COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic by The World Health Organization on March 11, 2020, with the spread of the coronavirus across more than 100 countries. 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, the virus will be part of our personal and professional lives for the foreseeable future.
Our priority at Universal Logistics is the safety of our employees and the community while, at the same time, ensuring the resources and services we provide our clients remain uninterrupted. We want to keep your freight moving in these uncertain times.
As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve, Universal is doing everything we can to support our clients. We are committed to keeping you informed of the ever changing trade environment and related issues impacting your business. We know you have a lot of questions – please remember we're here to help.
View Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQ
Learn more by reading our COVID-19 email alerts, presented below in chronological order.
Toronto, April 20, 2022
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) issued the Certain Goods Remission Order (COVID-19): SOR/2020-101 with effect May 5, 2020, to remove import duty on a variety of HS tariff classifications during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Certain Goods Remission Order has now been repealed and will no longer be in effect after May 7, 2022.
Remission of duty was temporarily granted for classifications listed in the Certain Goods Remission Order (COVID-19) SOR-2020-101, under the following conditions:
| a) | the good was imported into Canada on or after May 5, 2020, and subject to customs duties; |
| b) | no other claim for relief of the customs duties has been granted under the Customs Tariff in respect of the good; |
| c) | the importer agrees that it is subject, at any time, including after remission relief is provided, to review by the Canada Border Services Agency for the purpose of determining whether the information supplied by the importer under paragraph (c) is accurate and complete and whether the facts on which the Canada Border Services Agency relied or intends to rely to determine the eligibility for remission remain unchanged in all material respects; and |
| d) | at the time when the Canada Border Services Agency conducts the review referred to in paragraph (d), the Canada Border Services Agency must be able to conclude that the information supplied remains accurate and complete and that the facts remain unchanged in all material respects. |
The relief of customs duties applies to eligible goods, as per the conditions found in SOR-2020-101, imported from May 5, 2020, to May 7, 2022, inclusively. This relief could be claimed at the time of importation or within two years of the date of importation. For clients of Universal Logistics, this relief was automatically applied at the time of import, based upon valid HS tariff classification.
If you have any questions, or feel your goods should have been imported under the provisions of the Certain Goods Remission Order, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, April 5, 2022
Unfortunately, due to the increased spread of the coronavirus in Shanghai, authorities at China's commercial hub have decided to extend the current lockdown. Shanghai now accounts for three out of every four local asymptomatic cases across the country. Currently, there is no confirmation as to how long the measures will stay in place. Factories are closed as is all public transport. The ports of Waigaoqiao and Yangshan are congested due to the reduction of longshoremen at the port, which impacts the efficiency of loading and offloading vessels. Some steamship lines have announced vessel delays or are omitting Shanghai port on some voyages. Shippers are sending cargo via Ningbo port as an alternative, which will ultimately cause congestion and lack of space in Ningbo, the longer the lockdown continues in Shanghai.
We will continue to monitor the situation and advise further.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Director – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
Toronto, March 28, 2022
The resurgence of COVID-19 in China has now affected Shanghai. The city of 26 million will be locked down in two phases for mass testing – the Pudong financial district and areas east of the Huangpu river from Monday, March 28 to Friday, April 1 in Phase 1, and west of the Huangpu River for five days from Friday, April 1 to Tuesday, April 5 in Phase 2. Residents will be barred from leaving their homes, and public transport is suspended, with private cars only allowed to make necessary journeys. All firms and factories are to suspend production, with people to work from home apart from those involved in essential services and food supply. Bloomberg reported that Tesla would be stopping operations at its plant. Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG) said that during the lockdown period, the port would ensure normal operations and provide 24 hours services at all its port production units. However, landside infrastructure and transport links to and from the port will be disrupted.
Container truck drivers must provide a negative COVID test result taken in the last 48 hours. Many expressway entries have also been locked down, and truck drivers have limited access to the city. During the recent lockdown in Shenzhen, South China ports remained operating relatively normally, however, experienced yard congestion and queues of ships built up due to landside transport and infrastructure restrictions similar to those now in place in Shanghai. While some FCL dray carriers are still operating within Shanghai, LTL trucks are not allowed to enter Pudong. As a result, we feel that there will likely be a significant impact on LCL cargo.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Director – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
Toronto, March 15, 2022
The City of Shenzhen, China, is beginning a week-long lockdown due to high cases of the Omicron variant. The lockdown prevents residents from leaving their homes until Sunday, March 20th – with the only exception being to undergo three rounds of COVID testing. This will affect the world's third-largest port of Yantian and many of the tech companies who operate from Shenzhen such as Huawei and iPhone manufacturer Foxconn.
Carriers are still trying to navigate how they will deal with this, however, calls at the port will likely be discontinued this week and possibly next, as due to the lockdown, there will be no workforce to move freight, drive trucks and load containers. Analysts say that when Yantian port was shut down due to COVID last year, the disruptive impact on cargo flows was roughly twice the size of the blockage of the Suez Canal.
We will continue to monitor and update you on this situation.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Director – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
Toronto, January 14, 2022
There has been some misinformation reported regarding the requirements for truckers entering Canada as of January 15, 2022. These requirements have been reconfirmed in a statement issued by the Public Health Agency of Canada on January 13th, as per the following link:
The key points of clarification are as follows:
A Canadian truck driver who is not fully vaccinated cannot be denied entry into Canada – Canadian citizens, persons registered under the Indian Act and permanent residents may enter Canada by right. As was announced in November, starting January 15th, unvaccinated Canadian truck drivers entering Canada will need to meet requirements for pre-entry, arrival and Day 8 testing, as well as quarantine requirements.
Also, as of January 15, 2022, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated foreign national truck drivers, coming to Canada from the U.S. by land, will be directed back to the United States.
To qualify as a fully vaccinated traveller and to enter Canada, foreign national truck drivers must:
For more information, please call David Lychek, Director – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, January 13, 2022
With just days to go before a federal vaccine mandate for truck drivers is set to come into effect, the federal government says Canadian truckers will be exempt from Canada's new rules but are still expected to face restrictions once the reciprocal American policy comes into effect. In a statement, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) advised unvaccinated or partially vaccinated Canadian truck drivers arriving at the border will remain exempt from pre-arrival, on arrival and post-arrival testing and quarantine requirement. Previously it was understood that Canada's vaccine mandate would require all truckers entering Canada to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and that foreign nationals would be turned away, while unvaccinated Canadian truckers would have to quarantine upon arrival.
The CBSA has confirmed that the January 15 mandate will still come into effect for non-Canadian truckers coming into this country at the U.S. border. Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated foreign nationals, including American truck drivers, will be prohibited entry into Canada as of this date, however, if drivers are able to provide evidence confirming a contraindication to the COVID-19 vaccines, they may be granted an exemption.
On January 22nd, the U.S. will apply the same requirement on foreign nationals to Canadian truckers. All inbound non-U.S. persons crossing at U.S. land point of entries or ferry terminals – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination.
We will continue to monitor this situation and advise accordingly.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Director – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
Toronto, October 14, 2021
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced, beginning next month, the U.S. will allow non-essential Canadian and Mexican travelers, who have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and have the appropriate documentation, to enter the United States via land and ferry ports of entry (POEs) across the U.S. border (exact date in November to be advised).
Although the Canada-U.S. border restrictions into Canada had been eased in July 2021 to fully vaccinated U.S. non-essential visitors, restrictions into the U.S. had remained unchanged for non-essential travellers.
In a statement from U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas "In alignment with the new international air travel system that will be implemented in November, we will begin allowing travelers from Mexico and Canada who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 to enter the United States for non-essential purposes, including to visit friends and family or for tourism, via land and ferry border crossings," said Secretary Mayorkas. "Cross-border travel creates significant economic activity in our border communities and benefits our broader economy. We are pleased to be taking steps to resume regular travel in a safe and sustainable manner."
Beginning in early January 2022, the DHS will require that all inbound foreign national travelers crossing U.S. land or ferry POEs – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination. This approach will provide ample time for essential travelers such as truckers, students, and healthcare workers to get vaccinated.
This new travel system will create consistent, stringent protocols for all foreign nationals traveling to the United States – whether by air, land, or ferry – and accounts for the wide availability of COVID-19 vaccinations.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, August 25, 2021
Although the Canada-U.S. border restrictions into Canada had been eased in July 2021, restrictions into the U.S. remain unchanged for non-essential travellers.
Canada announced on July 19, 2021 that as a first step, starting August 9, 2021, Canada would begin allowing entry to American citizens and permanent residents, who are currently residing in the United States, and have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior, to enter Canada for non-essential travel.
The U.S. announced on August 23, 2021 that existing travel limitations will remain in place until at least September 21, 2021 - the U.S. does not have similar plans to allow fully vaccinated Canadians to enter for non-essential travel. The Department of Homeland Security filed the Federal Register notice, calling the extension of the border closure a public health decision.
Supply chains, including trucking, are not impacted by the current measures and the movement of commercial goods across the border is unaffected. "Non-essential" travel pertains to travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
All travellers, with limited exceptions, whether entering Canada by air, land or marine vessel, must use the Government of Canada's ArriveCAN web portal to provide mandatory travel information within 72 hours before entering Canada.
On March 26, 2020, the Government of Canada put in place mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all persons entering Canada, even if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. This 14-day self-isolation does not pertain to trans-border truck drivers, the full exceptions are:
Exceptions
Consequently, an exception to the order to self-isolate for 14 days is being provided to workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. For example, this exemption would apply to:
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, August 12, 2021
The Meishan International Container Terminal (MSICT) of the Ningbo-Zhoushan port complex, has started to turn vessels away yesterday morning after a dock worker tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19). Truckers are not able to pick up empty containers or gate-in loaded containers to the terminal.
Ningbo is the 3rd largest container port in the world and encompasses five container terminals. The shutdown of the Meishan Terminal for a day, eliminates 20% of the port's capacity. There are reportedly 140 containerships at anchor waiting for berth outside of the port which was already heavily congested due to the impact of typhoon In-Fa last month. Any lengthy closure will result in diversion of vessels to other terminals and ports – further exacerbating capacity and putting upward pressure on freight rates.
We are closely watching developments at the Ningbo port, and will keep you updated with any additional information.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
Toronto, August 9, 2021
After 36 hours of intense negotiations, the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) and the Customs Immigration Union (CIU) reached a tentative agreement late Friday night to end the Canadian border workers strike.
The agreement means an immediate end to the work-to-rule strike action that started Friday morning by the more than 8,500 unionized staff with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) as the border reopens today to fully vaccinated travellers from the USA.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, August 6, 2021
Many Canada/USA border ports are seeing long lineups this morning as the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) begins their work-to-rule action. The unions (PSAC and CIU) for 8,500 CBSA personnel have been in talks with the Treasury Board through the night and again this morning.
There are lengthy delays entering Canada at Windsor and Fort Erie/Niagara Falls. Live webcams are available at both ports; Windsor Cam, Fort Erie Cam.
Travellers should refer to CBSA's Border Wait Times listing for hourly updates on the status at each border crossing.
Although almost 90 percent of CBSA employees are identified as "essential" and would continue to work in the event of a strike, they have threatened a work-to-rule by refusing to do non-essential duties of collecting duties and taxes. The unions have warned this action could have a dramatic impact on supply chains.
We will continue to monitor the situation and advise accordingly.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, August 5, 2021
With more than 8,500 unionized staff with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) positioned to go on strike Friday morning, their unions (PSAC and CIU) have stated work-to-rule action will take place to significantly disrupt travellers and commercial traffic entering Canada unless a deal is reached today.
"Shut this place down to a crawl and you let nothing through," CIU president Mark Weber told a crowd at the Windsor Ambassador Bridge, if there is no contract by Friday, when the two unions are in a legal strike position.
Although almost 90 percent of CBSA employees are identified as "essential" and would continue to work in the event of a strike, they have threatened a work-to-rule by refusing to do non-essential duties of collecting duties and taxes. The unions have warned this action could have a dramatic impact on supply chains.
We will continue to monitor the situation and advise accordingly.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, July 28, 2021
More than 8,500 unionized staff with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) voted yesterday in favour of a strike mandate just days before Canada allows fully vaccinated U.S. citizens to cross the border. Although almost 90 per cent of CBSA employees are identified as "essential" and would continue to work in the event of a strike, slowdowns are expected.
In a joint statement the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) and the Customs and Immigration Union (CIU) said strike action could begin as soon as August 6 after their members, 5,500 border services officers, 2,000 headquarters staff and other workers at Canada Post facilities, voted overwhelmingly in favour of the action.
Risk of significant economic disruption
A labour dispute while borders begin to reopen could cause a significant disruption to the flow of goods, services and people entering Canada, and impact the Canadian economy by:
Contract talks reached an impasse in December 2020, "We're going to work with them and we're hopeful there won't be any disruptions," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told reporters.
Last week, Canada announced plans to allow entry of fully vaccinated Americans beginning August 9, and fully vaccinated international travellers starting on September 7. The border has been shut for non-essential travel for more than 16 months because of the coronavirus pandemic. Strike action, as early as August 6 could throw these plans into jeopardy.
Dennis Darby, president of the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME), said Tuesday that the economy can't afford another trade disruption. He called on all parties to return to the table. "Any disruption will have significant impacts on our economic recovery and on the flow of essential goods into Canada," Darby said in a statement. "This situation will cripple manufacturers' ability to get the essential components and goods to sustain global supply chains, and threatens thousands of Canadian businesses."
We will continue to monitor the situation and advise accordingly.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, July 21, 2021
The Canada-U.S. border restrictions into Canada are being eased, however, restrictions into the U.S. remain unchanged for non-essential travellers.
Canada announced on July 19, 2021 that as a first step, starting August 9, 2021, Canada plans to begin allowing entry to American citizens and permanent residents, who are currently residing in the United States, and have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior, to enter Canada for non-essential travel.
The U.S. announced on July 21, 2021 that existing travel limitations will remain in place until at least August 21, 2021 - the U.S. does not have similar plans to allow fully vaccinated Canadians to enter for non-essential travel. The Department of Homeland Security filed the Federal Register notice, calling the extension of the border closure a public health decision.
Supply chains, including trucking, are not impacted by the current measures and the movement of commercial goods across the border is unaffected. "Non-essential" travel pertains to travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
On March 26, 2020, the Government of Canada put in place mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all persons entering Canada, even if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. This 14-day self-isolation does not pertain to trans-border truck drivers, the full exceptions are:
Exceptions
Consequently, an exception to the order to self-isolate for 14 days is being provided to workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. For example, this exemption would apply to:
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, June 21, 2021
The Canada-U.S. border closure has once again been extended, to non-essential travel, for another 30 days and is now set to expire on July 21, 2021. The Canada-U.S. border will now have been closed to non-essential travel for 16-months.
Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety, made the announcement on Twitter, saying "in coordination with the U.S., we are extending restrictions on non-essential international travel and with the United States until July 21, 2021." Blair added that "the government is planning measures for fully vaccinated Canadians, permanent residents, and others who are currently permitted to enter Canada." Those measures were announced today, June 21, 2021, with the Public Health Agency of Canada's Government of Canada's first phase to easing border measures for travellers entering Canada outlining the first phase of its approach to easing border measures for fully vaccinated travellers entering Canada.
Supply chains, including trucking, are not impacted by the current measures and the movement of commercial goods across the border is unaffected. "Non-essential" travel pertains to travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
On March 26, 2020, the Government of Canada put in place mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all persons entering Canada, even if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. This 14-day self-isolation does not pertain to trans-border truck drivers, the full exceptions are:
Exceptions
Consequently, an exception to the order to self-isolate for 14 days is being provided to workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. For example, this exemption would apply to:
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, June 11, 2021
Efforts to control the current Coronavirus outbreak in Southern China have resulted in massive delays at the port of Yantian where cases have been identified, and it is now affecting operations of terminals in the surrounding areas. The port of Yantian has just recently started to resume activity but is only operating at 15% of normal level. Workforce at the terminal has also been reduced by seventy percent due to quarantine restrictions and increased testing. There are currently 27 vessels waiting to berth at Yantian port since June 4th. As carriers are omitting Yantian, nearby ports such as Nansha and Shekou are under further stress to handle the shift of cargo volume. Not only is the uptick in cargo volume hampering the nearby ports, but Coronavirus outbreaks have also migrated into Nansha and Shekou. Hong Kong will be accepting re-routed vessels which were originally to go to the aforementioned ports, however, it is fully expected it too will start to face congestion issues shortly.
In Taiwan, the port of Kaohsiung has suffered damage to their operations last week when the 316-meter-long containership OOCL Durban, toppled two container cranes. This was due to a collision with another vessel which was anchored at pier. This caused one crane to collapse, severe damage to another crane and damage to 30-50 containers. As a result of this accident, there is also heavy congestion at the port of Kaohsiung which is the world's fourth largest container port.
Carriers have already announced significant disruptions to sailings and schedules due to the current situation in Southern China and Taiwan, with the Alliance cancelling or transferring 29 calls since the end of May and confirming omissions running up to June 25.
We will continue to monitor the situation and advise accordingly.
For more information, please call Paul Glionna, Vice President – Systems Development & Operations at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1220.
Toronto, May 21, 2021
The Canada-U.S. border closure has once again been extended, to non-essential travel, for another 30 days and is now set to expire on June 21, 2021. The Canada-U.S. border will now have been closed to non-essential travel for 15-months.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted confirmation of the continued border closure: "Update on the Canada-US border: To protect your health and limit the spread of COVID-19, we're extending the measures currently in place by another 30 days. Non-essential travel between our two countries remains restricted until June 21st." Earlier in the week Trudeau said "Before we get back to normal, cases need to be under control and over 75 per cent of people need to be vaccinated for us to start loosening things in Canada.".
Supply chains, including trucking, are not impacted by this measure and the movement of commercial goods across the border is unaffected. "Non-essential" travel pertains to travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
On March 26, 2020, the Government of Canada put in place mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all persons entering Canada, even if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. This 14-day self-isolation does not pertain to trans-border truck drivers, the full exceptions are:
Exceptions
Consequently, an exception to the order to self-isolate for 14 days is being provided to workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. For example, this exemption would apply to:
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, December 21, 2020
The Canada-U.S. border closure has once again been extended, to non-essential travel, for another 30 days and is now set to expire on January 21, 2021.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said "It will be a real shame to open things too quickly and see vulnerabilities, so I'm going to be very, very cautious when it comes to keeping Canadians safe, even if there's lots of pressure to allow international travel again,". On December 1, Trudeau said the ban on nonessential travel with the United States will not be lifted until COVID-19 is significantly more under control around the world.
Supply chains, including trucking, are not impacted by this measure and the movement of commercial goods across the border is unaffected. "Non-essential" travel pertains to travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
On March 26, 2020, the Government of Canada put in place mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all persons entering Canada, even if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. This 14-day self-isolation does not pertain to trans-border truck drivers, the full exceptions are:
Exceptions
Consequently, an exception to the order to self-isolate for 14 days is being provided to workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. For example, this exemption would apply to:
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, October 22, 2020
The Canada-U.S. border closure has once again been extended, to non-essential travel, for another 30 days and is now set to expire on November 21, 2020.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said “We will continue to make sure that Canadian safety is top of mind when we move forward. We see the cases in the United States and elsewhere around the world, and we need to continue to keep these border controls in place” during an interview with a radio station in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Supply chains, including trucking, are not impacted by this measure and the movement of commercial goods across the border is unaffected. "Non-essential" travel pertains to travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
On March 26, 2020, the Government of Canada put in place mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all persons entering Canada, even if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. This 14-day self-isolation does not pertain to trans-border truck drivers, the full exceptions are:
Exceptions
Consequently, an exception to the order to self-isolate for 14 days is being provided to workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. For example, this exemption would apply to:
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, August 17, 2020
Public Safety Minister Bill Blair tweeted Friday, August 14, 2020, “We are extending the reciprocal restrictions at the Canada-US border for another 30 days, till Sept. 21, 2020. We will continue to do what’s necessary to keep our communities safe”. The mutual agreement, which was introduced in March to help stop the spread of COVID-19, was set to expire on August 21, 2020.
Supply chains, including trucking, are not impacted by this measure and the movement of commercial goods across the border is unaffected. “Non-essential” travel pertains to travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
On March 26, 2020, the Government of Canada put in place mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all persons entering Canada, even if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. This 14-day self-isolation does not pertain to trans-border truck drivers, and the full exceptions are:
Exceptions
Consequently, an exception to the order to self-isolate for 14 days is being provided to workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. For example, this exemption would apply to:
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, August 14, 2020
Since July, rates on the Trans-Pacific trade lane from Asia to North America have increased substantially due to strong consumer demand. We have seen volumes rise steadily, even with the reinstatement of void sailings which had enabled the lines to keep rates stable while demand was low during the early months of Coronavirus (COVID-19).
The steamship lines have announced GRIs (General Rate Increases) for August 15, September 1 and September 15. Many analysts contribute this high demand to shippers who are moving as much cargo as possible ahead of the holiday season, in anticipation that COVID outbreaks may prompt more lockdowns later this quarter.
For more information, please call Debbie McGuire, Manager – Freight Solutions at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1308.
Toronto, May 28, 2020
On May 7, 2020 we advised that the Government of Canada waived tariffs on a vast array of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and medical goods to provide relief during the COVID-19 crisis. Both the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Department of Finance have now confirmed this relief goes well beyond the intended PPE and, in fact, includes all imported goods falling within the stated HS tariff classifications.
Remission of duty is temporarily granted for classifications listed in the Certain Goods Remission Order (COVID-19) SOR-2020-101, under the following conditions:
| a) | the good was imported into Canada on or after May 5, 2020 and subject to customs duties; | |
| b) | no other claim for relief of the customs duties has been granted under the Customs Tariff in respect of the good; | |
| c) | the importer files, on request, the evidence or information that the Canada Border Services Agency requires to determine eligibility for remission; | |
| d) | the importer agrees that it is subject, at any time, including after remission relief is provided, to review by the Canada Border Services Agency for the purpose of determining whether the information supplied by the importer under paragraph (c) is accurate and complete and whether the facts on which the Canada Border Services Agency relied or intends to rely to determine the eligibility for remission remain unchanged in all material respects; and | |
| e) | at the time when the Canada Border Services Agency conducts the review referred to in paragraph (d), the Canada Border Services Agency must be able to conclude that the information supplied remains accurate and complete and that the facts remain unchanged in all material respects. |
As the validity of the remission relies on the importer to prove the declared classification is correct upon request by CBSA, we would recommend obtaining Binding Rulings, where applicable, in order to avoid potential re-assessment of duty and associated penalties.
Contact us if you would like to ensure the benefits of this duty-free Remission Order are applied to your qualifying imports, and Universal Logistics will request Binding Rulings from the CBSA on your behalf (Consulting fees will apply).
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, May 19, 2020
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated today during his daily COVID-19 update that Canada and the U.S. had come to an agreement to further extend the border closure to non-essential travel by another 30 days. The mutual agreement, initially put in place in March and extended in April, was set to expire May 21, 2020, but has now been extended until June 21, 2020.
Supply chains, including trucking, are not impacted by this measure and the movement of commercial goods across the border is unaffected. “Non-essential” travel pertains to travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
On March 26, 2020, the Government of Canada put in place mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all persons entering Canada, even if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. This 14-day self-isolation does not pertain to trans-border truck drivers, the full exceptions are:
Exceptions
Consequently, an exception to the order to self-isolate for 14 days is being provided to workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. For example, this exemption would apply to:
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, May 7, 2020
To provide further relief during the COVID-19 crisis, the Government of Canada is waiving tariffs on certain medical goods and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), imported on or after May 5, 2020. Following are the product categories eligible for relief:In the News release, Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced the action is to keep Canadians safe by further ensuring access to Personal Protective Equipment and other necessary medical equipment. This tariff relief will reduce the cost of necessary supplies for Canadian businesses, which face tariffs of up to 18 per cent in some instances, help protect workers and ensure our supply chains can keep functioning well. Mr. Morneau stated, “Our first priority is the health and safety of Canadian Businesses. By removing financial barriers, we’re making sure Canadians and Canadian businesses can access the critical medical goods they need during the COVID-19 crisis. Our government remains focused on making sure workers have the protective equipment they need, that our supply chains continue to work well, and that Canadians remain safe and healthy.”
Tariff relief for these goods will remain in place for as long as necessary to deal with the COVID-19 crisis.
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) issued Customs Notice 20-19 “Certain Goods Remission Order (COVID-19)”, to outline the additional tariff relief to importers of eligible goods (list reproduced below) on or after May 5, 2020. This remission of duty does not apply to goods imported prior to May 5, 2020.
All imports utilizing this remission order for relief of customs duties must also include all relevant documents (e.g. copy of original Form B3-3, bill of lading, sales invoice, waybill, sales contract, etc.) that demonstrate that the imported good matches the list of goods in Appendix A, was imported into Canada on or after May 5, 2020, and is subject to customs duties.
Remission is granted under the following conditions:
a) the good was imported into Canada on or after May 5, 2020 and subject to customs duties;
b) no other claim for relief of the customs duties has been granted under the Customs Tariff in respect of the good;
c) the importer files, on request, the evidence or information that the Canada Border Services Agency requires to determine eligibility for remission;
d) the importer agrees that it is subject, at any time, including after remission relief is provided, to review by the Canada Border Services Agency for the purpose of determining whether the information supplied by the importer under paragraph (c) is accurate and complete and whether the facts on which the Canada Border Services Agency relied or intends to rely to determine the eligibility for remission remain unchanged in all material respects; and
e) at the time when the Canada Border Services Agency conducts the review referred to in paragraph (d), the Canada Border Services Agency must be able to conclude that the information supplied remains accurate and complete and that the facts remain unchanged in all material respects.
Examinations and Verifications
Importations may be subject to examination at the time of importation and to post-release verification for compliance with the Tariff Classification, Valuation, Origin and Marking programs, and any other applicable programs or provisions administered by the CBSA. If non-compliance is encountered by the CBSA, in addition to assessments of any applicable customs duties and taxes, penalties may be imposed and interest will be assessed, where applicable.
Following is the list with description of goods, based on tariff classification, which are eligible for relief under this Order.
Goods eligible for relief under the Certain Goods Remission Order (COVID-19)
*The descriptions below are for illustrative purposes only. Customs duty relief is applicable to all goods under these tariff items.
| Tariff Item | Description* |
Face and eye protection |
|
3926.90.99 |
Plastic face-masks, without mechanical parts, with or without a replaceable non-woven filter |
6307.90.99 |
Face-masks of other textile materials |
Gloves |
|
3926.20.91 |
Other disposable plastic gloves |
3926.20.92 |
Non-disposable plastic gloves |
4015.11.00 |
Surgical rubber gloves |
4015.19.90 |
Other rubber gloves |
6116.10.00 |
Knitted or crocheted gloves which have been impregnated, coated or covered with plastics or rubber |
6216.00.00 |
Textile work gloves that are not knitted or crocheted |
Protective Garments and the Like |
|
3926.20.93 |
Other articles of apparel and clothing accessories, of plastics, containing not more than 25% by weight of woven fabrics of man-made fibres, coated on both sides with polymers of vinyl chloride |
3926.20.94 |
Other articles of apparel and clothing accessories, of plastics, combined with knitted or woven fabrics, bolducs, nonwovens or felt, containing woven fabrics of more than 50% by weight of silk |
3926.20.95 |
Other articles of apparel and clothing accessories, of plastics, combined with knitted or woven fabrics, bolducs, nonwovens or felt |
3926.20.99 |
Other articles of apparel and clothing accessories, of plastics |
4015.90.90 |
Other garments made of rubber sheeting |
6113.00.90 |
Other garments, made up of knitted or crocheted fabrics of heading 59.03, 59.06 or 59.07 |
6114.20.00 |
Other garments, knitted or crocheted, of cotton |
6114.30.00 |
Other garments, knitted or crocheted, of man-made fibres |
6114.90.00 |
Other garments, knitted or crocheted, of other textile materials |
6210.10.90 |
Other garments made up of felt or nonwovens whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated (fabrics of heading 56.02 or 56.03) |
6210.40.90 |
Other men’s or boys’ garments of woven fabrics that are impregnated, coated, covered or laminated (fabrics of headings 59.03, 59.06 or 59.07) |
6210.50.90 |
Other women’s or girls’ garments of woven fabrics that are impregnated, coated, covered or laminated (fabrics of headings 59.03, 59.06 or 59.07). This includes unisex garments. |
6211.32.00 |
Coveralls (men's or boys' - of cotton) |
6211.33.00 |
Coveralls (men's or boys' - of man-made fibres) |
6211.39.90 |
Other garments (men's or boys' - of other textile materials) |
6211.42.00 |
Other garments of cotton (women's or girls') |
6211.43.90 |
Other garments of man-made fibres (women's or girls') |
6211.49.99 |
Other garments of other textile materials (women's or girls’) |
6217.10.00 |
Other made up clothing accessories |
6505.00.10 |
Hair-nets |
Disinfectants / Sterilization products |
|
2208.90.29 |
Alcohol solution - undenatured, 75% ethyl alcohol |
3808.94.10 |
Hand sanitizer, in liquid or gel form, or rubs and wipes impregnated with alcohol or other disinfectants, if in packages <1.36 kg each; Other disinfectant preparations put up in forms or packings for retail sale in packages <1.36 kg each, containing alcohol, benzalkonium chloride solution or peroxyacids, or other disinfectants such as hydrogen peroxide. This includes sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC) and calcium hypochlorite (65-70% active chlorine). |
Wipes |
|
6307.10.10 |
Industrial shop towels, hemmed, of a width of 43 cm or more but not exceeding 56 cm and a length of 43 cm or more but not exceeding 61 cm, of unbleached woven fabrics solely of cotton or of cotton and man-made fibres, measuring per single yarn 420 decitex to 1,000 decitex and having not less than 78 yarns but not more than 133 yarns per 10 cm in the warp and not less than 78 yarns but not more than 137 yarns per 10 cm in the weft, of a weight of 135 g/m2 or more but not exceeding 203 g/m2 |
6307.10.90 |
Other floor-cloths, dish-cloths, dusters and similar cleaning cloths |
Medical Consumables |
|
3926.90.99 |
Plastic urine bags, with outlet tap and non-return valve |
6307.90.93 |
Other made up articles of textile (swabs), of cotton or other vegetable textile fibres, except solely of jute |
6307.90.99 |
Other made up articles of textile (swabs), of other textile materials |
Other Products |
|
3401.11.90 |
Soap (in bar form) |
3401.20.90 |
Soap (in liquid, powder or other forms) |
3401.30.00 |
Organic surface-active products and preparations for washing the skin, in the form of liquid or cream and put up for retail sale, whether or not containing soap |
3923.21.90 |
Sacks and bags (including cones), of polymers of ethylene |
7324.90.00 |
Sanitary ware, Kidney basins (stainless steel) |
For more information please visit our web site for Coronavirus (COVID-19) Alerts along with COVID-19 trade related FAQs.
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, April 28, 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, April 28, 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:
China Crackdown on Shoddy PPE Exports Pushing Air Cargo Rates Even Higher (Ciffa, April 28, 2020)
A Beijing crackdown on shoddy medical exports has led to surging air cargo costs and congestion in South China.
Following widespread complaints of defective personal protective equipment (PPE), the Chinese authorities have tightened quality controls and increased customs inspections.
“In Shanghai, customs brokers have raised rates for export clearance by up to six times, due to extra paperwork and processing time,” according to Norman Global Logistics.
The company said: “So far this is impacting the Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen regions, but we expect it to happen in the rest of the country, as at least 90% of all medical cargo will require customs inspection.”
Canada-U.S. Border Closed to Non-Essential Travel; Trade Will Keep Moving
The closure of the Canada-U.S. border to non-essential travel has been extended to May 20, 2020. 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.
AIR UPDATES:
Air Freight Market Continues its Dramatic Evolution
There appears to be no end in sight
for soaring air freight rates as demand for freighters rises
in response to the surge in demand for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). And there are fears, with the next Chinese holiday due from May 1-5, that prices might go even higher in the last week of April and into early May.
Freighters are flying maximum hours, and available capacity is selling out almost immediately. Most freighter carriers are sold out through May and there is little room to add additional flights. For comparison, recent data from Seabury showed that the global widebody freighter fleet is flying close to 17% more block hours than it did in January. So aircraft are going to require maintenance in the coming months which will pinch capacity ever further.
Air Canada Route Updates
In a positive sign for the airline industry, Air Canada has begun to launch new scheduled flights within North America and between North America and Europe which will add some much needed capacity to the overall market.
For a full list of Air Canada’s operating routes and route suspensions, please click here.
OCEAN UPDATES:
Carriers may have hit peak capacity reductions on main trades (Lloyd’s Loading List, April 28, 2020)Container lines have been blanking (cancelling) large numbers of sailings to cater to reduced demand, which continues to be a huge issue for cargo planning for importers and exporters alike. But new figures show the worst of the cutbacks may now be passing. The volume of capacity withdrawn from container lines’ capacity may be about to peak, according to analysis.
With some lockdown restrictions starting to lift, especially across much of Europe, there is hope in the market that there could be a boost in container freight demand, but this is likely to be a short-term rather than a more comprehensive outlook, as many importers and retail outlets are wary of a potential second-string of lockdown measures should coronavirus case numbers start to see more increases.
PORT & RAIL UPDATES:
Port and Rail systems across North America are generally reporting smooth operations, with little disruption to services. Container dwell times at the docks and truck processing times at the majority of terminals are normal.
TRUCK UPDATES:
Tight capacity will drive year-end snapback in trucking markets (Freightwaves, April 28, 2020)The “snapback” in freight markets is going to be hard and fast, driven by tighter capacity as drivers leave the current falling market, according to the chief economist of the leading third-party logistics providers’ (3PLs) trade association.
Long-time industry economist Noel Perry, now chief economist of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), advised this week that he sees a recovery in which volumes fall off sharply this quarter and into the third quarter, climb back slowly, but face a capacity crunch because of the number of trucks put “on the fence” by owners beaten down by low rates and volumes now.
And although he doesn’t see the volumes of the fourth quarter of 2019 returning for a few years, they will increase enough that he described a marketplace that “jumps up” later this year. “It usually takes us a quarter or two until we realize the need to change something, and by the time we start adding drivers, the marketplace is already tight,” he said.
“Trucks are parked and won’t be manned, so pricing should be relatively attractive once we get into late this year and next year,” Perry added. The impact from these developments, without putting a number on it, is that prices will “drop badly in 2020,” according to Perry. But he said he expected prices to move up “strongly” late this year and into next year “because they are making up the capacity pressures of two downward years.”
But looking into the future is particularly difficult this time around, he added, because “we just haven’t had a shock of this magnitude before.”
“I can tell you the industry will be surprised by the snapback,” he said. “There will be a time when there will be scrambling for trucks.”
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, April 21, 2020
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated during his daily COVID-19 update on Saturday April 18, 2020, that Canada and the U.S. had come to an agreement to extend the border closure to non-essential travel by another 30 days. The mutual agreement put in place last month was set to expire on April 21, 2020.
Supply chains, including trucking, are not impacted by this measure and the movement of commercial goods across the border is unaffected. "Non-essential" travel pertains to travel that is considered tourism or recreational in nature.
On March 26, 2020, the Government of Canada put in place mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all persons entering Canada, even if they do not have COVID-19 symptoms. This 14-day self-isolation does not pertain to trans-border truck drivers, the full exceptions are:
Exceptions
Consequently, an exception to the order to self-isolate for 14 days is being provided to workers who are essential to the movement of goods and people. For example, this exemption would apply to:
For more information, please call Brian Rowe, Director – Customs Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1213.
Toronto, April 7, 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, April 7, 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 Seeking to Keep Cross-Border Supply Chains Open in Face of Growing COVID-19 Export Controls (Ciffa, April 1, 2020)
One casualty of the COVID-19 crisis has been the international supply chain for medical supplies and medical products. To date, governments of at least 68 countries have enacted restrictions on the export of medical supplies and devices.
In particular, China is enforcing stringent new export requirements on medical products being used to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, exports of the following products require certification from authorized testing laboratories, copies of the manufacturer’s business license and the manufacturer’s certificate from China’s National Medical Products Administration.
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.
AIR UPDATES:
Air Freight Market ‘Evolving Dramatically’ (Ciffa, April 7, 2020)
Medical supplies, pharmaceuticals and perishables are keeping air cargo markets afloat, supporting freight rates and charter prices, even as demand for many consumer products and manufacturing supplies nosedives due to economic shutdowns in many parts of the world. But the air freight market is also evolving rapidly and dramatically, with the demand and supply dynamics changing so fast that one of the biggest battles for freight forwarders is impressing upon customers the need to make quick decisions to secure capacity.
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:
European and North American Ports Face Increasing Box Congestion (Ciffa, April 1, 2020)
Container ports across the world aside from China are set to face imminent congestion as a swathe of boxes sent for shipment from factories in Asia arrive at their import destinations.
Shipping lines started calling at Chinese ports again three weeks ago as the infection rate in China declined and production resumed. A lot of boxes stranded during the initial lockdown finally sailed.
However, over the past 10 days the COVID-19 impact has dramatically hit consumer demand in North American and European markets, as non-essential retail outlets closed and commerce generally shut-down.
“This leaves a fair tonnage of goods already on the water on their way to western markets, most bought FOB or FCA, which means the buyer will need to manage them once they arrive,” said James Hookham, secretary general of the Global Shippers Forum.
The inbound unwanted containers are triggering forecasts of congestion in port stacking yards and sparking debate about demurrage charges and storage policies.
Reliability to Suffer as Void Sailings Multiply (Lloyd’s Loading List, April 2 2020)
Shippers should be prepared for longer transit times, direct connections suddenly becoming transhipment connections, congestion issues in ports and terminals and the potential of a shortage in trucking capacity.
Late notice changes to schedules are already impacting carrier service reliability. According to Sea-Intelligence, global schedule reliability dropped by a further 3.4 percentage points month-on-month in February 2020 to 65.1%, the lowest recorded global score since the analyst introduced its coverage of reliability in 2011.
Not only do blanked sailings directly impact shippers with space booked on a specific service, they also affect the schedule reliability of services still in operation, as inducement calls and other tactical measures become harder to implement within existing schedules.
Carriers may have to tranship in unfamiliar ports and terminals, and the massive amount of blank sailings will lead to inland supply chain disruptions, which will lead to pile-ups and challenges in container repatriation, and thus to equipment shortages.
Port of Vancouver 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 Update
All Port of Montreal terminals are running at full capacity. Container dwell times at the docks and truck processing times at the terminals are normal.
Port of Halifax Update
The movement of containerized cargo vessels through the Port of Halifax has not been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Currently, there are no restrictions on container cargo vessel operations at the Port.
RAIL & TRUCK UPDATES:
Ontario Officials, Unions Call on Business Support to Keep Goods moving (Canadian Shipper April 2, 2020)
The Ontario Government has called on businesses to support truck drivers as they travel on provincial roads working long hours delivering food, equipment and other essential supplies for Ontario families.
“Our truck drivers deserve our respect, our support, our thanks and our best efforts to help them as they continue to make sure we can put food on our tables and pick up other necessary items.”
The statement was issued in response to the treatment some working within the trucking industry have faced and the Ministers called on business owners to support drivers when they are stopping to rest, get gas or use washrooms.
The government said it is providing more safe places for truck drivers to stop and rest across the province and are keeping all 23 ONroute travel plazas open for take-out, grab and go and drive-through services, including washrooms with enhanced cleaning, as well as also providing portable washrooms at 32 truck inspection stations so trucks have a place to stop and rest safely.
CN Update
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. CN is reporting a fluid rail network, border crossings, inland terminal operations, and port gateways on the West and East coasts of Canada, and Southern U.S..
CP 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, 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, 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.
Tip #27 – Show compliance with wood packaging regulations
Making your compliance with wood packaging regulations highly visible on all documentation reduces your chances of being inspected, especially now that enforcement is becoming increasingly stringent.
Making your compliance with wood packaging regulations highly visible on all documentation reduces your chances of being inspected, especially now that enforcement is becoming increasingly stringent.
