Cargill Beef North America

Cargill’s High River facility in Alberta, Canada, stands as a testament to efficiency and quality in the beef processing industry. With 2,000 employees processing 4,500 head of cattle daily, this fully integrated facility adheres to the highest standards of food safety, animal health, and employee safety, under the strict regulation of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Despite its operational excellence, Cargill High River faced logistical challenges in exporting its products, particularly to Asian markets.

Partnering with Trappers Transport, a logistics expert, Cargill sought to streamline their export process. The primary challenge was the inefficient method of shipping beef using a 53’ triaxle from High River to a transload facility in Lower Mainland, British Columbia. This process led to prolonged transit times and complex documentation, hindering Cargill’s operational efficiency.

Trappers Transport, after a thorough analysis, introduced a full-lifecycle source loading program. They repositioned 40’ marine reefers directly to the High River plant, employing an over-the-road genset service model. This strategy enabled the direct loading of containers off the production line, reducing steps in the shipping process, ensuring a sealed cold chain, and eliminating secondary documentation.

This collaboration brought several benefits. Transit times were significantly reduced, enhancing the freshness and quality of the beef products. Simplified logistics and documentation processes led to more efficient export operations. The consistent cold chain management ensured product integrity during transit. Trappers Transport’s single point of contact streamlined communication and coordination. Their strategic solutions, like the yard in Lower Mainland, provided secure storage during port strikes, ensuring continuity in operations.

“Trappers Transport has redefined reliability in our logistics landscape. Their professionalism and forward-thinking approach have brought unparalleled efficiency to our supply chain.”

Parker Armstrong
Senior Transportation Manager at Cargill Beef North America

The results were substantial. Cargill High River saw an improvement in operational efficiency and product quality. The partnership also provided a competitive advantage in delivering superior products to Asian markets.

Benefit Outcome Quantify Outcome
Reduced Transit Times Faster delivery of products to international markets Significant reduction in shipping duration
Enhanced Product Quality Higher quality beef products due to reduced handling and better cold chain management Improvement in product freshness and condition
Simplified Logistics and Documentation Easier management of export operations with fewer documentation requirements Reduction in administrative time and error potential
Consistent Cold Chain Management Maintained optimal temperatures throughout transit, preserving product integrity Decrease in product spoilage or quality issues
Single Point of Contact Streamlined communication and coordination for logistics Enhanced efficiency in logistics management
Improved Operational Efficiency More efficient overall export process Increase in throughput and reduction in delays
Strategic Solutions During Contingencies Capability to continue operations smoothly during external disruptions like port strikes Minimized operational disruptions during crises
Competitive Advantage Fresher products delivered efficiently to Asian markets Gained edge in market competitiveness
Enhanced Corporate Reputation Positive reflection on Cargill’s commitment to quality and efficiency Improved brand perception and customer trust
“In the dynamic world of international beef exports, Trappers’ reliability is unmatched. Their forward-thinking strategies have consistently adapted to our evolving needs, ensuring seamless operations.”

Jeff Cline
Senior Program Manager of International Beef

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