VANCOUVER, B.C. — A recently formed Container Drayage Leadership Team, consisting of stakeholders including the B.C. Trucking Association, has reached an agreement in principle that it says will see increased coordination and improved efficiencies at Port Metro Vancouver.

The agreement sets a new approach to an integrated container drayage sector, stakeholders say. In addition to BCTA, the team includes members from: Terminal Systems Inc. (TSI); DP World (DPW); Fraser Surrey Docks (FSD); Port Metro Vancouver; BC Chamber of Shipping (CoS); and the Western Canadian Shippers Coalition (WCSC).

The agreement sets the framework for the port, container truckers and container terminals to develop benchmark service standards, according to stakeholders. The agreement also will allow for the measurement and monitoring of the performance of each of the participants against established benchmarks. The team also says the new deal will included an improved dispute resolution process for container terminals, trucking companies and the port as well as its supply chain partners.

“Thanks to the Container Drayage Leadership Team for their commitment to tangibly improve the supply chain. PMV has seen a sustained increase in container volumes, representing great news for container terminals, the container drayage sector and the economy; but with growth comes the need to improve our business with efficient transactions at each point along the supply chain,” said Peter Xotta, vice-president planning and operations, Port Metro Vancouver. “Today’s agreement marks a new beginning; by working collaboratively, we will see better outcomes that benefit everyone.”

Louise Yako, president and CEO of the BCTA, added: “Each supply chain partner is accountable for their actions. The work of the team involves creating a better understanding of how the actions of one supply chain partner affect another. On the ground, drayage carriers and drivers should realize consistent, reliable and reasonable turn times that will address long-standing concerns about productivity and efficiency.”

Eric Waltz, president of TSI Terminal Systems, the largest container terminal in Port Metro Vancouver, lauded the participants for coming together to improve processes.

“We support the growth and productivity of this gateway and will continue to work with the Port, the BCTA, and our industry partners towards operational improvements. I believe this type of collaboration will achieve great success for our industry and our customers,” Waltz said.