Cooperation between surface transport providers and shippers is essential for optimizing logistics and supply chain operations. Increasing visibility and communication, sharing data and planning collaboratively has led to tangible results for shippers.
An example of this is CN’s priority train program from Prince Rupert. During the height of the pandemic, CN worked with our shipping line customers and port partners to facilitate Priority Trains to Chicago for urgent cargo. Priority Train shipments were planned ahead of time at overseas ports, had preferred location on ships to allow prompt discharge at the Port of Prince Rupert and departed on the first available train to Chicago. The ability to go from vessel to rail within 24 hours coupled with building destination trains reduced overall transit time by 48 hours.
By working together and leveraging every player’s role, we were able to organize over 100 Priority Trains between 2021 and 2022, getting urgently needed cargo to destinations.
Conversely, the absence of cooperation can lead to increased delays and bottlenecks. During the pandemic, an unforeseen and unplanned surge of containers caused backlogs and blockages at some west coast ports. CN was able to help by opening additional yards and renting space inland. This alleviated congestion and lowered supply chain costs.
Without collaborative efforts, delays and bottlenecks can escalate, leading to increased costs and disruptions. A strong partnership between surface transport providers and shippers is not a luxury; it is a necessity. The industry must continue to foster collaboration, increase communications as well as data sharing and build on successful models like the Priority Train program to ensure resilient and efficient supply chain operations in the face of future uncertainties. Only through continued cooperation can the industry navigate complexities, adapt to changes and deliver optimal outcomes for all stakeholders involved.