Bison Transport North America's Trusted Supply Chain Solution Thu, 12 Jun 2025 20:04:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 /wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2023/11/cropped-Favicon-32x32.png Bison Transport 32 32 Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever in the Transportation Industry /why-bison/why-cybersecurity-matters-more-than-ever-in-the-transportation-industry Thu, 12 Jun 2025 20:04:06 +0000 /?p=3922 In an industry built on precision, timing, and trust, cybersecurity may not be the first consideration when selecting a transportation provider. But in 2025, it should be.

Every shipment today is a blend of physical and digital movement. Alongside trucks and trailers, sensitive data flows constantly: pickup details, cargo specifics, site access codes, payment information, and more. That makes the supply chain, not just the freight, a prime target for cybercriminals.

As a shipper, your risk doesn’t end when the truck leaves the dock. If your carrier’s systems are compromised, your freight, your data, and your operations can all be disrupted.

What Happens When Cybersecurity Fails?

The consequences of a cyber breach in transportation are real and growing. Consider these possibilities:

  • A hacker impersonates a dispatcher and reroutes a high-value load, which a fraudulent driver then picks up. The shipment disappears, and you may be forced to negotiate with criminals for its return.
  • A ransomware attack disables a carrier’s dispatch system. Your shipments are delayed, with no clear timeline for recovery.
  • Sensitive customer information is leaked, triggering legal exposure and a loss of trust that took years to build.

These are not hypothetical scenarios. They’re happening regularly across North America’s supply chain.

Debunking Common Cybersecurity Myths in Transportation

Several persistent assumptions pose dangers in our industry. Here are four of the most common, and why they’re wrong:

1. “Cybersecurity is just an IT problem.”

Cybersecurity is a business risk. A successful attack can paralyze operations, compromise financial systems, expose customer data, and ruin reputations. The impact is cross-functional, from the C-suite to the dock.

2. “Hackers don’t target trucking companies.”

Transportation is now one of the most targeted industries for cyberattacks, second only to telecommunications, according to Trellix’s annual report. The interconnectedness of logistics systems makes our sector a high-impact target.

3. “Firewalls and antivirus are enough.”

These are the bare minimum. Today’s attacks exploit human behavior and system complexity, phishing emails, fake login pages, misconfigured cloud services, and vulnerable third-party integrations. The threat surface is much broader than just the network perimeter.

4. “Our TMS or load board provider handles that.”

Even if vendors manage parts of your IT environment, you’re still responsible for how your systems interact with theirs. You need to verify that their controls are robust and that your own access and user practices don’t open doors for attackers.

AI: A Game-Changer for Both Sides

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming cybersecurity. On the defensive side, AI tools help detect and respond to threats faster than human teams ever could, flagging anomalies and blocking attacks in real time.

However, the attackers are also using AI. They’re crafting more convincing phishing messages, automating attacks at scale, and even using deepfake audio or video to impersonate people inside your organization.

AI is fueling an arms race in cybersecurity, and both defenders and attackers are moving faster than ever.

Cybersecurity Is a Shared Responsibility

You play a key role in your cybersecurity resilience:

  • Ask your carriers about their cybersecurity practices and expect specific, verifiable answers.
  • Be cautious with communications involving routing or payment changes, especially when urgency or pressure is involved.
  • Secure your data exchanges—avoid public sharing platforms for sensitive information unless you’re sure they’re correctly configured.

Choosing a carrier is about more than price and timelines. It’s about trust and dependability, and cybersecurity is now a core part of that equation.

Bison’s Approach to Cybersecurity

At Bison, we view cybersecurity as a strategic priority. We’ve invested in people, processes, and technology to protect our systems and, by extension, our customers.

We’ve implemented 24/7 threat monitoring, layered defences, and rigorous employee training. Our partnerships with leading cybersecurity providers give us visibility and response capabilities that many in the industry still lack.

Importantly, we embed cybersecurity into our business, not just our IT department. From vendor selection to load planning, our goal is to achieve operational resilience and protect our customers.

What This Means for You

When you choose a carrier, you’re not just trusting them with your freight; you’re trusting them with your supply chain data, timelines, and customer commitments.

Working with a cybersecurity-conscious carrier like Bison means fewer disruptions, faster recovery in the event of an issue, and the peace of mind that your business is protected from growing digital threats.

Want to know more?
Speak with our experts to learn how Bison’s cybersecurity practices support safer, smarter shipping. In a digital world, trust is built on more than delivery times; it’s built on security.

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Shipping Reefers by Rail: Benefits and Downfalls /why-bison/shipping-reefers-by-rail-benefits-and-downfalls Tue, 10 Jun 2025 18:52:22 +0000 /?p=3898 As cold chain logistics evolves and sustainability pressures rise, more shippers are turning to rail transport for moving refrigerated goods. While rail can offer notable advantages, it’s not always the right fit for every shipment.

In this post, we explore the key benefits and challenges of shipping reefers on rail—and how to make the most of this mode when it’s the right match.

Benefits of Shipping Reefers by Rail

1. Lower Transportation Costs Over Long Distances
Rail is often more economical than trucking for long hauls, particularly when moving full container loads. For large-volume reefer shipments, this can mean significant savings on fuel and tolls.

2. Reduced Emissions and Carbon Footprint
Rail produces far fewer emissions per ton-mile compared to trucks. Companies seeking to meet environmental targets or strengthen ESG reporting benefit from choosing this lower-carbon transport option.

3. Increased Freight Volume
Trains can move more goods per trip than trucks, making rail an ideal solution for shippers distributing large quantities of refrigerated goods nationally or regionally.

4. Diversifies Transportation Strategy
Rail provides an alternative to highway-based transport, helping to diversify logistics strategies and reduce reliance on a single mode of transit.

Downfalls of Shipping Reefers by Rail

1. Longer Transit Times
Rail transit can be slower than trucking, especially for short- to medium-distance routes. Delays at rail yards and transfer terminals are not uncommon.

2. Network Limitations
Not all locations are rail-served. This typically requires first-mile/last-mile trucking, adding logistical complexity and cost.

3. Risk of Power Interruptions
Reefers must remain powered throughout transit to maintain temperature integrity. When shipping by rail, cycle-only service can be offered to minimize avoidable risks. While intermodal transport is generally very reliable, it does carry some added risk—mechanical issues can be more difficult to address promptly due to limited train accessibility. However, such incidents are rare.

Final Thoughts

Rail can be a powerful asset in your cold chain strategy when used strategically. It’s most effective for long-haul, high-volume, and sustainability-driven operations—especially when supported by the right equipment and infrastructure.

And if you’re looking for ways to get even more from your reefer shipments, consider exploring Slimline containers. They offer slightly increased pallet capacity (two extra pallet positions) within a standard footprint—helping you boost efficiency without overhauling your entire operation.

What’s the winning formula?
Bison will find the best solution for your sensitive refrigerated load, matching the mode to your supply chain and ensuring product integrity from origin to destination.

Talk to one of our refrigerated experts today to learn more.

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Is your carrier CARB compliant? /why-bison/is-your-carrier-carb-compliant Thu, 05 Jun 2025 13:23:19 +0000 /?p=3885 Compliance with California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards is indispensable for carriers operating refrigerated (“reefer”) transport in today’s market. CARB regulations have significant implications for shippers, especially those whose freight moves through or originates in California. Understanding these requirements—and ensuring your carrier partner is compliant—can prevent costly delays, fines, and reputational risk.


Understanding CARB Compliance

What Is CARB?
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) sets stringent emissions standards to protect air quality. In the context of refrigerated transport, CARB’s Transport Refrigeration Unit (TRU) regulations govern diesel-powered reefer units on trucks, trailers, and railcars operating within California.

  • Who: CARB’s TRU regulations apply to any refrigerated equipment that enters or operates in California, regardless of where the load originates.
  • What: Effective in 2011, CARB phased in requirements that older, higher-emission units must be retrofitted or replaced with verified emission control devices. Beginning in 2025, CARB is accelerating mandates for low-emission and zero-emission TRUs.
  • Consequences: Carriers using non-compliant reefers risk citation fines (up to $ 1,000 per day per unit), shipment holds at checkpoints, and potential blacklisting by shippers or brokers.

Why Reefer Compliance Matters for Shippers
Even if your origin or destination is outside California, carriers often route through CARB-jurisdiction areas to access major ports (e.g., Los Angeles, Oakland) or distribution centers. A single non-compliant reefer can be detained at a weigh station, causing downstream disruptions, especially critical for time- and temperature-sensitive goods (produce, pharmaceuticals, specialty foods).


How could this impact you?

Unplanned Delays
A detained reefer means stalled inventory, missed delivery windows, and potential product spoilage. For perishables, even a one-hour temperature excursion can compromise product quality.

Financial and Reputational Risk

  • Fines & Fees: CARB violations accrue daily penalties. These can rapidly escalate, resulting in financial consequences that often extend beyond the carrier to the shipper, depending on the contractual terms.
  • Customer Confidence: Retailers and end consumers expect seamless, on-time delivery. Non-compliance incidents can lead to chargebacks, claims, or negative reviews, which can damage brand credibility.

Supply Chain Visibility & Risk Management
Shippers must incorporate CARB compliance into their carrier vetting and risk-assessment processes. A comprehensive compliance strategy includes:

  1. Carrier Audits: Reviewing carriers’ TRU Executive Orders (EOs) and maintenance records.
  2. Route Planning: Ensuring the chosen lanes and cross-border corridors align with CARB-compliant equipment limitations.
  3. Contingency Protocols: Establishing backup carriers or alternative routing plans in the event of sudden regulatory changes or equipment failures.

Ask your Carriers

When evaluating refrigerated carriers, shipper decision makers should verify CARB compliance through direct, documented evidence. Essential questions include:

  1. Fleet Compliance Status:
    • Are all TRUs on the fleet compliant with the latest CARB Executive Orders?
    • Can you provide updated EO documentation for each reefer unit?
  2. Equipment Age & Upgrades:
    • What is the model year range of your reefer units? (CARB considers any unit older than 2011 to be “legacy.”)
    • Have legacy units been retrofitted with CARB-verified emission control devices?
  3. Regulatory Monitoring & Updates:
    • What process do you have in place to track upcoming CARB rule changes?
    • How often do you audit your fleet for compliance?
  4. Route Planning & Contingency Strategies:
    • How do you ensure that planned routes remain within CARB-compliant corridors?
    • What contingency measures do you implement if a reefer unit fails inspection en route?
  5. Zero-Emission Transition Plans:
    • Are you investing in electric TRUs (eTRUs) or other zero-emission refrigeration technologies?
    • What timelines do you have for transitioning to fully compliant, zero-emission reefers?

Documented answers to these questions give shippers confidence that their carriers can navigate CARB regulations without disrupting service levels.


We can help

Strict CARB compliance is now a prerequisite for any carrier moving refrigerated freight through California. For shippers, verifying carrier compliance—and integrating that verification into contractual and operational processes—serves as a risk mitigation strategy, safeguarding product integrity and ensuring customer satisfaction.

At Bison, CARB compliance in reefer logistics is a table-stakes requirement. Our entire reefer fleet exceeds current CARB standards, with documented orders for each Transport Refrigeration Unit. We continuously monitor regulatory updates and invest in low-emission technologies to ensure our carriers maintain an uninterrupted flow of temperature-sensitive goods into and through California.

If you need a carrier partner committed to CARB-compliant refrigerated transport—backed by thorough documentation, advanced technology, and proactive route planning—Bison stands ready to support your supply chain. Contact us to discover how we provide reliable, compliant reefer shipping solutions for shippers across North America.

For more information about CARB, visit: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/transport-refrigeration-unit

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Standing Together: Bison on the Boulevard Brings Art, Awareness, and Hope to Roblin Boulevard /news/standing-together-bison-on-the-boulevard-brings-art-awareness-and-hope-to-roblin-boulevard Wed, 28 May 2025 14:12:18 +0000 /?p=3659

On Roblin Boulevard in Winnipeg, a powerful new art installation is taking shape—one that blends beauty, meaning, and community spirit. Bison on the Boulevard, launched by the Toba Centre for Children & Youth, serves as a striking symbol of solidarity, healing, and resilience.

Much more than a public art exhibit, Bison on the Boulevard carries a more profound message. Drawing inspiration from the protective and communal nature of bison, who instinctively shield and support their young, this installation aligns perfectly with Toba Centre’s mission: to provide coordinated and compassionate care for children and youth impacted by abuse.

Each bison in the herd is a unique creation thoughtfully painted by a Manitoba artist. Together, they line the boulevard like sentinels of hope, offering a visual reminder that those walking through Toba Centre’s doors are not alone. Whether a child finds the courage to share their story, a caregiver seeks support, or a community member chooses to get involved, the bison represent a collective force standing strong against abuse.

The initiative is designed to do more than decorate a street—it aims to ignite conversation. By raising awareness of child abuse and the critical role Toba Centre plays in responding to it, Bison on the Boulevard calls on all of us to be part of the solution. It’s an invitation to reclaim something lost—to give back safety, dignity, and belief in a better tomorrow.

At its heart, this installation underscores a simple but powerful truth: healing from trauma is not something anyone should face alone. Just as each painted bison brings something distinct to the herd, every community member has a role to play in building a safer, more supportive Manitoba.

Bison Transport is humbled to support Bison on the Boulevard, standing alongside the artists, advocates, and families who make up this remarkable movement. As the herd takes its place on Roblin Boulevard, we hope all who pass by are reminded of the strength that comes from standing together—and the difference we can make when we do.

* Special thanks to the talented artist, Brian Hahlweg, who painted the Bison-sponsored bison, and to all the other artists involved in this great initiative.

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How Telematics Protect Your Strawberries /why-bison/how-telematics-protect-your-strawberries Fri, 09 May 2025 21:53:32 +0000 /?p=3450 When you move temperature‑sensitive freight—whether it’s fresh produce, dairy, pharmaceuticals or protein—every fraction of a degree matters. A lapse of just one or two degrees can subject your shipment to spoilage, regulatory scrutiny, insurance disputes and irreparable brand damage. Yet far too many refrigerated carriers still rely on infrequent manual checks and spot inspections, leaving shippers blind to developing problems until it’s too late.

No more blind spots

Telematics brings real‑time visibility to refrigerated trailers by combining precision sensors, GPS and cellular communications. Inside the trailer, temperature probes accurate to ±0.5 °C continuously record the compartment temperature and compare it to your set‑point. The moment a drift approaches your alarm threshold—often as narrow as ±1–2 °C—a pre‑alarm warning is triggered, and if the excursion persists beyond a defined window (for example, more than five minutes outside range), a full alert goes out.

But temperature is only one piece of the puzzle. Telematics also tracks compressor run time and cycle frequency, key indicators of mechanical wear or refrigerant loss. It monitors fuel level or battery voltage to guard against power‑related downtime—one of the top causes of reefers going offline. GPS location and geofencing tie all of these data points to precise times and places, so you know not just that an excursion happened, but exactly where it began.

The cost of operating without this level of insight can be staggering. A single spoiled pallet can represent $500 to $2,000 in lost commodity value. Food‑safety authorities can impose fines for much more, and without continuous digital logs, carriers and insurers often dispute claims, delaying your reimbursement and tying up your cash flow.

Real‑time alerts and exception management change the game. As soon as a sensor records a deviation—whether it’s a 0.5 °C drift sustained for two minutes, a compressor cycling abnormally, or a trailer stopped outside an approved zone—the operations team receives an SMS, email or API notification so they can immediately dispatch a technician or reroute the load to the nearest service hub, all before spoilage occurs.

Data is great, but how does that make my strawberries fresh?

Gathering data is only the first step. Advanced analytics turn raw telematics into continuous improvement. By analyzing temperature excursion patterns across lanes and terminals, you can identify “hot spots” in your network that require process changes or infrastructure upgrades. Compressor run‑time trends help carriers schedule maintenance before failures occur, reducing unplanned downtime. Carrier scorecards—measuring on‑time, in‑range delivery percentages—enable shippers to benchmark performance and hold carriers accountable. Predictive maintenance models driven by vibration signatures and operating cycles can further drive down cost per shipment and boost resilience.

Ask yourself: does your current carrier give you this level of detail? Can they pinpoint the exact moment and location a temperature excursion began? Demonstrate that your set‑point was maintained within ±1 °C throughout transit? If the answer is no, you have an unacceptable blind spot in your cold chain.

Reefer telematics isn’t a luxury—it’s the technical backbone of a dependable temperature‑controlled supply chain. Demand the data, educate your team on its value, and partner with experts who live and breathe refrigerated transport technology. Your brand reputation—and your bottom line—depend on it.

Make smart, informed shipping decisions

At Bison, we don’t just haul your freight. We protect it.If you’re moving goods that rely on precise temperature control, let’s talk about how our telematics-enabled reefer fleet can reduce your risk and increase your confidence.

Talk to one of our refrigerated experts today to learn more.

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Quebec Spring Thaw Weight Restrictions 2025 /customer-advisory/quebec-spring-thaw-weight-restrictions-2025 Thu, 01 May 2025 15:43:26 +0000 /?p=3168 Attention Customers shipping to and from Quebec: 

Transport Quebec has announced the dates for removing the Spring Thaw weight restrictions. Please be advised that payload weights for Inbound loads from Western Canada and Mexico can now adhere to Max weights for shipments scheduled to arrive after the specified lifting dates.

The official dates for the removal of weight restrictions are as follows:

  • Zone 1: Friday, May 2, 2025, at 23:59 
  • Zone 2: Friday, May 16, 2025, at 23:59 
  • Zone 3: Friday, May 23, 2025, at 23:59

Transport Quebec may change these dates at its discretion depending on weather conditions.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your Customer Service Team.

Thanks

Lindsey Kosa

Manager, Rail Relationships & Performance

Lisa Bjornson

Manager, Intermodal Operations

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How Smarter LTL Zone Skip Solutions Can Benefit Shippers /why-bison/how-smarter-ltl-zone-skip-solutions-can-benefit-shippers Tue, 15 Apr 2025 12:58:19 +0000 /?p=2721 As e-commerce demand grows and delivery expectations tighten, shippers are looking for smarter, faster, and more cost-effective ways to move packages. Enter zone skip solutions, a powerful logistics strategy that can cut costs, speed up delivery times, and streamline operations.

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.

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How Companies Can Optimize Their Supply Chains with LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) Shipping /why-bison/how-companies-can-optimize-their-supply-chains-with-ltl-less-than-truckload-shipping Mon, 14 Apr 2025 20:14:23 +0000 /?p=2706 In today’s competitive landscape, companies are under constant pressure to streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve delivery times. One often-overlooked but highly effective strategy is implementing LTL (less-than-truckload) shipping as part of a holistic supply chain optimization solution.

In this article, we’ll explore what LTL shipping is, how it works, and why incorporating it into your logistics strategy can significantly enhance your supply chain efficiency.

What Is LTL Shipping?

LTL shipping is a freight transportation option where multiple shippers share space on the same truck. Each shipper pays only for the portion of the truck that their freight occupies, making LTL ideal for smaller shipments that don’t require a full truckload.

Unlike FTL (full-truckload), which dedicates an entire trailer to a single shipment, LTL allows for greater flexibility, cost-sharing, and frequency in delivery—all of which are essential for modern businesses with dynamic inventory needs.

The Role of LTL in Supply Chain Optimization

Incorporating LTL freight into your broader supply chain strategy can result in several key benefits:

1. Cost Efficiency

LTL enables businesses to avoid paying for unused trailer space, leading to significant cost savings, especially for small-to-medium-sized shipments. This cost efficiency becomes even more impactful when shipping frequency is high or routes are spread across various geographic areas.

2. Improved Flexibility and Responsiveness

Today’s markets demand speed and adaptability. LTL offers more frequent pickup and delivery options, enabling companies to respond quickly to changes in demand without overcommitting to large inventory purchases or storage costs.

3. Enhanced Inventory Management

Using LTL can lead to more precise and efficient inventory management. With smaller, more frequent shipments, companies can operate on a just-in-time model, reducing warehousing needs and minimizing excess inventory.

4. Sustainability and Reduced Carbon Footprint

LTL contributes to more sustainable logistics by consolidating shipments and maximizing trailer capacity. This means fewer trucks on the road, lower fuel usage, and a reduced carbon footprint—all key factors for companies with green initiatives.

How to Effectively Integrate LTL into Your Supply Chain

Implementing LTL successfully requires a strategic approach. Here’s how to get started:

1. Partner with a Reputable Carrier

Choose a transportation partner who specializes in LTL freight with the lowest claims ratio possible. Make sure they offer advanced tracking, reliable transit times, and integrated technology platforms.

2. Use Freight Technology

Transportation management systems (TMS) can help optimize LTL routes, consolidate shipments, and provide real-time visibility—critical components of modern supply chain management.

3. Leverage Data for Decision Making

Use shipping data to identify trends, reduce costs, and streamline operations. With the right analytics, companies can proactively manage shipping performance and carrier selection.

Final Thoughts

As companies continue to seek smarter, more agile supply chain solutions, LTL shipping is proving to be a powerful tool. When implemented strategically, LTL not only reduces costs but also increases flexibility, improves service levels, and aligns with sustainability goals.

By making LTL a core part of your holistic supply chain strategy, you position your business to scale more efficiently and stay competitive in an ever-evolving marketplace.


Looking to enhance your logistics strategy with LTL shipping? Contact Bison today to explore customized freight solutions that align with your business goals.

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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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