Trinity Logistics, a leading nationwide third-party logistics provider (3PL), is proud to announce the promotion of Dylan Banning to Vice President of the Delaware Regional Service Center. With over six years at Trinity, Banning can inspire Teams, showcases a dedication to driving meaningful growth, and is a dynamic leader known for his forward-thinking approach. 

“Dylan has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to the success of our Team,” said Hayley Dobson, Senior Vice President of Regional Service Centers. “This promotion reflects not only his dedication and impact but also the bright future ahead for DE Ops under his leadership.” 

Banning joined Trinity Logistics in September 2018 as a Logistics Specialist, quickly proving his ability to build strong customer relationships and drive results. His career trajectory includes roles such as Operations Team Lead, Business Development Representative, Business Development Team Lead, and Director of Sales. Most recently, as Vice President of the Minnesota Regional Service Center, he showcased his leadership in both operational strategy and Team development. 

In his new role, Banning will oversee the largest Operations and Sales force at Trinity Logistics, driving strategic initiatives to enhance service offerings, strengthen partnerships, and support the company’s continued growth. 

“I’m truly honored and excited to take on this new role and be part of the growth of the Delaware RSC,” said Banning. “I look forward to what lies ahead and am eager to see the incredible things we’ll achieve together with such a talented Team!” 

Banning holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Business Administration and Management with a minor in Sport Management from High Point University. Beyond his professional achievements, Banning is deeply committed to giving back to his community. He has served on the Trinity Foundation board as the Youth Leadership Coordinator and the Banning Foundation, a family-led initiative dedicated to providing resources and opportunities to underserved communities. His passion for service aligns with Trinity Logistics’ core values, reinforcing his dedication to both leadership and community impact. 

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 45 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 as a Top Freight Brokerage by Transport Topics, a Green Supply Chain Partner by Inbound Logistics, and holds a silver sustainability rating by EcoVadis.

Don’t let your company get caught off guard! The CVSA International Roadcheck is scheduled for May 13-15, 2025- and preparation is key. 

Mark your Calendars! The annual International Roadcheck is soon approaching. Hosted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), this three-day inspection spans across Mexico, Canada, and the United States. While this event aims to make our roadways safer, it is also crucial for those in logistics. This critical period can influence efficiently for both carriers and shippers. Disruptions can affect delivery timelines, costs, and operational efficiency. Now is the time to prepare for a smooth Roadcheck.  

• What is CVSA? What is the CVSA international roadcheck? 

• Why inspections and maintenance matter? 

• Areas to focus on 

• Impact on shippers 

• Impact on carriers

• How shippers can prepare 

• How carriers can prepare 

• Conclusion: Lets Work Together

WHAT IS THE CVSA? WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL ROADCHECK? 

The CVSA ia a non-profit organization dedicated to improving commercial motor vehicle safety through collaboration between law enforcement, industry stakeholders, and the public sector.  

Since 1988, CVSA has conducted International Roadcheck, a high-visibility enforcement program targeting vehicle and driver safety. The goal of this initiative is to reduce the number of deaths and injuries from crashes involving large trucks, buses, and cars. Inspections can happen anytime, anywhere. The various locations include weigh stations, inspection stations, mobile patrols, and roadside sites. Inspectors will perform the North American Standard level l inspection, a 37 step procedure.  

Each year the roadcheck has a primary focus with this year’s being tire inspection and false Records of Duty Status (RODS).  

WHY INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE MATTERS? 

During International Roadcheck, one of the most common causes of vehicle violations is poor tire maintenance and it’s easy to see why it matters. A flat or damaged tire isn’t just a minor issue.; It’s a serious safety hazard that can lead to:  

• On-road breakdowns 

• Delivery delays  

• Costly repairs and downtime 

• Increased risk of accidents or rollovers 

• Blowouts that cause loss of vehicle control 

Regular inspections and tire checks are essential not only for staying compliant during inspections but also for ensuring the safety of drivers and the reliability of every haul. 

2025 FOCUS AREAS: TIRES AND RODS 

This year’s roadcheck inspection is focusing on two critical areas that shippers and carriers should be prepared for. 

Tires play a critical role in maintaining vehicle stability and preventing accidents on the road. During tire inspections, authorities will be looking for specifics that may jeopardize the safety of the vehicle.  

The inspectors will be looking for: 

• Air leaks 

• Flat tires 

• Low tread depth 

• Bulges in the sidewall 

• Improper repairs 

RODS document a commercial vehicle driver’s on-duty and off-duty hours. These records are crucial for ensuring that drivers comply with Hours-of-service (HOS) regulations, which are in place to prevent driver fatigue. These regulations limit the number of hours drivers can operate their vehicles each day and mandate rest breaks.  

Inspectors will be looking for:  

• Drivers’ credentials 

• False driver claims 

• Ghost drivers 

• Logging off-duty time while still engaged in work for a motor carrier or a non-motor carrier 
   

WHY SHOULD I BE CONCERNED ABOUT INTERNATIONAL ROADCHECK? 

It’s important to be aware of when the International Roadcheck takes place because of the impact it can have on shipping freight. Even though it’s just a few days out of the year, no one likes to be unprepared for potential disruption or delays to their business.  

Last year’s International Roadcheck results discovered the total overall vehicle out-of-service rate was 23 percent and the driver-out-of-service rate was 4.8 percent. The top five vehicle violations were: 

• Defective service brakes (25 percent)  

• Tires (20.8 percent) 

• Other brake violations (18.3 percent) 

• Lights (11.6 percent) 

• Cargo securement (9.6 percent)  

The top five driver violations were: 

• Hours-of-service (32.1 percent) 

• No commercial license (25.4 percent) 

• No medical card (11.2 percent) 

• False logs (10.9 percent) 

• Suspended license (5.1 percent)  

International Roadcheck impact on Shippers  

Shippers may face potential delays, reduced transportation capacity, and higher spot rates. 

Potential Delays 

Increased enforcement can lead to potential delays due to roadside stops and inspections. 

Reduced Transportation Capacity 

The increased inspection effort can lead carriers to choose to close their business temporarily for the week to avoid any risks of fines or penalties. You might find it more difficult to secure reliable carriers for any last-minute shipments.  

Higher Spot Rates  

With the potential for fewer trucks available and delays, spot rates can be heightened during this time. 

International Roadcheck impact on Carriers 

Carriers are similarly affected, so there is potential for delays and less freight volume. 

Transportation Delays 

Carriers should expect to see delays in movement of traffic due to increased law enforcement. This could disrupt your operations. 

Fewer Available Shipments  

Shippers may plan around this week by rerouting certain shipments or finding alternate modes. Less freight may be available.  

Increased Law Enforcement  

Expect to see increased law enforcement, so more eyes will be looking for unsafe driver behavior. There is greater potential for drivers to receive fines. 

Prepare Now for the 2025 CVSA International Roadcheck 

As the 2025 CVSA International Roadcheck approaches, preparation is key to ensuring your fleet stays on the road and avoids costly delays. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has released a handy cheat sheet to help drivers and fleet owners understand exactly what inspectors will be looking for.  

Shippers  

Ensure Documentation Accuracy 

Double-check all shipment documentation. Ensure it is accurate and complete to avoid delays during any unexpected inspections. 

Communicate Shipment Needs  

If you have any requirements or time sensitivities, communicate this well in advance. This helps your logistics provider plan effectively. Any last-minute communication risks delays. 

Find Alternatives 

Consider alternative transportation modes or routes if you expect any delays. 

Keep Customers Aware 

Be proactive and communicate potential delays during this week to your customers to manage expectations. 

Share Any Concerns 

Discuss any concerns you might have with your logistics provider. They can offer valuable insights and help develop strategies to reduce disruptions. 

Pricing Awareness 

Be aware of possible higher spot rates during International Roadcheck. When possible, plan shipments before or after this period to secure better pricing.  

Carriers  

Double- Check Credentials  

Ensure all required credentials, like operating authority, hazmat endorsements, TWIC cards, and any other relevant permits, are current and accessible. 

Driver Documents Are up to Date 

Have drivers verify that all paperwork is up to date and accessible in case of inspection. 

Vehicle Maintenance Check 

Double-check that all vehicles have undergone any necessary preventive maintenance and are in top operating condition to avoid delays due to roadside repairs. 

Prep Drivers 

Make sure drivers are aware of this week and the potential for stops or delays. Train drivers on proper procedures for interacting with law enforcement. Make sure they know the channels to communicate any disruptions to their journey. 

Book Ahead 

Shippers may choose to reroute shipments, switch to alternative modes such as Intermodal, or plan around this week. Consider booking shipments well in advance for this week.  

Remember – Safety First 

The importance of this week is not about causing disruptions. It’s about emphasizing vehicle and driver safety. This is a great opportunity to remind drivers of their critical role in regular vehicle checks and proper maintenance.  

LET’S WORK TOGETHER TO KEEP OUR ROADS SAFE 

Here at Trinity Logistics, we understand how critical this week can be for shippers and carriers. While CVSA International Roadcheck might cause some temporary disruptions, it serves a vital purpose in keeping drivers safe and prioritizing maintenance.  

By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can likely see minimal effects from the CVSA International Roadcheck.  

Be on the lookout for upcoming 2025 CVSA inspections, including Operation Safe Driver Week from July 13–19, 2025, and the Brake Safety Week running August 24–30, 2025. Stay informed with our blog coverage of both events.  

For additional opportunities to stay ahead of disruption to your business during International Roadcheck, consider working with Trinity Logistics. We have over 45 years of experience helping thousands of companies conquer complicated shipping situations, like CVSA inspection weeks. We’re confident in our ability to make this week (and all others) an effortless one for your business.  

Trinity Logistics, a leading third-party logistics provider (3PL), is excited to announce its ranking on Transport Topics’ prestigious Top Freight Brokerages list. This year, Trinity is ranked number 24, continuing its strong presence within the logistics industry. 

Transport Topics is a leading publication within the transportation sector and conducts annual rankings of freight brokerage firms. The ranking is determined based on gross revenue for the most recent 12-month period, highlighting Trinity’s sustained growth and impact in the freight brokerage sector. As the logistics landscape continues to evolve, Trinity’s ability to secure a top spot on this list speaks to the company’s dedication to delivering high-quality, reliable logistics solutions. 

“We are incredibly proud to be recognized once again as a top freight broker by Transport Topics.  Thanks to the continued dedication and commitment of our entire Team, this marks our 23^rd year on the list!” said Sarah Ruffcorn, President of Trinity Logistics. “This recognition highlights our ability to serve our Shipper and Carrier customers with excellence through the Trinity Experience. Thank you to Transport Topics for honoring us, and for the continued trust of our Shipper and Carrier relationships.”  

As the company continues to thrive, Senior Vice President Mark Peterson at Trinity Logistics expressed immense pride in the Team’s dedication and the ongoing success that earned them this recognition. 

“I’m incredibly proud of the Trinity Team,” said Peterson, SVP of Sales and Marketing at Trinity Logistics. “Their dedication and hard work are the driving force behind our success. This recognition is a testament to their commitment to delivering exceptional service and consistently going above and beyond for our customers.” 

Trinity’s success is driven by its strong, customer-focused Team, committed to simplifying logistics and providing creative, People-Centric Freight Solutions ®.  

In addition to making Transport Topics top Freight brokerages, Trinity has also made the Top 100 Logistics Companies list! 

Trinity is honored to receive this recognition and continues to provide outstanding solutions and 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 45 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 as a Top Freight Brokerage by Transport Topics, a Green Supply Chain Partner by Inbound Logistics, and holds a silver sustainability rating by EcoVadis.

Trinity Logistics, a leading, nationwide third-party logistics provider (3PL), is proud to announce the hiring of Chad Schilleman as Vice President of Drayage Services. This addition to Trinity Logistics’s Team underscores the company’s commitment to providing industry-leading drayage services with an emphasis on innovation, efficiency, and exceptional client support. 

With over 20 years of experience in logistics, including drayage, intermodal, and supply chain operations, Schilleman brings a proven track record of success and a visionary approach to Trinity’s drayage solutions. 

Schilleman’s impressive career began with the founding of BCM Logistics, which he grew into a thriving business before its acquisition by Watco. At Watco, he spearheaded a robust intermodal program and implemented technology-driven solutions, showcasing his ability to drive innovation and optimize supply chain efficiency. Throughout his career, he has excelled in management container transport, supply chain optimization, and overall, guiding businesses toward logistical success. 

Amy Proctor, Senior Vice President of Logistics Solutions at Trinity, expressed her excitement for Schilleman’s arrival, saying, “With his expertise and vision, Chad will play a pivotal role in driving growth, fostering client relationships, and optimizing our drayage operations. His leadership style and commitment to excellence align with our values and mission, and we are confident that he will make a significant impact. I look forward to the exciting contributions he will bring to our Team.”

Chad shared his enthusiasm for this new role, stating, “I am excited to join Trinity Logistics and contribute to the company’s growth and success. Trinity’s commitment to fostering a positive and collaborative culture aligns perfectly with my own values. By focusing on our ‘why’ – delivering exceptional service and creating value for our customers – we can inspire and drive meaningful change within the industry. I look forward to working with the talented Team at Trinity and leveraging my experience to enhance our drayage services and deliver value to our customers.”

Trinity Logistics wishes Schilleman a warm welcome as he embarks on this new chapter with the company.

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 45 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 as a Top Freight Brokerage by Transport Topics, a Green Supply Chain Partner by Inbound Logistics, and holds a silver sustainability rating by EcoVadis.

Trinity Logistics, a leading, nationwide third-party logistics provider (3PL), is pleased to announce the appointment of Klaus Luhta as In-House Counsel. Luhta, who has served as a Freight Agent with Trinity Logistics for almost five years, transitions into this vital role with a wealth of experience and legal wisdom.  

In his tenure as a Freight Agent, Luhta demonstrated exceptional skills in contract negotiation, risk management, and compliance. His ability to navigate complex legal matters has been a significant asset to Trinity. His legal career is marked by his previous roles as Chief of Staff, Director of Government Regulations, and Attorney specializing in maritime law. He holds a law degree from Cleveland State University and is a licensed attorney.

“I wanted to get back to the practice of law,” said Luhta. “I learned all the parts of the logistics business during my time as a Freight Agent and felt like I could combine that knowledge with my legal expertise to help make a difference at Trinity.” 

“Trinity was looking for a quality individual to serve as our In-House Counsel over the past few years, and then we found the perfect candidate in Klaus,” said Doug Potvin, Chief Financial Officer. “His background in transportation including his ownership of a trucking company and acting as a former Freight Agent brings experience to our Team from a perspective of risk, legalities, and negotiations, which will benefit Trinity tremendously over the years to come.”

As In-House Counsel, Klaus is passionate about contributing to Trinity’s growth and success. He aims to provide robust legal support, offering practical solutions and fostering a culture of compliance and ethical behavior. His focus will be on building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders across all levels of the organization, ensuring that legal risks are identified and mitigated effectively. 

“Years ago, when I visited the Trinity offices for the first time as a Freight Agent, I met Sarah and the Team, and I knew I would be working with this company in some capacity for a long time,” continued Luhta. “There is nothing like this anywhere. I don’t know if people realize how lucky we are, and I am happy and grateful to be here with this Team, at this time, forging history in the most exciting sector of the transportation industry.”

Klaus’s extensive background and commitment to excellence make him a perfect fit for this role. Trinity Logistics looks forward to the continued success and growth that Luhta’s expertise will bring to the company. 

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 45 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 as a Top Freight Brokerage by Transport Topics, a Green Supply Chain Partner by Inbound Logistics, and holds a silver sustainability rating by EcoVadis.

The time has come to implement a transportation management system (TMS). You’ve prioritized TMS capabilities, analyzed vendors, and sat through several system demos. Finally, everyone has come to an agreement and selected a TMS provider. Now what? 

Next comes the implementation phase of the TMS, which frequently involves integration. For most companies, the integration component consists of integrating with external carrier partners to transmit load tenders, receive tracking messages, and retrieve invoices. But the “heavy lift” with integration usually involves the interaction between your company’s internal systems and the TMS software. 

By following these five steps I’ve outlined for a TMS integration below, you can make what normally is a heavy lift into light work!

1. Assemble the Project Team

This sounds simple, but sometimes, it can be the most challenging part of the process. It can be tricky to gather each Business Process Owner (BPO) into a room or on a call to get their input. 

Involving all key stakeholders from the get-go is essential. Each BPO can help assemble a complete picture of how the TMS software will support each business unit. It also ensures you identify any potential integration touchpoints between systems that may add value to your transportation process. These stakeholders typically will include the following groups:

Upper Management

The most successful TMS integrations include someone that serves as a project sponsor. They emphasize the importance of the project, ensure all engage in discussions, and serve as final decision-makers in prioritizing integration processes.

Logistics

If your organization has a formal logistics department, they must be in the kick-off meetings. If there’s no formal logistics department, then identify those team members that have the most working knowledge of your transportation processes.

Warehouse

Those in the warehouse can communicate any specifics about shipping the product. This may include how orders are communicated to them, what documents are needed to support the shipment, and which systems they interact with (such as a warehouse management system – WMS) to notate information like planned vs. actual shipment details.

Customer Service

When integrating your internal systems with the TMS, the customer service team is usually the best resource to describe their order entry process in your company’s order management system (OMS). Having a thorough understanding of this process ensures all relevant fields needed to create a shipment is captured. Additionally, any nuances surrounding the order entry process must be discussed regarding various order types (sales orders, purchase orders, transfers, etc.).

Accounting/Finance

A big chunk of time saved with a transportation management system is the audit and reconciliation of freight invoices. If the TMS integrates with your company’s OMS or account software, you can drastically reduce the time it takes to process an invoice. Your accounting team will need to share their input on topics like GL coding rules, tolerance limits for auto-approval of invoices, or the application of required vendor codes. All this will help guide the data requirements that support an AP integration of the TMS software.

IT/Development/TMS Support

Any integration discussions need to include your technical folks. These may consist of your internal resources but can include external vendors or third-party resources that support the processes. Most TMS providers should be able to provide an integration support team. This can consist of a solutions architect, a technical account manager, and a sales support resource. They are vital to understanding the full capabilities and limitations of the TMS software from both an end-user perspective and integration capability standpoint.

2. Map Out Current vs. Future State

Current State

Now, the real work towards a successful TMS integration begins. 

You’ll first want to map out your existing supply chain processes. These could be part of the “order-to-cash” cycle, the manufacturing cycle, or a replenishment cycle. Really, anywhere in your processes you transport things from point A to point B. The key processes for a TMS integration generally happen between an order being entered (which might go into an OMS) and the payment of a carrier’s freight invoice. 

From an integration standpoint, most of your time will be spent on this order entry process. Why? Because most of the data that will be transmitted to your TMS is from the shipment import process. 

On the surface it sounds easy. You just need pickup and delivery addresses, item details, target dates, and maybe a couple of other fields sent to the TMS to create a shipment…right? But it’s not always that simple. 

Every shipper has different nuances when entering this information into their OMS. Also, not all order types get entered in the same way. Some data may live in other tables or a completely different system altogether. Fields may be used differently from one order type to the next, and the data may not be accurate (such as stored items, weights, and dimensions). 

This in-depth process mapping discussion with your assembled project team will help bring these things to the surface. It will also help identify any other potential “touchpoints” that need to occur between systems to make your future transportation management processes more efficient.

Future State

Once you’ve mapped out your current state, you can begin working on what you want your future state to look like. 

Your future state will guide the scope of work, answering the question, “What do we want our transportation process to look like once the TMS is integrated?” Generally, as you discuss your current state, the answer to this question naturally comes into focus. 

With all the notes and takeaways of your current state discussions, your TMS support team should provide most of the input of your anticipated future state. A key output should be a depiction via a process swimlane diagram. This will describe any interaction points between the TMS and your internal systems. The most common integration processes that we see when going through a TMS implementation are:

Shipment Import

Importing order details from your OMS into the TMS to create a shipment. This includes required fields, such as:

• ship-from/ship-to names,
•  pickup and delivery addresses, 
• item details, 
• expected ship and delivery dates, 
• and required accessorial services.

Load Return

The “load return” contains data associated with the load in the TMS that would be beneficial to capture, particularly from a customer service or customer invoicing standpoint. This includes:

• the selected carrier, 
• selected freight rate, 
• transit days, 
• tracking numbers, 
• and load status messages such as pickup or delivery dates/times. 

Shipped Data Import

After the carrier is loaded at the shipping facility, clients often request that the load be updated in the TMS with the resulting shipped date/time, shipped quantities, and loaded weight. This can be useful when generating detailed item reporting in the TMS. This data system of record (SOR) is usually in your WMS but can also live in your OMS.

AP Return

The “AP return” contains approved AP details as freight invoices are audited and approved for payment in your TMS. This includes values such as; 

• the invoice number, 
• invoice date, 
• vendor ID, 
• settlement total, 
• GL codes, 
• and other reference data. 

Clients often consume this data in their accounting software., Most companies use their OMS and accounting systems within the same application.

3. Compile Integration Requirements

It’s time to start getting into the nuts and bolts of the integration processes that your project team has identified. 

The first decision point is whether you will take an “all or nothing” or a phased approach to the TMS integration. The “all or nothing” approach means you’ve decided not to go live with the TMS until all integration processes are ready for deployment. Some companies may have no choice but to take an all or nothing approach. Perhaps they have a deadline to sunset an existing application, limited project support resources, or they feel that buy-in to the new process may be at risk if everything isn’t completed before going live.

I like to recommend that companies take a phased approach to TMS integration when possible. Typically, integrating a TMS takes up most of the time to the overall project. Taking a phased approach significantly reduces that timeline. With a phased approach, users spend a few weeks or months working in the TMS. With that time, they usually have a better idea of which integration processes should take priority in later phases. 

Regardless of which approach you decide to take, it’s important to ask the question, “Will this save us time and add value to our transportation process?” It seems obvious that a company wouldn’t move forward with a TMS integration project unless it adds value. Still, at Trinity, we’ve seen many instances where a company spends time and effort integrating systems only to say later, “We don’t rely on that process to manage our workflow” or “I forgot that we had this process in place.” A phased approach helps prevent that from happening.

Transmitting the Data

Once you’ve identified which integration processes will move forward, you’ll need to determine how the data will be transmitted between systems. The most common methods are via file transfer (using an SFTP or AS2 connection) or using an API. 

File transfer can include .xml, .csv, .json, or EDI X12 formats. Some companies even have their own custom-built formats as well. 

Transmitting data via an API may involve connecting to your TMS’s API to send or retrieve data. Your TMS provider could also be able to connect to your company’s own internal API. Regardless of which method you choose, I like to recommend following the path of least resistance. 

In other words, what existing processes do you already have in place that you can piggyback on to accomplish your stated end goal? For example, if you’re already receiving an EDI 850 (purchase order) from your suppliers, you may also be able to use this same file to send shipment details to your TMS. 

Your BPOs, TMS solution architect, and internal technical resources should be able to decide the best approach.

The EDI vs. API Debate

If you were to Google “EDI vs. API” you may get mixed opinions on the value of each approach in a TMS integration. Some commentators may go so far to say that EDI (X12) is “dead” and APIs are the best option for transmitting data. Others will say that EDI has been around forever and it’s not going away anytime soon. 

The truth is that both approaches have value when integrating TMS software. Now, I don’t want to get too far into the weeds explaining the downsides and advantages of each method. There are plenty of resources online if you’re curious. But I do want to outline a few questions you can ask to help find the best approach for your business:

• What type of data transmission methods do we already have in place? Can we reuse any of these to integrate with the TMS?
• If we have any methods currently in place, how flexible are they? If we need more data down the road, can modifications be made easily?
• What is the volume of the data being transmitted? Will we need to send large volumes of data? Or can we send and receive a select handful of fields?
• What is our requirement on the timing of the data? Is it vital that it gets sent/received as quickly as possible, or can there be a delay of a few minutes (or even a few hours)?
• Does the TMS provider have a preferred method for sending and receiving data that allows us to go-live faster?

The answers to these questions will help guide which approach to take toward your TMS integration. 

4. Prep for Go-Live

Testing

Once the integration requirements and initial development work are done, it’s time to prepare to go live. 

A significant component of this preparation involves thorough testing of any integration processes. Any technical resources involved in the project will need input from the BPOs to help devise a good test plan. Answering some of the questions below will help your team develop a plan for testing.

• What is the approximate volume of records we need to test before we feel the TMS integration is working as expected?
• What are the different order types that we need to test? Are there any nuances specific to our business that we need to account for? 
• Who needs to provide the final sign-off to confirm that everything is working as it should?
• Based on what we uncovered in our current and future state discussions, are we accounting for every possible scenario?

Process testing can be a balancing act. You don’t want to get too bogged down with testing that it delays the implementation of the TMS software, but you also want to make sure that go-live doesn’t end up being a disaster. Maintaining an engaged project team and openly communicating with all resources can help you figure out where that “sweet spot” lies.

Hypercare Plan

In addition to a test plan, you’ll also need a plan for hypercare. “Hypercare” refers to the period after the go-live where project team members must maintain heightened attention towards the process. These are some of the things you’ll need to consider in the hypercare phase of the TMS integration.

• The methods of contact should something go wrong. Who needs to be contacted for a particular issue? 
• What will the communication process entail if an issue arises or if changes need to be made?
• How will issues, requests, or bugs will be triaged?
• What is the process for collecting feedback from BPOs and end-users?

Internal and External Communications

Planning for communication with your internal stakeholders and external partners for the go-live is essential. 

Any internal users affected will need to understand how their day-to-day workflows may be impacted. Have a resource that’s ready should anyone not be receptive to the change or have a lack of understanding. This person can help by providing further training or support to ensure a successful adoption of the TMS. 

Your decision to implement TMS software should also be communicated to your external partners. This can include your vendors, carriers, and customers. They should understand any expectations you have prior to final implementation of the TMS, particularly if it impacts the collection of data needed to support any integration touchpoints. Ensure they know your expected TMS go-live date and provide any training as needed to support a smooth rollout.

5. Time to Flip the Switch!

Congratulations! You’ve finally reached the exciting part – flipping the ON switch to your new transportation management system. With your new TMS fully integrated, get ready to see your transportation processes become more efficient and streamlined. Expect improved visibility, better data insights, and enhanced coordination across your supply chain. This implementation means less manual work, fewer errors, and more time to focus on strategic tasks. 

Welcome to a new era of logistics management, where everything runs smoother, faster, and smarter. Your logistics operations just got a whole lot more exciting! 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chris McAvoy

Director of Managed Services

With 22 years of experience at Trinity Logistics, Chris McAvoy has grown from a Logistics Specialist to his current role as Director of Managed Transportation. Along the way, he’s honed his expertise in various positions, including National Accounts Manager, Pricing Manager, and Solutions Architect.

Chris holds several certifications including Certified Transportations Broker (CTB), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), and Project Management Professional (PMP).

In his role, he leads system integration projects, onboards new Managed Transportation clients, and drives supply chain improvement initiatives. Chris thrives on working closely with customers, uncovering innovative solutions to elevate their logistics operations.

What’s a BDR? What does LS mean? What does an Account Manager do?

If these terms sound foreign to you, don’t worry. You’re not alone! Our Recruiting Team often fields these kinds of questions from those interested in Trinity Logistics careers.

Trinity Logistics is a nationwide company supporting thousands of shippers, carriers, and hundreds of Freight Agents. Over the years our Team size has grown to properly serve these needs, resulting in the expansive Trinity Team we have today!

While that alone may be overwhelming, it means we have MANY opportunities for you to find your ideal career here! But fear not; we’re here to break it all down and help you find your perfect fit.

Trinity Logistics Careers

• Sales and Operations
• Administrative Services
• Technology
• Other Departments
• Benefits

Sales and Operations

At the core of Trinity Logistics is the mission to arrange shipments between shippers and carriers. This is where most people will start their journey with us. They are our largest Teams and most often have job openings. These positions are also a great starting point if you’re new to the logistics industry.

Typically, roles in this department work with one of our two core clients—either shippers or carriers.

Sales – Shipper Focused Roles

Do you enjoy a little competition? Are you interested in having unlimited commission potential on top of a base salary? A sales career path at Trinity may be for you!

Most begin their journey in sales as a Business Development Representative (BDR). This role focuses on lead generation through prospecting, building, and maintaining shipper relationships. 

With experience and skill development, BDRs can advance into the Account Executive title, where their primary task is to keep and grow existing accounts. Career growth opportunities include Business Development Team Lead or Sales Executive.

Operations – Carrier Focused Roles

Are you a great negotiator? Do you enjoy creating strong connections while providing stellar communication? If you love seeing through a task from start to finish, our Operations track could be just for you!

Many Team Members start as Logistics Specialists (LS) or Logistics Assistants. These roles primarily book shipments with carriers, build and maintain their carrier relationships, track and trace shipments, solve problems, and maintain open and timely communication.

After gaining experience and meeting performance goals, LSs can advance to positions like Carrier Sales Representative, Account Manager, Operations Team Lead, or even Director of Operations.

Consider yourself more of a night owl? Awesome! We also have an After-Hours Team offering you unique, around-the-clock opportunities.

Administrative Services

Do you love providing people with a great experience? If making someone’s jaw drop from your sheer excellence and attention to detail motivates you, then our Administrative careers will bring you the satisfaction you seek.

Our Administrative roles are the second most commonly hired positions at Trinity. These roles handle back-end office tasks or projects and are crucial in maintaining our exceptional customer service while assisting our overall operations.

Teams that may need roles filled occasionally can include Billing, Accounts Receivable, and Customer Service. These Team Members will assist our Carrier relationships with getting paid, invoice our Shipper customers, help our Claims Team as needed, and create an all-around positive experience for our clients.

Team Members in these roles can expect to grow into senior and leadership opportunities such as Team Lead or Director.

Technology

Our next largest Team for hiring is Technology. In this day and age, first-class connections and visibility are essential, so these Team Members help provide and support the highest level of available technology software and applications to our internal Team and external clients. Technology Team Members will perform tasks such as developing and supporting our software, analyzing data for better decision-making, and coming up with innovating new solutions.

This Team includes all kinds of tech-savvy roles like Engineers, Analysts, and Data Scientists. Our recruiters are looking for more specialized backgrounds and experience in these roles. Often, we’ll require at least an educational background or prior experience in the technology field.

Career growth opportunities can include promotions to senior and leadership positions.

Other Departments

But that’s not all! We also have many other smaller Teams that, while not hiring as frequently, are just as vital to our success. These include:

Finance

Manages all financial aspects of the business.

Claims

Handles any potential freight claims, working to resolve shipment issues.

Education

Provides training and development resources to empower Team Members and enhance skills.

Recruiting

Sources and hires talented individuals to join and grow the company.

Agent Support

Assists Freight Agents with tools, training, and resources to ensure success.

Marketing

Promotes the company through branding, advertising, and strategic campaigns.

People Operations

Focuses on employee well-being, Human Resource functions, and fostering a strong company culture. 

It’s also important to note that not all career growth is vertical! Many of our Team Members begin their career in one department and work their way to another, finding their perfect fit along the way!

Find Unlimited Potential with Trinity Logistics Careers

As you can see, countless opportunities exist to find what you love and excel at Trinity Logistics. Whether you’re just starting to figure out your place in the working world or know precisely where you want to be, we want to help you find joy in your day-to-day work while seeing long-term success.

Besides all our incredible job opportunities, Trinity offers our Team Members a supportive environment that encourages you to be creative, collaborative, and experience growth. Our long-lasting People-Centric culture is built on a history of values focused on family and servant leadership. You’ll notice and appreciate this in many of the perks that come with the job, like:

• Uncapped incentives
• Mentorship programs
• Full medical benefits
• Wellness program
• Ample paid time off
• 401k match
• Tuition reimbursement
• FUN team-building activities
• Strong focus on internal advancement and promotion from within
• And much more! 

See? Your best, authentic self is within reach.

Are you ready to find out just how great you can be?

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Stay up to date on the latest information on conditions impacting the freight market, curated by Trinity Logistics through our Freightwaves Sonar subscription.

Tariffs, Trends, & Trade Routes 

With the new administration in place, there has certainly been no shortage of headlines. Many have asked what the impact is, or potentially will be, on the freight market. I think many are leery of making changes to projections or providing advice on how to pivot because what happens today can turn on a dime tomorrow when it comes to U.S. policy.   

The one thing that appears certain is that many retailers pulled their inventory ahead in anticipation of tariffs being enacted. The last four months have seen a volume that outpaced the prior year. Figure 1.1 shows the container volume for Los Angeles (blue line) versus the port of New York/New Jersey. Particularly, the West Coast has seen an influx driven not just by the pull forward of volume, but the uncertainty with labor relations at the East Coast ports shifted volume west during the latter part of 2024 and early ’25. 

Unlike what was experienced several years ago, that increase in import volume has not translated to over-the-road moves. Figure 2.1 shows the last six months of volume handled by trucks out of the Los Angeles area versus the volume that has found its way to the rails. Unlike ’21 and ’22 when rails were a bit of the bottleneck for freight movement, they are much better positioned this time to handle the increase in volume. You can clearly see the gap in volume for rail (white line) versus truck (blue line), especially since early October.     

Speaking of imports, there appears to be a normalizing of the cost to procure containers for movement of goods into the U.S. Looking at Figure 3.1, the cost of a freight container from China to both the left and right side of the United States has retreated from its high during the summer months and shows a leveling out. Much of this is due to the decline seen in nefarious activity in and around the Red Sea. As calm has returned, ships are now able to utilize this corridor for transit, it has shaved transit times which in turn has opened up more ship capacity globally.  

Price Hikes Ahead?

Finally, while tariffs have been the talk recently, certainly the who, what and when has been in a state of ebb and flow, one item that is not getting as much press is the scrapping of the de minimis exception. This has long been a shipping loophole for retailers that thrive on low-cost goods (think Temu or Shein). Unlike many retailers who paid millions, hundreds of millions, in duties and taxes, the companies of Shein and Temu paid a whopping $0 for all of 2024. This move now requires basically all inbound shipments to the U.S. to be subject to duties, taxes and processing fees, which has the potential to shift the landscape for companies that were able to thrive in this market.  

As example, a good costing $50 once it got to the end customer was still only $50. With de minimis not in play, a $50 good could avoid fees that would almost double when you factor in the additional costs. What remains to be seen is how these increased costs are handled, but the most likely scenario is the end consumer absorbing the bulk of those costs. Typically, producing these low-cost goods in China comes with stiff competition and razor-thin margins, leaving manufacturers and shippers unable to absorb the increase.

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Trinity Logistics, a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider, is thrilled to share the company has received a silver medal sustainability rating by EcoVadis, a trusted global provider of business sustainability assessments. This recognition marks a major milestone for Trinity, reflecting progress from the bronze medal rating received in 2023, and places the company in the top 15 percent of all organizations assessed in the past year.

Over 1,000 enterprises rely on EcoVadis to assess and manage sustainability practices within their supply chain. EcoVadis evaluates sustainability practices across its four key areas of Environment, Labor and Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainability Procurement. Trinity made impressive strides in each category, achieving an overall score improvement from 55 to an outstanding 74, placing them in the 94^th percentile of all companies.

Key Category Improvements

• Environment: +10 points
• Labor and Human Rights: +20 points
• Ethics: +20 points
• Sustainable Procurement: +30 points

This growth was driven by initiatives such as setting a five-year goal commitment to reduce emissions with the company’s motor carrier relationships and sourcing sustainable materials for company promotional items.

“Trinity Logistics is pleased to report an improvement from a bronze to a silver medal rating following the most recent EcoVadis assessment,” said Kristin Deno, Operational Risk Analyst at Trinity. “The EcoVadis scorecard shows where we sit currently and highlights areas where we can expand our efforts on the path to sustainability. This annual assessment has been very beneficial to keeping track of our sustainability initiatives as a whole while also helping us find opportunities for improvement, as shown from our 2023 to 2024 rating change.”

As part of the recognition, EcoVadis will plant a tree in Trinity’s name through their partnership with One Tree Planted, further contributing to global reforestation efforts.

Sustainability has been a long cornerstone of Trinity’s operations. Since 2009, the company has been a proud partner in the American Chemistry Council’s Responsible Care® program, which involves staying committed to improving company performance through community awareness, security, distribution, and pollution prevention. Additionally, the company is an active participant in the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay Program, focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution caused by freight transportation.

“We are honored to receive the silver rating from EcoVadis, recognizing our commitment to sustainable business practices,” said Sarah Ruffcorn, President at Trinity Logistics. “We recognize the vital role we play in the supply chain and our Team works to continuously improve in the key sustainability categories each year.”

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 45 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 as a Top Freight Brokerage by Transport Topics, a Green Supply Chain Partner by Inbound Logistics, and a Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation by Women in Trucking.

Do you dream of breaking up with your current logistics management processes? You’re not the only one!

Managing logistics effectively is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Yet, sometimes, the process can feel more like a complex puzzle than a seamless operation.

Many growing companies face headaches with logistics management, and for good reason. The systems they rely on often may not be up to the task. Thus, they find that their logistics are holding the business back, creating obstacles rather than opportunities.

Let’s uncover the exact challenges many businesses face and learn how to transform them into a smooth and efficient operation you’ll love.

Why Many Companies Struggle with Logistics Management

Logistics Management Challenge #1: Inefficient Tools and Systems

Far too many businesses rely on outdated and inefficient tools like spreadsheets and email for their logistics. Let’s face it: spreadsheets are like flip phones – great in the early days but wildly outdated now. While spreadsheets and email might work for smaller operations, they can be ineffective for companies spending $1 million or more on freight. Performing tasks like tracking and optimizing shipments manually have become more than just a headache; they’ve become a timewaster.

Logistics Management Challenge #2: Inefficient Processes

When your day-to-day operations involve hundreds of orders, manual processes can cause chaos. Juggling carriers, shipments, and invoices can cause delays, missed opportunities, and demand way too much time. Time that could instead be spent on strategic tasks to drive the business forward.

Logistics Management Challenge #3: Lack of Visibility

Have you ever tried driving at night without headlights? (By the way, we DO NOT recommend ever doing this!) You can’t see anything. There’s no way to predict what may be coming toward you. Making informed decisions or addressing potential issues can be nearly impossible. That’s what it’s like not having any visibility into your supply chain. Unfortunately, this is a common problem for many businesses.

Logistics Management Challenge #4: Absence of Performance Metrics

Trying to improve performance without metrics is more guessing than it is strategizing. This makes measuring the success of your logistics difficult! How do you know if your carriers are reliable? Or whether your shipping costs are hurting or helping your revenue? Without precise data, it’s almost futile to identify the areas you can improve upon.

Logistics Management Challenge #5: Limited Support and Guidance

Managing logistics without the support you need can feel like running an uphill marathon. It can wear you down quickly! Perhaps you manage it solo, have a small logistics team, or lack expertise. Even those who invest in logistics technology can find they’re missing the guidance they need to succeed. Whatever the case, you may be desperate for some help!

Logistics Management Challenge #6: Overcomplicated or Costly Technology

Some logistics technology can make it feel like you’re solving a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. They are too complicated to use. Others can be too expensive to justify investing in or don’t offer just what you need. If it feels like the technology is working against you instead of for you, if it’s frustrating your team, or is simply draining your wallet, then it may be time for a simpler solution.

Does This Sound Like Your Logistics Operations?

If any of these struggles resonate with you, then it’s time to rethink your approach to logistics management. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Just check out these stats:

As you can see, many businesses are moving toward improving their operations. Why not join them? Don’t stay stuck and settle for frustration when you can fall in love with your logistics again! Trinity Logistics is here and ready to help you reignite that spark.

You Deserve Better. You Deserve Trinity Logistics.

Logistics management shouldn’t be a burden—it should be your secret weapon! It should be something your proud of! You deserve better than being held back by inefficiencies.

We’re here to help you thrive with our customizable Managed Transportation Solutions. We can help you turn logistics into a strategic advantage to propel your business forward.

Here’s why Trinity Logistics is the perfect match for your logistics operations!

Trinity’s Transportation Management System (TMS)

Trinity’s TMS offers a wide range of capabilities to take over as your entire toolbox.

• Order entry
• Tracking & notifications
• Reporting
• Load planning
• Document management
• Claims management
• Freight auditing and payment
• System integration
• Rating, tendering, and routing guide

Made-Just-For-You Solutions

From our experience, just like people, each company is unique, so we offer a customizable TMS solution. You can get precisely what you need, nothing less, nothing more.

Extra Operational Support

Go beyond account management and offload some (or all) of your day-to-day tasks to our Expert Team. We’re here to support you at every step.

Optimized Workload

Free up your team to focus on core business activities. In the meantime, enjoy optimized shipping routes, better carrier relationships, and savings.

Business Intelligence

Make smarter decisions with detailed reporting and data analysis. Our technology empowers you to measure performance, optimize operations, and reduce risks.

Enhanced Visibility

Track everything you need, all in one place.

Automation & Integration

Eliminate manual processes for seamless operations.

Whatever Else You Need

Whether you need help with freight optimization or transportation cost reduction or want quarterly business reviews, let us know, and we can tailor your plan to suit your business.

It’s the Perfect Time to Renew Your Logistics Love

Who said logistics management has to be a thorn in your side? With Trinity Logistics, we can help turn those logistical nightmares into a love story for the ages. We’ll help you take your operations from complicated to easy, boost visibility, and unlock your supply chain’s full potential.

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what Ben at cfm Distributors Inc. had to say about working with Trinity’s Managed Transportation solution:

Ready to fire up your logistics passion? Explore our Managed Transportation solutions and take the first step toward transforming your operations.