In DC for the Inauguration

In DC for the Inauguration

All,

Got invited to attend the inauguration – Thank you, Congressman Kelly 🙂

Got down there Monday morning and it was cold. So cold that they decided to move all the events indoors, so instead of 250,000 guests watching it, only a few hundred got in, and we just watched the inauguration from our hotel room.

We then went to the JP Morgan reception (thanks, Brian Linville) and had a drink and some pretzels. Washington was all secured, so it was tough getting around. Lots of road closures and fencing.  We had to do a lot of walking (which I don’t mind), and I wore my Josh Allen jersey (which got a lot of “GO BILLS” from passersby. I love repping the Bills. Fans everywhere).

Jim Berlin in DC

Notice, I did not wear a coat even though the wind chill was single digits. I lived in Buffalo for 15 years and worked outside in the steel plant and then as a dockworker there for years, so maybe I just got used to it. But unless there is wind, I don’t mind the cold. I honestly told Yuriy that I could easily take off my jacket and jersey and walk around bare chested (I think I have actually done that before hahahahahaha) but Yuriy said that with all the armed security around, they might think I was a nut and take me down. So…the shirt stayed on (this time. I wasn’t kidding. 😉

JB outside

Not that unusual for announcer and former Bills QB and all-time fan, Ryan Fitzpatrick.  It must be the Buffalo in us 🙂

Ryan Fitzpatrick

Tuesday, we had several very good meetings with several very interesting people. Our Erie friend, Steve Scully, arranged some of them, and Derek arranged the others. Talked about the new administration and the future, but mostly about Ukraine. We got to meet with some of Senator John Fetterman’s staff and had a very productive talk. LP is kind of a hidden gem here in Erie, and I think the world is finding us more and more. We are making some great inroads with our Ukraine support efforts and making a real name for ourselves. “Punching above our weight.”  I think Senator Fetterman (and likely Senator McCormick, our 2 US Senators, will visit Union Station the next time they are in Erie).

tip of the shovel

Yuriy also got interviewed by Steve on an Sirius XM. Did a great job.

sirius xm interview

Thanks to Congressman Kelly, Brian Linville, Senator Fetterman, and Steve Scully for making this an enjoyable and memorable trip to what is a historic event.

Onward! -JB

Thanya Ramirez Featured in Breakbulk Article

Thanya Ramirez Featured in Breakbulk Article

Breakbulk article

Thanya RamirezLogistics Plus Mexico Project Cargo Supervisor Thanya Ramirez was featured in a recent Breakbulk article titled, ‘Mexican Rail Corridor Could Connect Oceans, Bypass Drought-Hit Canal.’ This article examines how the proposed Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (CIIT) offers breakbulk movers a promising new trade route and a crucial alternative to the drought-stricken Panama Canal.

Thanya commented on the proposed corridor. “I don’t think this project will be able to compete with the Panama Canal as the volume of cargo expected to be moved will not reach the volumes of the cargo moved through Panama, at least in the first stage,” Thanya added, “But – it will indeed be a good complementary and cheaper option. And most importantly, it is finally giving these southern states a big real opportunity of development and economic growth.”

Read the full article here: https://breakbulk.com/articles/a-new-route-for-global-trade

Contact Us

The Advantages of Warehousing in Mexico

The Advantages of Warehousing in Mexico

warehouse employeesWarehousing in Mexico can provide strategic advantages for businesses looking to reduce costs, improve supply chain efficiency, and expand market access. By leveraging these advantages, businesses can enhance their competitiveness in the ever-growing North American market. This article examines these advantages and how businesses can effectively utilize Mexico as a strategic hub for their North American operations.

Cost Savings

  • Lower Labor Costs: Mexico generally has lower labor costs than its neighboring countries, resulting in lower operational expenses.
  • Reduced Transportation Costs: Strategic warehouse locations in Mexico can significantly reduce transportation distances and costs, especially for businesses targeting the North American market. Proximity to the U.S. border allows for faster and more efficient deliveries.
  • Lower Real Estate Costs: Compared to many U.S. locations, real estate costs for warehouses in Mexico tend to be more affordable.

Market Access

  • Proximity to the US Market: Mexico’s proximity to the United States provides easy access to a vast consumer market, making it an ideal location for companies looking to expand their North American presence.
  • Growing Domestic Market: The Mexican domestic market is also experiencing significant growth, offering businesses opportunities to reach a large and expanding consumer base.

mexicoGovernment Incentives

  • Trade Agreements: Mexico’s participation in trade agreements like NAFTA (now USMCA) and other free trade agreements can reduce or eliminate tariffs on goods moving between Mexico and other participating countries, further enhancing cost competitiveness.
  • Government Programs: The Mexican government offers various incentives and programs to support foreign investment and manufacturing, which can benefit businesses operating warehouses in the country.

Improved Supply Chain Efficiency

  • Faster Delivery Times: Reduced transportation distances and improved logistics infrastructure can speed up delivery times to customers in Mexico and the U.S.
  • Increased Inventory Control: Warehousing in Mexico allows for better inventory management and control, reducing the risk of stockouts and improving overall supply chain efficiency.
  • Enhanced Customer Service: Faster delivery times and improved inventory management can increase customer satisfaction and improve customer service.
  • Assembly Services: Many warehouses in Mexico offer assembly services, allowing businesses to add value to their products before distribution.

Logistics Plus Mexico Warehouses

Logistics Plus offers dedicated warehousing, distribution, fulfillment, and inventory management services across Mexico. Our warehouses are located in Colombia, Monterrey, Cuautitlan, Tepotzotlan, and Lazaro Cardenas. Whether you need basic storage, inventory management, or end-to-end fulfillment services, the Logistics Plus Mexico warehouses have you covered.

Contact Us

Navigating the North American Trade Corridor: A Guide to Success

Navigating the North American Trade Corridor: A Guide to Success

The North American trade corridor, encompassing the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is a cornerstone of global commerce. With billions of dollars of goods traversing this network daily, businesses must delve into the intricacies and opportunities that define this dynamic landscape. Understanding the critical factors, emerging trends, and challenges is essential to unlocking the full potential of this trading ecosystem.

north american tradeThe U.S.-Canada Trade Partnership: A Cornerstone of Global Commerce

The U.S.-Canada border, the world’s longest undefended border, symbolizes a robust partnership rooted in shared values and economic cooperation. This trade relationship has become a model for efficient cross-border commerce, driving mutual prosperity and global competitiveness. The cultural and linguistic similarities between the U.S. and Canada foster trust and understanding, paving the way for seamless business operations. These shared values create an environment of collaboration that benefits industries ranging from agriculture to technology.

Logistics Plus helps streamline this cross-border trade through its customs brokerage services. The company provides expert support to navigate the regulatory complexities of importing and exporting goods between the U.S. and Canada, minimizing delays and ensuring compliance. This expertise ensures smooth, uninterrupted supply chains, enabling businesses to fully utilize the robust infrastructure in major trade hubs like Detroit-Windsor and Buffalo-Niagara​.

The Logistics Plus Canada division provides businesses with a trusted resource for intra-Canada and international transportation management, warehousing, and more.

The evolution from NAFTA to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) further underscores the commitment to reducing trade barriers. Logistics Plus global trade compliance services help businesses stay informed about shifting regulations across borders, ensuring they remain compliant with the latest standards and laws.

Mexico’s Role in Regional Trade and Manufacturing

Mexico has emerged as a strategic location for nearshoring, drawing foreign investment and becoming a manufacturing powerhouse. Its geographical advantages and competitive labor costs make it a vital player in the North American trade corridor. Border cities like Tijuana, Ciudad, Juárez and Nuevo Laredo are integral links in supply chains, facilitating faster time-to-market for goods.

Logistics Plus offers nearshoring solutions, optimizing logistics from Mexico to the U.S. and Canada. Logistics Plus transportation management services, which include route optimization and cost reduction strategies, are designed to ensure goods move swiftly and economically between these nations.

Mexico’s participation in free trade agreements, including USMCA, provides duty-free access to large consumer markets. Logistics Plus warehousing and fulfillment solutions ensure inventory is stored and managed efficiently, enhancing cross-border trade operations. This is especially beneficial for businesses in sectors like automotive and electronics, where rapid distribution is essential.

With three offices and multiple warehouses, the Logistics Plus Mexico division is well-suited to assist businesses with intra-Mexico, cross-border, and international transportation needs and Mexico-based warehousing.

Strategies for Success in North American Trade

While the North American trade corridor offers immense potential, businesses face challenges like aging infrastructure at ports and border crossings, leading to delays and increased costs. To succeed in the North American trade corridor, businesses must adopt proactive strategies, many of which are supported by the comprehensive solutions offered by Logistics Plus:

  • Collaborating with logistics providers: Logistics Plus, with expertise in cross-border operations, helps businesses navigate complex supply chains, optimize routes, and reduce costs. Logistics Plus global trade compliance services provide importers and exporters with guidance on regulatory requirements, minimizing delays.
  • Leveraging technology: Logistics Plus uses transportation management systems (TMS) and other technology solutions to streamline processes and improve efficiency. By adopting these technologies, businesses can better plan, predict, and track shipments across North America.
  • Building strong relationships with customs brokers: With the help of Logistics Plus customs brokerage services, businesses can ensure compliance, reduce the risk of fines, and avoid delays in cross-border shipments.
  • Sustainability: Logistics Plus is committed to green practices and a sustainable future, including optimizing routes, plastic waste reduction, and low carbon emissions. These practices reduce environmental impact while helping businesses meet consumer demand for eco-conscious companies.

Remaining informed about regulatory changes, such as updates to free trade agreements and new and existing import duties, is key to staying competitive. Logistics Plus ensures businesses are prepared for these changes with its comprehensive supply chain management approach, positioning companies to adapt swiftly to new trade dynamics.

The Future of North American Trade

The future of North American trade holds tremendous potential for growth and innovation. By addressing challenges like infrastructure gaps and regulatory disparities while embracing sustainability, the region can further solidify its position as a global economic leader. Logistics Plus is crucial to this transformation, using its services to assist businesses in seizing new opportunities. By tackling present challenges and utilizing the expertise and services of partners like Logistics Plus, companies can fully tap into the potential of the North American trade corridor and strengthen their position in the evolving global marketplace. Whatever changes the North American supply chain may undergo in the coming months, Logistics Plus will be there to help find solutions.

Contact Us

Made Everything Go Smoothly

“I want to sincerely thank you again for ALL of your hard work the last few days. Despite the site situation(s), your team rocked it and made everything go smoothly. I am truly impressed with your team and organization and am very grateful for your partnership on this project. You have been an amazing partner to us this entire year – we hope to see you again soon!”

-Senior Project Leader