Everything else is secondary, and that's where third - party logistics services companies like TNT Logistics of Mississauga, ON, come in - to take care of the so - called "non - core" functions. For TNT, that function is inbound transportation of all the parts, components and subassemblies shipped into the sprawling, two - plant Ford automotive complex in Oakville, ON.
How well the inbound transportation outsourcing initiative works out in Canada - Ford's assembly plant in St. Thomas, ON, and an engine plant in Windsor, ON, are also partaking in the scheme - will determine whether Ford decides to go the third - party transportation route en masse at its numerous U.S. - based assembly facilities.
Laurie French, supervisor of Ford's logistics planning and procurement office, is the Dearborn - appointed, on - site liaison between the head office and TNT - taking stock of how well the project is proceeding and what potential it has for the way Ford manages its automotive supply chain in North America and worldwide.