Bison Transport North America's Trusted Supply Chain Solution Wed, 19 Mar 2025 18:42:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.5 /wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2023/11/cropped-Favicon-32x32.png Bison Transport 32 32 Transloading vs. Through-Trailer Service: Choosing the Right Cross-Border Shipping Strategy for Mexico /why-bison/transloading-vs-through-trailer-service-choosing-the-right-cross-border-shipping-strategy-for-mexico Wed, 19 Mar 2025 18:36:33 +0000 /?p=2432 Shipping goods between Mexico, the United States, and Canada requires careful planning to ensure efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and security. Two of the most common logistics strategies are transloading and through-trailer service. Each has distinct advantages and drawbacks, and choosing the right method depends on your specific supply chain needs.

What is Transloading?

Transloading involves unloading freight from one transportation mode or container and reloading it onto another before final delivery. For cross-border shipments, this typically means transferring goods from a U.S. or Canadian trailer or railcar to a Mexican truck and trailer, or vice versa.

Pros of Transloading:

  1. Improved Carrier Availability – There is often a shortage of long-haul drivers, making transloading a practical solution to optimize capacity.
  2. Flexibility in Shipment Size – Transloading allows for shipment consolidation or deconsolidation, which can be beneficial for companies with varying load sizes.
  3. Easier Compliance with Regulations – Cross-border trade regulations vary, and transloading ensures that shipments are handled in compliance with local rules.
  4. In-Bond Shipping for Canada-Mexico Trade – by leveraging a freight forwarder in Laredo, bonded shipments are possible which enable freight to move directly between Canada and Mexico without clearing U.S. customs, reducing delays and paperwork.

Cons of Transloading:

  1. Additional Handling Risks – Moving freight being handled between containers increases the chances of damage, loss, or delays.
  2. Time Delays – Unloading and reloading cargo can add time to the supply chain process.
  3. Infrastructure Dependence – Transloading facilities need to be well-equipped and strategically located to avoid bottlenecks.

What is Through-Trailer Service?

Through-trailer service allows a loaded trailer to travel directly across the border while staying in the original sealed container. This method minimizes handling and speeds up delivery.

Pros of Through-Trailer:

  1. Reduced Handling Risk – Since goods remain in the same trailer, there’s less chance of damage or loss.
  2. Faster Transit Times – Eliminating the need for transloading can speed up delivery, reducing supply chain disruptions.
  3. Simplified Logistics – Managing a single shipment without intermediate transfers reduces the complexity of coordination.
  4. In-Bond Shipping for Canada-Mexico Trade – Through-trailer service allows for efficient in-bond shipments, enabling freight to move directly between Canada and Mexico without clearing U.S. customs, reducing delays and paperwork.

Cons of Through-Trailer:

  1. Higher Costs – Dedicated through-trailers may be more expensive than transloading, especially if backhaul opportunities are limited.
  2. Limited Carrier Availability – Not all carriers operate across borders due to regulatory or security concerns.

Which Option is Best for Your Business?

The choice between transloading and through-trailer service depends on several factors, including cost sensitivity, shipment size, urgency, and infrastructure availability. Companies that ship directly between Mexico and Canada with high-volume shipments and strict delivery timelines may prefer through-trailer service. In contrast, businesses looking to optimize costs and flexibility may benefit from transloading.

By carefully assessing your supply chain needs and working with one of our Mexican shipping experts, you can determine the best shipping strategy to ensure efficiency, compliance, and cost-effectiveness when transporting goods between Mexico, the U.S., and Canada.

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Shipping to and from Mexico: Simplifying the Customs Process /why-bison/shipping-to-and-from-mexico-simplifying-the-customs-process Fri, 07 Mar 2025 18:57:29 +0000 /?p=2276 When businesses consider expanding their operations to Mexico, the customs process is one of the biggest perceived obstacles. Many companies fear excessive paperwork, complex regulations, and potential delays that could impact their supply chain. While it’s true that shipping to and from Mexico involves a highly structured regulatory process, it doesn’t have to be a headache.

The Complexities of Mexican Customs

Mexico has strict import and export requirements, including detailed customs declarations, tariff classifications, and compliance with government regulations. Businesses must navigate:

  • Extensive Paperwork – Importers and exporters must provide detailed commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin, among other documents.
  • Customs Duties and Tariffs – Understanding how different goods are taxed and classified is crucial to avoiding unexpected costs.
  • Regulatory Compliance – Certain products require additional permits, inspections, or certifications before entering or leaving Mexico.
  • Border Crossings and Inspections – Goods may be subject to random inspections, which can lead to delays if documentation isn’t in order.

All of these factors make the process appear daunting, but with the right approach, businesses can ensure smooth and efficient shipping across the border.

Why Having the Right Logistics Partner is Essential

Rather than navigating the intricacies of Mexican customs alone, businesses can benefit significantly from working with a logistics provider that has a physical presence and strong relationships in Mexico. Here’s how the right supply chain partner can make all the difference:

1. Expert Knowledge of Customs Regulations

A partner with experience in Mexican trade understands the specific import/export regulations, ensuring that all paperwork is complete and accurate. This helps reduce errors that could lead to shipment delays or penalties.

2. Strong Relationships with Mexican Customs Authorities

Having a logistics provider with established connections in Mexico allows for smoother customs clearance. These relationships can help expedite the process and reduce the risk of unnecessary inspections or bottlenecks.

3. A Physical Presence in Mexico

A provider with offices, warehouses, or distribution centers in Mexico can offer real-time support and local expertise. This presence ensures that any issues that arise can be addressed immediately, keeping shipments on schedule.

4. Streamlined Documentation and Compliance Management

Your supply chain partner can manage the paperwork, ensuring compliance with all customs requirements. This includes handling tariff classifications, permits, and any special regulatory needs for specific goods.

5. Efficient Border Crossing Coordination

With the right partner, businesses can leverage pre-arranged customs processes, allowing for faster clearance and reducing unnecessary delays at the border.

Conclusion: Simplify Your Mexico Shipping Process

Shipping to and from Mexico may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By partnering with a trusted supply chain expert like Bison who has a growing team of experts in Mexico with strong industry relationships, businesses can eliminate unnecessary stress, reduce delays, and ensure compliance with customs regulations.

Instead of viewing Mexican customs as a roadblock, think of it as a structured process that, with the right guidance, can be navigated efficiently. The key to success lies in choosing a partner that understands the landscape, has a presence on the ground, and can streamline operations so that your business keeps moving forward without disruption.

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EXTREME COLD AND SQUALL ACTIVITY /customer-advisory/extreme-cold-and-squall-activity Fri, 14 Feb 2025 22:48:55 +0000 /?p=2066 Extreme cold temperatures continue to impact the Canadian network along with snow squall activity in Quebec and Ontario this weekend and into next week. 

Customers may experience delays of 24-72 hours during these ongoing weather events through the weekend.

Our Intermodal Team remains committed to serving you and your customers, diligently working to communicate any delays and available service options. Should you have any concerns regarding specific Intermodal shipments, please do not hesitate to contact your Bison Account Manager or our Canadian Intermodal  Management Team (intermodal@bisontransport.com),  for assistance and to discuss current and future loads over the next five days.

Lindsey Kosa

Manager, Rail Relationships & Performance

Lisa Bjornson

Manager, Intermodal Operations

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Intermodal Update – extreme cold continues /customer-advisory/intermodal-update-extreme-cold-continues Wed, 12 Feb 2025 21:36:12 +0000 /?p=2057 The Canadian Intermodal Network is currently facing significant weather challenges, ranging from British Columbia to New Brunswick. Western Canada is experiencing extreme cold, which is adversely affecting rail operations, with no improvement anticipated in the next 3 to 5 days.

The warnings were largely concentrated across the southern half of the provinces, painting the bottom half of the map red from just outside Lethbridge, Alta. — which can look forward to extreme cold with windchills down to –40 C — straight east to Fredericton, which can expect up to 25-40cm of snowfall.

Additionally, major snowfall warnings in the Eastern region may disrupt both rail services and road deliveries. Our Intermodal Team remains committed to serving you and your customers, diligently working to communicate any delays and available service options.

Should you have any concerns regarding specific Intermodal shipments, please do not hesitate to contact your Bison Account Manager or our Canadian Intermodal  Management Team (intermodal@bisontransport.com),  for assistance and to discuss current and future loads over the next five days.

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SPRING THAW RESTRICTIONS FOR INTERMODAL /customer-advisory/spring-thaw-restrictions-for-intermodal Tue, 11 Feb 2025 20:31:48 +0000 /?p=2041 To comply with the mandated requirements and avoid a backlog of loads requiring special handling, we will implement Spring Weight Restrictions in advance of the Quebec Government notice.

For customers shipping to and from the province of Quebec, Bison will be implementing reduced weight requirements as outlined below in Tables 1 & 2.

*As a reminder –  some shipments may have Eastern Ontario destinations, (Cornwall, Ottawa, etc.), but are serviced through the Lachine Terminal and will be required to adhere to these guidelines.

For rail into NB restrictions are based on Zone limits and loads should be vetted by Intermodal prior to commitment.

The annual start date for cargo weight restriction is still only ‘Predicted’, currently estimated for March 17th, and is regulated by the Quebec Provincial government. The timing is dependent on several factors with the intention of minimizing damage to Provincial roads. Our plan is to have all loads exceeding the thaw period weight limits arrive/depart Quebec before March 17.

Should the Province mandate an earlier start date adjustments will be communicated. All loads exceeding the prescribed thaw period weight limits will be subject to special handling charges.

Table 1 – Latest shipping date for deliveries in Quebec

Traffic origin 
 Latest shipping date for Spring 2025 
Vancouver IMSMonday, March 3rd
Edmonton IMSMonday, March 3rd
Calgary IMSTuesday, March 4th
Regina IMSTuesday, March 4th
Winnipeg IMSTuesday, March 4th
Vaughan IMSN/A
Lachine IMS*Outbound* Friday, March 14th
Bensenville IMSMonday, March 3rd
Wylie TXFriday, February 28th
Laredo TXFriday, February 28th
MexicoWednesday, February 26th

Table 2:  Maximum Payloads – allowable content weight:

ChassisContainer typeDestination Lachine (Pounds)
Tridem53′ Refrigerated46,500
Tridem53′ Heater48,300
Tridem53′ Dry Van48,000
Tridem40’ Marine Dry51,000

Spring Thaw Allowable Axle Weights:

Steer AxleDrive AxleRear Axle
12,10034,10034,100
12,10034,10046,250


Weight Restrictions Policy:

Bison will not ingate any containers with a payload more than the Government of Quebec Spring thaw weight restrictions after “Last Shipment Date”.

  • Scaling will be required prior to billing/ingate for ALL Intermodal shipments with destination of PQ.
    • Axle Weights must comply with guidelines and should be provided to the IM Regional Coordinator as soon as scaling has been completed
  • If a shipment is scaled Overweight, the shipper is required to make necessary adjustments to comply with loading guidelines prior to ingate.
    • All associated redelivery / Driver wait charges are to be assessed to customer.
  • A Customer Bulletin will be communicated when the weight restrictions are lifted. This is regulated by the Quebec Provincial government Ministry of Transport.

Lindsey Kosa

Manager, Rail Relationships & Performance

Lisa Bjornson

Manager, Intermodal Operations

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INTERMODAL WEATHER UPDATE – EXTREME TEMPS IN WESTERN CANADA /customer-advisory/extreme-cold-in-western-canada Tue, 11 Feb 2025 17:18:48 +0000 /?p=1984 Extreme cold is impacting Western Canada with another week of frigid temperatures felt from BC to NW ON.

With cold temps not anticipated to break in the next 48 hrs, it is suggested to allow for an extra day of transit with reduced rail speeds due to weather restrictions.

Our Intermodal Tracing team will be monitoring departures/arrivals of all Bison shipments and will communicate to Customer Service of loads impacted by weather.

Service alerts by rail are reporting the following:

  • BC – No restrictions
  • AB – Level 2
  • SK/MB – Restrictions in the prairies to transition from Level 2 to Level 3 through the next 24hrs *Some areas may reach Level 4 restrictions with overnight lows*
  • NW ON – Level 1

All restrictions are being monitored for adjustments based on safety requirements.

What do these levels impact?

  • During cold temps, a train’s maximum speed must be reduced by 10-30% when the temperatures drop below – 25C.
  • Train Speeds are adjusted incrementally based on temperatures and conditions.
  • These speed decreases can also impact inbound placement when traffic arrives at terminals out of the scheduled slot time.
  • Cold temps may also restrict allowable footage, which is adjusted in Levels 2, 3 & 4 outbound from terminals. This can increase terminal congestion, impacting operational performance within rail yards.
  • Footage reductions would be applied at originating terminals so terminal congestion could also impact PQ & ON
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Unlock the Secret to Efficient Inventory Management: 5 Reasons Why Grocery Retailers Are Turning to LTL /why-bison/unlock-the-secret-to-efficient-inventory-management-5-reasons-why-grocery-retailers-are-turning-to-ltl Thu, 06 Feb 2025 20:47:19 +0000 /?p=1929 In the competitive world of grocery retail, efficient inventory management is paramount. One effective solution that has gained traction is Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping. This method offers several advantages that make it the best choice for ensuring inventory cycling and efficiency.

  1. Flexibility in Shipment Sizes: LTL shipping allows grocery retailers to ship smaller quantities of products without waiting to fill an entire truck. This flexibility means that your inventory can be cycled more frequently, reducing the time products spend in storage. As a result, items like noodles, sauces, cereals, and snacks arrive at stores with a long expiry window.
  2. Frequent Stock Replenishment: With LTL shipping, grocery retailers can replenish stock more frequently and consistently. This approach eliminates the need for over-ordering and reduces the risk of dealing with returns and the disposition of unsold or stale-dated products. Items such as granola, cookies, crackers, and candy can be delivered as needed allowing retails to adopt fresh-first inventory management processes.
  3. Cost-Effectiveness: While shipping smaller loads more frequently might seem costlier, LTL shipping can be more economical in the long run. By sharing truck space with other shipments, grocery retailers can reduce transportation costs. This cost-effectiveness allows retailers to invest more in quality products and less in logistics.
  4. Reduced Inventory Holding Time: With LTL shipping, grocery retailers can adopt a just-in-time inventory approach to increase inventory turnover. This strategy minimizes the time products spend in storage, reducing the risk of spoilage and waste and ultimately improving cash flow with less cash tied up in unsold inventory. This approach can benefit grocery products like chocolate, gum, dog food, and drinks can be delivered directly to stores as needed.
  5. Enhanced Supply Chain Efficiency: LTL shipping can streamline the supply chain by reducing the need for large, centralized warehouses. Instead, products can be shipped directly from manufacturers or distribution centers to individual stores. This direct-to-store model speeds up the delivery process, making it easier to respond to consumer demand.

How do you pick the right LTL provider? When selecting an LTL provider, prioritize companies with established partnerships with major grocery warehouses and wholesalers, ensuring seamless integration into their supply chain. It’s beneficial to choose providers with local operations that include drop-trailer arrangements, shunting, and trailer pools at major distribution centers, as these services enhance efficiency and flexibility. Dedicated customer service programs are crucial for maintaining shipment visibility and effective management, particularly for grocery shipments. Lastly, providers that actively work to mitigate non-compliance charges can help reduce unexpected costs in your distribution network.

If you need a practical and efficient solution to improve your inventory management, look to LTL. By providing flexibility, cost savings, and enhanced supply chain efficiency, LTL shipping ensures that products reach consumers in the best possible condition. Embracing LTL shipping can help you meet the high product standards that your customers expect. Bison’s team of LTL experts can help you navigate these waters, so get in touch with us to learn more.

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Why Shippers Are Switching to a Dedicated Fleet Model /why-bison/why-shippers-are-switching-to-a-dedicated-fleet-model Thu, 30 Jan 2025 17:15:46 +0000 /?p=1915 In the dynamic world of logistics and supply chain management, shippers are increasingly ditching traditional supply-chain solutions in favor of dedicated fleet models. This shift is driven by several compelling reasons that highlight the clear advantages of dedicated fleets over conventional methods.

  1. Reliable and Consistent Capacity: Dedicated fleets offer committed equipment and drivers, ensuring that you have the necessary resources available whenever needed. This reliability is crucial for businesses that move large volumes of freight multiple times per day.
  2. Cost Efficiency and Capital Savings: Investing in a dedicated fleet means you don’t have to pour additional capital into purchasing and maintaining your own equipment. This model also slashes the financial burden associated with vehicle maintenance, insurance, and other operational costs.
  3. Flexibility to Scale with Business Needs: Dedicated fleet services provide the flexibility to scale operations according to your business needs, adapting to changing demands and ensuring timely and precise delivery.
  4. Reduced Liability and Risk: By outsourcing fleet management to dedicated providers, you can significantly mitigate liability and risk, allowing you to focus on your core business operations.
  5. Enhanced Collaboration and Efficiency: A dedicated fleet model fosters a collaborative relationship between you and your carriers, enabling the identification of efficiencies and the implementation of best practices that drive business growth.
  6. Specialized Equipment and Techniques: Dedicated fleet services can cater to your specific industry needs, providing customized solutions that enhance the reliability and efficiency of your supply chain.

How to Pick the Right Dedicated Fleet?

When selecting a dedicated fleet, prioritize ongoing transparent communication and measurement. Choose a partner who offers regular updates—weekly, monthly, and bi-annual—and conducts post-implementation assessments. These business reviews are vital for maintaining high standards. By partnering with providers who emphasize timely invoicing and the maintenance of key performance indicators (KPIs), you can ensure consistent value delivery.

By leveraging the expertise and resources of dedicated fleet providers, you can achieve greater efficiency, reduce operational risks, and focus on growing your business. As the logistics landscape continues to evolve, dedicated fleet services are poised to play an increasingly important role in the success of modern supply chains.

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Unlocking the Mysteries of In-Bond Shipping Across North America /why-bison/unlocking-the-mysteries-of-in-bond-shipping-across-north-america Wed, 22 Jan 2025 22:09:58 +0000 /?p=1913 Imagine a world where goods glide effortlessly across borders, weaving through intricate customs processes seamlessly. This dance of logistics is made possible by in-bond shipping—a pivotal component in cross-border trade, especially between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Today, we’re diving into how to expertly orchestrate in-bond shipping to streamline your supply chain and keep commerce flowing.

The Essence of In-Bond Shipping

At its core, in-bond shipping allows goods to be transported through different countries without paying import duties at each border crossing. Instead, customs duties are deferred until the final destination. This system is particularly beneficial when shipping goods to and from Mexico, as it simplifies what can often be a convoluted customs process and helps businesses save on costs and time.

Why Choose In-Bond Shipping?

For businesses operating within North America, in-bond shipping offers a strategic advantage. It streamlines the logistics process, reduces costs associated with customs duties at intermediate borders, and enhances overall supply chain efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or new to the market, integrating in-bond shipping into your logistics strategy can yield significant benefits.

Navigating the In-Bond Shipping Process

In-bond shipping can seem like a labyrinth of forms, regulations, and checkpoints. However, starting with the right supply chain partner makes navigating this maze significantly more manageable by leveraging their robust expertise and network to ensure that your goods travel seamlessly from origin to destination, minimizing delays and optimizing cost efficiency. Here’s how a partner can help:

  1. Pre-Planning Perfection: Experienced logistics partners will begin by meticulously planning each shipment. This includes filing the necessary paperwork, such as the Transportation and Exportation (T&E) bond, and coordinating with customs authorities to pre-clear goods.
  2. Seamless Crossings: As your shipment moves across borders, they’ll ensure that all in-bond regulations are followed, maintaining compliance and avoiding potential roadblocks. The right partner will comprehensively understand customs regulations in Mexico, the U.S., and Canada.
  3. Final Clearance and Delivery: Once the shipment reaches its final destination, your supply chain partner handles the final customs clearance, ensuring that duties and taxes are settled as required. This process allows you to focus on your core operations without being bogged down by complex customs requirements.

Choosing the right in-bond partner

When choosing an in-bond supply chain partner, it’s crucial to consider several key factors to ensure seamless cross-border operations. First, evaluate the partner’s experience and expertise in handling in-bond shipments, as this will directly impact their ability to navigate complex customs regulations and documentation requirements. Having employees and a physical presence in Mexico is essential, as it allows for a better understanding and management of local logistics and regulatory nuances. Additionally, assess their technological capabilities, such as real-time tracking and data integration, which are essential for maintaining transparency and efficiency throughout the supply chain. It’s also important to verify their compliance with international trade laws and ability to adapt to changing regulations. Furthermore, a trustworthy network of partners in Mexico can significantly enhance operational efficiency and reliability. Finally, consider their reputation and reliability, as these attributes indicate their commitment to delivering consistent and timely service, which is vital for minimizing disruptions and optimizing your logistics strategy.

We can help

Navigating the intricate web of international shipping doesn’t have to be daunting. With Bison’s in-bond shipping expertise, you can transform your logistics operations into a well-oiled machine, expanding your reach within North America without the usual headaches.

Curious about how in-bond shipping can revolutionize your supply chain? Talk to an expert at Bison today. Our team is ready to guide you through this process and show you how seamless cross-border trade can be.

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Resilient Supply Chains: Meeting the Challenges of a Changing North America /news/resilient-supply-chains-meeting-the-challenges-of-a-changing-north-america Wed, 15 Jan 2025 20:17:52 +0000 /?p=1793 The recent disruptions in global trade and domestic logistics have underscored a pressing reality: supply chains must evolve to meet the complexities of a shifting economic landscape. This transformation presents challenges and opportunities for businesses operating across North America. As trade grows between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the need for resilient, efficient, and collaborative supply chain solutions has never been greater.

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.

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Turning Waste into Hope: The John Howard Society of Brandon’s Innovative Food Rescue Mission /news/turning-waste-into-hope-the-john-howard-society-of-brandons-innovative-food-rescue-mission Mon, 13 Jan 2025 14:23:55 +0000 /?p=1821

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.

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The Journey and Commitment to Sustainability at Bison Transport /why-bison/the-journey-and-commitment-to-sustainability-at-bison-transport Wed, 08 Jan 2025 20:41:00 +0000 /?p=1784 At Bison Transport, sustainability is more than just a goal—it’s a core value that drives every decision and action across our organization. Our dedication to reducing our environmental impact and enhancing operational efficiency is a long-term commitment that shapes our future. With a clear objective to reduce our carbon emissions per mile by 50% by 2035, we are actively working towards a greener, more sustainable future in the transportation and logistics industry.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

In 2016, Bison Transport updated its Mission Statement and Core Values to reflect our commitment to sustainability. These guiding principles help us navigate everything from decision-making and problem-solving to delivering loads, serving customers, and maintaining our fleet. One of the core values we emphasize is sustainability, where we focus on promoting creativity and innovation to drive a sustainable business model.

Our culture plays a key role in this pursuit, as we focus on long-term success by fostering a safe, reliable, and innovative supply chain while remaining environmentally responsible. This commitment extends to investing in the growth of our people, organization, and communities, ensuring we are responsible stewards of the environment.

Key Sustainable Initiatives

We are proud of the many sustainable initiatives that Bison has implemented to meet our environmental goals. Here are some highlights:

Environmental Targets and Policies

Bison has set clear environmental targets and policies aimed at lowering fuel consumption, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and enhancing sustainability. We also invest in cutting-edge technology to improve operational efficiency across our fleet.

Waste Management

Our Waste Management Policy is designed to reduce, reuse, and recycle materials, with a strong focus on keeping waste out of landfills and using resources wisely. By implementing these practices, we actively reduce our environmental footprint.

Air Quality and Emissions

Bison aligns with U.S. and Canadian standards for fuel efficiency and emissions, ensuring our medium and heavy-duty vehicles meet strict requirements to reduce CO2 emissions. This initiative not only helps combat climate change but also reduces fuel costs for our business.

Water Conservation

We recognize the importance of water conservation and actively work to minimize energy usage and prevent water pollution through proper waste disposal practices.

Safety and Training

Safety is a top priority at Bison. Our fleet is recognized as North America’s safest, and we continually invest in driver training, safety programs, and operational practices to ensure the safety of our team and the public.

Fuel Efficiency Initiatives

Through Driver coaching, fuel-saving technologies, and optimizing transportation networks, we have achieved significant fuel efficiency gains, reducing both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Eco-Certification and Recognition

Bison is honoured to have received numerous eco-certifications and recognitions, including being named a SmartWay High Performer year after year. These accolades highlight our commitment to sustainability and the rigorous assessments we undergo to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

Innovative Technologies

We are committed to exploring innovative technologies to reduce emissions further. Bison has been testing battery electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and solar panel charging systems to create more efficient and sustainable transportation solutions.

Recycling Programs

Bison’s comprehensive recycling programs help divert waste from landfills. We recycle tires, oil, filters, scrap metal, batteries, solvents, and e-waste, significantly minimizing our environmental impact.

Facility and Equipment Efficiencies

Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond transportation. At our facilities, we’ve implemented energy-efficient measures such as LED lighting, automated systems, and water-efficient fixtures to conserve resources and reduce energy usage.

Recognition for Excellence

Our efforts have not gone unnoticed. Bison has received SmartWay’s Excellence and High Performer Awards consistently since 2006, with the company achieving High Performer status every year since 2017. These awards recognize our environmental performance and our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving fuel efficiency.

Here’s a look at some of the key awards we’ve received:

  • 2024 – High Performer – Truck Carrier Fleets, Carbon Metric
  • 2023 – High Performer – Truck Carrier Fleets, Carbon Metric
  • 2021 – Excellence Award – TL/Dry Van, Medium
  • 2021 – High Performer – Truck Carrier Fleets, Carbon Metric
  • 2020 – Excellence Award – Small, TL/Dry Van
  • 2019 – High Performer – Truck Carrier Fleets, Carbon Metric
  • 2018 – High Performer – Truck Carrier Fleets, All Metrics

These accolades affirm the dedication and hard work of our team and the results we’ve achieved in making sustainability a priority.

Key Milestones in Our Sustainability Journey

Bison’s commitment to sustainability has been long-standing, with several milestones marking our journey toward greener transportation:

  • 2004 – Bison joins SmartWay, reinforcing our dedication to sustainability
  • 2012 – Bison introduces 15 Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) tractors in Alberta
  • 2021 – Bison tests Full Battery Electric Vehicles and Truck Platooning Systems
  • 2024 – Bison and CPKC sign a multimodal service agreement to enhance sustainable logistics

Looking Ahead: The Road to Net-Zero Emissions

As part of Canada’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, Bison Transport is dedicated to managing our environmental impacts. Although we face challenges along the way, we work closely with our experts, suppliers, and customers to develop solutions that will help us meet our sustainability goals. Our goal is to reduce our carbon emissions per mile by 50% by 2035, a target we’re excited to pursue with the support of our stakeholders and sustainability partners.

For a more detailed breakdown of our initiatives and progress, please refer to our Sustainability Report 2023.

Join Us on Our Sustainability Journey

At Bison Transport, we are driven by a passion for sustainability. Our journey is ongoing, and we’re committed to evolving our operations to meet the environmental challenges of the future. Together with our partners, employees, and customers, we will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable transportation.

Learn more about our sustainability efforts in our Sustainability Report 2023 and discover how we’re working to make a meaningful impact on the planet and future generations.

Bison’s sustainability goals apply to our operations in Canada, based on metrics from 2019.

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