Whether you’re at a local restaurant, a holiday party, or spending a Friday night on the town, you, or someone you know is having a drink. And no, we’re not talking about a glass of water or soda. We’re talking about alcohol, including beer, wine, spirits, liquors, and liqueurs. What does it take to get alcohol from manufacturing plants to stores and restaurants for consumers?  In order to ship alcohol safely, there are many rules and regulations to follow.   

Do We Even Drink That Much? 

In the United States alone, people who are 21 years and older consumed 7.8 billion gallons of alcohol in 2018, according to a report by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Breaking this down, means 6.3 billion gallons of beer, 900 million gallons of wine, and 570 million gallons of spirits consumed. So, shipping alcohol is a continued need and one that is only going to grow. Since the pandemic hit in 2020, the volume of consumed alcohol increased at least two percent year-over-year.  

The Production 

In the United States alone, the alcohol beverage industry handles more than 4 million jobs and generates almost $70 billion in revenue. This number is only going to grow but beers, wine, and spirits are all different for the consumer.  

Beer 

This sector has been dominated by big brand names ever since the beginning. Big brands like Bud Light, Coors Light, Budweiser, and Corona all make life hard for those small-town local breweries. 

While 2021 was a record year for small-town businesses with 710 openings and only 176 of their doors closing across all 50 states, they still face a tall hill to climb. In this situation, it’s David versus Goliath. Big beer companies have the brand reputation, the capital, the marketing, and all the business. Therefore, small breweries must compete not only with them but with other small local breweries to make it in the industry. 

However, with everything against them, many consumers prefer a unique-tasting beer compared to the very recognizable Bud Light can.  

While small breweries open their doors to everyone, their target audience for their beer is individuals in their twenties, thirties, and early forties. These individuals (especially Millennials) are more likely to try new drinks and prefer ones that have different flavor profiles such as sweet, salty, sour, hoppy, spicy, and more. This shows because, in 2021, the volume growth in small breweries grew by 7.9 percent and produced 24.5 million barrels of beer.  

Wine 

The wine market is as competitive as the beer field, where big brand names are a household stable with new vineyards and wineries opening across the United States.  

Some of the biggest names in this sector are Franzia, Barefoot Cellars, Twin Valley, and more. The wine sector is expected to see significant growth. In 2021, the market was worth $417.85 billion and is expected to grow 6.4 percent year over year. So, while one may face the challenge of competing with big brand names, if a quality product is produced, there is great potential. 

Spirits 

The spirits industry also referred to as hard liquor, is a sector that made $135.78 billion in 2021. This sector has a lot more variety, including spirits such as vodka, tequila, rum, whiskey, gin, and more. Within each of these categories, they all have well-known competitors, meaning each one presents unique and complex challenges for those within the sector.  

But, How Does Shipping Alcohol Work? 

Whether you make beer or spirits or are a big brand name or a small business, one thing is for sure, you NEED to ship your product out to the consumers. But what does it take to ship alcohol? 

When shipping alcohol you must have certain permits and meet regulations to ship it safely and most importantly, legally in the United States.  

What Are the Regulations for Shipping Alcohol? 

Here is where things get tricky. When shipping alcohol, you must follow certain rules, but the United States does not have one set of rules for transporting alcohol. This means that all 50 states in the U.S. have different rules and regulations to follow. For example, in Delaware, carriers must abide by the Delaware Office of Alcohol Beverage Control Commissioner rules but carriers traveling through New Mexico must follow the Alcoholic Beverage Control.  

Before arranging your shipment of alcohol, you must be aware of each state’s regulations for the transportation of it. Find out what you need to know about a certain state’s requirements by clicking on the link below: 

Making Shipping Alcohol Easy with a 3PL 

No matter if your company is big or small, selling beer or wine, everyone must follow these rules when shipping alcohol. However, ensuring the carrier has the proper permits can be a pain-stacking task. By using a 3PL, like Trinity Logistics, you’ll gain access to a network of strong carrier relationships and Team Member experts with experience in the regulations for shipping alcohol. 

Working with a 3PL means you’ll have someone on your side to help all the backend logistics work so you can focus on making and selling the best product. Plus, we offer a variety of shipping solutions for you, from less-than-truckload shipments to temperature-controlled intermodal, we have the shipping solution you need. 

Trinity Logistics is excited to announce that the company has been recognized as a Top 100 3PL by Inbound Logistics in 2022.  

Every year, hundreds of third-party providers submit their credentials to Inbound Logistics to be considered for their Top 100 list. Among the applicants considered, Trinity’s recognition further highlights the company’s growing brand of People-Centric Freight Solutions® among shippers and carriers. 

“This year’s theme for our annual 3PL edition: pizza. But think about it. Whether companies need to outsource just a slice or the full pie, there’s a 3PL to meet their needs. And outsourcing supply chain, logistics and transportation solutions to a trusted partner was never more important than during the disruptions of the past few years” said Felecia Stratton of Inbound Logistics. 

“We are honored to be named as one of the top 3PLs in the industry,” said Sarah Ruffcorn, President of Trinity Logistics. “Our focus on People-Centric Freight Solutions ® continues to make us a trusted partner for both shippers and carriers. I am proud of our team and how they continue to serve those around them with excellence.” 

Trinity consistently strives to be the best by offering its audiences customized logistics solutions through its People-Centric approach.  Trinity is honored to receive this recognition as it continues positively representing the company’s legacy by providing excellent service to the logistics industry. 

About Trinity Logistics 
 
Trinity Logistics is a Burris Logistics Company, offering People-Centric Freight Solutions®. Our mission is to deliver creative logistics solutions through a mix of human ingenuity and innovative technology, enriching the lives of those we serve.  

For the past 40 years, we’ve been arranging freight for businesses of all sizes in truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), warehousing, intermodal, drayage, expedited, international, and technology solutions. 

We are currently recognized on Transport Topics’ Top 100 Freight Brokerage List, a Top 3PL and Cold Storage Provider by Food Logistics, and a Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation by Women in Trucking. 

It’s no surprise that one of the hottest topics in the world lately is the pain felt at the pump. Rising fuel prices have been at an all-time high, surpassing the costs since 2008, and these prices will only continue to climb. As a result, businesses are being forced to pay more to operate, causing a ripple effect for everyone.

Wait, How Did This Even Start? 

You may be wondering how fuel prices even got to this all-time high. Well, they can’t be blamed on any specific event or occurrence as many different factors caused fuel prices to surge. 

World Conflict

World conflict is one issue affecting fuel prices, specifically those in Western Europe. The Russia-Ukraine war has been brewing for some time now, and due to attacks, the United States among others has stopped imports, like oil, coming from Russia.

Russia is one of the world’s largest oil exporters, exporting nearly eight million barrels in one month. The drastic change in accepting oil imports from Russia has caused the price of fuel to rise because it’s not as available as it once was.  

The Dreaded “C” Word

Another catalyst for the spike in fuel prices is the continual effect of Covid-19. I’m sure you’re tired of hearing it, but the world is still feeling the pains of the virus while we aim to return to life. Recently, Covid forced Chinese ports to close for a brief period and now that the ports are opening back up, supply cannot keep up with demand. 

As people try to live alongside Covid-19, office workers are going back to in-person work and people are returning to travel after two years of staying put. With more people leaving their homes, it’s causing a greater demand for fuel while our supply is limited. 

The Effects of These Issues

Fuel prices are affecting everyone, including consumers, and businesses, but those in the logistics industry are seeing greater challenges. That’s because the logistics sector has seen disruption after disruption. First, with the issues started by the pandemic, then the port congestion once businesses began to reopen, and so on to now with increased fuel prices. This industry has barely had a moment to catch its breath. 

Logistics is at a crossroads; with the United States economy looking at a recession, and world conflicts yet to improve, it’s going to be hard for fuel prices to drop back to normal levels until everything balances out.

How Bad is it Actually?

Even though everyone has been hearing and seeing the high fuel prices, how bad are these prices? Well, in June, the U.S. national average price per gallon topped $5, which is 50 percent higher than it was this time last year. Even pre-pandemic prices were at $2.55 average for that month, showing the direct impact that covid and other issues have caused.  

These prices only continue to rise when we talk about the cost of diesel fuel. This type is often more expensive than regular gas, and this is what truck drivers use to fill up their tanks. In June, diesel fuel averaged $5.50 per gallon in the U.S., which is a .50-cent increase from regular fuel. While this increase seems small, when truckers are driving over 500 miles per day, the extra cost can add up quickly.  

President Joe Biden has tried to take steps to lower fuel prices in the United States. He has called on Congress to do a Federal Gas Tax Holiday, releasing the charges that the federal government has on fuel. Typically, the government charges an 18-cent tax per gallon on gasoline and a 24-cent tax per gallon on diesel, but President Biden has called for the Tax Holiday to give Americans breathing room as they battle other economic issues like inflation.

High fuel prices are not an issue solely faced by the United States. In fact, gas prices in the United States are on the lower end of the spectrum compared to other countries. For example, while the average in June for the United States was $5 per gallon, in Germany, it averaged $8.26 per liter, while one of the highest fuel prices was in Hong Kong, where gas was $10.71 per liter in June.

How Do High Fuel Prices Impact You?

So, how do the rising fuel prices affect those in the logistics industry? Well, let’s take a look.

Shippers

Increased fuel prices mean higher logistics costs because it’s now more expensive to move their products from point A to point B.

Consumers

Consumers see a direct cost increase on products due to fuel prices. Because it now costs more for shippers to move their products to their destinations, they must also raise the price of their products to continue to make a profit. 

Carriers

The biggest issue carriers are seeing with the high fuel prices is the impact on their income. Their operating costs have increased due to the rising fuel and product prices. And with rates lower than they’ve been throughout the pandemic, many carriers have decided to put a pause on driving until the market return to normal. This could cause added chaos to the market. Should more carriers halt their work, there could be an imbalance in the industry, causing more backlogs and shipping delays as a result.

Trinity is Here to Help

As an experienced third-party logistics company with over 40 years in business, we’ve worked with many shippers and motor carriers through the ups and downs faced in this industry, including this one. We’ve seen it all and are here to help you through these troubling times.

Whether you’re a shipper looking for better logistics management or a motor carrier looking for dedicated freight to keep you consistently moving, you can find all the solutions you need with our People-Centric approach.

Get connected with us today so you can start having Trinity Logistics, a Burris Logistics Company, by your side, no matter the state of the market. 

Everyone dreams about what they want to be as a kid when they grow up. Whether it’s a doctor, a famous athlete, or even an astronaut, it’s safe to say we all dream about what our future holds. But one area people often turn a blind eye to is the logistics sector. When people hear, logistics, they often only thinks of truck drivers, dismissing a logistics career as a potential path. In reality, truck drivers are only one role in this industry. 

The logistics field is one of the most important in the world. Everything depends on how the logistics sector is running during that period. Logistics is how the new iPhone gets to stores, food on the shelves and at restaurants, or amazon orders from the warehouse to your front doorstep. To say that logistics is critical to our everyday lives is an understatement. 

Career Pathways

There are many options for a logistics career outside of driving a truck. While truck drivers are an integral role in the field, the logistics sector has many more career paths available. 

Sales

There are several different departments that play their part in logistics with one of them being sales. Logistics companies need salespeople to attract, gain, and retain new business for continued growth. Salespeople are those individuals who current and potential customers interact with first, so it’s important for these people to be driven, and hardworking, but also have the soft skills to win over new customers. 

Independent Freight Agents

Perhaps you want more flexibility in your logistics career. If you’re the type of person to enjoy running their own business, then a career as an independent freight agent could be for you. Independent freight agents work with third-party logistics companies (3PL), like Trinity, to work their own book of business while having back-end support available. 

Dispatching

Working with carrier companies is very important aspect of logistics. Being able to recruit and grow carrier relationships is important to the success of a business. Jobs within this area often help with getting carriers to their preferred lanes while negotiating rates on those shipments. 

But Wait, There’s More…

You may not know this but there’s more to logistics than just arranging freight shipments. There are many administrative support roles available in a logistics career. These can include finance, marketing, human resources, technology, education, customer service, and more. If you’re not a sales-driven individual, then these opportunities may make more sense to you. 

What Benefits Can a Logistics Career Offer You?

Untapped Incentives

One huge benefit is the control an individual has when working within this sector, especially in many sales-driven roles.  The untapped incentive opportunities are up to the individual to reach. It’s about the drive, pace and execution in the role to increase earnings through incentive programs and help the whole Team win in the market.

Career Growth

Career growth is another benefit to this industry’s potential. No matter which role you start at, you have many opportunities to grow your skills, your knowledge, or even change up your path while remaining in the logistics field.

A Logistics Career is for Everyone

Many careers have specific job requirements on education level, such as requiring a bachelor’s degree or more. But, the logistics field is one for everyone. Many can start at entry level and grow as much as they want along with making a great living too. 

Stability

A logistics career is a stable one because the logistics industry is going nowhere. Logistics is one the fastest growing industries and currently employs 1.7 million people, which is only 5 percent of the workforce. Job opportunities are rising as this industry becomes more important for society and looks to improve with technology. With this stability, you’ll never have to worry about not having a job or not having the opportunity for career growth.

Never Be Bored

The supply chain is a swinging pendulum of change and always has different challenges waiting for everyone. We’ve seen this from the covid-19 pandemic, the labor shortages, product shortages, port congestion within the United States, and now Chinese ports being shut down as well. The logistics sector causes everyone to navigate these challenges and think creatively to get to the final destination, thus, you’ll never have a boring day at work! You’ll never have your head down falling asleep or be stuck doing the same thing repeatedly. Because you must adapt daily, you stay on your feet and await the next challenge to avoid. 

Work With New Technologies

Because the logistics sector is one that is growing, that means innovation through technology as well. Whether it’s a payment system, booking loads, Customer Relationship Management Systems (CRMS), or new customer and carrier portals, it gives you the opportunity to learn new, innovative systems that will enhance your soft skills as well. This is far from stopping either, as the industry is always looking to find ways to easily streamline customers and create data systems that are user friendly and easy to use as well.

Fulfilling Work

Working in logistics takes a lot of responsibility. Don’t feel too overwhelmed though as high responsibility means high reward. No matter the role you choose, you’ll feel a sense of pride in seeing products you worked with on shelves, in stores, or knowing you helped assist in a FEMA shipment, helping those who faced a natural disaster. This all comes in addition to the satisfaction you’ll receive from those parties you helped. 

Flexibility

Logistics is for everyone, meaning you’re not tied to one area of the United States or world. Every company whether big, small, domestic, or international uses logistics to get products from point A to B. You can move almost anywhere and be able to work remotely or for a logistics company in that area. Even the type of workplaces can differ as well. You could be working in a warehouse, factory floor, an open office area, or even from the comfort of your home. The possibilities are endless when it comes to the kind of place and location you could work from in logistics. 

The Next Generation

Because the logistics industry is growing, there is major concern about recruiting. Many in the logistics industry are focused on expanding people’s interest into this sector, especially for the younger generations. More colleges offer logistics and supply chain classes and degrees, more logistics businesses are using social media applications like Instagram and TikTok, and new programs like the U21 Truck Driver Apprenticeship program are making huge steps forward in showcasing a logistics career as a good path. 

Clearer Than Ever

One factor that spiked this industry’s popularity and knowledge was the covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic started the drastic market changes that we’re still experiencing today since everyone started online shopping more due to the social distancing that was put in place.

From there we’ve continued to see supply chains making headlines due to, delivery times being delayed, product shortages, increased prices, delays, and congestion at the ports, and more. 

Now that everyone has seen experience the supply chain affecting them personally, people are more aware of logistics and have a better understanding of how society needs it to run efficiently.

Interested in a Logistics Career?

If you’re looking for a career in logistics at a growing company, Trinity Logistics could be for you. We’re a third-party logistics company (3PL), offering People-Centric Freight Solutions®. Our mission is to deliver creative logistics solutions through a dynamic mix of human ingenuity and innovative technology, enriching the lives of those we serve. To accomplish this, we start by enriching the lives of our Team Members. 

We offer an ideal work environment with a causal dress code and an emphasis on Team Member appreciation. Our job opportunities offer you the job stability and more.  

If you want to learn more about Trinity’s culture and job opportunities, click below to start your logistics career.

By: Turner Lee

If you’ve seen any of the news headlines throughout 2021, you’ve seen how supply chains continually face ongoing stress and disruption from the contiued covid-19 pandemic, labor and product shortages, port congestion, and more. However, even during stressful times such as these, many of our Independent Freight Agent offices have continued to excel. How did our Independent Freight Agent offices continue to thrive in such difficult times? At Trinity, we make sure to work together and support. In 2022, Trinity is giving out more awards, prizes, and trips than ever before. 

Celebrating Our Platinum Agents

Trinity’s Agents can achieve the distinction of being recognized as a Platinum Agent, but what does this mean? A Platinum Agent title is earned by Trinity’s Authorized Agents who are excelling in the field. It is the highest recognition an Authorized Agent with Trinity can achieve, based on revenue and load count totals. Each year we recognize these Platinum Agents, giving them the royal treatment for their hard work. 

Celebrating Agent Office Achievements

Every year our Agent Support Team sends out awards and recognition plaques to the Authorized Agents who had an amazing growth year – and they sent out more boxes than ever this year! With the support of a broker, like Trinity Logistics, Independent Freight Agents can focus on what they do best – move freight. In addition, because our elite Agent Support team takes care of the back-end support, Authorized Agent offices in our network can focus on growing their business. And in 2021, they did just that! We were even able to recognize our Agents’ contribution to a huge company milestone, with a car giveaway. Check out Kelly’s surprise when we showed up at his door to tell him he won the drawing.

Here are some of the highlights our Agents accomplished this year:

• A record number of Authorized Agents reached Platinum status – the highest level of achievement for an Independent Freight Agent at Trinity, which rewards volume and growth.
• 70 percent of Authorized Agent Offices in Trinity’s network reached $1 million, or more, in sales – with many reaching multi-million-dollar levels.

Independent Agent Awards and Perks

Trinity offers the best support possible for Independent Freight Agent Offices that are growing but also some awards and recognition as well. Our Agents are like family to us, and we love to celebrate them when they reach their goals. Listed below are some of the rewards we offer to our Authorized Agents: 

• Plaques and trophies
• Company branded apparel – who doesn’t love a good jacket or hat?
• Trips – our Platinum Agencies receive full travel accommodations, including flights and hotel accommodations for the owner and a guest to our annual Agent conference. In 2022, we’re going to New Orleans! 
• Gifts – we recently sent out a gift to every single Agency owner and their Team Members to celebrate such a fantastic year. We also send gifts every year to our Authorized Freight Agent offices.
• Appreciation – each year, Trinity sets aside a day called “Agent Appreciation Day” – with celebrations including gifts, lunches, videos, and recognition. We honor our Authorized Freight Agents every day, but we take this one special day to play it up big. 

Supporting Independent Freight Agent Offices

While all these gifts and perks are great benefits to being part of Trinity’s Authorized Freight Agent network, that’s not all we offer. Trinity has over 30 years of experience aiding the success of our Authorized Freight Agent offices, and offer many extras for our Authorized Agent network. Hear from Chris Bergman, one of Trinity’s Authorized Agents, about his success story and how Trinity has helped him get to where he is today.

We realize you have a choice in who you’d like to partner with in your business. However, if what you’re looking for is a long-term partnership that is supportive of your growth, offers you continued education to remain competitive, and most of all, is made up of a Team of people who are passionate, dedicated, and striving for excellence, then Trinity Logistics may be the Freight Agent program for you. 

If you want to learn more about our Freight Agent Program, click the button below! 

By: Jennifer Hoffman

You’ve finally decided it’s time to get some help with your logistics. You’ve heard about third-party logistics (3PL) companies and the services they offer having many benefits to those who use them. According to a report by Ibisworld, there are over 20,000 3PL companies in the U.S. alone. 

When looking to choose the right 3PL for your company, it all comes down to what you’re looking for. Whether you’re looking for one with advanced technology, great customer service, an extensive carrier relationship network, or perhaps an expert in your commodity, there’s sure to be one that makes sense for your business. 

Choosing the right 3PL is essential to ensure your company gets exactly what it needs for its logistics. With so many different 3PL companies out there, we wanted to offer you some information so you can choose the right one for your needs. In this blog, we take some of our competitors and compare them, as well as ourselves, so you can see how they differ. 

First Steps

First things first, to find the right 3PL for your company, here are some steps you can follow to ensure you choose the right partner:

• Research the different companies around.
• Begin establishing a relationship with these companies.
• Ask about the rates they offer.
• Look for any customizable capabilities the company offers. Is the technology customizable to your company’s needs?
• Keep an eye out for a provider that commits and strives for continuous improvement. Look for a 3PL that has networks of people and locations. 

Logistics Companies Comparison

We chose some well-known 3PLs to analyze for our comparison, including C.H. Robinson, XPO Logistics, Redwood Logistics, and ourselves. We’ll compare the different companies’ backgrounds, technology, and company culture to help you start your search for a 3PL provider. 

Background Information

One thing you should look into when researching 3PLs is their background. It’s important to find out some basic information about your potential provider, such as how long they have been in business, the number of locations they have, and their company’s mission.

C.H. Robinson 

• Founded in 1905 in Grand Forks, North Dakota
• A multi-billion-dollar company in the logistics field
• Headquarters are in Eden Prairie, Minnesota
• Has 297 office locations in 51 different countries
• Has no assets
• Mission Statement: “Our people, processes, and technology improve the world’s transportation and supply chain, delivering exceptional value to our customers and suppliers.”

XPO Logistics

• Founded in 1989
• Headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut
• Has over 42,000 employees with 756 locations worldwide
• A billion-dollar company
• Has their own assets
• Mission Statement: “People, technology, assets, and expertise that work together around the globe to help our customers succeed.”

Redwood Logistics

• Founded in 2001
• Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois
• A multi-million-dollar company
• Has 225 employees with 15 locations nationwide
• Has no assets
• Mission Statement: “To bring energy and innovation to logistics and help businesses prosper in a high-demand world.”

Trinity Logistics

• Founded in 1979 in Cambridge, Maryland
• Headquartered in Seaford, Delaware, with eight office locations nationwide and over 120 agent offices in North America
• A Burris Logistics Company
• Is a multi-million-dollar company
• Has no assets of its own, but makes use of its parent company assets, Burris Logistics
• Mission Statement: “To deliver creative logistics solutions through a mix of human ingenuity and innovative technology, enriching the lives of those we serve.

Technology

Technology is a key aspect of the success of your logistics companies. Many 3PL companies provide different technology perks to help simplify your logistics processes. Let’s look at what these companies offer.

C.H. Robinson

C.H. Robinson offers technology applications for transportation management through their Global Transportation Management System (TMS), freight visibility, pricing, and analytics through Navisphere, planning through PO Management, and procurement through Procure IQ. They also offer carriers technology through their Navisphere Driver App. 

XPO Logistics

XPO Logistics offers a digital transportation platform designed to increase efficiency for their customer, called XPO Connect. This platform gives visibility into shipment status and helps streamline tasks through automation and digital sourcing of capacity. 

Redwood Logistics

Redwood offers their digital logistics platform called LPaaS. This stands for Logistics Platform as a Service and XPO make this the centerpiece of the company. This “open platform for digital solutions” highlights that LPaaS is the connection between logistics and technology to create a network that is efficient, cost-effective, and personalized for your logistics solutions.

Trinity Logistics

Trinity offers best-in-class technology for both shippers and carriers. Shippers can take advantage of Trinity’s Customer Portal to stay updated on their shipments, access or pay invoices online, or request new freight quotes easily. If looking for transportation management, shippers can find their own customized transportation management solution with Trinity, whether that be Integrated Outsourced, Managed, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), or their own specific TMS solution. For less-than-truckload (LTL) shippers, there’s Banyan LTL to make shipping your LTL freight easier. 

Carriers have just as many technology options as shipper customers through the Carrier Portal, TriumphPay for quick and easy payments, and load booking features through DAT BookNow. 

Carriers and shippers can both take advantage of easy tracking technology options such as MacroPoint, Trucker Tools, and FourKites. 

Company Culture

One final aspect that you should learn about your potential 3PL company is its culture. You want to find a 3PL provider who aligns with your mission, as well as treats their employees right. We all know a happy employee equals great customer service!

C.H. Robinson

C.H. Robinson embraces their value through their E.D.G.E program; evolves constantly, delivers excellence, grows together, and embraces integrity. 

XPO Logistics

XPO’s values are inclusivity, safety, being entrepreneurial, being respectful, and being innovative.

Redwood Logistics

Redwood believes in environmental stewardship, social and workplace culture, and corporate governance. 

Trinity Logistics

At Trinity, culture revolves around a set of Guiding Values. Those are:

Teamwork: We listen. We collaborate. We solve. 

Integrity: We do the right thing!

Legacy: Our journey has a purpose.

Fun: Fun lives here!

Continuous Improvement: We aspire to reach our {untapped, full, greatest} potential.

Excellence: We challenge the status quo. 

Determination: We are persistent and unshakable in overcoming obstacles.

Leaders: We are all leaders committed to serving and empowering others.

Find What Works Best for YOU

Whether large or small, having many years of experience or few, or having multiple platforms of technology or just one, the best 3PL for your company is your decision alone. While we at Trinity would love to work with you, we know that the best relationships are built upon respect, equality, trust, and communication.

We hope this logistics company comparison helped you begin your research into your future 3PL provider. Make sure you find the right provider that aligns with your goals and will help you succeed. And if that provider happens to be us, we’re ready to provide you with our People-Centric Trinity Experience.

By: Turner Lee

Why is creating a culture of teamwork so crucial to a third-party logistics company? Well, because our Team Members are our assets! Our Team Members are the ones representing our company every day by living our mission, purpose, and vision. We ensure that everyone who interacts with us receives excellent service as set by our Trinity standards. Additionally, our company relies on the combined knowledge and expertise of every Team Member to run our company efficiently.

We need a culture of teamwork because each of our departments leans on one another to get the job done. Whether that be Marketing, Operations, or Billing, they all play an integral role in the company’s service and performance.

Now you’re probably wondering, how are you creating a culture of teamwork? How can my business improve our own culture and service? It’s not just one thing that makes it happen. Creating a culture of teamwork takes many steps, time, and a lot of effort, but you’ll find it all worth it in the end.

Start with the Right People

Creating a thriving company culture starts in the beginning with the leadership. Our leadership at Trinity is one that wants everyone in the company to excel and grow. This encouragement is seen throughout the company but made especially clear during the recruiting process. Our Recruiting Team works hard daily to find and, attract the best talent possible. We look for people who live by our Guiding Values daily. These include integrity, teamwork, legacy, fun, continuous improvement, excellence, determination, and leaders. Since our culture revolves around these Guiding Values, we want to make sure our potential hires already relate to them.

Since we strive to create a work environment that is upbeat, fun, and competitive, our ideal Team Members are those who will maintain and enhance this environment.

Besides relating to our Guiding Values, we also look for prospects that want to help give back to the community. At Trinity, we have the Trinity Foundation. The Trinity Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization founded and run by Trinity Team Members. A common goal of the Foundation and Trinity Logistics is improving the lives of others, and that’s why we highlight different opportunities for Team Members to give back to the community.

Although recruiting is only one aspect of what makes our culture thrive, it’s an essential part of keeping it alive and well.

Team Member Appreciation

Another critical area to creating a culture of teamwork is showing your Team Members genuine appreciation for all the hard work they do. Whether this is through fun events, awards, or the benefits provided, showing your Team Members that they are appreciated and valued will often raise morale.

Fun Events

We appreciate the hard work our Team Members do day in and day out. We share our appreciation and build upon our company culture through our Guiding Value of Fun. If there’s one thing we do well, it’s offering fun events for our Team Members. Whether it’s our Annual Field Day, holiday celebrations, team-building activities, or our many potlucks, we strive to encourage every Team Member to have some fun within their comfort level.

Kudos

Another way we show and build upon our culture is through our Kudos program. Team Members have the opportunity to send Kudos to others. These are notes of appreciation for work or acts of service they have done, based on our Guiding Values. These Kudos are shared company-wide for all Team Members to see. Additionally, every month we randomly pull one to two kudos per office to announce as our monthly winners for demonstrating one of our Guiding Values. Winners receive special prizes each month.

Awards

Of course, you can’t talk about appreciation without awards. At the end of every fiscal year, we celebrate! We hold a party for a chance for our Team Members to dress up, have some fun, and most of all, celebrate excellence through our Awards Ceremony. Every department chooses someone who shined throughout the year in certain categories to be recognized. Many different factors come into play when selecting award winners such as time spent in the company, background, discipline record, and current employment with the company. These award winners are given different prizes, trophies, or even vacations as well.

Benefits

While people love the fun events and celebrations, offering benefits that are a cut above other companies show Team Members are valued.

Trinity offers a great mix of benefits, work environment, and appreciation to create a happy team. Our benefits package includes generous paid-time-off offerings, a 401(k) with 100 percent match up to six percent, a full benefits package (medical, dental, vision, and wellness), and a laid-back work attire because who doesn’t love to wear jeans to work every day! Showing appreciation is also understanding that your Team Members need a healthy work-life balance which is why we do our best to provide exceptional benefits for our Team to feel their best.

Education

Education is another critical are to creating a culture of teamwork. Through our in-house Education Team, we offer our Team Members opportunities to grow their skills and learn more about other aspects of the business. We also require our team to stay educated on proper workplace behavior. Lastly, we offer tuition reimbursement for those seeking higher education. By providing the chance for our Team Members to benefit from Continuous Improvement opportunities, we find that it allows our Team to offer the best service possible.

The Trinity Experience

Another aspect to keeping our company culture thriving was our recently launched Trinity Experience program. This educational class taught every Team Member in our company to provide the best language possible when communicating with internally with other Team Members, and externally with customers. Whether this was a reminder course for some or a new learning experience for others, our goal was to create a welcoming environment not only for the Team but for our external audiences as well.

Is Trinity the Right Place for You?

Every day at Trinity we strive for excellence. Our motto is People-Centric Freight Solutions, because our assets are our Team Members.

To do this, we need our Team to be their best and we encourage this through our culture. Because of this, we strive to create a work environment that is competitive, interactive, fun, and challenging.

While we can’t speak for everyone, our recruitment, education, and team appreciation are the driving factors in why we’ve been recognized as a Great Place to Work-Certified year after year.

If Trinity sounds like the place for you, check out what job opportunities we currently have available.

Work somewhere with a culture of Teamwork.

Author: Turner Lee

The chemical industry faces complexities every day. From safety regulations to handling and shipping these products, making, and delivering chemicals is no easy task. One of the significant challenges facing the chemical industry today is the pressure for sustainability. With climate change in the spotlight, consumers are taking notice, and sustainability is molding the chemical industry. 

Changing the Old Ways

While safety, service, and costs are still important aspects of the chemical industry, sustainability is becoming an important detail. The industry faces pressure from activists, lawmakers, and the public to become more sustainable to help battle climate change. 

A big issue arising for the chemical industry is that most people have trouble putting the words “green” with “chemicals.” This idea is something progressive, and future chemists are trying to help the industry adapt.

And while it’s not ideal to pay more money for creating products, it’s the path we’re headed. Studies show that more than three-quarters of consumers are willing to change their shopping habits to reduce their own carbon footprint. Additionally, more than one-third are willing to spend more money on products that help with sustainability. 

Sustainability Issues within the Chemical Industry

With over 881 million tons of chemicals transported in previous years, this industry is growing and on the rise. Yet, with its growth comes an increase of challenges on the chemical industry to meet sustainability goals. 

One major goal for sustainability is reducing one’s carbon footprint in the world. For the chemical industry, abiding by modern environmental standards like replacing petroleum-based combustion engines with electronic vehicles, or manufacturing with plant-based materials over oil-based, can help achieve carbon reduction. However, the chemical industry has several issues to resolve to meet this goal.

One of those issues is plastic. Over one-third of the plastic we use is single-use, meaning that after one use of a water bottle, zip lock bag, or straw, for example, these items are thrown away. The “Plastic Waste Markers Index,” published by the Minderoo Foundation, calculated that energy and chemical companies are the sources of half of the world’s single-use plastic waste. Single-use plastic accounts for most of the waste harming marine life and seeping into land when burned. This issue is not taken lightly. Many lawmakers and activists are acting to introduce a new form of recyclable and reusable plastic. 

Major oil spills in recent years have become a rising issue as well. One major oil spill was the Exxon Valdez off the coast of Alaska in 1989, with over eleven million gallons of oil spilled in the ocean. Some more recent ones were the True Oil pipeline in 2020, the tanker truck rollover in 2020, and more. 

Finding Sustainable Solutions

The chemical industry is working hard to find new solutions to be more sustainable. One of the significant changes being made is reducing the rise of fossil fuels.

The use of hybrid or electric vehicles has been on the rise, and we’ve seen significant sales growth for these types of vehicles. People are turning away from pumping gasoline to plug their cars into an electric outlet. While these electric vehicles are not yet popular in the trucking industry, many companies are working to build new electronic trucks. Not to mention, President Biden’s recent executive order aimed at making half of all new vehicles (including semitrailers) sold in 2030 electric. 

Fossil fuels also play a part in plastics. Single-use plastics are made from polymers, with their base material from fossil fuels. As companies strive to reduce their plastic use or manufacturing, it simultaneously reduces fossil fuel use. 

However, with new rules to reduce single-use plastic items, the logistics field will need to find new sustainable ways to package shipments. Currently, products are packaged and shipped in some sort of plastic. 

Although these seem like small changes that one person can easily make, the companies that use or manufacture these products face major changes to their business. As severe weather and climate change continue to be front and center worldwide, chemical companies feel the pressure to make these changes towards sustainability.

We’re Here to Help You

Sustainability affects all practices for the chemical industry, including their logistics. Here at Trinity, we’re here to help you reach your logistics goals, including those on sustainability. We offer several modes of transportation, including intermodal, which can reduce your carbon footprint. Our Team of experts can help recommend customized solutions like freight consolidation as another way to be more sustainable with your freight transportation. Or you can consider using technology, like our best-in-class transportation management system, to gain efficiencies and data-driven insights into your logistics, which can also help you with sustainability in your logistics. 

We know sustainability practices are necessary for every business. This is why we take pride in our efforts and are proud of our earned recognition as both an SDCE Green Supply Chain Award winner and as a Food Logistics Top Green Provider. 

If you’ve been looking for a like-minded logistics partner to reach your goals, we’re here and ready to help.

Author: Turner Lee

I’m sure you’ve heard the term TMS before in logistics, but what does it stand for? The term TMS is short for Transportation Management System. The reason you’ve probably heard that term TMS is that it is the most common and effective way for shippers to manage their logistics in one place. This technology allows companies to manage their transportation in one place. Transportation Management software offers you a way to view insightful data, gain visibility, and better manage all the moving parts in the shipping process. While a TMS might seem daunting and expensive, it’s become an essential tool for businesses to be successful.  

Who uses Transportation Management Software? 

If you have a business in which you regularly need to ship, move, and receive goods on a regular basis then a TMS is a technology you should consider. Many companies use a TMS, such as manufacturers, distributors, e-commerce companies, retail businesses, and companies that provide logistics services (like us). A TMS is best suited for companies that spend more than $1 million in freight, use an array of transportation modes, have several locations, get a majority of your freight via the spot market, or manage most of your data through Excel spreadsheets.  

Why You Need Transportation Management Software 

Transportation management affects every part of your logistics process, from planning to procurement and more. It’s a large piece of the logistics puzzle. If you’re not using a TMS, what are those processes? Are you using programs like Excel and Outlook to manage your shipments? How do you gather and view data? How much visibility do you have into your logistics? Simply put, a TMS makes your transportation easier on you, enabling you to serve your customers better. To give you a better idea of how it helps, let’s look at the benefits.  

What are the Benefits of Transportation Management Software?  

There are so many benefits to using a TMS. Through a TMS, you can automate and optimize your processes, gain visibility into your logistics, and view valuable data.  

Automation 

A TMS allows your company to eliminate your manual transportation processes. A TMS offers you automation with your load planning and execution through its advanced algorithms. With this, it can optimize each shipment, allows freight tracking by using real-time updates, payment processes are simplifying and streamlining invoices are audited, and develops reports through its in-depth data collecting.  

Optimization 

A TMS is a perfect resource if you’re looking for your logistics to be more efficient and optimized. For one example, a TMS can analyze many batch shipments based on various sophisticated parameters and can determine the most cost-effective route plan for your shipment. A TMS can make recommendations for you on different factors like least-cost mode analysis, freight consolidation options, and continuous move opportunities. It can also account for many other factors, including your due dates, mileage, vehicle weight, stops during transit, and out-of-route parameters. The optimization engine of the TMS allows for dynamic, static, and closed-loop routing. 

Visibility 

Real-time visibility of your logistics data and activity are the primary value drivers for companies implementing a TMS.  A TMS can help you view data from internal systems, vendor systems, and get data that may not have been accessible before. Along with collecting data, visibility from a TMS allows your stakeholders access to update their part of a shipment and receive their own real-time. A TMS will essentially act as a virtual control tower for all your logistics updates and communications. Visibility has gone from being an optional benefit to a necessary one in logistics. Using a TMS can change visibility from being a challenge to a strength for your business. 

Reporting 

The reporting offered by a TMS is another huge value to companies. Access to data is becoming more of a necessity for supply chains, but it can be hard to gather it all. Most of the time it’s spread out among various platforms – e-mails, portals, and laptops. A TMS makes it easier for you to compile and view your data through reporting. A TMS has multiple options and breakdowns to give you the best analysis of your data. TMS reporting can provide you with insight into your freight volumes, lane analysis, freight spend, RFP analysis, and so many more. You can dive deep into your data, breaking it down further by load route, price, and even state-by-state to see your load count and total spend as well. A TMS can also give you monthly metric reports, world reports, and various graphs and breakdowns to help you interpret your data for better performance.  

What Does Trinity Logistics Offer in Transportation Management Software?  

There are many different routes you can take in acquiring transportation management software. Simply put, you can choose to purchase transportation management software directly through a vendor or work with a logistics provider, such as Trinity, that offers it as a cloud-based service.  

A Trinity, we understand everyone’s needs are different, which is why we offer a highly configurable system. We offer you three main options to start with: software as a service (Saas), a managed TMS, or an integrated outsource TMS. If none of those options quite fit what you need, we can further customize your solution so you get exactly what you’re looking for.   

No matter your specific needs, you’ll gain access to our best-in-class technology backed by superusers with logistics expertise. Through our People-Centric service, you’ll gain valuable insight and support in your logistics management.   

Looking to learn more about what TMS solutions Trinity can offer you?  

Looking FOR TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGY BUT NOT A FULL TMS? 

We understand committing to a TMS is a big change, especially if you have no experience with one. That’s why we now offer you our Customer Portal, exclusively available for shippers working with Trinity. There’s no commitment or additional charges and you’ll get to experience a sample of our transportation technology. Track your shipments, request quotes, view and pay your invoices online – all in one place.   

Wait, I Still Need More Information on Transportation Management Software..  

We have plenty more educational resources for you to learn about a TMS.   

Author: Turner Lee

When you hear the word logistics, what jobs come to mind? Most people picture a truck driver over the road or someone stocking shelves in a warehouse. Because of this, many millennials don’t consider a career in logistics. But this field offers a lot more than the jobs you first picture and is not an industry to overlook. Read on to find out why millennials should be interested in logistics. 

LOGISTICS IS GROWING

Career paths in logistics are growing and becoming more common. Why is this? The median age for an employee in this industry is 55, thus making 30 percent of the workforce inching closer to retirement, leaving a shortage of workers. 

Many industries need the logistics field to operate, such as food, pharmaceutical, and medical fields. The need for logistics employees is crucial, making the new target audience for the supply chain industry Millennials and Generation “Z”. The struggle has been how to effectively attract, keep, and mold this specific age group that often turns their heads away from a logistics career path.

WHY MILLENNIALS DON’T CONSIDER LOGISTICS

Industry experts wonder why these generations aren’t attracted to this industry. One main reason is that young adults don’t see this field as a long-term career path. Trucking isn’t seen as an ideal career for them, nor does logistics carry the same connotation as other fields, like the medical industry which connotes prestige and excellence. Yet, Millennials don’t dive into the importance of logistics. This industry is an untapped pool of growth opportunities, well-paid jobs, and more. 

THE ADVANTAGES OF HAVING MILLENNIALS IN LOGISTICS

Millennials and Gen “Z” have invaluable aspects that are a necessity in a business’s operations. One key factor is that Millennials grew up around technology. They grew up with a focus on the internet, social media, and cell phones. Because of their tech-driven lifestyles, they can quickly adapt to new technology. Whether that be running social media accounts, fixing minor IT issues, or improving business involvement online. The logistics field is becoming more technology-based and with these tech-savvy employees, running and operating a business becomes more efficient. 

Another advantage Millennials bring to the logistics force is highly educated, focused, and driven individuals. Millennials grew up with the expectation of going to college. That is why 45 percent of Millennials hold a bachelor’s degree compared to Baby Boomers at only 18 percent. With this in mind, Millennials offer businesses fresh perspective and a hard work ethic. 

One final advantage of Millennials in logistics is they are not afraid to challenge the status quo. Millennials are not afraid to speak out on inefficiencies or wrongdoings. They are very effective in pointing out weaknesses and finding a solution to the problems. 

HOW TO ATTRACT MILLENNIALS TO LOGISTICS CAREERS

It’s important to understand what Millennials and Generation “Z” look for in a workplace environment so you can attract and keep these talented individuals. One important value to this generation is having the opportunity to grow. People in this generation focus on where their profession can take them. When they see an opportunity, they often take action. Seeing opportunities can mean giving a job a deeper meaning, doing constant performance evaluations, and expressing what path they want their career to take them. Millennials are goal-oriented, so if they see targets for themselves, they will work hard and become more driven to meet those goals. 

Another area that holds value to Millennials is flexibility. This could be anything from having a casual dress code, flexible hours, or the option to work remotely. Millennials take everything into consideration when it comes to their careers. This generation looks not only at the wages for a position, but also the work environment, the benefits, and the company culture.

TRINITY LOGISTICS IS THE PERFECT FIT FOR MILLENNIALS

Trinity Logistics is a third-party logistics company (3PL), offering People-Centric Freight Solutions®. Our mission is to deliver creative logistics solutions through a dynamic mix of human ingenuity and innovative technology, enriching the lives of those we serve. To accomplish this, we must start by enriching the lives of our Team Members. 

We do this by working with the best-in-class technology, offering a casual dress code, and many benefits like career advancement opportunities, leadership training, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.

Perhaps you’re thinking, this isn’t enough. Well, we regularly hold fun team-building activities, an annual awards ceremony, monthly recognition and appreciation, and a wellness program. We believe happy Team Members lead to better business. And it’s proven true for 40 years and counting. 

Additionally, we offer several internships year-round. This gives young individuals the opportunity to gain meaningful career experience and insight into logistics to see if it’s the right fit for them. Through our internships, we help our community grow by helping to grow young leaders. If you’re interested in learning more about how Trinity Logistics is Different on Purpose and to see available opportunities, 

Author: Turner Lee