Blackline tabs Ryder to manage Port of Houston cold storage facility

Blackline Cold Storage recently selected Ryder System to manage the warehouse operations for its new 298,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art cold storage facility at the Port of Houston.

Blackline said it chose to align with Ryder to manage the facility’s warehouse operations, scheduling, order fulfillment, and distribution services at its Port of Houston location. Ryder’s comprehensive 3PL experience will provide Blackline with a full suite of operational solutions intended to maximize customer satisfaction, value, and efficiency.

“We are extremely excited to have Ryder on the team as we prepare to launch the Port of Houston cold storage warehouse operations in the first quarter of 2022,” said Mike Day, Blackline Cold Storage CEO. “Ryder’s deep experience as a top 3PL and cold storage operator provides the necessary assets, people, and technology to ensure a successful launch and state-of-the-art operations for the benefit of our cold storage customers.

“The current supply chain disruptions and challenges across the U.S. only further highlight the importance of such strategic relationships.”

With more perishables moving through southern ports, strong growth in food sales, a growing trend of online grocery shopping, and an insufficient and aging stock of food storage facilities, Blackline is developing a modern, safe, and efficient cold storage network that incorporates flexibility for multiple segregated temperature zones (including blast freezing capability); 50-foot-plus clear ceiling heights; and both truck and rail connectivity in order to serve a broad range of cold storage customer requirements.

The Port of Houston site is strategically located within the heavy-haul corridor in close proximity to the Barbours Cut and Bayport container terminals and with convenient access to the regional interstate highway system and multiple Class 1 railroads. The site also has land available for phased expansions up to 650,000 square feet at full buildout.

“Ryder is thrilled to be chosen by Blackline to manage its new, modern, flexible, and strategically located cold storage facility in the Port of Houston,” said Darin Cooprider, senior vice president of consumer packaged goods for Ryder. “We look forward to delivering industry-leading services that will enhance the customer experience and business performance, as well as deepening our relationship with Blackline as it continues to grow and thrive in the cold-storage space.”