significantly improve the efficiency, reliability, and environmental sustainability of cargo transportation between Fernley, Nevada, and Oakland.

The Port of Nevada, spanning 224 acres, is owned and developed by Industrial Realty Group LLC (IRG). Stuart Lichter, president of the Port of Nevada and IRG, emphasized the benefits of this venture. “Direct rail access between Reno and the West Coast significantly increases the amount of cargo freight that can be shipped. This collaborative venture will provide our clients with a more efficient, reliable, and environmentally sensitive way to transport goods,” said Lichter.

The new service offers comprehensive rail capabilities, including bulk commodity transloading, intermodal transloading, and storage of multiple commodities. The port features a full-service rail facility connected to Union Pacific’s network, which promises to improve inland shipping container distribution, ease truck traffic, and reduce carbon emissions.

The inland ramp provides intermodal service between Fernley, approximately 34 miles east of Reno, and the Port of Oakland, situated about 240 miles away. This new connection is expected to attract advanced manufacturing businesses looking to expand in the U.S., particularly those involved in electric vehicle (EV) battery production. Nevada is home to one of the country’s largest lithium mines and has seen significant investments in EV battery production. Notably, Lithium Americas plans to mine and process battery-grade lithium in Humboldt County, and Tesla has announced a $3.6 billion investment in the state for battery and semi-truck production.