Both options for DCI will require an analysis of the supply of transportation and the different factors affecting transportation pricing that need to be considered. Option # $1$ involves increasing volumes from China to Vancouver via ocean and then from Vancouver to Mississauga via rail. Option # $1$ also involves road transportation from the rail terminal to the distribution center in Mississauga and to Montreal, if you choose to serve the new markets with a new DC in Montreal. Option # $2$ involves the new volumes coming from your chosen country to either the Port of Halifax or the Port of Montreal and then road transportation from the chosen port to Mississauga or Montreal, depending on your choice of expanding Mississauga or a new DC in Montreal.

Specifically, you have been asked to:

Provide an analysis on the modal supply characteristics for both options and provide a preliminary recommendation based on that analysis. Be sure to include a discussion on each of the following categories: barriers to entry$/$exit$,$ competition, infrastructure, and government regulations.

Discuss the external factors that may affect transportation pricing for Option # $2($your chosen country$).$ Be sure to discuss the economic factors that apply specifically to your chosen country $($versus a general discussion of economic factors$)$ and how those factors may affect the decision.

Please Note: external research on the two options is required for this assignment.