The case concerns freight rail couplers and their treatment in cross-border rail movements. Greenbrier argues that CBP’s determination changes how railcars and component parts are characterised when moving through the North American interchange system.
Greenbrier claims the railcars have operated for decades as mobile transportation equipment moving between carriers and across borders under common carrier obligations. It said the determination could add regulatory costs to cross-border rail operations and affect freight movements within North America.
Greenbrier said it has acted under established transport practices, applicable law and agency guidance. The company did not specify in its statement what immediate operational or financial measures it may take in response to the CBP decision.
The Oregon-based manufacturer said it will continue to cooperate with CBP and other agencies while seeking to defend its legal position. Greenbrier designs, builds and markets freight railcars in North America, Europe and Brazil, and provides wheel, parts, maintenance, retrofitting, leasing and fleet management services. It owns a lease fleet of about 16,800 railcars, primarily sourced from its own manufacturing operations.
