List of active alerts in the home page scroller.
N = News Alert.
C = COVID-19 Alert.
T = Trade War Alert.
R = Route.
Toronto, April 1, 2020
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) have issued Customs Notice 20-12 "COVID-19: Tariff Classification and Other Information to Import Medical Supplies", to provide useful information relating to the commercial import of medical supplies, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO).
This notice provides a detailed list of COVID-19 medical supplies along with available duty and tax relief, in certain circumstances, and how to assess the value for duty of donated supplies:
In addition, the CBSA have requested that all customs release requests for these COVID-19 medical supplies include a notation of "URGENT – COVID-19" in the description of goods. For Canadian customs clients of Universal Logistics, we have updated all applicable lines in our client databases to include this notation on release requests to the CBSA.
For more information please visit our web site for Coronavirus (COVID-19) Alerts along with COVID-19 trade related FAQs.
Brian Rowe
Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs
Toronto, March 31, 2020
As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues to evolve, Universal Logistics is doing everything we can to support our clients and to keep you informed of the ever changing business environment and how it is impacting our industry.
The following information has been gathered by mode of transport from news sources as of Tuesday, March 31, 2020:
COVID-19 – Universal Logistics fully operational
Further to the recent Canadian and U.S. government announcements regarding non-essential business closures, supply chain support services (transportation/distribution/logistics) have been declared essential services/businesses in the Canadian Provinces and U.S. States where we operate our own offices (Ontario, Quebec, New York and Ohio). As such, Universal Logistics Canada and Universal Logistics USA will continue to be in full operation.
BORDER UPDATES:
Canada-U.S. Border Closed to Non-Essential Travel; Trade Will Keep Moving
All persons seeking entry into Canada for the purpose of commerce, trade, economic services and supply chains are being processed. This travel is essential and is not to be restricted.
Non-essential travel includes, but is not limited to: tourism; recreation; shopping for non-essential goods; and/or sightseeing.
U.S.-Mexico Border Closed; Trade Will Keep Moving
Following similar action along the Canadian border, the White House has closed the United States’ border with Mexico to non-essential traffic, but is exempting trade and commerce from the ban.
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Update
CBSA COVID-19 Commercial Update to Industry Stakeholders as of March 30, 2020.
AIR UPDATES:
General Notice for Airfreight Rates
Air freight rates continue to soar upwards as demand outstrips capacity. However, stabilization may be in sight as an increasing number of airlines are redeploying their passenger aircraft (PAX) to cargo-only services. This should add some much needed supply into the strained airfreight industry.
UK Update – Critical Airport Services Under Threat of Collapse
Cargo and ground handling companies warned of the imminent collapse of their sector, which would bring airports across the UK to a halt and severely impact the UK’s supply chain.
The ground handling industry is a critical part of the UK aviation system, providing 90% of cargo handling at all UK airports and essential services like the handling and security processing of cargo and aircraft fuelling. Without these services, aviation as a whole cannot function, and supply chains will collapse.
Currently, as more than 95% of flights are not operating, ground handling companies are not being paid. While the industry has welcomed the UK Chancellor’s work retention package, low margins and staff comprising 70% of costs mean that the viability of the industry remains immediately unsustainable.
Countries around the world are facing similar drastic cuts to their domestic aviation industry and related businesses. The threats seen in the UK are expected to spread to the global industry as a whole if a return to near-normal operations does not come soon.
Air Canada Route Updates
Air Canada will continue to operate domestic and international flights with a reduced schedule for the month of April. For a full list of operating routes and route suspensions, please click here.
OCEAN UPDATES:
Shippers Shocked by Scale and Speed of Blanked Sailing Announcements
Carriers are rushing through blanked sailing announcements on a scale and speed never seen before, giving shippers very little chance to make alternative plans.
Last week, carriers had blanked two sailings due to the pandemic spread. As of Sunday, this had increased to 45 blank sailings, according to data carried in the latest report from Sea-Intelligence Consulting.
It is not just the scale of the blanked sailings, but the speed with which they are being announced that is expected to create supply chain troubles for many clients.
Port of Vancouver COVID-19 Update
On-dock and off-dock operations throughout the Port of Vancouver remain fluid.Weather, storage capacity and export container and bulk cargo movement continue to be favourable. High anchorage demand continues while vessel activity remains fluid.
Port of Montreal COVID-19 Update
Freight transport operations are running at full capacity. No cancellations have occurred, and rail transport continues as scheduled. Road transport and terminal operations are ongoing.
Port of Halifax COVID-19 Update
There are currently no restrictions at any terminals under Halifax Port Authority jurisdiction, and no operational changes have been required.
RAIL & TRUCK UPDATES:
Trucking Demand that was Surging Last Week, Now “Falling Off a Cliff”
Truck freight volumes had been surging in Canada as the spread of COVID-19, and efforts to contain it, intensified. But as businesses across North America slow and even halt operations, the entire trucking industry is staring down an implosion in large parts of the Canadian and U.S. freight market.
Fighting mass layoffs across the industry, the newly announced Canadian wage subsidies could potentially help keep thousands of trucking companies in business, particularly small carriers that work exclusively with automakers and other manufacturers that have temporarily closed operations.
CN COVID-19 Update
Canada - United States Border Remains Open to Rail
While non-essential travel over the U.S./Canadian border has been temporarily closed, the transportation of goods by train between the two countries is open & protected.
Port Gateways Remain Fluid for Import and Export Trade
All CN served port gateways on the West and East coasts of Canada, and Southern U.S., remain fluid:
CP COVID-19 Update
CP’s network remains fluid. The Canada-U.S. border is open for commerce, with both national governments recognizing the necessity for ongoing cross-border trade. Similarly, whether it is transporting fuel oil and propane, or foods, pharmaceuticals and disinfectants or moving grain to our ports, CP’s trains are continuing to move in Canada and the U.S. The supply chain supporting essential railway operations also remains strong.
For more information, please feel free to contact us directly.
COVID-19 Response Team
Mark Glionna, Vice President – Client Relations & Business Development
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1212 Email: markglionna@universallogistics.ca
John Leis, Director – Client Relations
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1215 Email: jleis@universallogistics.ca
Paul Glionna, Vice President – Systems Development & Operations
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1220 Email: pglionna@universallogistics.ca
Chris Cartan, Director – Operations
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1237 Email: ccartan@universallogistics.ca
David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207 Email: dlychek@universallogistics.ca
Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308 Email: dmcguire@universallogistics.ca
William Sanchez, Manager – Truck Services
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1224 Email: wsanchez@universallogistics.ca
Vickey Ison, Office Manager – Cleveland
Tel. (440) 360-7850, ext. 100 Email: vison@universallogisticsusa.com
Toronto, March 31, 2020
On Friday March 27, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the extension of timeframes for the payment of customs duties and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) until June 30, 2020. This includes importers' March Statements of Account (SOA), which are otherwise payable April 1.
Extension timeframes and the Prime Minister's announcement are outlined in Customs Notice 20-11.
If you are already registered for a CBSA duty and/or GST deferral program with Universal Logistics (i.e. through a Release of Goods bond or a GST Letter of Undertaking) then you are already set to take advantage of this further deferral option. You may choose to continue with monthly scheduled payments to CBSA, or you may choose to defer your duty and GST payments up to June 30, 2020. Specific details of deferral options were sent to these clients on the afternoon of March 27.
If you have not yet done so and would like to take advantage of these deferral options, Universal can help. The deferral of duty needs to be secured through a Release of Goods bond, while the deferral of GST can be secured with a Letter of Undertaking (no bond required to secure GST for Canadian importers). Non-resident Importers can also take advantage of these deferral options; however, a bond is required to secure both duty and GST.
To learn more about CBSA's direct payment options for duties and GST, visit our website or contact your Client Care representative.
Mark Glionna
Vice President – Client Relations & Business Development
Toronto, March 27, 2020
Looking to keep abreast of issues impacting your freight movement during the COVID-19 pandemic? Visit our enhanced web site. Universal Logistics has added a new web page under Client Care dedicated solely to this critical topic: COVID-19 – Keeping your freight moving in uncertain timesYou will find a list of FAQs covering the many issues you are facing during this ever-changing trade environment, and an inventory of all Coronavirus (COVID-19) Alerts sent to clients.
Click on our COVID-19 FAQ page to view the contents, and do not hesitate to contact us with questions or concerns. Remember, we're here to help.
Mark Glionna
Vice President – Client Relations & Business Development
Toronto, March 24, 2020
As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues to evolve, Universal Logistics is doing everything we can to support our clients and to keep you informed of the ever changing business environment and how it is impacting our industry.
The following information has been gathered by mode of transport from news sources as of Tuesday, March 24, 2020:
COVID-19 – Universal Logistics fully operational
Further to the recent Canadian and U.S. government announcements regarding non-essential business closures, supply chain support services (transportation/distribution/logistics) have been declared essential services/businesses in the Canadian Provinces and U.S. States where we operate our own offices (Ontario, Quebec, New York and Ohio). As such, Universal Logistics Canada and Universal Logistics USA will continue to be in full operation.
BORDER UPDATES:
Canada-U.S. Border to Close to Non-Essential Travel; Trade Will Keep Moving
Non-essential travel includes, but is not limited to: tourism; recreation; shopping for non-essential goods; and/or sightseeing. All persons seeking entry into Canada for the purpose of commerce, trade, economic services and supply chains are being processed. This travel is essential and is not to be restricted.
U.S.-Mexico Border to Close; Trade Will Keep Moving
Following similar action along the Canadian border, the White House has closed the United States' border with Mexico to nonessential traffic, but is exempting trade and commerce from the ban.
Read more in an article from Transport Topics.
AIR UPDATES:
General Notice for Airfreight Rates & Storage
Airfreight rates have been soaring upwards as demand outstrips capacity. Airlines have been forced to ground aircraft due to a collapse of passenger traffic across the globe, which has drastically cut the available volume for cargo.
In response to the current announcement requiring non-essential Canadian companies to close their facilities, Air Canada Cargo has extened the current free time allotted to General Cargo storage in Canada from 2 to 10 days. Other airlines are expected to follow suit.
Air Canada Route Updates
Air Canada will continue to operate domestic and international flights with a reduced schedule for the month of April. For a full list of operating routes and route suspensions, please go to:
https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/book/travel-news-and-updates/2020/china-travel.html#/na
This schedule is subject to change, as Air Canada continues to monitor demand and government restrictions on travel.
Air Canada Cargo Restrictions on Live Animal Shipments during Pandemic
Due to flight schedule changes and cancellations, Air Canada Cargo will not accept live animal bookings effective today until further notice.
Current bookings will be honoured when possible, depending on flight capabilities.
OCEAN UPDATES:
Port of Vancouver COVID-19 Update
On-dock and off-dock operations throughout the Port of Vancouver remain fluid. Weather, storage capacity and export container and bulk cargo movement continue to be favourable.
High anchorage demand continues while vessel activity remains fluid.
Port of Montreal COVID-19 Update
Freight transport operations are running at full capacity. No cancellations have occurred, and rail transport continues as scheduled. Road transport and terminal operations are ongoing. We will continue to follow Transport Canada guidelines and monitor the impact of COVID-19 on Port operations.
Port of Halifax COVID-19 Update
The Halifax Port Authority is in close contact with partners and health agencies following the novel coronavirus pandemic. There are currently no restrictions at any terminals under Halifax Port Authority jurisdiction. As a Canadian Port Authority, we take our direction from the Public Health Agency of Canada and Transport Canada and will provide any updates as required. At this stage there are no operational changes. Click here for more information.
RAIL AND TRUCK UPDATES:
Trucking Demand Surges as Retailers Restock
Demand is spiking for inland trucking capacity, as grocers and retailers look to restock their shelves with critical goods amid the COVID-19 outbreak. DAT's load-to-truck ratio, a measure of demand, was up 31% for vans and 33% for reefers between March 9 and March 15.
The trucking spot market has seen an increase in demand that is "directly attributable" to the outbreak and the resulting consumer buying response, said Ken Adamo, chief of analytics at DAT.
Industry leading carriers are setting new protocols for the physical handling of freight, and we expect carriers as a whole to start to implement similar procedures with immediate effect:
To learn more of what carriers are implementing to stop the spread of Covid-19 please refer to:
CN COVID-19 UPDATE
Canada - United States Border Remains Open to Rail
While non-essential travel over the U.S./Canadian border has been temporarily closed, the transportation of goods by train between the two countries is open & protected.
Port Gateways Remain Fluid for Import and Export Trade
All CN served port gateways on the West and East coasts of Canada, and Southern U.S., remain fluid:
CP COVID-19 UPDATE
CP's service is not currently impacted by COVID-19; its trains continue to operate throughout North America.
For more information, please feel free to contact us directly.
COVID-19 Response Team
Mark Glionna, Vice President – Client Relations & Business Development
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1212 Email: markglionna@universallogistics.ca
John Leis, Director – Client Relations
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1215 Email: jleis@universallogistics.ca
Paul Glionna, Vice President – Systems Development & Operations
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1220 Email: pglionna@universallogistics.ca
Chris Cartan, Director – Operations
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1237 Email: ccartan@universallogistics.ca
David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207 Email: dlychek@universallogistics.ca
Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308 Email: dmcguire@universallogistics.ca
William Sanchez, Manager – Truck Services
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1224 Email: wsanchez@universallogistics.ca
Vickey Ison, Office Manager – Cleveland
Tel. (440) 360-7850, ext. 100 Email: vison@universallogisticsusa.com
Toronto, March 24, 2020
Further to the recent Canadian and U.S. government announcements regarding non-essential business closures, supply chain support services (transportation/distribution/logistics) have been declared essential services/businesses in the Canadian Provinces and U.S. States where we operate our own offices (Ontario, Quebec, New York and Ohio). As such, Universal Logistics Canada and Universal Logistics USA will continue to be in full operation.
Universal's priority continues to be the safety of our employees and a commitment to ensure the resources and services we provide our clients are uninterrupted. We have a comprehensive work-from-home program currently in effect. Where a physical employee presence is required, a skeleton staff is on site. At our offices and warehouses, we are following all safety, hygiene and social distancing guidelines.
We are committed to helping our clients in these uncertain times. Stay safe!
Michael J. Glionna
President
Toronto, March 19, 2020
As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak continues to evolve, Universal Logistics is doing everything we can to support our clients and to keep you informed of the ever changing business environment and how it is impacting our industry.
The following message was issued by the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA) on Thursday, March 19, 2020:
AIR UPDATES:
Air Canada Update on COVID-19 Response
Air Canada said yesterday that it will gradually suspend the majority of its international and U.S. transborder flights by March 31. Subject to further government restrictions, the airline intends to continue to serve a small number of international and U.S. trans-border destinations from select Canadian cities after April 1.
In order to support the essential movement of needed goods and cargo during the crisis, Air Canada intends to continue to operate a limited number of international "air bridges" between one or more of its Canadian hubs and the cities of London, Paris, Frankfurt, Delhi, Tokyo and Hong Kong from April 1 until at least April 30. This will reduce its international network from 101 airports to six.
As to U.S. transborder services, from April 1, Air Canada will reduce its transborder network from 53 airports to 13, subject to further reductions based on demand or government edicts. The cities with continued service will be: New York (LGA and EWR), Boston, Washington, D.C. (IAD and DCA), Chicago, Houston, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale.
Airports Urge Governments to Rethink Flight Bans
The Airport Council International (ACI) has voiced concerns over the effectiveness of imposing travel bans. “Besides ... worsening the economic fallout of COVID-19, the fact that these measures do not appear aligned with WHO recommendations raises serious doubts as to their effectiveness,” Olivier Jankovec, director general of ACI Europe has said.
The WHO continues to advise against travel restrictions to countries experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks, stating that “in general, evidence shows that restricting the (international) movement of people during public health emergencies is ineffective in most situations.”
Read more in an article from Air Cargo Week.
OCEAN UPDATES:
Shipping Federation of Canada Launches COVID-19 Information Compendium
The Shipping Federation of Canada is working to provide marine stakeholders with information specific to their sector in response to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation. It is liaising with key authorities to ensure the delivery of streamlined information and timely updates on protocols and practices.
The organization has developed a webpage, the COVID-19 Resource Center, which provides a compendium of information on measures implemented by Canadian authorities and other entities in response to the COVID-19 situation and its impacts on international shipping in Canadian waters.
The webpage includes information on COVID-19 measures, practices and guidance developed by Transport Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada and other federal departments, as well as the ports, Seaway, pilotage authorities, terminal operators and others. The Federation will update this page on a regular basis as it gathers additional information.
Chinese Port Restricts Ships from Virus-Hit Nations for 14 Days
The port of Fuzhou in eastern China is restricting vessels arriving from nine countries in an effort to limit the spread of coronavirus by visiting ships and their crew.
Vessels arriving from Japan, South Korea, Iran, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, the U.S., and Singapore won’t be allowed entry into the port until they’ve completed a mandatory 14-day quarantine; the countdown begins when ships depart from those nations.
The mandatory quarantine will particularly hit cargoes from Asian countries that typically take a week or less to sail to China. It also raises fears of similar steps by much bigger ports in China, notably the major cargo hubs of Guangzhou, Shanghai and Tianjin.
Read more in an article from Transport Topics.
As the World's Borders Close, Crew Changes Become a Serious Challenge
Maersk has suspended all crew changes aboard its container ships through April 14, the company said on Tuesday. Chile, Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Malaysia, Canada, Denmark and the 27 nations of the European Union have temporarily closed their external borders to most foreign nationals, and the list is growing rapidly.
"Given the current situation we can better protect our seafarers by suspending the exchange of crew, as this lessens the number of social interactions they need to have. Secondly, the rapid changes to global travel poses a risk of stranding seafarers in transit, in locations from where they are unable to leave or get sufficient assistance," Maersk said in a statement.
On Tuesday, dry bulk shipping association INTERCARGO called upon port states to continue to permit crew changes as an exception to the rising number of national travel bans.
Read more in an article from The Maritime Executive.
Port of Montreal COVID-19 Update
Freight transport operations at the Port of Montreal are running at full capacity. No cancellations have occurred, and rail transport continues as scheduled. Road transport and terminal operations are ongoing.
Since March 16, the vast majority of administrative staff are working from home, if and when appropriate, until further notice.
DP World Canada COVID-19 Update
In a notice to customers issued yesterday, DP World Canada informed that there has been no significant impact from COVID-19 to its operations in B.C.
The company is working closely with its supply chain partners to minimize potential operational impacts.
RAIL AND TRUCK UPDATES:
Trucking Demand Surges as Retailers Restock
Demand is spiking for inland trucking capacity, as grocers and retailers look to restock their shelves with critical goods amid the COVID-19 outbreak. DAT's load-to-truck ratio, a measure of demand, was up 31% for vans and 33% for reefers between March 9 and March 15.
The trucking spot market has seen an increase in demand that is "directly attributable" to the outbreak and the resulting consumer buying response, said Ken Adamo, chief of analytics at DAT.
Read more in an article from Supply Chain Dive.
CP COVID-19 Update
CP's service is not currently impacted by COVID-19; its trains continue to operate throughout North America.
The company's COVID-19 preparedness planning team has enacted pandemic planning actions to facilitate business continuity across its network.
For more information, please feel free to contact us directly.
COVID-19 Response Team
Mark Glionna, Vice President – Client Relations & Business Development
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1212 Email: markglionna@universallogistics.ca
John Leis, Director – Client Relations
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1215 Email: jleis@universallogistics.ca
Paul Glionna, Vice President – Systems Development & Operations
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1220 Email: pglionna@universallogistics.ca
Chris Cartan, Director – Operations
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1237 Email: ccartan@universallogistics.ca
David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207 Email: dlychek@universallogistics.ca
Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308 Email: dmcguire@universallogistics.ca
William Sanchez, Manager – Truck Services
Tel. (905) 882-4880, ext. 1224 Email: wsanchez@universallogistics.ca
Vickey Ison, Office Manager – Cleveland
Tel. (440) 360-7850, ext. 100 Email: vison@universallogisticsusa.com
Toronto, March 19, 2020
As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve, we want you to know Universal Logistics is doing everything we can to support our clients through this difficult time.
Given this unprecedented situation, creative logistics solutions are needed to navigate the new obstacles you are facing.
Here are some examples of how we can help:
As previously advised in our client Email Alert! of March 12th, Universal's priority is the safety of our employees and ensuring that the resources and services we provide our clients are uninterrupted.
We know you have a lot of questions – please remember we're here to help. Contact us with any inquires and we'll assist you in any way we can.
For more information, please call Mark Glionna, Vice President – Client Relations & Business Development at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1212.
Toronto, March 18, 2020
Canada and the United States are finalizing the details to close the northern border to all non-essential travel. The intention is to find an agreement that will restrict the flow of people across the border without disrupting the movement of goods.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated this morning, "Travellers will no longer be permitted to cross the border for recreation and tourism", while U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted, "We will be, by mutual consent, temporarily closing our Northern Border with Canada to non-essential traffic. Trade will not be affected."
We will provide updates as details are available.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, March 17, 2020
On Monday afternoon, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau advised Canada will be closing its borders to most foreign travellers to enhance screening and limit the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Exceptions will be made for air crews, diplomats, immediate family members and at this time, U.S. citizens.
Only four Canadian airports will receive international flights as of Wednesday March 18, 2020 – Vancouver International Airport, Pearson International Airport (Toronto), Calgary International Airport and Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (Montreal).
Trudeau said the new border control restrictions will not apply to trade and commerce in order to keep Canada's supply chains open.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, March 12, 2020
With the spread of the coronavirus across more than 100 countries, The World Health Organization yesterday declared it a global pandemic. In the past months COVID-19 has created a great deal of confusion and disruption throughout the world to business and to people's day-to-day lives. Although this is a rapidly evolving situation, it appears likely the virus will be part of our personal and professional lives for the foreseeable future.
Universal Logistics' priority is the safety of our employees and ensuring that the resources and services we provide our clients are uninterrupted. Our response team is meeting daily to assess the impact across our business and to ensure our contingency planning meets this challenge.
We have a company-wide contingency plan in place and are working with our partners to ensure that we advance best practices to continue serving you under various scenarios, including our employees working remotely.
In terms of prevention, we are reiterating the importance to our employees of following the recommended best practices of Health Canada for health and hygiene.
With our established protocols and processes and our commitment to the well-being of our employees, we anticipate that we will continue to meet the needs of our clients. We thank you for your trust and confidence in us as we work together to address this situation.
We will continue to communicate with you on developments as applicable.
Michael J. Glionna
President
Toronto, March 4, 2020
With the removal of rail blockades across Canada, rail operations are slowly returning to normal.
CN Rail has started calling back many of its temporarily laid-off employees in Eastern Canada. The significant backlog of trains parked on CN's tracks and in its yards is being processed through a methodical recovery plan. Rail cars that have been sitting idle at various marshalling yards across Eastern Canada are now starting to move to their final destination.
CP Rail, while not significantly affected by rail blockades, is dealing with a surge in volume as shippers switched to their services in light of the CN Rail blockades. CP Rail is also working on clearing this high level of volume presently distributed throughout its system.
Despite the progress being made to resolve this ongoing issue, it is expected to take some time to clear the backlog of cargo and have both services running at normal operational levels.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, March 2, 2020
The Quebec Ministry of Transportation has released 2020 "Spring Thaw" dates and zones. These are container weight restrictions imposed every year to protect Quebec highways during the spring thaw.
The maximum recommended cargo weight carried during the thaw period is as follows:
|
Zone 1 |
Zone 2 |
Zone 3 |
Monday, March 09 (12:01 a.m.) |
Monday, March 16 (12:01 a.m.) |
Monday, March 23 (12:01 a.m.) |
| 20’ Std: | 47,900 lbs | |
| 40’ Std/HQ: | 50,000 lbs | |
| 45’ HQ: | 50,000 lbs | |
| 20’ Reefer: | 46,000 lbs | |
| 40’ Reefer: | 48,000 lbs |
The weight restrictions not only apply to the total cargo weight within the container, but also the distribution of weight over the axles of the chassis. If cargo weight is not distributed evenly across all axles, the container could be subject to additional fines.
Please note, these details are guidelines. The dates are subject to change by the Quebec Ministry of Transportation, depending on actual weather conditions. It is advisable that you visit the Ministry's website for complete updated details. We recommend that you ensure your shippers are aware of these cargo weight limits in order to prevent any additional costs/handling once containers arrive in Quebec during the thaw period.
Cargo that is deemed overweight may require the trucker to use extra axles which will incur additional costs.
If you have any questions concerning shipments booked with Universal Logistics and how they may be impacted by the above, please call (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308 Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions.
Toronto, February 27, 2020
The following message was issued by the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA) on Thursday, February 27, 2020:
Rail Blockades Updates
CP
The blockade on CP's mainline near Chase, B.C., has ended and CP is resuming operations on its Shuswap Subdivision. Customers should expect near-term delays of 24 to 36 hours.
In Eastern Canada, CP's rail network has been blockaded by protesters since February 8 at the Kahnawake Mohawk territory, south of Montreal. This blockade has severed rail connections into Atlantic Canada and the U.S., and is preventing CP from serving carload customers in the area. The embargo (CPRS000520) to control the flow of shipments over this part of our network remains in place.
CP is reviewing options to reroute traffic where possible.
CN
CN has posted information about blockades on its rail network on its website.
As of yesterday afternoon, all blockade locations, except for Caledonia, Ont., had active train movement, although in Tyendinaga, east of Belleville, Ont., its operations remain disrupted and limited. CN is working with the Ontario Provincial Police on resuming normal operations on this part of its network.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager &ndash Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, February 24, 2020
The following message was issued by the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA) on Monday, February 24, 2020:
" Some protesters are in custody after Ontario Provincial Police officers moved against the rail blockade near Belleville, Ont. this morning – where protests by the Mohawks of Tyendinaga have crippled passenger and freight train traffic for more than two weeks in solidarity with anti-pipeline protests in northern B.C..
Police and CN Rail had warned protesters to clear their encampments by midnight Sunday. Hours after the deadline passed, provincial police moved in and arrested several protesters.
Two industrial-sized tow trucks were brought in to haul away a snow plow from the protest site Monday afternoon. CN Rail crews also have been spotted inspecting and working on the train tracks since mid-morning.
A second encampment set up by the protesters nearby remains in place.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau convened the Incident Response Group today to discuss ongoing work to end the blockades and restore fully functional rail service across Canada. Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Transport Marc Garneau, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Quebec Lieutenant Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Bill Blair, and Minister of Indigenous Services Marc Miller participated in the meeting, along with RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki and Government of Canada officials.
The Prime Minister and ministers will continue to work directly with premiers and Indigenous leaders to resolve the situation as soon as possible. The Government of Canada remains focused on finding a peaceful and lasting resolution with the objective of ending the blockades in a way that protects the rule of law and builds trust and respect among all parties involved.
Read more in an article from CBC News and in a press release from the Prime Minister's Office."
We are continuing to monitor this situation and will advise accordingly.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, February 21, 2020
As a result of the ongoing rail disruption in Eastern Canada, Montreal Gateway Terminal (MGT) declared 'Force Majeure' on February 20, 2020, as there is no immediate resolution in sight and a prolonged recovery period is being anticipated.
All inland rail cargo must be evacuated immediately from the Port of Montreal. Import rail containers dwelling more than five calendar days will be charged terminal storage effective Tuesday, February 25th. MGT will offer storage compensation for all current grounded containers which are diverted to truck. This compensation will be applicable only to units diverted through Monday, February 24th, 15:00 hrs.
Please be advised that on top of the additional fee to move cargo by truck, shifting and handling costs at the terminal will apply as well.
We are reviewing all affected cargo and will advise accordingly.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, February 21, 2020
The following message was issued by the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA) on Friday, February 21, 2020:
"CN Blockades Update
The court has issued an injunction for the blockade in Saint Lambert, Que., east of Montreal, which has been served on the protesters. CN continues to work with local enforcement agencies to enforce the orders.
The blockade in Tyendinaga, Ont., east of Belleville, is ongoing.
In the east, CN has adjusted its operations, but can run only limited service in the impacted areas until the blockades end.
With the end to the blockade west of Edmonton, CN's Western Canada service levels are improving daily."
We are continuing to monitor this situation and will advise accordingly.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, February 18, 2020
The following message was issued by the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA) on Monday, February 18, 2020:
"Blockade Updates
CN
- A blockade established on February 15 on CN's main line in Vaughan, Ont. (Greater Toronto) was removed on February 16.
- Train service resumed on the CN north line serving the Port of Prince Rupert on February 13.
- CN continues to recover in the west from earlier blockades in New Hazelton, B.C. and Headingley, Man.
- The blockade in Tyendinaga, Ont., is ongoing and CN's network east of Belleville, Ont., remains shut down.
- The blockade in Vancouver has been removed.
- A new blockade has been set up south of Winnipeg, affecting some rail traffic moving south into the United States.
CP
- The blockade on CP's main line south of Montreal is impacting train movements between Montreal and Albany, N.Y. Traffic is building in and around St. Luc with no practical re-routing alternatives. CP has issued an embargo, effective February 17, to control the flow of shipments over this part of network. It affects all shipments routing over the interchanges of St. Jeans, Que., Albany, N.Y.; Whitehall, N.Y.; Schenectady, N.Y.; and Bellows Falls. N.Y."
"CIFFA, Other Supply Chain Associations Urge Government to End Rail Blockades
On February 14, CIFFA joined the Association of Canadian Port Authorities, the Freight Management Association of Canada and the Shipping Federation of Canada in sending a letter to Minister of Transport Marc Garneau to "urge the government to do everything in its power to find a long-term resolution" to the CN rail blockades."
"Industry Warns of Empty Shelves as CN Rail Blockade Continues
Sectors from retail to oil and gas are calling on governments to resolve the dispute with anti-pipeline protesters as the rail blockade threatens shortages of groceries, propane, drinking water and other goods.
Canadian Propane Association CEO Nathalie St-Pierre says wholesalers in the Maritimes have already begun to ration distribution, while truck line-ups for the fuel in Sarnia, Ont., are now up to 10 hours long as water treatment plants, hospitals, farmers and rural residents await more shipments.
Drinking water could also fall into short supply if chlorine for water treatment stays off the tracks, according to chemical distribution trade group Responsible Distribution Canada.
"If something doesn't happen now, we're going to start seeing municipalities in Ontario beginning to have boil-water advisories going out," said president Cathy Campbell.
Read more in an article from CityNews."
"Trudeau Confers with Cabinet Ministers as Rail Blockades Continue
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in talks over the weekend with federal cabinet ministers, as protesters opposed to a pipeline project in British Columbia continued to halt train service across parts of the country.
Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller said during an appearance on CTV's "Question Period" on Sunday that he believes a peaceful resolution can be reached, as he pointed to the Oka and Ipperwash crises as reasons why dialogue is preferable over police intervention.
Miller said the economy is suffering as a result of the blockades, but the government's response is a test of Canada's ability to find peaceful resolutions to such disputes.
The PMO announced that Trudeau was to convene the Incident Response Group on Monday. The group was described upon its inception in 2018 as a "dedicated, emergency committee that will convene in the event of a national crisis or during incidents elsewhere that have major implications for Canada."
Read more in an article from Canadian Shipper."
We are continuing to monitor this situation and will advise accordingly.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, February 13, 2020
Anti-pipeline protesters who are demonstrating around rail lines near Belleville, Ontario and New Hazelton, British Columbia have prompted CN Rail to temporarily shut down parts of its network. There is currently no movement of any trains – freight or passenger – at both those locations, crippling the ability to move goods and facilitate trade.
Transport Minister Marc Garneau has called the two blockades near Belleville "illegal" and "dangerous", noting their impact on economic activity, and said enforcing injunctions against protesters is a provincial responsibility, not a federal one.
According to CBC News, Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller has offered to meet with the Mohawks of Tyendinaga if they end an eight-day demonstration that has shut down passenger and freight rail traffic through southern Ontario.
A new blockade has been set up on the CN main line in Headingley, Manitoba approximately 14 km west of Winnipeg, Manitoba. The blockade is affecting traffic in all directions, including Western to Eastern Canada and Western Canada to the United States. It is becoming increasingly difficult to add traffic to the network due to this rapidly changing situation.
We will continue to monitor this situation and advise accordingly.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, February 12, 2020
The following message was issued by the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA) on Wednesday, February 12, 2020:
"CN May Be Forced to Shut Down Parts of Network Due to Blockades
CN announced that it will be forced to shut down significant parts of its Canadian network imminently unless the blockades on its rail lines are removed.
"It's not just passenger trains that are impacted by these blockades, it's all Canadian supply chains," said JJ Ruest, president and chief executive officer at CN. "We are currently parking trains across our network, but due to limited available space for such, CN will have no choice but to temporarily discontinue service in key corridors unless the blockades come to an end.
"Intermodal containers carrying perishable goods including food and consumer items, Canadian grain, deicing fluid at airports, construction materials, propane to Quebec and Atlantic Canada, natural resources creating rural jobs across Canada such as lumber, aluminum, coal and propane; all of these commodities are already impacted and will see their movements even more diminished. Factories and mines will be soon faced with very difficult decisions. The Port of Prince Rupert is effectively already shutdown. The Ports of Montreal and Halifax are also already feeling the impact of these blockades which will have a trickledown effect on consumer goods in the next few weeks," added Ruest."
Read more in a CN press release.
CN encourages stakeholders to contact their government representatives to explain how these blockades impact their businesses, employees and customers.
We are continuing to monitor this situation and will advise accordingly.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, February 10, 2020
Protesters have established blockades and protest camps across Canada, in support of the Wet'suwet'en Nation bid to halt construction of a natural gas pipeline in northern British Columbia. The hereditary chiefs of Wet'suwet'en Nation are protesting against the Coastal GasLink project, the $6-billion, 670 km pipeline, that would see natural gas flow from the Dawson Creek area to the west coast of the province.
Tensions have ramped up considerably in the past few days. Last week, the RCMP began enforcing a B.C. Supreme Court injunction, establishing a protest "exclusion zone" to allow construction to proceed. RCMP tactical units are currently in an operation against numerous protest camps built to block construction of the pipeline.
In British Columbia, protesters have continued to block workers from entering the Port of Vancouver and Deltaport. The protestors were served with a court injunction ordering them to stop blocking access to the ports late Sunday. The injunction, granted by the B.C. Supreme Court, says they must leave the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority lands and stop blockading the port's access points, however, protesters say they intend to stand their ground. Coupled with this, a rail blockade has been affecting all traffic in and out of the Port of Prince Rupert since February 8.
Protests in Ontario have halted rail traffic between Toronto and both Ottawa and Montreal since February 6. Members of the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory have been protesting along the rail lines that cut along the territory's border near Belleville, Ontario, in support of the Wet'suwet'en Nation. CN Rail has obtained a court injunction to end the demonstration, which was served to demonstrators by CN police Saturday afternoon, however, rail traffic along these corridors remains at a standstill.
We will continue to monitor this situation and advise accordingly.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Manager – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, February 7, 2020
The spread of the Coronavirus has had a significant impact on air and ocean carriers as well as importers.
The list of air carriers suspending services to China continues to grow and includes carriers such as Air Canada, Air France, Lufthansa, British Airways and Delta Airlines. It is anticipated that flight schedules will be affected up until March. At this point, airfreight is limited to freighters only, which are typically more expensive than general airfreight as there are no passengers to contribute to the flight costs.
In addition, Chinese ports are taking strict precautionary measures which is likely to impact the rate at which ocean containers are loaded or discharged, while the lack of stevedores and truck drivers is contributing to slow vessel turnaround times. With the extension of Lunar New Years and closure of Chinese factories for an additional 2 weeks, the cancellation of a number of sailings is expected to counter the lack of demand over the first few weeks of February. The overall disruption to the industry is expected to extend into March.
We will closely monitor this situation and provide more information when available.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
Toronto, February 3, 2020
The United Kingdom (UK) officially left the European Union (EU) on January 31, 2020, and is now in a transition period with the EU until at least December 31, 2020.
Both Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) have confirmed there will be no impact on UK originating goods under the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) during the transition period.
Canada and the EU have completed informal preliminary talks about rolling over elements of CETA into a bilateral deal, but no date for formal negotiations has been set. In addition to negotiating with the EU and Canada, the UK is also planning to negotiate a series of bilateral deals with the United States, Australia, Japan and New Zealand before the end of the year.
The UK and EU now have 11 months to negotiate a deal to avoid a "hard Brexit" which many predict would have dire economic consequences. Reportedly, the UK has said it would offer tariff-free access to trading partners starting for one year in 2021 to insulate the British economy.
Today, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson called for a Canada-style free trade deal, saying the UK would return to the Withdrawal Agreement if such a deal was not reached. The PM also tweeted today "We are re-emerging, after decades of hibernation, as a campaigner for global free trade".
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, January 30, 2020
The Chinese Government is extending their National New Year Holiday to try and contain the spread of Novel Coronavirus infections. Normal operations should resume on the dates outlined below:
We will continue to monitor this situation and advise if there are any further developments.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
Toronto, January 17, 2020
The U.S. Senate approved, by a vote of 89-10 on January 16, legislation to implement the new USMCA (USA-Mexico-Canada) Trade Agreement updating the current NAFTA.
It will now go to President Donald Trump for his signature, which is expected next week. The deal is expected to be ratified by Canada at the end of January, when Parliament is back in session, and will likely not take effect until mid-2020 at the earliest.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, January 16, 2020
Due to the recent cold weather conditions in Western Canada, we want to remind everyone that this has a severe impact on rail movements. Shipments moving by rail through these regions can anticipate delays of up to 48 hours. Severe cold and high snowfall present challenging conditions to safe railway operations, primarily to rail braking systems. As part of winter preparedness plans to ensure safe train operations, train length is restricted limiting the number of containers that can be accommodated, which results in longer transit times and congestion at railyards.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
Toronto, December 23, 2019
On December 19, 2019, the U.S. House of Representatives voted in favour of the new North American trade agreement, referred to as USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) in the U.S. and CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement) in Canada. Amendments to the agreement were signed by Canada, U.S. and Mexico on December 10, 2019. The new deal will replace the existing North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) which was implemented in 1994.
The trade agreement will now move to the U.S. Senate for ratification in the U.S. in the new year. Mexico has already ratified the deal and ratification is expected in Canada after the parliamentary winter break ending January 27, 2020.
Importers should obtain valid Certificates of Origin for both trade agreements for 2020, to ensure there is no lapse in preferential trade status, prior to the new deal taking effect. Once the new trade agreement becomes effective, NAFTA Certificates of Origin will no longer be valid and must be replaced with USMCA/CUSMA Certificates of Origin.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 213.
Toronto, December 13, 2019
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has announced the U.S. have reached a Phase One agreement with China and the additional tariffs scheduled to become effective December 15, 2019 will not be implemented.
The notice also advises tariffs imposed on $250 Billion of China origin goods will remain in effect at 25%, however, the remaining tariffs ($120 Billion) will be reduced to 7.5% from the current rate of 15%. Those tariffs being reduced were implemented effective September 1, 2019 and referred to as List 4A.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 213.
Toronto, December 10, 2019
We are excited to announce that effective December 9, 2019, our Toronto Airport office has moved to a larger facility just blocks away from our previous location. Following is our new address:
Universal Logistics Inc.
Toronto Airport (Pearson)
3380 Airway Drive, Suite 106
Mississauga, Ontario
L4V 1T3
Contact: Grace Barnard, Client Relations (gbarnard@universallogistics.ca)
www.universallogistics.ca
Our Airport branch telephone and fax numbers remain the same:
Tel: (905) 676-2763
Fax: (905) 676-9952
This requirement for an expanded facility is the direct result of our dramatic growth in warehousing and distribution services, and the need to be better positioned to handle our clients' increased demand for these services in future.
Our Toronto Airport branch office is a full service operation, including air freight, customs brokerage, warehousing and distribution services. We look forward to handling your logistics requirements at this new location, and thank you for your continued support of our services.
For more information, please call Mark Glionna, Vice President – Client Relations & Business Development at (905) 882-4880, ext. 212.
Toronto, December 9, 2019
The next round of China tariffs, scheduled to go into effect December 15th, 2019 at 15%, includes cell phones, laptop computers, video game consoles, certain toys, computer monitors, and certain items of footwear and clothing. This round covers goods listed in Annex C, also referred to as List 4B of the $300 Billion Trade Action.
As a reminder, importers may request product exclusions from List 4A of the $300 Billion Trade Action until January 31, 2020.
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) have also issued (2) retroactive exclusion lists to the $200 Billion Trade Action in November:
Exclusions Granted November 13, 2019
Exclusions Granted November 29, 2019
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 213.
