CEVA Logistics successfully managed the transport of five massive double-deck railcars, each weighing over 62 tons, from Tianjin, China to Montreal, Canada. This complex project involved moving the oversized cargo more than 12,200 kilometers, utilizing a multimodal solution combining land, sea, and rail transport. The undertaking showcased CEVA’s expertise in handling delicate, high-value freight across international borders.
The railcars, developed by CRRC Tangshan, were not only large in size—each measured 27 meters in length, 3.1 meters in width, and 4.9 meters in height—but were also highly valuable and prone to damage. This meant that the logistics team had to meticulously plan every aspect of the journey to ensure the safe and timely delivery of the cargo. CEVA’s experienced teams in both China and Canada coordinated closely to ensure smooth customs clearance and seamless transportation across multiple stages.
The journey began at CRRC Tangshan’s factory in Tianjin, where the railcars were carefully packaged and secured for their long journey. From there, they were transported to Tianjin Port in northeastern China, before embarking on a sea voyage that took them through the Panama Canal and into Bécancour Port in Quebec. Upon arrival in Canada, the railcars were transferred onto rail tracks, marking the final stage of their journey to the project site in Montreal.
Given the size and sensitivity of the cargo, CEVA employed specialized lashing techniques to secure the railcars during both ocean and rail transport. Their technical teams, with local expertise, ensured that every step of the process was executed with precision, taking into account the various challenges posed by the project’s international scope.
One of the key hurdles was the coordination required to clear customs in both China and Canada. With CEVA’s global reach and local knowledge, the company was able to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively, ensuring that the railcars crossed borders without delay.
This successful project highlights the importance of integrated multimodal solutions in the logistics industry. By combining land, sea, and rail transportation, CEVA was able to deliver these oversized railcars efficiently and safely, despite the considerable distance and challenges involved. For CRRC Tangshan, the safe arrival of the railcars in Montreal represented a critical milestone in their operations.