We’ve been fielding a lot of calls this week from our customers who have a shared concern about how border closings between the US and Canada will impact their supply chain.
We’re pleased to confirm that while there will be a restriction for non-essential travel between the two countries (i.e. shopping and tourism), that the border will remain open for commercial trade. This includes both northbound and southbound traffic between the USA and Canada; and also provisions for truck drivers who are not USA or Canadian citizens or permanent residents, who possess valid work permits.
The closures for non-essential travel are planned to begin early Saturday morning in an effort to fight the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. In a statement Wednesday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said, “Supply chains, including trucking, will not be affected by this new measure.”
“ENERGY’s driver force is made up 100% by citizens of either Canada or the USA,” said Michael Cinquino, President of ENERGY Transportation Group. “Our trucks have been moving very fluidly across the border as we’ve been picking up and delivering for our international customers. We’ve instructed our drivers of the ways to reduce health risks while on the road; including good personal hygiene and social distancing. They have really stepped up to the plate to keep goods moving, and we’re extremely proud of them and the work they are doing.”
ENERGY operates a fleet primarily made up of refrigerated trailers and dry vans that service all of North America. In addition to their own fleet, they provide additional capacity to their customer base through their logistics division. “We’ve seen a significant surge this week in load tenders from our customers, especially in the food, beverage, and consumer packaging space,” Jason Ickert, Sr. Director of Business Development, mentioned on a video conference call to ENERGY team members this week. “Our ability to flex our capacity by employing our contracted carrier partners has allowed us to accept additional surge demand this week, and keep the capacity available to manage the potential of a bullwhip effect that may occur as many of our manufacturing and retail customers come back online.”
To stay aware of how the current crisis may impact your supply chain, visit ENERGY’s website at www.shipenergy.com or contact an ENERGY team member by e-mail at [email protected].
