November 11, 2003

CN introduces different rate policy for storage at BIT

Canadian Shipper

CN will introduce a new policy specifically designed for the Brampton Intermodal Terminal (BIT) this December that it says is more reflective of customer needs.

Free storage will be allowed for 3 days (up from 2 days) and storage fee thereafter will be increased to $ 150 per day.

All other CN terminals will remain at 3 free days and $75 per day after free time has expired.

"The reason for the hefty increase in storage is clearly designed to discourage the ‘cheap warehousing alternative’ at the terminal. After all, this is designed to be a rail to truck transfer station.," commented the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA ).

CIFFA added that it approves this move and applauds CN for taking the step to increase the free days. above.

CIFFA is also asking freight forwarders, brokers and importers to become more planful in the import process so that delivery can take place upon customs clearance.

"Clearly, with more appropriate planning, a 48 to 72 hours time window for delivery should be adequate," CIFFA says.