Whether you’re shipping parcels daily or managing a national distribution network, here’s how zone skipping can revolutionize your logistics.

What Is Zone Skipping?

Zone skipping is a shipping strategy where packages are consolidated and transported over long distances in bulk—usually via freight or line-haul services—before being entered into a carrier’s parcel network closer to the final delivery zone.

Instead of shipping each package individually through every zone (and paying for each one), you “skip” multiple zones by injecting packages closer to their destination.

Example:

Instead of shipping 500 individual packages from Toronto to various locations in South Carolina (and paying for cross-border shipping per package), you can consolidate those shipments, move them via truckload or LTL freight to Sumter, SC, and hand them off to a local carrier for final delivery.

Top Benefits of Zone Skip Solutions for Shippers

1 – Minimized Freight Handling

Zone skipping reduces touchpoints by consolidating shipments closer to the final destination, resulting in lower damage rates and some of the industry’s best claims ratios. Fewer handoffs mean fewer opportunities for loss, delay, or product damage—helping protect your brand and bottom line. Pro tip: When looking for an LTL carrier, prioritize the carrier with the lowest claims ratio to protect your inventory.

2 – Optimized Shipping Costs

By bypassing multiple zones, shippers can achieve significant cost savings without compromising transit times or delivery speed. Zone skipping enables more efficient routing, allowing businesses to scale cost-effectively while meeting customer expectations.

3 – Faster Delivery Times

By injecting packages directly into destination regions, businesses eliminate intermediate processing steps and reduce transit times. This is

4 – Improved Inventory and Fulfillment Strategy

Zone skipping aligns perfectly with distributed fulfillment centers. By staging inventory in key regions and bulk-shipping orders close to final destinations, companies can optimize both inventory and shipping strategies.

5 – Lower Carbon Footprint

By consolidating shipments and reducing touchpoints, zone skipping can also result in more sustainable shipping practices—fewer trucks on the road, less packaging waste, and more efficient last-mile delivery.

When Should You Use Zone Skipping?

Zone skipping isn’t for every shipment—but it’s perfect for:

• High-volume parcel shippers
• National or regional delivery campaigns
• Time-sensitive promotions or launches
• Businesses with predictable shipping lanes

If your business ships at scale across multiple zones, especially during peak seasons, zone skip solutions can dramatically improve cost-efficiency and delivery reliability.

How to Implement Zone Skipping in Your Supply Chain

Implementing a zone skip strategy involves:

1. Analyze shipping patterns and volume
2. Identify optimal consolidation points
3. Partner with the right LTL provider

Final Thoughts: Zone Skipping Is a Game-Changer for Smart Shippers

Zone skipping is more than a cost-cutting tactic—it’s a modern logistics strategy that supports speed, savings, and scalability. With the right planning and partners, shippers can unlock substantial benefits across their entire fulfillment network.

If you’re looking to optimize your shipping strategy, reduce costs, and improve delivery performance, now’s the time to explore zone skip solutions.

Want to learn more about how zone skipping fits into your logistics strategy?
Contact us today for a free shipping analysis and see how much you could save.

The New Era of Supply Chain Resilience

Over the past few years, supply chains have faced unprecedented pressures. From fluctuating consumer demand and manufacturing reshoring to the impacts of trade policies and natural disasters, businesses have had to rethink how they move goods. Resilience is the cornerstone of modern supply chains—requiring flexibility, visibility, and innovation to adapt to shifting conditions.

In North America, this is particularly relevant. The interconnected economies of the region demand a holistic approach to logistics that considers regulatory differences, infrastructure limitations, and the unique needs of cross-border trade.

Technology as a Driver of Efficiency

Digital transformation is at the heart of resilient supply chains. Technologies like real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and automated systems allow businesses to anticipate disruptions and respond proactively. By leveraging these tools, companies can optimize routes, improve delivery timelines, and maintain better control over inventory—ensuring they stay competitive in a fast-moving marketplace.

AI is revolutionizing supply chains by enabling more accurate demand forecasting and enhancing decision-making processes. With AI-driven insights, companies can predict market trends and consumer behavior, leading to more efficient inventory management and reduced operational costs. This technological advancement not only boosts productivity but also fosters innovation within the supply chain ecosystem.

Collaboration across the supply chain is another critical factor. Partnerships between carriers, manufacturers, and distributors enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs. For businesses that embrace this networked approach, the results are measurable: lower lead times, reduced waste, and greater customer satisfaction.

Navigating the Cross-Border Supply Chain

Trade between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico is a significant driver of economic growth, but navigating these borders comes with its own set of challenges. Regulatory compliance, customs requirements, and varying infrastructure capabilities can create bottlenecks for even the most well-planned supply chains. Potential tariffs could further complicate cross-border supply chains by increasing costs and creating additional regulatory hurdles.

To overcome these obstacles, businesses must prioritize robust cross-border strategies. This includes staying ahead of regulatory changes, investing in infrastructure that supports seamless transitions, and cultivating partnerships that offer local expertise in each region.

Building the Future Together

The supply chain challenges of today are an opportunity to build a stronger, more integrated North American logistics network. Businesses that focus on resilience, collaboration, and innovation will be best positioned to thrive in this dynamic environment.

At Bison, we understand the complexities of these challenges. With our extensive experience and growing presence across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, we offer the tools, expertise, and infrastructure to help businesses navigate these shifting dynamics. Whether you’re addressing domestic logistics or cross-border complexities, our North American supply-chain solutions are designed to keep you moving forward.

Contact Bison to explore how our solutions can help your business adapt and succeed in the evolving logistics landscape.

For the past three years, the John Howard Society of Brandon has been at the forefront of the Food Rescue Grocery Store project, addressing a critical issue: 58% of the food produced in Canada is never eaten. Much of this food never reaches grocery stores or restaurants. The project focuses on rescuing this food, preventing it from ending up in landfills, and using it to feed individuals facing food insecurity.

The Food Rescue Grocery Store operates on a self-sustaining model where it does not require government funding to function, while managing to donate up to 40% of the rescued food to food banks, soup kitchens, and other agencies that provide food to those in need at no cost. At the store, individuals pay for the food at a heavily discounted rate, typically around 35% of the retail prices found in regular grocery stores, enabling the community they serve access to essential needs.

When the John Howard Society of Brandon approached Bison to help create a logistics solution, the long-term partnership began. Empty trailers that needed to be deadheaded for existing clients were leveraged, creating a mutually beneficial arrangement. This innovative approach not only maximizes the use of resources but also significantly reduces transportation costs and environmental impact.

A significant milestone was achieved recently when a major pork producer made their first donation of 25,000 kgs of pork. This donation alone provides protein for 100,000 meals to those in need and stopped the equivalent of 45 Tonnes of CO2 from being brought to the landfill. This collaboration highlights the importance of partnerships in tackling large-scale issues like food waste and food insecurity. The day after this shipment arrived, 139 families came into the store,

“The looks on their faces alternated between relief at the amount of food they could afford and concern over how heavy it was to carry!”

Ross Robinson, Operations Director, Food Rescue Grocery Store

Together, the John Howard Society of Brandon and Bison are making a significant impact in the fight against food insecurity and food waste. Their efforts not only provide immediate relief to those in need but also contribute to a more sustainable and efficient food system. The success of the Food Rescue Grocery Store project serves as an inspiring model for other communities and organizations to follow, demonstrating that with innovative solutions and strong partnerships, we can make a real difference in addressing critical social and environmental challenges.

Intermodal shipping combines multiple transportation modes: container drayage from shipper to rail, rail movement to destination terminal, and drayage to the final customer. A professionally managed transportation provider can offer a full end-to-end solution. Intermodal is a reliable option, less affected by weather, and is crucial for moving freight across North America.

Here are some reasons intermodal might be right for you.

1. Cost Efficiency

Combining shipping methods can cut costs and provide greater capacity. Additionally, this approach enhances operational efficiency by ensuring that once the container is loaded, it remains intact for the duration of its journey. This is especially advantageous when moving freight in and out of Mexico, as it minimizes handling and streamlines the process, leading to significant cost savings.

• Visibility & Service

Visibility can be tricky as the supply chain gets more complicated, especially when you begin to integrate intermodal, but a larger asset-based company has the technology available to keep shippers updated.  Additionally, having a dedicated CSR to act as your go-to contact is crucial to maintain the high quality and personalized service that shippers expect. In addition to the CSR, automatic updates can be utilized so that shippers have the analytics available to optimize their supply chains.

Customer connectivity to a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the service line that the customer works with is important. A great SME is just as connected to the customer as the Enterprise Seller.  This accelerates the trust between the customer and their supply chain partner.

• Lower Carbon Footprint

Intermodal produces a much smaller carbon footprint, this is because rail is one of the most fuel-efficient forms of shipping. Intermodal shipping enables shippers to utilize a higher payload in both domestic Canada and between Mexico and Canada, through CPKC’s single line solution connecting the two countries. Moving more freight for less than it would cost to go purely by truck.

Overall, intermodal is a great option for businesses looking to optimize their supply chain and by utilizing Bison’s partnership with CPKC, a Class-1 rail line, shippers can cut costs while improving their impacts on the environment.

Learn more about Bison’s intermodal solutions can help your business.

“It’s been a truly humbling experience to be part of a team that works tirelessly to make a difference, and none of this would be possible without the support of people and organizations like Bison,” says Danny Boyko, Manitoba Director of Operations, Brands for Canada and Sergeant with the Winnipeg Police Service. 

In 2013, the first expansion out of Ontario was launched in Manitoba. However, as they scaled up operations, they quickly faced a logistical challenge. How could they effectively get those large volumes of donations to Manitoba, especially when most of their work was volunteer-based? 

Streamlining the Process with Bison 

Danny’s goal was always to remain “Lean & Mean”—putting the majority of the resources received directly back into Manitoba communities in need. Whether it was jackets for those freezing on the streets of Winnipeg, clothes for single parents struggling to make ends meet, or supplies for remote Indigenous communities, they adapted quickly to meet changing needs. But despite best efforts, there was a major bottleneck: the volume of donations. Without a consistent way to handle the increasing amount of supplies from Toronto, the ability to distribute goods was limited. In the busy trucking industry, deliveries were often random and sporadic, and without storage space to handle 20+ skids at a time, they quickly hit a ceiling. 

Enter Dave Fulawka, Associate Vice President of Network Analytics & Development at Bison, who recognized the challenge and stepped in to streamline the delivery process. Allowing them to receive and distribute donations across Manitoba efficiently. This partnership opened the door to the possibility of making a significant impact, and the results have been extraordinary. 

The Power of Partnership: $36 Million in Donations 

Since 2016, Bison has helped Brands for Canada receive and distribute over $36 million worth of donations to communities in need across Manitoba. Through this partnership, they have fulfilled thousands of requests for essential items like clothing, food, and self-care products. Some of the highlights include: 

• 41 skids delivered just in time for the Holiday Season, with items like clothes, winter jackets, toys, and self-care products—worth over $1.5 million (retail). 
• 30,000 bottles of vitamin water were sent to Shoal Lake 40 before they had access to clean drinking water. 
• $180,000 in new, high-end winter jackets for those braving Manitoba’s harsh winters. 
• 1000 pairs of kids’ sneakers and 700 pairs of Nike high-end running shoes for children in need. 
• 4600 high-end men’s suits, helping individuals prepare for job interviews. 

“Without Bison’s efficiency, skill, and empathy, none of this would have been possible. Their support has enabled us to transform lives across Manitoba in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Bison has created a network of support that allows us to get the right resources into the right hands at the right time,” says Danny Boyko. 

A New Kind of Charity: Giving with Dignity 

One of the most remarkable things about Brands for Canada is its ability to offer new, high-end goods, not just gently used items. They aim to give people what they would want for themselves—clothes that are fresh, functional, and suitable for work or daily life. It’s about providing people with dignity, self-esteem, and the opportunity to present themselves in a way that empowers them. From job interviews to the holidays, they bring a store to those in need without any price tags attached. 

A Grateful Volunteer 

“I am endlessly grateful to Bison, its leadership, and its team for their generosity, support, and commitment to helping us make a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands across Manitoba. With their help, we’ve gotten items into the hands of those who need them most, whether they are homeless, refugees, newcomers, or struggling families. 

Many organizations and individuals are working hard to eliminate poverty and inequality, but Bison stands out as a true partner. Their ability to cut through red tape, act with compassion, and provide critical resources has been a game-changer for us. 

Reflecting on our accomplishments, I’m astounded by the $36 million and counting that Bison has helped us distribute. The difference we’ve made is undeniable—and I do not doubt that this partnership will continue to change lives for years to come.  Thank you, Bison, for all that you do. You get it, and you act with speed and compassion. Together, we are making a lasting impact on the lives of so many in need.” 

Samaritan’s Purse: Running to disasters

Samaritan’s Purse is a global humanitarian organization that provides aid to people affected by war, natural disasters, disease, and poverty. Guided by the story of the good samaritan, the organization responds to crises with tangible relief and the message of hope.

One of its most well-known initiatives is Operation Christmas Child, a program that collects and distributes gift-filled shoeboxes to children in need around the world. Each shoebox contains toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and often a personal note from the donor. Beyond gifts, these shoeboxes represent hope and joy for children who might otherwise go without during the holiday season.

Bison: Delivering Shoeboxes and More

Bison is vital in supporting Operation Christmas Child and other Samaritan’s Purse initiatives. This year, Bison is responsible for moving 37,500 shoeboxes, ensuring they reach their destinations efficiently and in time to make an impact. Over the past eight years, this partnership has facilitated the smooth transportation of donation items and project materials, allowing Samaritan’s Purse to focus on its mission of service.

Bison’s involvement doesn’t stop at transportation. The company provides Samaritan’s Purse with warehouse and office space at its terminal, which serves as a hub for shoebox processing, volunteer training, and staff orientation.

“It has been a great relationship between Bison and Samaritan’s Purse. The Bison team has been wonderful in accepting us into the warehouse and have been great hosts.”

Peter von Kampen, Director of Operations, Samaritan’s Purse

A Partnership of Purpose

Bison’s support goes beyond logistics. By offering resources, expertise, and a welcoming space, the company empowers Samaritan’s Purse to expand its reach and deliver aid more effectively. Together, the two organizations are making a tangible difference, one shoebox—and one life—at a time.

A Legacy of Impact

For Bison, this partnership is more than a corporate responsibility initiative; it is a commitment to being a force for good in the world. Whether it’s delivering shoeboxes filled with joy or providing critical materials for disaster relief, Bison’s contributions underscore the power of business and charity working hand in hand.

As the partnership moves into its ninth year and beyond, the shared mission of spreading hope and love continues to inspire. Together, Bison and Samaritan’s Purse demonstrate what is possible when organizations unite to serve others and bring light to the darkest corners of the world.

Winnipeg, MB (May 27, 2024) – Bison Transport announced today the transition of Executive leadership. Effective May 31, Rob Penner will be retiring from his long-held role of President and Chief Executive Officer.

Mr. Penner started his career with Bison Transport in 1989, where his 35-year journey took Rob from the cab of a highway tractor, into the office, and to the top of the Executive ranks. “Rob helped navigate Bison Transport through periods of unparalleled change and growth, finishing his career with the successful transition of ownership from the Jessiman family to the Richardson family” said Don Streuber, Executive Chairman at Bison.

“On behalf of everyone in the Bison family, I thank Rob for his service and dedication to our business and for all he has done to help us become North America’s Trusted Supply Chain Solution,” added Streuber.

Starting June 1, Mike Ludwick will be Interim President and Chief Executive Officer at Bison Transport. Mike has been with Bison since 1997 and was most recently Chief Administrative Officer. He is also the current President at Bison Transport USA.

“Mike is the right leader, at the right time for Bison Transport,” stated Streuber. “Mike and I have worked closely for his entire career; with Mike’s industry experience and superb leadership skills, I am confident in a smooth transition and continued success for Bison.”

“Rob has been an incredible leader in our business, industry, and community. We owe him a huge thank you. With his guidance, I’m proud that we have built an incredible team who will carry this business into our next phase of growth. I’m truly excited about the future of Bison,” said Mike Ludwick.

About Bison Transport

Bison Transport is a professionally managed transportation company, established in 1969 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of James Richardson & Sons, Limited. With a network throughout Canada, U.S. and Mexico, Bison is North America’s Trusted Supply Chain Solution that employs over 4,000 professional Drivers and staff. We proudly deliver award-winning freight services to our valued clients throughout North America. We operate one of the largest, safest, and most modern fleets on the road today. Our investments in tractor, trailer and container equipment are a testament to the commitment we’ve made to our customers, staff, and the industry.

Our growing asset-based fleet boasts 3,000 tractors and 10,000 trailers and containers operating throughout North America. Beyond this, we have access to over 30,000 trucks through our Logistics Operations, along with container cube and priority access on rail networks across North America.

About James Richardson & Sons, Limited

Established in 1857, James Richardson & Sons, Limited is a private, family-owned and operated corporation involved in global agriculture and food processing, as well as energy exploration and marketing, financial services, insurance, real estate and freight transportation and logistics. Headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, JRSL has assets and operations strategically located across Canada, the United States and Europe.

Bison Transport

North America’s Trusted Supply Chain Solution

Contact: corporatecomm@bisontransport.com 

https://truckinghr.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Press-Release-TFE-2024-Announcement.pdf

Bison Signs Landmark Agreement With Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC)

Access to CPKC’s Class-1 railways running along their North-South corridor will enable secure supply chain access for industries across North America. Bison and CPKC share a strong sense of alignment on sustainability, security, and facilitating nearshoring manufacturing growth in Mexico. Read Bison’s press release in full below.

Press Release, January 22nd, 2024:

Bison Transport Inc. today announced a new agreement with Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) to provide intermodal transportation services on CPKC’s north-south corridor, connecting Canada, the United States, and Mexico. 

“Our relationship with CPKC positions Bison to be the leading multimodal freight solutions provider that can service Canada, the United States, and Mexico,” said Rob Penner, Bison Transport President and CEO. 

“With our established, and growing, supply-chain network throughout North America, Bison customers will have even greater access to industry leading freight solutions that meet their business needs and exceed service expectations.” 

Bison Transport’s growing customer base will immediately have access to cross-border multimodal solutions, utilizing the CPKC rail corridors, while leveraging the reliability and dependability of both organizations. 

“Bison Transport and CPKC have a long history of successfully serving, and rapidly growing, our customer base in Canada – we look forward to expanding that intermodal growth in the United States and Mexico under this new agreement. With Bison’s established operations in Mexico and our commitment to growth of cross-border freight services in that market, the timing of this agreement is ideal,” Penner added. 

“This agreement between CPKC and Bison Transport will generate multiple synergies for customers as they benefit from reliable capacity and industry leading service,” said Jonathan Wahba, CPKC SVP Sales & Marketing, Bulk & Intermodal. “At CPKC, we connect North American markets with single-line, expedited intermodal freight transportation.” 

Bison Transport and CPKC are closely aligned today, and positioned for further alignment in the future, with parallel sustainable practices and long-term objectives in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

With the growth of nearshoring manufacturing in Mexico, Bison customers can now more easily capitalize on the associated cross-border business opportunities. 

About Bison Transport

Bison Transport is a privately held, professionally managed transportation company, established in 1969. With a network throughout Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, Bison is a leading asset-based freight solutions provider that employs over 4,000 professional Drivers and staff. We proudly deliver award-winning transportation services to our valued clients throughout North America. We operate one of the largest, safest, and most modern fleets on the road today. Our investments in tractor, trailer and container equipment are a testament to the commitment we’ve made to our customers, staff, and the industry.

Our growing asset-based fleet boasts 3,000 tractors and 10,000 trailers and containers operating throughout North America. Beyond this, we have access to thousands of trucks through our Logistics Operations, along with container cube and priority access on rail networks across North America.

About CPKC 

With its global headquarters in Calgary, Alta., Canada, CPKC is the first and only single-line transnational railway linking Canada, the United States and México, with unrivalled access to major ports from Vancouver to Atlantic Canada to the Gulf of México to Lázaro Cárdenas, México. Stretching approximately 20,000 route miles and employing 20,000 railroaders, CPKC provides North American customers unparalleled rail service and network reach to key markets across the continent. CPKC is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit cpkcr.com to learn more about the rail advantages of CPKC. 

Contacts: 

Bison Transport: corporatecomm@bisontransport.com 

CPKC: MediaRelations@cpkcr.com

Bison Places 1st in TCA’s National Fleet Safety Awards for 18th Consecutive Year

At Bison, safety is the focus and responsibility of all personnel. Whether it’s our professional Drivers who exercise their Right to Decide in the face of unsafe conditions, or our training, safety, maintenance and operations teams who help ensure everyone gets home safely. 

Bison’s culture of safety perseveres thanks to the combined efforts of all those on the road, in maintenance shops, warehouses and offices.

Bison is Promoting an Award Winning Culture of Safety 

While we humbly commemorate ourselves for 18 consecutive years of recognition, we do not take for granted the commitment and ongoing effort it takes to keep our Drivers, and the motoring public safe on a daily basis.

Our people make the difference, and enable our underlying approach to safety by harnessing the ability to make the right decision. Bison Drivers, maintenance, and safety personnel are equipped with an industry-leading toolbox comprised of: 

• Modern, safe equipment that is held to a high standard 
• Comprehensive and cutting-edge training 
• “Right to Decide” policy, empowering Drivers to make the final call when conditions are unsafe

Increased awareness and training in preparation of hazardous conditions ushered in by winter weather has resulted in a significant reduction in incidents this past year alone. Bison will continue to invest in the ongoing improvement of safety initiatives and programs. 

Every mile driven, load booked and repair performed presents an opportunity to put safety in the forefront. Bison’s executive and management teams congratulate the individuals and groups within our organization who have contributed to our industry-leading programs. Thank you for another year of exceptional dedication to safety.

Bison also congratulates the TCA on a historic year of nominee entries, continuing a legacy of recognition and advocacy for our industry. Read the full article on the TCA’s website here.