CN beefs up domestic container fleet

Canadian National announced Monday that it has acquired more than 1,000 new domestic containers. Around 800 are heated for moving temperature-sensitive goods. The remainder is standard dry containers.

Jean-Jacques Ruest, executive vice-president and chief marketing officer of CN, said that approximately 540 containers will be used to renew CN’s domestic fleet, while another 520 will increase CN’s overall domestic container fleet to almost 6,000 units.

“CN has established a growing business transporting temperature-sensitive goods in long-haul markets across Canada,” said Ruest. “Our continued investment in infrastructure will benefit the reliability of the supply chains of our grocery, consumer goods, and manufacturing customers.”

Among customers applauding the move was Craig McLaughlin, vice-president, supply chain, for Kraft Canada, who said: “At Kraft Canada, it is important that we work with suppliers capable of investing in their infrastructure in support of enhancing service and enabling our growth. CN’s continuing effort to listen to us as a valued customer and taking action is a key component of the foundation for our strong partnership.”

Tim Epplett, supply chain manager-traffic for Heinz Canada, said: “Heinz welcomes CN’s investment in new heated equipment. This will certainly make load planning easier.”