by logisticsplus | Jan 9, 2024 | News
The logistics and supply chain industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of e-commerce, global conflicts, and technological advancements. Let’s take a look at some of the key trends that are expected to shape the industry in 2024.
1. Increased focus on visibility
- Businesses are increasingly demanding real-time data and insights into their supply chains. This is leading to the adoption of technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) to track goods and materials throughout the supply chain.
2. Sustainability becoming a top priority
- Consumers and businesses are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of the supply chain. This leads to a focus on reducing emissions, waste, and resource consumption. Companies are looking for ways to optimize their packaging, transportation routes, and logistics operations to be more sustainable.
3. Automation and robotics on the rise
- Automation and robotics improve efficiency and accuracy in warehouses and distribution centers. This is helping to reduce labor costs and improve throughput.
4. Continued growth of e-commerce
- The e-commerce market is expected to grow in 2024, which will pressure logistics and supply chain operators to meet the demand for fast and efficient delivery. This is leading to the development of new delivery models and enhancements to fulfillment centers.
5. Talent shortage remains a challenge
- The logistics and supply chain industry is facing a talent shortage, as there is a high demand for skilled workers. This makes it difficult for companies to find the people they need to operate their supply chains effectively.
6. Geopolitical factors continue to disrupt supply chains
- Wars in Ukraine and Israel, rising trade tensions, and other geopolitical factors continue to disrupt supply chains. This makes it more difficult for companies to source materials and goods, leading to higher consumer prices.
These are just some of the trends that are expected to shape the global logistics and supply chain industry in 2024. Companies that can adapt to these changes and leverage new technologies will be well-positioned to succeed in 2024 and beyond.
Want to stay in the loop on supply chain news, demand, and pricing trends? Be sure to check out and subscribe to our monthly LogisticsPULSE Executive Briefing.
by logisticsplus | Dec 7, 2023 | News
Logistics Plus Manages Complex Delivery of First Non-Grain, U.S.-Managed Ship To Ukraine’s Port of Chornomorsk Since the Onset of the War
The overall project comprised 22 thousand tons of pipes and ended with over 1,000 trucks making the final, successful deliveries.
ERIE, PA (December 8, 2023) – Logistics Plus, Inc. (LP), a leading worldwide provider of transportation, logistics, and supply chain solutions, has successfully completed a challenging shipping operation in support of the reconstruction and development of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. This accomplishment reaffirms the company’s commitment to excellence and efficiency under the most demanding circumstances.
In this operation, Logistics Plus was tasked by its client, Vorex USA, with transporting thousands of tons of essential gas pipe into Ukraine amidst the ongoing war. During the project’s execution, Ukraine’s Black Sea ports were cut off when the Russian government withdrew from the international agreement securing port access for humanitarian reasons, and soon after, the Russian military began its bombings of Ukraine’s port infrastructure and vessels anew.
Adapting, Logistics Plus relied on its problem-solving expertise by rerouting the shipment through Romania’s Constanta Port. This strategic move facilitated the safe and efficient transport and delivery of 22,000 tons (47 million pounds) of gas pipe to Ukraine via ship, then onto dozens of barges, and lastly to end destinations across Ukraine utilizing over 1,000 truck shipments. This big, complex undertaking required prompt decision-making and effective communication across various branches of the global company. Logistics Plus teams in China, Poland, Ukraine, Turkey, and the USA played a pivotal role in planning and executing the entire project, including running operations at Constanta Port and ensuring the vessels were unloaded swiftly in the face of significant complexity and security risks.
Most recently, and despite the ongoing assaults on Ukraine’s port infrastructure by Russian forces, Logistics Plus delivered the final shipment of these materials directly to Ukraine’s Black Sea Port of Chornomorsk to meet the needs of Vorex USA and the people of Ukraine. This accomplishment marked the first time a non-grain, U.S.-managed ship successfully delivered and unloaded at the port since the onset of the war, a significant precedent-setting accomplishment made possible by the increased security provided by the Ukraine government in the region and the dynamic risk management capabilities of Logistics Plus. The Logistics Plus Ukraine team worked tirelessly to secure the necessary berthing permits and operational approvals, a testament to their perseverance and dedication. Their efforts culminated in the vessel’s successful docking at the Port of Chornomorsk in late November, with the final truckloads of the 22,000 tons of pipe being delivered successfully to their end destinations this week.
“This operation stands as a testament to the ability of Logistics Plus to handle complex logistical challenges and our unique global risk management capabilities,” said Jim Berlin, Founder & CEO of Logistics Plus. “It underscores our dedication to delivering solutions in challenging environments, driven by a unified effort across our international teams in Turkey, China, Poland, the USA, and, of course, Ukraine, where LP’s team of over 70 people continues to be a key part of our global business, as well as an inspiration to us all.”
Celebrating 27 years of service, Logistics Plus continues to be a reliable partner in logistics, bridging distances and overcoming obstacles in an ever-changing world to meet the needs of its clients and support communities globally. This operation adds another proud chapter to the company’s storied history of success for its clients across the 50+ countries where it has offices and beyond.
Yuiry Ostapyak comments on WPSE Money Radio:
About Vorex USA
Wherever there’s oil and gas, Vorex USA has the equipment and expertise you need to extract and transport it. They distribute products for more than 40 North American and European manufacturers in more than 15 countries around the world. Its goal is to provide the expertise to help you meet any technical challenge. Their products meet the industry’s highest standards and they deliver them on schedule, at the lowest cost to you. Learn more at usavorex.com.
About Logistics Plus, Inc.
Logistics Plus, Inc. (LP) is a 21st-century logistics company and a leading worldwide provider of transportation, warehousing, fulfillment, global logistics, business intelligence, technology, and supply chain solutions. LP works in the background to help businesses manage their supply chains in an ever-changing world. Founded in 1996, today LP has annual global sales of over $500M with more than 1,000 employees located in 50+ countries worldwide. LP is recognized as one of the fastest-growing privately-owned logistics companies, a top 3PL provider, a top 100 logistics company, a top freight brokerage and warehousing provider, and a great place to work. With a Passion For Excellence™, its employees put the PLUS in LOGISTICS by doing the big things properly, plus the countless little things that together ensure complete customer satisfaction and success.
by logisticsplus | Nov 20, 2023 | News
FF&E stands for Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment. OS&E stands for Operating Supplies and Equipment. Also known as hospitality logistics, FF&E logistics and OS&E logistics refer to managing the procurement, transportation, warehousing, installation, and maintenance of these items for hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality venues.
For purposes of this article, we’ll simply use the term FF&E logistics. The goal of FF&E logistics is to ensure that the right items are delivered to the right place at the right time and in the right condition. FF&E logistics is a complex and specialized field that requires a deep understanding of the hospitality, retail, co-working, co-living, healthcare, education, trade show, and real estate development industries, as well as the ability to manage complex supply chains. FF&E logistics providers typically offer a wide range of services, including:
- Project management: Planning and coordinating all aspects of the FF&E logistics process, from procurement to installation.
- Transportation management: Moving FF&E items from the manufacturer to the hospitality venue.
- Warehousing: Storing FF&E items until they are needed for installation.
- Installation: Installing FF&E items in the hospitality venue.
- Maintenance: Maintaining or replacing FF&E items already installed.
In addition to these core services, FF&E logistics providers may also offer a variety of value-added services, such as:
- Inventory management: Tracking FF&E or OS&E items from procurement to installation and beyond.
- Space planning: Helping designers of hospitality venues to optimize the use of their space.
- Design consulting: Providing advice on the sourcing, selection, and placement of FF&E or OS&E items.
- Procurement: Facilitating the sourcing and, if needed, the importation of FF&E or OS&E items from a variety of vendors.
Here are some of the benefits of using an established, reputable FF&E logistics provider:
- Reduced costs: FF&E logistics providers can help to reduce costs by optimizing the supply chain and eliminating inefficiencies.
- Improved efficiency: FF&E logistics providers can help to improve efficiency by automating and streamlining processes.
- Increased quality: FF&E logistics providers can help to increase quality by providing expertise in selection, installation, and maintenance.
- Reduced risk: FF&E logistics providers can help to reduce risk by managing the supply chain and ensuring that items are delivered in good condition.
If you are considering using an FF&E logistics provider, be sure to do your research and choose a provider that has solid experience, good technology, and a proven track record of success.
Learn more about Logistics Plus FF&E solutions at logisticsplus.com/ffe or contact us if you have any questions.
by logisticsplus | Nov 1, 2023 | News
Ukraine is a large and growing market for importers, with a diverse economy and a population of over 40 million people. The EU has suspended import duties and quotas on Ukrainian goods, and the US is considering similar measures. This makes importing to Ukraine even more attractive market for businesses, as they can now import Ukrainian goods duty-free.
Despite the ongoing war, there are several ways for companies to get their products into Ukraine.
- EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes: These are dedicated road and rail routes established to transport goods between Ukraine and the EU via Poland, Romania, and Slovakia. They are the primary way for companies to import goods into Ukraine. However, there may be delays and restrictions in place.
- Danube River ports: Ukraine’s ports on the Danube River remain operational but are being used primarily to export goods to other European countries.
- Airfreight: Airfreight or air charters are still options for getting goods into Ukraine, but it can be more expensive than other modes of transport
The following sectors are some of the most promising for importers in Ukraine:
- Energy: Ukraine heavily depends on imported energy, including oil, natural gas, and coal. The country wants to diversify its energy mix and reduce its reliance on Russian energy. Importers could supply Ukraine with renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency solutions, and other energy-related products and services.
- Agriculture: Ukraine is a major agricultural producer, but it also imports many agricultural products, such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. Importers could supply Ukrainian farmers with high-quality farming inputs to help them improve their productivity and yields.
- Infrastructure: Ukraine is rebuilding its infrastructure after the war, and there is a strong demand for construction materials and equipment. Importers could supply Ukraine with everything from cement and steel to road construction equipment and machinery.
- Healthcare: Ukraine needs medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and other healthcare-related products and services. Importers could supply Ukrainian hospitals and clinics with the latest medical technologies and treatments.
- Education: Ukraine is investing in its education system, and there is a demand for educational resources and technologies. Importers could supply Ukrainian schools and universities with textbooks, software, and other educational materials.
In addition to these sectors, importers have opportunities in other areas, such as consumer goods, food and beverage, and IT services.
Companies should consult with an experienced and reputable freight forwarder or customs broker (Logistics Plus is both) to determine the best way to get their products in and out of Ukraine. Here are some additional tips for companies importing goods into Ukraine:
- Be prepared for delays. The war has caused significant disruption to Ukraine’s transportation and logistics infrastructure.
- Be flexible with your shipping routes and schedules. You may need to use alternative routes or modes of transport than you would typically use.
- Work with a reputable freight forwarder or customs broker (like Logistics Plus). They can help you navigate the complex and changing regulatory environment in Ukraine.
- Have all of your documentation in order. This includes customs declarations, invoices, and other necessary paperwork.
Despite the challenges, it is still possible to do business inside Ukraine. By following these tips, companies can support the Ukrainian economy and expand their global sales.
by logisticsplus | Oct 10, 2023 | News
Pictured above are Jeremy Riggs, Andrew Miller, Erin Puckett, and Rodger Evans of the Logistics Plus Kansas City Team.
Logistics Plus (LP) is excited to announce the opening of our new office in Kansas City, Kansas! This new office is the latest addition to the growing Logistics Plus global network. “LP Kansas City” can assist with virtually any logistics or supply chain need, specializing in project cargo services. The LP Kansas City team has a wealth of knowledge in rail, distribution center management, project services for power plants and the energy sector, barge moves, and heavy haul moves.
Meet the Team
Rodger Evans – Rodger has had a 30-year career in the logistics industry, with 16 years handling project cargo. Rodger grew up on the East Coast and moved to Kansas City in 2018.
Email: rodger.evans@logisticsplus.com
Andrew Miller – Andrew has worked with Rodger for the last nine years, handling project cargo across nearly every industry. Andrew’s primary expertise is handling rail cargo. He was born and raised in Kansas.
Email: andrew.miller@logisticsplus.com
Jeremy Riggs – Jeremy has worked with Rodger and Andrew for the last five years, handling mainly rail cargo in the project industry. Jeremy has lived in both Kansas and Arkansas.
Email: jeremy.riggs@logisticsplus.com
Erin Puckett – Erin has worked with both Andrew and Jeremy from the client side before joining the team to learn project logistics. Erin grew up as an Army brat and moved to Kansas permanently in 2014.
Email: erin.puckett@logisticsplus.com
Logistics Plus, Inc. (Kansas City Branch)
113 Delaware Street, Suite A
Leavenworth, KS 66048
For any requests involving the Kansas City team, please email rodger.evans@logisticsplus.com. We thank you for all current business and future opportunities and look forward to assisting you.
