Title: Traffic control in Canada-USA border checkpoint operations: impacts on supply chain velocity, infrastructure spending, and national security

Authors: Michael A. Haughton; K.P. Sapna Isotupa

Addresses: School of Business and Economics, Wilfrid Laurier University, 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3C5, Canada ' School of Business and Economics, Wilfrid Laurier University, 75 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3C5, Canada

Abstract: In this paper, we examine the traffic control tactic of reducing the amplitude of hour-to-hour arrival rate of commercial traffic at border checkpoints between Canada and the USA. In particular, we use a simulation study to show that this tactic can facilitate attainment of two important government priorities: minimise unnecessary investment to expand border infrastructure and minimise the risk of trans-border supply chains being targets of or conduits for harm to national security. We also demonstrate the tactic's potential to improve the performance of trans-border supply chains through reduced border delays. As well, we discuss issues concerning what would be expected of trucking companies in order for the tactic to be successfully implemented.

Keywords: queueing; non-stationary arrival rates; arrival scheduling; simulation; freight transport; logistics; trucking; Canada; USA; United States; border checkpoints; border security; traffic control; supply chain velocity; infrastructure spending; national security; supply chain management; SCM; trans-border supply chains; border delays.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSOM.2013.056767

International Journal of Services and Operations Management, 2013 Vol.16 No.3, pp.337 - 351

Published online: 02 Jul 2014 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article