Communication and Expertise: Essential Elements to Successful
Executions of Specialized Shipments
How ICAT Logistics' Experience, Knowledge, and Communication were Key to the Successful Transport of a Laser Saw from CT to TX
By: Eric Robinson & Chad Manly, ICAT Logistics, Inc. - BWI
Problem: A Specialized Shipment with a Specific Deadline
In a recent engagement, Transnorm Systems contacted ICAT Logistics for assistance in the transportation of an oversized laser saw from Plainville, CT to Arlington, TX, and needed to meet a specific deadline. A specialized shipment with attention required and particular concerns, such as the need for a 48" step-deck trailer with a crane and rigging for the loading and unloading processes. This shipment also required permits for the laser saw's wide body and a high amount of insurance, and could only be transported during daylight hours, making this project a tall order from the get-go.
With shipments like this, companies can choose to go through the manufacturer to manage the logistics and transportation. However, in this case, given the high level of planning and detailed attention it required from start to finish, Transnorm Systems explored other options to ensure on-time and successful execution of the move.
Solution: Leveraging Industry and Local Relationships to Develop a Customized, Flexible Execution Plan
After a referral from a past relationship with ICAT's Chad Manly, Transnorm Systems discussed the project with the ICAT team and felt they possessed the expertise and background in specialized and oversized shipments, as well as the connections and resources to move the shipment to its destination on-time and within budget. ICAT's team hit the ground running to develop an innovative and specific transportation plan to meet Transnorm Systems' unique needs.
Since timeframe, insurance, and permit processes were factors in the transport of the laser saw, ICAT got to work putting a customized, flexible plan in place to facilitate all of the necessary activities. Through their relationship with a broker, ICAT secured $258,500 in insurance for the shipment, and leveraged its local connections to locate a qualified driver with the appropriate licenses and designations to facilitate the transport. Special equipment and a GPS tracker were also installed to allow the laser to be mounted to the trailer and the location of it to be known at all times.
Results: Communication is Key!
Once the groundwork and all necessary preparations were completed, the ICAT Logistics and Transnorm Systems teams were set to proceed with the move. Throughout the process, the communication between the two companies and the driver was instrumental to the successful completion of the transport within the specific time frame required by Transnorm Systems.
The communication process was particularly valuable in the case of an initial half-day delay that arose due to on-the-road inspection requirements by the Department of Transportation. Due to the structure in place to enable real-time communication and GPS tracking between ICAT Logistics, Transnorm Systems, and the driver, the shipment made up for lost time and met the initial delivery timeline. With Eric Robinson's exceptional knowledge and experience with these types of specialized shipments, there were no unforeseen or additional costs throughout the process, and the laser saw was successfully installed at the client's facility.
Established in 1993, ICAT Logistics has become a leading agency-based freight forwarder in the United States. ICAT Logistics provides customizable shipping and logistics solutions for each and every customer and is dedicated to helping its agency partners grow more profitably with the Agency Partner Program. For additional information about ICAT Logistics please visit: www.icatlogistics.com.
