by logisticsplus | Jun 3, 2020 | News
“I wanted to create a company where people have a passion for excellence. Any logistics company can coordinate deliveries from point A to point B, but I wanted a company where people GAS (give a sh–) by going above and beyond what is expected. That’s how I arrived at the company name Logistics Plus – because we’re the company that puts the ‘plus‘ in ‘logistics‘ by doing the big things properly, and the countless little things, that together ensure complete customer satisfaction and success. When the other guys say ‘no’ we say ‘yes‘ and then figure out how to get it done.”
– Jim Berlin, founder & CEO of Logistics Plus Inc.
LOGISTICS
The process of planning, implementing and controlling the efficient, cost-effective flow of raw materials, in-process inventory, finished goods and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption for the purpose of conforming to customer requirements.
PLUS
The “+” in Logistics Plus is doing big things properly, and the countless little things, that together ensure complete customer satisfaction and success, including handling supply chain challenges from start-to-finish, and by doing what “the other guys” can’t or won’t do.
by logisticsplus | Feb 3, 2020 | News
The average Super Bowl halftime show only lasts around 13 minutes, but the multi-million dollar production takes months of extreme planning and coordination with thousands of people working behind the scenes. As one of the world’s most viewed performances, the show can’t afford a single mistake or disruption. What’s the main challenge? Setting up a fully-functional stage in a matter of 6 to 7 minutes without damaging the field.
Planning, Coordination, and Execution
The biggest logistical challenge behind the Super Bowl halftime show is setting up the stage the minute the first half of the game ends. The stage itself is wheeled onto the field using about 40 separate carts, which each require about 10-12 people to move. On top of the stage, an additional 15 to 20 carts carrying audio equipment get transported to the field. In the days leading up to the Super Bowl, hundreds of trucks arrive to the venue with deliveries of stage materials, props, electrical equipment, generators, and much more. Every minor detail including delivery windows, returns and item replacements, and storage locations are taken into consideration. Just one small hiccup in this process can change the outlook on one of the biggest days of the year.
Frank Supovitz, former Senior Vice President of Events for the National Football League (NFL) commented on the logistics of the Super Bowl. “The Super Bowl is a living, breathing organism,” Frank said. “It’s subject to surprises at any corner and any level.”
Planning and coordination have been, and always will be, a major part of logistics. The Super Bowl is no different, as military-like precision is required to successfully pull off the single biggest sporting event on Earth. Although most people believe that logistics only involves moving something from point A to point B, it’s the planning and execution behind each delivery and setup that makes all the difference.
by logisticsplus | Dec 23, 2019 | News
Technology, solutions, and services are constantly evolving in the logistics industry. As the decade comes to a close, it’s amazing to reflect on the ways our industry has changed the past ten years. Competition is heating up, demand is growing, and technology is advancing. Heading into 2020, expect things to be no different with technology and innovation leading the way. Here are just a few top logistics trends to watch in 2020.
Technology and Mobile Applications
We expect that 2020 will leave behind old-school “pen and paper” tactics. Logistics companies will opt for mobile technology and platforms that speed up processes such as identifying inventory, booking and tracking shipments, storing invoices, and more. Simplicity and accessibility to mobile technology will continue to expand the industry.
Data and Analytics as a Service
The explosion of sophisticated data makes it hard to consume and use effectively. As a new decade begins, the logistics industry has already seen companies begin using artificial intelligence (AI) and business intelligence tools to create better decision making processes for customers. When complex data is normalized and consumable, supply chain efficiency is increased. Data as a service is one of the top logistics trends to keep an eye on for the foreseeable future.
Increased Collaboration Between Shippers and 3PLs
Third-party logistics companies will rely heavily on technology to connect with customers and carriers. The transition from EDI to API connections for transportation management systems (TMS) has made it easier than ever before to book shipments, create BOLs, view invoices, track shipments, and more. Collaboration between logistics providers and shippers is crucial in this technology-driven landscape.
Improved Last Mile Deliveries
Last mile deliveries have become a popular topic for logistics professionals due to the increased consumer demand for goods. Retailers and logistics companies should evaluate their current capabilities and make adjustments to accommodate these shifts. As consumer shopping habits switch from brick and mortar stores to e-commerce, you must have reliable last mile solutions that get your products exactly where they need to be, possibly even installed or setup, in a timely fashion.
Environmental Sustainability Practices
Sustainability and green practices have increased the past several years. By finding unique solutions and joining sustainability partnerships and organizations, logistics companies will do their part in finding sustainable solutions. Freight carriers are participating in this trend by purchasing equipment that lower emissions, fuel costs, and more. Look for this trend to continue well into the future.
In 2020 and beyond, the future of logistics will be centered around increasing supply chain visibility and speed. Customers expect to have turnkey, out of the box solutions that will increase the efficiency of their business. Wherever the logistics industry goes, rest assured, Logistics Plus will be leading the way.
Are you heading into the new year with 2020 vision? Contact Logistics Plus for a check-up and let us know what logistics challenges you face in the years ahead!
by logisticsplus | Nov 11, 2019 | News
Last weekend, Garret Bowden, FF&E Project Manager at Logistics Plus, took a moment to speak at the Erie Rise Leadership Academy for their annual career day. The charter school is located on the east side of Erie and houses eighteen classrooms from kindergarten through 8th grade.
In the morning, Garrett spoke with 2nd through 4th grade students about jobs in the logistics industry. He explained that jobs have been around since the Silk Road, and how they will remain a large part of the world economy for the foreseeable future. Along with discussing logistics careers, Garret passed out Logistics Plus memorabilia (including copies of the Logistics Careers Plus More for Dummies® book) and answered questions the students and teachers had about our industry.
We look forward to seeing some of these students walk through the doors of Logistics Plus in a few years 🙂
by logisticsplus | Oct 29, 2019 | News
When working with a reliable global logistics partner, port-to-port international shipping – transporting cargo from one seaport to another – should be made easy for shippers. An ocean freight forwarder such as Logistics Plus will navigate through different sailing options, complex regulations, customs documentation, and more behind the scenes. As a Non-Vessel-Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC), Logistics Plus is an expert at getting your freight on the water and to its destination.
What do I look for when selecting a port-to-port global logistics partner?
Many freight forwarders claim to offer port-to-port international shipping. But buyer beware – not all global logistics companies are the same. Some may be new and inexperienced, some may not handle customs clearance, and some may not offer shippers’ interest cargo insurance. It’s crucial to make sure your cargo is in good hands while it’s on the water. Here are a few questions to ask before selecting a port-to-port international freight forwarder:
- Are they large enough to be experienced but small enough to pay attention to detail?
- Do they offer a variety of sailings to and from all major ports?
- Do they offer global trade compliance and customs clearance services?
- Can they provide me with warehousing and distribution for my products if needed?
- Do they have offices located around the world with local knowledge of the country to which I am shipping?
- Do they offer competitive rates and have long-standing relationships with ocean carriers?
- Are additional ground, rail, or air transportation services required once my shipment arrives at the destination port?
- Will they explain to me how to choose the best Incoterms for my shipment?
- Will I have shipment visibility and access to technology solutions?
Now that you have asked yourself these important questions, it’s time to choose your global logistics partner and prepare your shipment for the big move. You should start by compiling a detailed packing list and itemizing every piece of the shipment. Simple things such as the size, weight, packaging, and dimensions will all play a factor in getting an accurate rate estimate. Your logistics provider will offer you appropriate shipping lines and sailings to and from the ports of your choosing. Once your shipment is en-route, you should be able to sit back and have the confidence that your logistics provider will frequently update you with the shipment status and final delivery.
Although port-to-port international shipping involves many different steps, our goal is to make it as easy as possible for our customers. If you’re ready to learn more about Logistics Plus and our international shipping services, please email us at quotes@logisticsplus.com or click the button below to receive a risk-free quote on your next ocean shipment.
