The Port of Montreal has welcomed the heavy lift carrier HAPPY ROVER, which docked at the port’s Racine terminal to unload containers. “For the first time in its history, last week the Port of Montreal welcomed a container ship straight from China, without cargo transshipment in the Mediterranean,” the port said.
The HAPPY ROVER is one of the R-type heavy lift carriers in the Big Lift fleet, equipped with large 400t cranes. While the R-vessels are mostly used for heavy lift project cargo, they can also be used for bulk cargo, general cargo and containers.
The HAPPY ROVER was chartered by freight forwarder Fracht FWO and sailed through the Panama Canal. After calling at Montreal it is scheduled to proceed to Cleveland.
“This is great news for consumers and businesses, who in recent months have gone through a number of unforeseen events in global supply chains, and are seriously concerned about shortages over the holiday season,” the port said. “A direct, non-stop link between Asia and Montreal provides an optimal solution in terms of supply chain fluidity and efficiency, benefiting from quick access to the Port of Montreal’s infrastructure and the performance of its intermodal network directly connected to the rail and road networks.
Guillaume Brossard, Vice-President, Growth and Development at the Montreal Port Authority, said: “The first direct shipping link, without transshipment, between Asia and the Port of Montreal demonstrates the fluidity of trade and the availability of our facilities in Montreal. The Port of Montreal is pleased to be able to count on the efficiency and strength of its key supply chain partners. As a strategic asset, our main role is to ensure optimal service for the benefit of North American businesses and citizens. Our partner MGTP’s responsiveness and creativity help us fulfil our essential role at the heart of society.”
