With the uncertainty in the worldwide economy, it seems like nothing is left untouched including Canada’s two largest railways: The Canadian National Railway Co. (CN) and Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. (CP).

The CN and CP both find themselves looking for a way to brace for the economic slowdown that is knocking on the industries door and seem to have found a solution in terms of improving their supply chain.

Trains have long been transporting goods across continents, but there had always been products which have been historically  transported by trucks. This is where CP is partnering up with a trucking firm to broaden their shipments of goods that are readily transferred between trucks and trains. With the help of “flat racks”, CP will transport shipments that are going for longer distances making it more efficient for the companies.

CN is also collaborating with other companies such as Agri-Food Central Ltd by signing a pact to strengthen their delivery schedules which include shipments to Vancouver, Montreal, New Orleans and Mexico. CN also bought insulated containers that “can carry temperature-sensitive products” such as beer which has led to appreciation from Molson Coors.

For the time being, both companies continue to chug right along.