Jan 3, 2007 10:06 AM, from staff and wire reports

Western Growers, in conjunction with C H Robinson Worldwide Inc, has launched a transportation system designed to improve cost of transportation, service, and equipment availability to WG members.

WG partnered with CHRW to respond to its members' concerns over spiraling costs, declining service, and availability of refrigerated equipment. The system is customized to individual shipper business requirements, including long-term contract arrangements and promotional, seasonal, and fixed weekly rates. It includes truck, intermodal, rail, air, and ocean transportation services.

CHRW has dedicated a team of transportation specialists to focus on the supply chain needs of WG members and act as an outsourced transportation department for WG members. The company will be the sole logistics provider for the transportation system. It will provide weekly lid pricing for North America, bi-weekly customized supply chain metrics reports, individualized sales training to WG members, customized sales literature for use by members, and a WG dedicated toll-free line operating 24/7.