Delaware Technical and Community College, in conjunction with Trinity Logistics and other area logistics companies, have created an associate in applied science degree program for Logistics, Supply Chain, and Operations Management.

The program is designed to educate students in the areas of procurement, transportation, processing, and storage of materials and information. The associates’ degree prepares students to aid in the design, improvement, installation, and operation of integrated systems of people, materials, and equipment. The program of study is available beginning the fall of 2016 semester at Delaware Tech’s Owens Campus in Georgetown, and the George Campus in Wilmington.

“The new Logistics, Supply Chain, and Operations Management degree program will provide students with the knowledge needed to acquire a career within the industry. It will also provide local businesses with more qualified potential employees,” said Denise Crockett, Director of Talent Acquisition for Trinity Logistics. Denise was one of the key players in the creation of the degree program.

Two years of planning went into the design of the new program. Courses for the degree include business, project management, supply chain logistics, principals of marketing, sales and sales management, and other industry related topics.

“It was a great pleasure working with Delaware Tech and seeing this program come to fruition. It was definitely a win-win for all parties involved,” Crockett said.

“This program will provide individuals with the business principles and technical foundation necessary to make informed logistical and operational decisions in a global economy. Through our business partnerships, such as with Trinity Logistics, I look forward to the work-based learning opportunities that are created for our students,” said Dr. Leslie Mergner, Instructional Director for Business, Entrepreneurship, and Logistics, Supply Chain and Operations Management for Delaware Tech.

We will be awarding three $1,000 scholarships to students choosing to pursue this track at Delaware Tech’s Owens Campus in Georgetown in the 2016-2017 academic year. Students must be enrolled full-time or part-time in the Logistics, Supply Chain, and Operations Management program, must have completed the FAFSA and demonstrated financial need, and must have a 2.5 GPA or greater.

To get more information or to apply for the program, visit www.dtcc.edu/academics/college-catalog and select “Associate in Applied Science Degree Programs.”

We celebrated the opening of a larger office for our Regional Service Center in Denison, Iowa with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, July 13.  

We are proud to have served the Iowa region for more than 13 years. The larger space, located at 1211 Broadway in Denison, will accommodate a company-wide growth initiative over the next five years.

“Growth is a straight-forward equation at Trinity Logistics. Our guiding values are integrity, determination, continuous improvement, teamwork, leaders, fun, excellence and legacy. Most importantly, our work culture promotes family values,” said Doug Heilesen, General Manager of the Denison, Iowa office.  

Trinity Logistics is a privately-owned third party logistics company, listed in Transport Topics Magazine as one of the top 20 freight brokerage firms in the United States, and featured on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies. Trinity’s headquarters is located in Seaford, Del., with Regional Service Centers in Kansas City, Mo., Denison, Iowa, St. Paul, Minn., and Euless, Texas.

Among those in attendance at the ribbon cutting were Rich Clair, Chief Operating Officer of Trinity Logistics; Jennifer Braun, Vice President of Operations Kansas City; Mo.; Doug Heilesen, Location Manager for Trinity’s Iowa office; and Aleasha Cogdill, Jen Hartwig, Aaron Lansink, Cassie Steinkuehler, Emily Logan, Kamalha Sonnichsen, and Cory Miller of the Iowa office.

“We are exceptionally proud of the services provided by our Denison team members that have created the growth that has led to this expansion,” said Rich Clair, COO of Trinity Logistics.

A number of our Iowa customers, including top customer Corey Curnyn, of Midwest Field and Track, joined Trinity’s team members for the celebration of the new office and the growth to come.  

(Photo Credit: Bruce Binning/ Denison Bulletin & Review) 

Robots and automated systems are great for vacuuming houses, data entry, and car washes, but some things are just better left to humans. Here’s why robots just can’t replace the human connection in regards to customer service and freight shipping quotes.

Customer Service

Have you ever called an automated phone service, which is meant to speed up a process, only to repeat all of your answers multiple times and be connected to a representative who asks you to repeat everything you told the robot? Frustrating, huh?

One aspect of business that a robot simply should not attempt to overtake is customer service. An automated system isn’t capable of understanding tone or emotion, or expressing empathy; all qualities that a good customer service rep should have. That robot isn’t going to understand the severity of your need, that your livelihood depends on your call being answered and solved, or the complexity of any issues you’re having.

In the battle between robots and humans, humans still win in this category. After all, who wants to call in to get help with their account or a shipment, explain the entire situation, only to have a robot say, “I didn’t get that, please press 2”?

Freight Shipping Quote

While some 3PLs boast an automated system that can spit a shipping quote back to you within just a few minutes, or even instantaneously, this might not actually be a service that’s all it’s cracked up to be. While it may be easier to communicate all of the details about the shipment including the origin and destination, weight, and commodity, it’s not as easy to establish a relationship with the actual human being that will be handling not only your quote, but your account moving forward.

Trinity is a company that still values relationships. While we don’t have an automated quote form on our website that can deliver a freight shipping quote immediately, we have dedicated sales representatives on standby to answer the phone calls and emails of anyone in need.

We believe that talking to an actual person can help us get to know our customers, their businesses, and needs better. The better we know a customer, the better we can serve them by offering other relevant services and the most cost-efficient methods of shipping their freight.

Sure, a form can ask where your business is located, but a person on the other end of the line might have grown up in the same area, know it like the back of their hand, and be able to figure out the best way to route your shipments. An online form might compute a shipping quote based off the commodity, but an account manager that’s been handling your shipments for years might be able to negotiate contracted rates based off of the volume of shipments you have throughout the year.

The Bottom Line

The bottom line here is that robots are awesome for some aspects of business, and even the transportation industry benefits from ideas like self-driving trucks and automated warehousing robots. However, some parts of the business world should be left to the human touch. At Trinity, we place high value in speaking directly with each of our customers and carriers and establishing a working relationship that can withstand the ebbs and flows of business, economy, and life.

To speak to a trusted Trinity adviser, click here.

A huge perk of working with a 3PL like Trinity is being able to take advantage of their internal claims department when unexpected things happen during a shipment. Here’s a quick rundown of what the freight claims process entails here at Trinity.

What are the steps involved with filing a claim?

To file a freight claim as a Trinity customer, follow these important steps:

1. Complete a claim form and submit it along with the required documents to your Trinity representative. The cargo claims form is the legal document that authorizes Trinity to file the claim with the carrier on your behalf. In addition to the claim form, invoices are required to support claim amounts.

2. Once we are presented with the freight claims form, proof of cost invoice, and other pertinent documents (like the BOL), we will report the claim to the assigned carrier. We field carrier responses and take care of the behind-the-scenes details for you.

A carrier is given 30 days to legally acknowledge a claim and 120 days to give disposition (accept or refute the claim). At Trinity, we endeavor to resolve all claims within 120 days from filing.

If a claim involves the carrier’s insurance, we’ll coordinate with the insurance adjuster to provide documents and information at their request.  For approved claims, a check will be issued to you from Trinity or directly from the carrier or their insurer.

Why should you work with a shipping company that offers claims help?

While most shipments go off without a hitch, anyone in the shipping industry knows that sometimes “stuff happens” and it’s a real lifesaver to have a team of professionals to take the stress out of the claims process. Working with a company that provides cargo claims support is far more convenient for you in the event that something unexpected happens in transit.

Trinity initiates the claims process with the carrier and monitors progress until a resolution is met. We are a buffer between the cargo owner, carrier, and their insurer. Without our assistance, the cargo owner would have to contact the carrier directly to engage the freight claims process.

This is especially evident in accident situations. If a carrier has an accident, our team expedites service to track the location of the cargo and attempts to prevent further delay or loss. We maintain communication with the account manager, driver, and other pertinent parties to meet the best resolution for our customer in the event of a loss.

Trinity maintains a network of trusted carriers that works with us to get situations resolved quickly in order to maintain our business relationship. Carriers may not be as responsive when dealing directly with the cargo owner in the event of a claim.

How would the process work if I had to file a freight claim on my own without the help of a claims department?

If you had to file a claim on your own, you would need to provide written notice of loss to the assigned carrier. You’d also need to submit all documents requested by the carrier for processing. You would be responsible for breaking down cargo claim charges and convincing the carrier to accept liability. Arguments and rebuttals presented by the carrier would also need to be responded to directly by you.

Our claims team here at Trinity is trained and knowledgeable in current laws governing the freight claims process. Several of our team members are even accredited as “Certified Claims Professionals”, which makes them uniquely qualified to handle cargo claims on behalf of our customers.

If you have any questions regarding our claims team, click here. 

Being confined to a truck for long stretches of time can lead to a less-than-stellar lifestyle in regards to health for truckers. We decided to talk to some truck drivers and get their best tips on what drivers can do to help maintain and improve their physical and mental health while on the road.

1. A sleep routine is key.

We realize that having an exact sleep schedule might not always be doable week to week, or even day to day, depending on the shipments you might be hauling. However, there are still some simple steps you can take to prepare your body for a restful sleep.

Try these time-tested strategies before you get some shut eye:

Stop drinking caffeine at least 6 hours before bed
Stop eating, especially large meals, at least 2 hours before bed
Turn off all electronics and bright lights at least an hour before bed

2. Enjoy the area around you.

Some shipping lanes can bring you to and through some of the most beautiful places the U.S. has to offer. When your breaks come up, plan out some time to enjoy a walk or jog through the local towns or parks. Enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding areas around you can help get you out of the cab and make your shipment feel more like a road trip.

3. Make friends or adopt a furry companion.

As some truck drivers told us, having friends on the road can be really crucial for mental health. If you make new trucker friends, or have friends that live somewhere along your route, schedule a time to meet up for a meal, or to just hang out. This can boost your mood and feel like a break from the long drive ahead of you.

If human friends aren’t your thing, consider adopting a dog or cat, if you are prepared for the responsibility. We’ve talked to plenty of truckers who have pets that ride shotgun with them. They keep them company, give them a reason to get outside, and just make the drive more enjoyable.

4. If you have to dine out, cruise the salad bar.

While preparing food yourself is the best option for healthy meals, it’s not always the most realistic option when you’re driving. Check out restaurants near your route that offer salad bars and fresh options.

Often, salad bars also include cold prepared salads and other sides, so you won’t just be stuck with a plate full of greens. Eating a burger and fries isn’t the obvious choice when trying to be healthier, but if you do have to go that route, try getting the smaller burger and swapping the fries for a salad.

5. Keep in contact with friends and family on a daily basis.

This tip came straight from a truck driver. It makes sense to stay connected to those at home, as it may help to feel like the distance between you is just a little less. This can also be your “something to look forward to” in the day and help you develop a routine.

Don’t forget you can still be involved in events going on at home with Skype and Facetime. Seeing your loved ones’ faces can make the time pass just a bit faster and boost your mood.

While these tips aren’t sure guarantees for healthy bodies and minds, they are a good start. Your physical and mental health should be number one while you’re on the road, especially on long hauls.

To learn more about joining Trinity’s carrier network, click here.

Please note that Trinity Logistics is not authorized to provide medical advice. These tips are suggestions only.

Trinity Logistics has been announced as the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA)’s 2016 Samaritan Award winner. This prestigious award is given annually to a third party logistics company (3PL) that offers exceptional assistance to others in need.

Trinity Logistics, in conjunction with its non-profit organization, the Trinity Foundation, organizes events to benefit charitable causes year-round. The main focus areas include the local communities surrounding Trinity’s five main offices, health awareness, and youth leadership development. The Foundation gives out scholarships for local youth and raises funds for causes including local cancer and heart centers, sports events, meal drives, and support for families in need at Thanksgiving and Christmas.

“Together, over the past ten years, Team Trinity and the Foundation have been involved in many causes and local community projects, from feeding the hungry, to youth leadership development programs and support of our military. We have raised thousands of dollars in support of those efforts,” said Amy Proctor, Trinity Foundation Director. “We are so honored that the TIA would recognize these efforts by selecting us as the 2016 Samaritan Award winner.”

The TIA recognizes that voluntary service or assistance can take a multitude of forms, and was impressed by the Trinity Foundation’s variety of outreach methods.

“Trinity Logistics’ efforts stood out among a multitude of capable nominees,” said Robert Voltmann, President and CEO, Transportation Intermediaries Association. “Their donation of time, talent, and money has led by example among a group of 3PL companies that we are proud to call TIA members. The diversity of causes that Trinity supported – wigs for cancer patients, multiple charity 5K races, and food drives for the local food bank – were truly impressive.”

Along with the award, the TIA donates all funds raised by their annual TIA Foundation Charity Fun Run to a charity of the winner’s choice. Trinity has designated the Delmarva Teen Challenge Home of Hope as the beneficiary of this year’s funds. Home of Hope is a women’s center for those healing from life-controlling addictions across the Delmarva (Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia) region.

“This accolade from the TIA is a testament to how individuals can come together for a cause and leave a legacy,” said Jeff Banning, President and CEO of Trinity Logistics. “Team Trinity’s choice of the Home of Hope as the recipient of the award will make such an impact on Delmarva. I am very proud of this team.” 

We recently had the opportunity to speak with Ree Mies, of Mies Products, Inc., about their business and their relationship with Trinity Logistics. Since they are such a valued customer, we thought it’d be fun to feature them in our very first customer spotlight!

1. Tell us more about your business.

Mies Products, Inc. was established in 1952 by Carl Mies when he invented the edible oil filter machine.  Over the years, Mies Products, Inc. has expanded its product lines to include Mies Pressure Fryers and Mies One-Step Breading.  To this day, Mies Products, Inc. continues to be a family run business and is currently being run by the second and third generations to founder, Carl Mies.

2. Why did you decide to work with Trinity?

After a customer referral, we looked into Trinity and found that they offered a wide variety of shipment options that suited our variable needs.

3. You have been working with us since 2012 and utilize a variety of modes including truckload, less than truckload (LTL), and intermodal.  How has this been able to help your business succeed?

Trinity’s variety of modes has allowed us to focus on our business versus shopping around for rates and their rates have always been  competitive, if not lower.  Trinity’s consistency is also a key factor to our success.  Their customer service is also on point with our orders and they are very willing to accommodate any of our needs.

4. Can you tell us about a time that Trinity has been able to help you solve a problem or make your life easier?

Our shipping department closes at 12:00 p.m. on Fridays.  Due to an unexpected vendor delay, our delivery was also pushed back to arrive after our shipping department closed.  Our account manager at Trinity was able to restructure things on her end.  Ultimately, she was able to accommodate our needs and got our delivery here before 12:00 p.m.

5. What do you look for in a 3PL/shipping provider and how does Trinity fit into this?

We look for a company that is consistent, reliable, and willing to accommodate. Trinity is all of those things.

6. Describe your relationship with your account manager at Trinity.

Rita Osborn is wonderful to work with!  She is always right on top of things and quick to respond if we have a request.  She is also extremely flexible as our shipments can change as our deliveries are based on customer demand.  When Rita is out of the office, her peers do an excellent job of assisting with whatever our needs may be. “A+” customer service!

7. Give us a snapshot of who you are, your day-to-day role at the company, and what that entails.

I am the Operations Manager and I manage our product lines to our customer demands.  I then coordinate delivery of inventory with Trinity so we can meet our customer demands timely.  With this being only one of my many functions, I appreciate that Trinity and its staff make it so easy to do.  This allows me time to focus on other aspects of our business.

8. What should our readers know about Mies Products, Inc.?

Offering a vast variety of taste profiles to satisfy your palate’s desires, Mies breading has a blend of thirteen herbs and spices that lightly coats your food product and seals in juices.  Mies breading is also unique to the market as it doesn’t require an egg or milk wash; you simply “Wet it and Bread it!”
To learn more about Mies Products, Inc., visit miesproducts.com, or like them on Facebook.
To learn how Trinity can offer a variety of modes and services to help your business succeed in their goals, click here.

Trinity Logistics, in conjunction with the Trinity Foundation, held its annual “Heart and Sole 5K” on Saturday, March 26th, at Trinity in Seaford. The event’s goal is to encourage heart health awareness, as well as raise funds for the Nanticoke Health Services Cardiac Unit. This year’s event was highly successful and raised $9,500 that will go to purchase new workout equipment for recovering cardiac patients.

“Through the Heart and Sole 5K, Trinity Logistics and community members put their best foot forward to assist cardiac rehabilitation patients at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital,” said Renee’ Morris, Nanticoke Health Services Executive Director.  “Funds will assist with the purchase of new treadmills for patients walking their own journey of a healthier heart.”

This year, the sixth in the Trinity Foundation’s history, there were 160 participants ranging from young children to seniors in the 5K from around Delmarva.

“It is imperative that our community is made aware of heart disease, the silent killer that is the leading cause of death among men and women in the United States,” said Jill Ostermann, Trinity Foundation member and 5K founder. “Your heart is responsible for everything that gives your body life and it is our mission to help those in our community through awareness, education, prevention or with rehabilitation.”

On April 27th, members from Nanticoke Health Services were presented with a check from the Trinity Foundation totaling $13,800, a combination of funds raised from the 5K and Trinity’s Big Pink Volleyball Tournament.

If you’re interested in being involved in next year’s 5K, or in any of the Trinity Foundation’s other causes, please email us at [email protected].

We published a brand new downloadable whitepaper that goes over all of the most commonly used terms and phrases throughout the logistics and shipping industries. If you’re new to the transportation world, or are simply overwhelmed by all of the various lingo used by shippers and carriers, this is just the thing for you.

Dray, who? Have a lump, where? My freight…on a reefer?!  

The Guide to Shipping and Logistics Terminology runs through terms from A to Z including accessorial, drayage, lumper, reefer, and white glove. If you’ve never heard any of these words before, or not sure of what they mean, be sure to download the free guide that you can keep handy on your desktop, or printed out to have on hand the next time you run into a word you’re just not sure of.

To download the free guide, click here. 

Trinity Logistics has been named to Transport Topics Magazine’s Top Brokerage Firms list for the 14th time.  This Top Brokerage Firm list is assembled by Transport Topics Magazine annually and ranks logistics companies based on their net revenue, company reports, and data from Armstrong & Associates.

Trinity was ranked #20 out of 100 other companies that made the list. Consistently, there are new third party logistics companies popping up every day to challenge those who have been in the industry for years, so to hold a spot on the list for a decade and a half is a true feat.

With 37 years of experience in the transportation and logistics industries, Trinity is proud to be constantly improving on previous benchmarks it has set not only within the industry, but within its own walls.

“It is an honor to make Transport Topics’ Top Brokers List for the 14th consecutive year,” said Jeff Banning, CEO of Trinity Logistics. “It is really a testament to our team, a group of individuals who excel in what they do and want to make a difference every day in the lives of our shippers and carriers.”

To see the list, go to www.ttnews.com/top50/freight.