When extreme weather, geopolitical issues, and logistical roadblocks threaten a project, adaptability is key. Barnhart recently demonstrated this by successfully transporting four massive cold boxes from Houston, Texas, to Edmonton, Alberta, despite numerous challenges.
The shipment originated in China, but due to unrest in the Suez Canal, it was rerouted across the Pacific. Drought concerns in the Panama Canal added uncertainty, but Barnhart secured early passage, allowing the cargo to arrive in Houston a month ahead of schedule.
Once on U.S. roads, winter brought additional challenges. Frost Laws required adjustments to Barnhart’s Goldhofer trailers, wildfires halted progress in Texas, and holiday travel restrictions in Kansas caused delays. North Dakota’s earliest frost laws in history forced a reroute through Montana, adding 300 miles to the trip.
To avoid spring road restrictions, Barnhart proposed transporting the largest 395,000-pound cold box via barge up the Mississippi River, cutting 1,600 miles from the road journey. Upon arrival in St. Paul, Minnesota, a last-minute route change was required due to a county road closure. Coordination with the Minnesota DOT, utility companies, and local authorities ensured a smooth move.
Once past the Twin Cities, the cargo moved through Saskatchewan in just 16 days, with a seamless handoff to the customer in Alberta. The project showcased Barnhart’s expertise in overcoming logistical hurdles, reinforcing its reputation for precision and execution in heavy haul transport.
