In the fast-paced world of logistics, efficiency is everything. Slow throughput, limited capacity, and outdated systems can quickly disrupt supply chains—especially for shippers moving high-volume commodities. At WTC Group’s Kingsway Terminal, we saw these challenges as opportunities. Through strategic infrastructure investments and cutting-edge automation, we achieved a 400% increase in throughput since 2021, positioning Kingsway as a leader in transloading efficiency and supply chain optimization.
Here’s how we did it—and where we’re headed next.
An Overview of Kingsway Terminal
Strategically located in Vancouver, home to Canada’s largest and busiest port, WTC Groups’s Kingsway Terminal is built for efficiency and scale. Spanning 17 acres, the terminal combines advanced infrastructure with seamless logistics systems to optimize transloading and streamline the supply chain.
At the heart of the terminal is a 170,000 sq. ft. cross-docking warehouse, designed to handle high volumes of imports and exports with precision.
What sets Kingsway apart is its interior and exterior rail access: four rail spurs, three of which are completely covered within the warehouse.
This design allows for:
- Cleanliness and protection from the elements, essential for maintaining product quality.
- Faster, smoother transitions between railcars, trucks, and containers, minimizing handling times and bottlenecks.
This robust infrastructure allows Kingsway to handle a diverse mix of commodities—from resins, pulp, and lumber to retail merchandise—with speed and reliability, supporting shippers across North America and beyond.
The Key Upgrades Since 2021
A variety of upgrades at WTC Group’s Kingsway Terminal has made it possible to achieve a 400% increase in throughput. By combining smart investments with innovative systems, we’ve taken transloading efficiency and supply chain performance to the next level.
1. State-of-the-Art Bagging and Pallet Automation
To meet growing demand, WTC Group engineered high-efficiency bagging systems that drastically improved productivity:
- Packaging volumes increased from 0 to over 800,000kg per 25-hour period.
- Bagging speed jumped from 800 bags/hour to 1,175 bags/hour.
These automated systems not only increase throughput but also ensure accuracy, consistency, and product quality.
2. Intermodal to Container Loading Improvements
Precision and speed define our loading process. Innovations in container handling reduced load time from 14 minutes to just 2.2 minutes per 20’ container, allowing WTC Group to handle significantly more volume with unmatched efficiency.
3. Scale Sensor Automation
By automating weight checks and seamlessly integrating data into our proprietary ShipSmpl system, we’ve eliminated manual errors and reduced processing delays—further streamlining operations.
4. Terminal Control System Integration
WTC Group’s integrated terminal control systems optimize yard efficiency and safety:
- Automated yard moves reduce fuel consumption, tire wear, and man-hours while minimizing traffic intersections.
- A self-serve gate system has replaced the need for around-the-clock gate checkers, allowing for smoother truck driver experiences and faster turnaround times.
The Results: A 400% Increase in Throughput
The impact of these upgrades speaks for itself. By reimagining processes and investing in automation, WTC Group’s Kingsway Terminal has achieved:
- A 400% increase in throughput since 2021, enabling us to handle higher volumes faster and more efficiently.
- Improved processing speeds, with total railcar throughput climbing from 3-4 to 30+ railcars per day.
- Container load times slashed to just 2.2 minutes per 20′ container, allowing for smoother transitions and quicker turnaround.
- A measurable reduction in manual errors, delays, and yard inefficiencies thanks to automation and advanced systems like ShipSmpl.
These results don’t just benefit WTC Group—they streamline operations for our customers, ensuring their goods move through the supply chain with greater speed, accuracy, and reliability.
Looking Ahead: Future Upgrades at Kingsway Terminal
The growth at Kingsway Terminal doesn’t stop here. With demand for transloading and resin packaging on the rise, WTC Group has laid out a clear roadmap for future expansion:
Second Bagging Line
- A second state-of-the-art bagging line will double capacity to 10,000 containers annually.
Third and Fourth Bagging Lines
- As part of a multi-phased expansion, additional bagging lines will bring total packaging capacity to 20,000 containers annually (40,000 TEU).
Strategic Site Expansion with CPKC
- WTC Group is working closely with CPKC to strategically expand the site into a logistics juggernaut to facilitate future export growth. Combining rail, trucking, and container operations at a single, expansive location will:
- Improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- Leverage existing infrastructure to avoid unnecessary development expenses.
- Position WTC Group to capture the growing resin export market ahead of competitors.
North American resin production is set to surge, with over 1 million MT of Canadian production capacity coming online in 2024 and several new facilities planned by 2030.
WTC Group’s Kingsway Terminal is uniquely positioned to meet this demand, offering the capacity, infrastructure, and expertise to support resin exports for decades to come.
Partner with WTC Group for Smarter Supply Chain Solutions
At WTC Group’s Kingsway Terminal, we’re not just keeping up with demand—we’re staying ahead of it. Through strategic investments, innovative systems, and ongoing expansions, we’ve redefined what’s possible in transloading and supply chain efficiency.
With plans to double capacity in the near future and capture the surging resin export market, Kingsway Terminal is ready to deliver the speed, reliability, and scalability your business needs to thrive.
Contact us today to see how WTC Group can simplify and streamline your supply chain.