Toronto-based Vitran Corp., a major Canadian transportation firm, has entered into an interline arrangement with a prominent West Coast carrier to service its customers to the states of California, Arizona and Nevada. An agreement with a second carrier will allow Vitran to service the state of Colorado.

Vitran will continue to focus on regional business within its core geographic footprint, a contiguous area stretching from the central Great Plains to the East Coast, where the company maintains 85% of its current density. Vitran will reposition its assets and resources into its core markets, which will allow for improved service to current and new customers.

The change from direct to interline service, effective August 5, will result in the closure of seven terminals and have a positive annual financial impact of approximately $3 million for the company, according to Vitran Express U.S. President Chris Keylon.