The chemical industry is vital in producing goods and services that touch every aspect of our lives. It’s a competitive market to be in.

Adapting to trends is crucial for chemical manufacturers to stay successful. The most profitable companies will be ones that work with business partners who keep them updated on these trends and embrace any changes that may come their way.

Trends Affecting the Chemical Industry

Embracing Artificial Intelligence

The chemical industry has a history of embracing new technologies. Artificial intelligence (AI) is no exception. AI offers many potential benefits for chemical manufacturers. It can help find savings, improve efficiency, and increase productivity. There are so many ways AI can help chemical companies get ahead.

For example, it can help automate manual tasks and analyze vast amounts of data faster. With AI, chemical companies can make more informed decisions and improve quality control. Adopting AI can also help chemical companies improve workplace safety and reduce the risk of human error.

The Growing Significance of Data Analytics

Examining data sets for insights to improve decision-making is becoming more commonplace among chemical companies. Chemical manufacturers can use data analytics in their decision-making to enhance their productivity, reduce costs, and predict critical events that may impact their business. Moreover, they feed AI algorithms this data to forecast better and optimize their operations.

Accessing data can provide insight into the quality control of products or visibility into bottlenecks affecting their chemical supply chain. This data can help them pivot and improve their customer’s experience. Using data analytics is a great opportunity for chemical manufacturers to drive growth and profits.

A Rising Demand for Specialty Chemicals

Many other industries use specialty chemicals, like personal care, electronics, packing, and pharmaceuticals. In fact, the pharmaceutical industry accounts for the largest segment using them as the need for more medication grows.

Additionally, agrochemicals are another significant user of specialty chemicals. The growing population means an increased need for food and food production. Agricultural land is dwindling, and increasing the crop yield per acre of land becomes more important, increasing the demand for specialty chemicals.

Sustainability

The pressure on chemical manufacturers to reduce the environmental impact of their operations and products has never been greater. Regulatory agencies have placed stringent regulations with ambitious emission reduction goals for 2030. While many in the chemical industry have prioritized sustainability in their business, there is still work to do.

Green chemistry is part of this trend that’s gaining momentum. Green chemistry focuses on the processes and products to reduce the effect of hazardous materials and negative environmental impact while conserving natural resources for future generations. Green chemistry embraces recycling technologies, alternative energy resources, and other sustainable practices. This pushes many chemical manufacturers to review their current business strategies.

A Greater Need for Renewable and Bio-based Chemicals

A growing demand for renewable and bio- or plant-based chemicals should be no surprise.

This trend aligns with sustainability goals and brings the chemical industry opportunities for savings and new market opportunities. Companies are exploring avenues like synthetic biology, bioremediation, and the production of bioplastic or biodegradable materials

Prioritizing Safety and Reducing Risk

Safety and mitigating risk are huge concerns for businesses in the chemical industry.

Cybersecurity is a rising trend and threat for many companies. We see it all over the news. Hackers and scammers are becoming more tactical in cyber-attacks and company breaches of private information. It’s crucial for chemical companies to put in place security measures and training to keep their businesses safe.

The transport of hazardous chemicals has also recently gained special attention in the news. Rail transport accounts for around 19 percent of chemical shipments. Recent derailments, like in East Palestine, Ohio, have raised concerns about transportation safety.

Many chemical companies are also investing more in developing safer chemicals and products. Their concerns are not only to be less harmful to the environment but to human health as well.

Improving workplace safety is another concern. Companies install new safety protocols, enhance employee training, and use technology to address this.

Building a Resilient Supply Chain

In the last few years, companies realized how vulnerable their supply chains were.

In a survey by the American Chemical Council, 97 percent reported modifying operations due to supply chain disruptions. Chemical companies are focusing on reducing supply chain risk and increasing flexibility. With 25 percent of the U.S. economy depending on the chemical industry, it’s important their supply chains keep moving.

Keep Your Chemical Supply Chain Ahead of the Trends

Keeping your chemical company ahead of evolving trends and the competition is important. Having business partners that stay tuned to what’s happening in the chemical industry can be invaluable.

Trinity Logistics can help you with many of these trends through our services. Whether you have sustainability goals, are looking to build supply chain resiliency, or need technology to improve visibility and offer data analytics, we have solutions.

We’re members of many industry-related associations like the National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD) and are Responsible CareⓇ Certified, so you don’t have to worry about falling behind in news or trends that may affect your business. When you work with Trinity Logistics, your designated expert will keep you so informed that you’ll likely know what’s affecting the chemical industry before any of your competitors do.  

That’s just part of Trinity’s People-Centric service you’ll get to experience when working with us. We understand that people are at the heart of all businesses, so that’s who you’ll talk to – a dedicated relationship at Trinity. It’s also who we truly serve – your people.

Our goal is to improve lives, and when you decide to work with Trinity Logistics, you’ll see just that – improved life satisfaction amongst your employees and customers.

I’D LIKE TO DISCOVER HOW TRINITY IMPROVES CHEMICAL SUPPLY CHAINS

As the industry pivots from Logistics 3.0 to Logistics 4.0, the role of Generative AI, a subset of artificial intelligence that can generate data like what it’s trained on, is becoming significant. 

What could and should you do with this technology?  Let’s follow, Alex, a seasoned logistics manager, into his journey with Generative AI in logistics. Hopefully, it will help you determine how to best apply this to your business.

Logistics 3.0 vs Logistics 4.0

Amid the hustle of daily logistics operations, Alex has found himself standing at a crossroads. The days of Logistics 3.0, with its familiar integration of technology and automation, were beginning to fade. A new era, Logistics 4.0, was dawning, bringing with it the promise of Generative AI.

In Logistics 3.0, Alex had seen the wonders of electronic data interchange, warehouse management systems, and transportation management systems. These tools paved the way for efficiency, streamlining operations, and data storage. Yet, something was missing. While data accumulated, its full potential remained untapped, and decisions largely depended on human insight.

Enter Logistics 4.0, a realm where technology is integrated and intertwined with every aspect of operations. Generative AI became Alex’s trusted advisor, offering capabilities that went beyond conventional wisdom. Here, data was stored and analyzed in real-time, creating predictive models, forecasting demand, and even simulating myriad scenarios.

Generative AI: A Helping Hand

With the introduction of Generative AI, decision-making saw a paradigm shift. No longer were decisions merely human-driven. Now, vast datasets could be processed with unparalleled speed and insights delivered directly to the team. 

Alex marveled as the AI suggested new routing strategies that outperformed traditional methods. When it came to risk management, AI could paint potential risk scenarios from existing data, enabling further preparedness against unforeseen challenges.

A New Era

Where Generative AI truly shone was in its influence on hyper-personalization and customer experience. 

Alex recalled a customer who had faced delivery delays in the past. Now before the customer could express any concerns, Generative AI analyzed previous interactions, preemptively providing solutions to identify and allow proactive mitigation of any delays. Such predictive customer service seemed like magic!

Customers were no longer treated with one-size-fits-all solutions either. Analyzing their preferences and behaviors, Generative AI tailored communications to fit an individual’s needs, background, and details. Natural Language Processing, powered by the same AI, equipped teams with accurate and individualized customer information. Moreover, dynamic pricing models consider each customer’s history, offering personalized pricing and discounts.

The power of Generative AI didn’t stop there. It sifted through mountains of customer feedback, highlighting sentiment and crafting actionable insights. This dynamic tool kept the team agile and evolving customer needs stay met.

In this new era of Logistics 4.0, Alex realized that the industry was undergoing more than just a technological shift. It was a transformation of values and priorities. Every customer interaction was now an opportunity to offer a more tailored, predictive experience that exceeded expectations.

Generative AI Concerns

Yet, as these capabilities expand, so do ethical concerns. Alex understood the importance of utilizing AI ethically, ensuring that it complements human skills rather than replacing them. He was also aware of the apprehensions among his team members.  They feared that AI might render their roles obsolete.

To address these concerns, Alex led training programs, emphasizing the useful relationship between AI and people. He shared how Generative AI could handle vast datasets, leaving the strategic and empathetic decisions to people, who were irreplaceable in these capacities. This synergy would ensure efficient logistics while preserving job roles, emphasizing the value of human touch in an AI-driven world.

Customer interactions presented another challenge. With Generative AI’s potential to personalize experiences, there was the risk of infringing on individual privacy. Alex championed transparent communication. He educated customers about how their data was used and the measures in place to protect their privacy. Training sessions were organized to equip team members with knowledge about ethical data usage, ensuring customers felt safe and valued.

Alex also recognized the importance of avoiding the misuse of AI. Though AI could suggest new routing strategies or predict potential challenges, the decision-making power remained with people. Alex believed that AI should inform decisions, not make them autonomously, especially when people’s livelihoods were at stake.

A Whole New World of Logistics

As he looked ahead, Alex felt optimistic. In this age, where brand loyalty was deeply rooted in personalized experiences, he knew that with Generative AI by his side, they were poised to lead, innovate, and set new standards in the world of logistics.

The leap from Logistics 3.0 to 4.0 marks a significant shift from manual and reactive operations to automated, intelligent, and proactive systems. Generative AI stands at the forefront of this revolution, providing the tools necessary for logistics companies to harness the power of their data, make informed decisions, and stay ahead in the competitive market.

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In recent years, the transportation industry has seen a concerning rise in cargo theft and fraud, and the culprits behind it are becoming increasingly sophisticated with their tactics. According to Land Line, cargo theft increased by 49 percent in the first quarter of 2020, with an average cargo loss value exceeding $105,000 per incident. In a recent report in July 2023 by CargoNet, it was found that supply chain risk events increased 57 percent year-over-year (YoY), accounting for 44 million in stolen shipments in quarter two of the calendar year.  

With such alarming statistics, it’s essential to be proactive against cargo theft and freight fraud. So that you can be fully prepared, here are some of the most common methods used by criminals in cargo theft and fraud, along with proven strategies to prevent these issues from happening in the first place.

Common Cargo Theft and Fraud Scenarios

Dealing with cargo theft or fraud when shipping freight is far from ideal. It’s even more frustrating when you realize there are many ways for individuals to commit those crimes.

1.    Identity Theft

Identity theft is currently one of the top methods scammers use to carry out fraudulent activities in the transportation industry. Scammers will impersonate legitimate trucking companies by using their stolen identities. Once they’ve acquired a stolen identity, scammers have several ways in which they use it. Some will pose as the trucking companies, show up to pick up the freight, and then disappear with the cargo. Others will request fuel advances, take the money, and vanish. Then you have others that will take it a step further and double broker.

2.    Double Brokering

Double brokering is the unethical practice when a shipper or broker books a carrier for a shipment, and the carrier then brokers or tenders the shipment to a third party without the shipper’s or broker’s knowledge or approval. Double brokering not only raises liability concerns, such as a potential lack of insurance or approved contract with the actual carrier handling your freight, but it also results in a loss of control. If double brokering occurs, it can lead to billing and liability issues for you as the shipper or the freight broker.

3.    Hook-Up-And-Go

This method of theft is precisely what it sounds like. Thieves connect tractors to trailers and simply drive away with them. These incidents typically occur at truck stops or drop yards when drivers are distracted. Although this method is less common today thanks to advanced technology and tracking systems in trailers, it’s still crucial to remain vigilant.

A graphic that reads "Common Cargo Theft and Fraud" with line icons below. There is a face mask for identity theft, a hand holding money and passing it to another hand for double brokering, and a hook for hook-up-and-go. The bottom reads Trinity's tagline People-Centric Freight Solutions and has the Trinity Logistics logo.

Combatting Cargo Theft and Fraud

When it comes to combating cargo theft and fraud, it can be challenging to know where to start. While securing trustworthy carriers is a solid initial step, several proven methods can help prevent fraud.

1.    Communicate with the Drivers

Truck drivers are your first line of defense against cargo theft. Whenever possible, ensure that the drivers you work with have undergone proper screening to minimize the risk of fraud. It’s also important to keep your driver relationships informed about any cargo theft activities so they can stay vigilant against potential threats. Keep them aware of any hijacking hotspots and encourage them to report any suspicious incidents promptly. Additionally, if you employ drivers, ensure that they have received adequate training.

2.    Verify Employment

Before finalizing any arrangements, always verify that the person you’re talking to is authorized from the logistics company they claim to work for. Use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to obtain the company’s contact information and speak to them directly to confirm their identity. If the company has no knowledge of the individual, it’s a red flag, and you’ve successfully avoided a potential scam.

3.    Check Truck Identification

Legally, every motor carrier must display their company name and USDOT or MC number on the side of their truck, found on the door of the cab. If the name on the side of the truck doesn’t match the name of the company you’ve hired or that your freight broker has arranged on your behalf, it should raise immediate concerns with your dock workers. We strongly recommend implementing a procedure that requires your loaders to inspect the door and confirm a match. If there’s any discrepancy, the truck shouldn’t be loaded until the issue is resolved. 

4.    Leverage Technology

Technology can be a powerful ally when it comes to combatting cargo theft and fraud. GPS tracking can help locate a stolen vehicle, while geofencing applications can notify you if your freight deviates from its intended route. Making use of these kinds of technology can significantly reduce the risk of any cargo theft.

A graphic titled "Combatting Cargo Theft and Fraud" with line icons below it. There are message bubbles for communicate with your drivers, a document with a check mark for verify employment, a truck for check truck identification, and wi-fi bars for leverage technology. Below that is the Trinity Logistics logo.

“Recently, Trinity Logistics had the opportunity to attend TIA’s Policy Forum in Washington, D.C. where we met with some of our elected state officials and staff,” said Kristin Deno, Director of Operational Risk. “We discussed the spike in fraud and impacts of cargo theft to the economy, which is estimated to have a cost of 800 million per year. Ultimately, these unsightly costs trickle down to the consumer, increasing the cost of goods for all. Because many double brokered or stolen loads begin with fake identity, verifying that you are communicating with the entity you think you are, is crucial. Newly created web domains and email addresses are being used to impersonate established carriers and even shipper businesses.”

Kristin Deno, Doug Potvin, and Greg Massey of Trinity Logistics attend TIA’s Policy Forum in Washington D.C.

Trust Trinity Logistics to Safeguard Your Shipments

Taking a proactive stance in fighting cargo theft and freight fraud is essential to ensure the safety of your shipments.

However, handling this task on your own can be burdensome. By partnering with a reliable 3PL like Trinity Logistics, you can save valuable time that would otherwise be spent on vetting carriers.

At Trinity, we meticulously verify all carrier relationships that we work with, not just during the initial setup, but for every shipment. Additionally, our strong relationships built with trusted carriers can further strengthen your confidence that your freight will arrive safe. Our Carrier Compliance and Carrier Development Teams are testaments to our focus on carrier verification and relationship building. We also offer cutting-edge tracking technology upon request, so you’ll know exactly where your freight is located at every step of the way.

Further, we take cases of cargo theft or fraud seriously. Situations where carriers are caught engaging in double brokering or identity theft are researched and offenders may be immediately placed on our Do-Not-Load (DNL) list.

Now, we understand that no matter what you do, things still sometimes happen. Even so, we’re proud to share that less than one percent of all shipments coordinated with Trinity Logistics end up in a claim. When that does happen, we’re just as prepared to tackle it. We have a Cargo Claims Department at the ready to assist you in navigating issues that may arise from your shipment with an average rate of 60 days in resolving cargo claims.

A graphic that is titled "Trinity Logistics: Claims Made Easy". Below that reads less than one percent of Trinity shipments result in a claim and 60 days is the average time it takes Trinity to resolve a claim. Below that is the Trinity Logistics logo.

If the possibility of cargo theft and freight fraud is keeping you up at night, then consider working with Trinity Logistics so you can gain peace of mind over your freight shipments.

I want to know more about Trinity’s logistics services.

Many of today’s manufacturing trends are in line with the industry’s goals to improve processes, create more efficiency, and meet consumer demand.

The manufacturing industry has seen challenges, from changes in the way people work to the rapid growth in demand, with many of these challenges accelerated by the recent covid-19 pandemic.

So, what evolutions and challenges are the manufacturing industry currently facing? Let’s dive into the latest manufacturing trends.

WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN MANUFACTURING?

DIFFICULTY FINDING LABOR

Manufacturers are still struggling to find labor, with a recent Deloitte survey estimating that the manufacturing sector will be short 2.1 million skilled workers by 2030. It’s difficult for manufacturers to fill open positions, with respondents claiming it is 36 percent more difficult to recruit than in 2018.

To combat the shortage, manufacturers are looking for ways to recruit and retain skilled talent, by raising wages and reskilling current talent to meet company needs. According to the Manufacturing Institute, young employees are attracted to companies that look to train and invest in them. 70 percent of manufacturing workers under 25 said they will stick with an employer because of these opportunities to grow.

Additionally, technology is advancing and should help manufacturers combat their labor challenges. With tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) becoming more accessible, companies should be able to become more efficient and able to produce more with fewer people.

DIVERSIFYING WORKFORCE

Diversifying the workforce is one of the growing manufacturing trends because the industry has held a reputation for being a male-dominated industry. According to a study by the Manufacturing Institute, less than 30 percent of manufacturing workers are women. So, in 2021, the Building Economic Strength Through Manufacturing Act was passed. This bill seeks to double the number of women-owned and minority-owned manufacturers.

According to Glassdoor, when applying for jobs, 76 percent of applicants look for company diversity. Diversifying the workforce is a trend that goes in hand with employee recruiting. It creates opportunities for new talent and can help make operations more resilient.

TECHNOLOGY IS CHANGING THE INDUSTRY

Technology changing the industry has been and will be a manufacturing trend for some time. Technology is improving, becoming more accessible, and showing its benefits, so many manufacturers are investing in it more. Manufacturers need technology to keep up with the challenges of increased demand while facing a labor shortage.

Some technology tools companies are using include AI, automation, sensors, IoT, robotics, predictive maintenance, and remote monitoring. These tools help manufacturers with the manual and repetitive tasks that they struggle to find the labor for. In addition, companies are evaluating their operations to make the best use of technology and people.

Frontline workers will likely expand their roles to take on new responsibilities. As technology automates processes, workers will need to use more communication, collaboration, and analytical skills. Technology will also offer more flexibility and safety for frontline workers, further helping with employee recruiting and retention.

Some manufacturers are even pushing the limit and testing our “dark factories”. These are fully automated factories without any human workers on site.

Industry 4.0 is what many refer to as this trend of technology. It’s a shortened term for what is being called the fourth industrial revolution. Industry 4.0 technologies, such as the above examples, can raise productivity by 40 percent.

INCREASING CYBERSECURITY

As technology use increases and manufacturing processes get more connected and complex, a growing challenge is cybersecurity. In 2021, manufacturing was the industry that suffered the most cyberattacks, according to IBM’s X-Force Threat Intelligence Index. In fact, according to a survey by Omdia, the increasing risk of cyber attacks are one of the main challenges slowing down the implementation of more analytics, automation, and AI in manufacturing.

Because of its increased risk for cyber attacks compared to any other industry, manufacturing companies are investing more in the cybersecurity strategies and monitoring, implementing the use of multi-factor authentication, issuing employee training on cybersecurity, and building recovery plans to be prepared should any attacks take place.

CARBON NEUTRALITY

Combatting climate change is a priority on everyone’s mind and the manufacturing industry is no exception. The manufacturing industry produces almost a quarter of global greenhouse emissions. However, with the government pushing industries towards sustainability, manufacturing companies are rethinking their operations.

One manufacturing trend is carbon neutrality. Carbon neutral is when a company removes the same amount of carbon dioxide it emits into the atmosphere.

Intermodal is one opportunity to be more sustainable.

Manufacturing companies can become carbon neutral by purchasing carbon offsets. An example of this would be a company sponsoring a solar energy farm or a project for reforestation.

Did you know Trinity is ranked in the top 50 percent of all companies for sustainability by EcoVadis?

BUILDING SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCE

Since the start of the covid-19 pandemic and the supply chain bottlenecks we continue to face, supply chain resilience remains a top manufacturing trend.

Supply chain bottlenecks like the covid-19 pandemic, high container costs and delays, severe weather, protests, and new regulations are a few of the disruptions that have shed light on manufacturers’ fragile supply chains.

Manufacturers continue to look for more resilience to keep up with consumer demand despite these challenges.

Improving communications with supply chain partners, onshoring or reshoring, and investing in supply chain technology are some of the ways manufacturers are making their supply chains more stable.

STAY AHEAD OF MANUFACTURING TRENDS

Whether you know the latest manufacturing trends are or not, having an expert on your side is one easy way to stay ahead. And that’s just what Trinity Logistics aims to be.

Yes, our primary focus is as your logistics partner, but our People-Centric culture means we’re more than that. As a business relationship, we’re invested in your company’s success. We stay knowledgeable on what’s going on in your industry to help keep you updated. And we stand at the ready to offer your business any logistics support and expertise that you need.

Don’t miss your opportunity to gain a business relationship that stays on top of your industry’s trends and is people focused. Let’s get connected.

SEE WHY YOU SHOULD WORK WITH TRINITY LOGISTICS

Whether your product is coming straight from the farm, is moving between processing, or heading off to the consumer, the dairy industry needs first-rate cold chain solutions to meet their complex supply chains.

Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and butter are household staples and essential in many people’s diets. It’s no surprise that the dairy industry is considered one of the fastest-growing industries, almost doubling in value every five years. To keep up with consumer demand, the dairy industry needs exceptional cold chain solutions to keep their products cold and safe for consumption.

Why the Dairy Industry Needs Cold Chain Solutions

Dairy products all start with milk, and it has a short shelf life. After the cows have been milked, it immediately transports to cooling storage tanks or a chilled trailer. To ensure the milk doesn’t spoil, it must be stored at a temperature no higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s then transported to a processing facility, pasteurized, and transported again to consumers.

Usually, this process alone, from cow to store, takes place in about two days. Now, milk is often a starting point for the many diverse dairy products available. Depending on the final product, dairy supply chains have more steps and complexities added.

An infographic titled "Why The Dairy Industry Needs Cold Chain Solutions" and then showing an icon of a barn with an icon of a truck going towards an icon of a storage tank. In between the storage tank and barn is a triangle reading "No Higher Than 40 Degrees Fahrenheit". From the storage tank icon a line leads to an icon of two arrows going opposite ways with the word "pasteurization" between them. From that icon another truck icon is leading towards three icons of dairy items: cheese, ice cream, and milk. In between those icons and the pasteurization is a rectangle with the words "2 Days from Cow to Store" in it. At the bottom is a black graphic with the Trinity Logistics logo and their tagline "People-Centric Freight Solutions."

Common Issues Requiring Cold Chain Solutions

Temperature Control Needed for Most Dairy Products

Most dairy products need storage at specific temperatures to keep from spoiling. Dairy products need strict attention because of the risk posed to consumers if the cold chain is broken. If not consistently kept cold and free of humidity, bacteria in the dairy can cultivate and dairy products can become harmful.

Capacity During Peak Shipping Seasons

While some dairy products can seek out alternative transportation modes, most find shipping truckload is the most viable option. It’s usually the fastest and cheapest way to move the product because of its weight. It’s also the most viable due to freight security and nature of the product, and because it reduces the risk of claims due to temperature fluctuations or shifting. Since most dairy products need refrigerated trucks for their shipments this can make capacity an issue at times, such as produce season, when reefer capacity can be tighter. It can not only be more difficult to secure a refrigerated truck, but more expensive to do so.

Managing Milk Production with Dairy Demand

Dairy product demand can fluctuate. Yet, even when consumers want fewer dairy products, the cows don’t stop making milk. They can’t be turned on and off like machines, giving the dairy industry a unique balancing act to handle.

Additionally, when it comes to shipping milk, most of that is kept regional given the short shelf life and cost to ship, making dairy demand management even trickier.

Supply Chain Disruptions

As we’ve learned in recent years, there’s always the chance for supply chain disruption to happen. Whether that’s a truck breaking down, a roadblock, or some other instance that would cause delays. With several dairy products (like milk) having a short shelf life, any delays can risk product spoiling and going to waste. Companies in the dairy industry need to be able to act quickly if any disruption happens. 

Dairy is Highly Regulated 

Dairy products are associated with foodborne illnesses, so it’s no surprise that they’re highly regulated. Right from the start, milk is tested to ensure it’s of safe quality to consume and make other products from. There’s also the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which places strict requirements on sanitary transportation and the handling of dairy products.

Supply Chain Visibility 

Because of so many factors mentioned above, it’s important for dairy companies to have full, real-time visibility of their supply chains. Additionally, many wholesale food distributors and grocery warehouses hold very strict requirements for appointments with very strict product quality inspections to be accepted into their inventory. Without it, dairy companies are at risk of losing products and money due to spoilage, disruptions, delays, or regulation requirements. 

Potential High Value Products

Certain dairy products can be high value, like some cheeses for example. This can make the overall value of the load to be costly should there be any potential claims. It’s best for shippers to work with expert providers who have the experience and knowledge to handle any high value dairy products.

Leading Cold Chain Solutions from Trinity Logistics

Shippers in the dairy industry looking for first-rate cold chain solutions can find all they need with Trinity Logistics. We’re a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider with over 40 years of experience serving logistics solutions to some of the top-known brands in the food and beverage sector.

Standard Operating Procedures for Temperature-Controlled Shipments

One of the reasons we excel in cold chain solutions is our standard operating procedures in place for every temperature-controlled shipment we arrange. This includes:

We understand just how critical it is that your product stays at its required temperature. That’s why we work with our trusted, experienced carrier relationships to ensure your product arrives fresh.

Multi-Modal Cold Chain Solutions

No matter what transportation mode you need your product to ship, we have the logistics solutions to support your business now and in the future, including;

This enables your business to seamlessly run regardless of what change or growth you experience.

In-Depth Transportation Management

Whether you need a transportation management system (TMS), to fully outsource your logistics, or your own customized managed transportation solution, we can help. We know each business is unique, which is why our system is highly configurable so we can meet your exact needs. Our Trinity experts will work as part of your business, offering in-depth reporting and data to help get you ahead of your competitors.

No Need to Worry About Disruptions

Did I mention that Trinity has been serving cold chains for over 40 years? We’ve seen it all when it comes to supply chain disruptions and delays. We know how to quickly adapt plans to keep your freight moving. While you’ll have your sole Trinity relationship to lean on for updates, we also have a 24/7 Team in case we need any additional support. You can learn to rest easy whenever your shipment is in our care.

Experts in Temp-Controlled Logistics and Dairy

Trinity Logistics has been serving cold chains for 40-plus years, in addition to our parent company, Burris Logistics, that was built on its expertise of handling temperature-controlled commodities.

There’s also Honor Foods, another Burris Logistics company you can lean on for food redistribution if needed. Honor Foods is a leading foodservice redistributor with locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast regions of the U.S. They specialize in frozen, refrigerated, dairy, and dry products with over 3,000 stocked items from 300+ trusted suppliers.

Our People-Centric Service

What makes Trinity unique from other 3PLs and what our customers praise the most is our exceptional People-Centric service. We’re a company built on a culture of family and servant leadership, and that culture shines through in our service to you. It’s our care, compassion, and communication that you’ll notice and appreciate.

I’D LIKE LEARN MORE ABOUT TRINITY'S COLD CHAIN SOLUTIONS

SEAFORD, DE, July 18th, 2023 – Trinity Logistics, a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider, is proud to share that the company has been named a Top 100 3PL by Inbound Logistics.

Every year, Inbound Logistics publishes its annual 3PL edition including its Top 100 3PL list. The theme of this year’s edition surrounds growth. Outsourcing supply chain, logistics, and transportation solutions to a trusted partner is important to prepare or position companies for times of growth. Hundreds of 3PL companies submitted credentials to be considered this year and IL selected the top 100 3PLs to help companies manage growth, efficiently meet demand, and improve service while holding down costs, with Trinity Logistics selected in that list. 

Trinity Logistics has a long history of providing innovative and customer-focused solutions, offering a wide range of services, including warehousing, multiple modes of transportation, technology, and transportation management. 

“Trinity is committed to providing our customers with the best possible experience to help them grow and succeed,” said Sarah Ruffcorn, President of Trinity Logistics. “This award is a wonderful recognition of the commitment our Team makes to our shipper and carrier relationships. We are honored to be known as a 3PL partner that companies can depend on to support their growth.”

This is the third year Trinity Logistics has earned recognition as a Top 100 3PL by Inbound Logistics. The recognition is a testament to the company’s growing brand of People-Centric service and customized logistics solutions available to businesses of all sizes and growth goals. 


Learn how Trinity Logistics helped these companies grow their business.

Read MW Supply's Case Study Read Cometeer's Case Study Read Albaugh's Case Study

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HVAC contractors and plumbers continue to face supply chain woes like material shortages and rising costs. 

Battling these issues is making it tougher for HVAC contractors and plumbers to meet their customer’s demands in the short term and perhaps even longer. Here’s what HVAC contractors and plumbers can do to rise above. 

WORK WITH MANY SUPPLIERS 

If current suppliers can’t meet your needs, then it’s a good time to explore other ones. Many suppliers are ready to strike up new relationships and may be willing to be more flexible with contracts. Shopping with multiple suppliers will not only gain you access to more resources but can offer you more varied pricing options to consider. 

CONSIDER ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS 

It might be worth checking into other materials as they may be easier to get your hands on. Considering other brands of materials or equipment can keep your projects from staying stagnant. 

COMMUNICATION IS KING 

In difficult times like these, communication can be something that gives your company a competitive edge. Not only is it a vital aspect of a successful business, but it helps build trust and long-lasting relationships. While no one likes delivering bad news about backorders or delays, keeping your customers informed will go far, as they’ll appreciate your honesty and transparency. 

IMPROVING CUSTOMER SERVICE 

While material shortages and delays are out of your hands, great customer service will keep your current customers and help you gain new ones. In addition, extra attention to customer service can help address any frustrations among your customers. While these challenges may not last forever, your reputation will, so make sure yours remains good, if not great. 

PRE-ORDER MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT 

Many HVAC contractors and plumbers often only order the materials and equipment as needed. Instead, plan and stock up on the materials you most often use for your projects. This way, you’ll have what you need ready instead of waiting for materials to deliver. 

CONSIDER MODE DIVERSIFICATION 

Trying different modes of transportation could help you offset your increased costs. Keep an eye on transportation costs across the different modes available. Being more flexible with your freight shipping can give you some financial benefits. 

INVEST IN TECHNOLOGY 

Logistics technology, like a transportation management system (TMS), has tools available to help you stay on top of your supply chain and plan efficiently. One example is helping you with your routing decisions by matching your freight with the best carriers, lanes, rates, and transit service. It will also enable you to better track and manage any service disruptions or shipment delays in real-time, thus increasing your service levels and improving your customer relationships. 

THINK ABOUT ONSHORING 

Onshoring is a strategy that HVAC contractors and plumbers can use to mitigate supply chain woes and improve competitiveness. Onshoring strategy can ensure resilience in your supply chain and give your company a competitive edge. 

Onshoring refers to the overall practice of moving manufacturing operations from foreign soil back to the United States or outsourcing to domestic contract manufacturers rather than overseas. An example of onshoring would be having operations moved to Mexico versus China.

Onshoring allows your supply chain shorter travel times since materials and products are much closer than if they were overseas. This not only keeps your projects moving that much quicker but reduces your transportation costs. Additionally, you’ll also have the benefit of being greener due to less fuel being used. 

CONSIDER OUTSOURCING YOUR LOGISTICS 

According to the 2020 Annual Third-Party Logistics Study, 67 percent of shippers stating using a 3PL contributed to reducing their logistics cost, while 83 percent said it improved their service. By outsourcing to a 3PL, like Trinity Logistics, you won’t have to spend hours worrying about your logistics and get the help you may need to be more flexible with your shipping options. 

“In this market where it’s difficult to meet demand and project deadlines due to material and product shortages, it may not be the best option to send it via LTL as you may save a few dollars on the front end but pay for it with extended estimated transit times, and the possibility of the parts being damaged as they go from terminal to terminal throughout transit. Working with a 3PL, like Trinity Logistics, can bring you other possibilities on how to move your freight efficiently, such as dedicated full truck options, expedited (straight trucks/sprinter vans), partial, and hot shot options to keep your freight moving to arrive on time so you can achieve your project deadlines.”

– Michael Whitaker, Business Development Representative at Trinity Logistics 

If you’re looking for a reliable 3PL provider to help with your HVAC supply chain, consider Trinity Logistics. With Trinity, you gain a Team of experts to help optimize your supply chain, help arrange shipping using other modes, and end-to-end visibility through our available technology.

DISCOVER TRINITY LOGISTICS

Optimized load planning is fundamental to improving your service and revenue.

Could your company be wasting money on a logistics strategy that doesn’t work? Efficient load planning is more critical than ever and a key performance area for any supply chain. Ideally, you want to be able to move your product to your customers while maintaining desired service levels in the most efficient way. Logistics optimization strategies such as improving your load planning processes can be an effective way to reduce freight costs by as much as 10 to 40 percent.

While this sounds great, load planning can be a very manual and time-consuming process. A transportation management system (TMS), specifically one that includes a freight optimization tool, is one way to analyze and take your load planning process from hours of manual work to minutes through automation and technology.

Start saving time and get your free supply chain analysis with Trinity Logistics.

COMMON LOAD PLANNING TMS MISCONCEPTIONS

Before we dive into how a TMS can help you with your load planning, perhaps you’ve thought of one of these common misconceptions.

A TMS Optimizes on Its Own

First off, not all TMS platforms are the same. Some may not even offer load planning tools. It’s also important to see what kind of support is offered, as having an expert available can help provide you with more insight than the software alone.

The Optimized Load Plan Will Be Perfect Every Time

Technology is a great tool to make your logistics processes more efficient. The word to remember here is “tool”. Even a TMS with a freight optimization tool can overlook certain opportunities for freight consolidation, so it’s important to always treat your transportation technology as an aid to your load planning process and not as a full replacement for it.  

BENEFITS OF OPTIMIZED LOAD PLANNING

HOW A TMS HELPS OPTIMIZE YOUR LOAD PLANNING

A TMS is a powerful tool for optimizing your load planning. A TMS provides you visibility into your entire logistics process. This allows you to monitor performance and create efficient plans. It helps you with your forecasting and planning so you can find cost-saving options. A TMS can help give you a clearer picture of your entire freight network by housing all your transportation information in one system.

Now, there is a lot of transportation management software out there. To gain the most benefit for your load planning process, you’ll want to make sure you select one with a freight optimization tool.

New to transportation management software? Download our FREE Guide to Transportation Management Software.

WHY WOULD I NEED A FREIGHT OPTIMIZATION TOOL?

Anyone who has gone through the process of figuring out how to reduce shipping costs for each of their loads knows how much of a pain it can truly be. The process starts with tracking down all your open shipments, deciding what loads should be moved together, and then building, rating, and tendering those loads manually. For those who have not implemented a TMS, this is usually done with paper and pencil or an Excel spreadsheet.

Many factors go into optimizing shipments, including the number of pallets and weight of each shipment (taking trailer size into consideration), delivery availability for locations, and special services needed.

Perhaps one of the most important dynamics of building a shipment is delivery deadlines. It’s imperative to take note of whether a truck can deliver to single or multiple locations and arrive on time, factoring in the drivers’ hours of service (HOS) and loading and unloading times.

In sum, it’s a like a complex jigsaw puzzle made up of your freight, and trying to figure it out alone can be difficult.

Learn how Trinity's TMS helped Pompeian increase efficiency and reduce costs.

HOW CAN A FREIGHT OPTIMIZATION TOOL HELP ME?

The freight optimization tool in a TMS will take your list of open shipments and consolidate them into loads based on the criteria specified by you. The software’s criteria encompass ship and delivery date flexibility, maximum weight per shipment, the maximum number of pieces, the number of picks and drops, driver hours, and more.

You’re also able to choose which carriers you want to include for consideration. Once these parameters are set and the optimizer has been run, you also have the capability to auto-create loads in the TMS based on the optimizer’s results.

The optimizer tool accomplishes in minutes what usually takes a person hours to calculate and configure, with the likelihood of saving money in the meantime. The top benefits here translate to both time and money saved. Gone are the days of sitting at your desk for hours with a calculator and a headache.

In summary, our TMS (and other similar products) allow you to enter all your shipments, whether it’s 20 or 1000, and will automatically calculate the most efficient way to route your shipments by combining smaller shipments into multi-drop truckloads, keeping other shipments separate, and configuring the way it all gets routed across the country. The results of the freight optimization tool include the reported cost savings and a detailed report of the loads proposed.

START OPTIMIZING YOUR LOAD PLANNING WITH TRINITY’S TMS

Logistics optimization never ends. It is a continuous process only limited by your time, technology, and commitment to improvement. And ensuring your company has access to a best-in-class TMS is the key to starting that process and finding efficiencies.

Discover how Trinity’s TMS, including its freight optimization tool, can improve your logistics processes, like load planning, helping you offer better customer service and reduce costs while increasing revenue.

SIGN UP FOR A FREE SUPPLY CHAIN ANALYSIS AND TMS DEMO

The following is an opinion article on AI in supply chains, written by Russ Felker, Chief of Technology (CTO) of Trinity Logistics.

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to grow its presence in our everyday lives, businesses, and now, supply chains. In a recent MHI Annual Industry Report, 17 percent of respondents said they use AI, with another 45 percent stating they will begin using it in the next five years. And of more than 1,000 supply chain professionals surveyed, 25 percent stated they plan to invest in AI within the next three years. While AI in supply chains has its benefits, it continues to be overhyped as a replacement for human cognitive abilities.

AI in Supply Chains: We Need to Change Our Focus

The technologies leveraged by today’s AI offerings fall flat when applied to the complex day-to-day of supply chain interactions. We need to stop chasing the inflated promises of artificial intelligence and start focusing on the very powerful pattern recognition and pattern-application technologies marketed today as AI to support our teams more effectively. Instead of focusing on AI, we need to reorient on CAI (computer-aided intelligence).

Now, this might seem like a semantic argument, and to a certain extent it is, but the difference between artificial intelligence (AI) and computer-aided intelligence (CAI) is distinct. You might ask, “What does it matter if the technologies are being put in place and create efficiencies?”  “So what if it’s called AI?”  I would say it makes all the difference in the world.

What AI in Supply Chains Currently Does Well

First off, let’s talk about the technologies backing the products that include AI.  As with many technology implementations, they are, by and large, applying rulesets to data. Being able to quickly process a defined pattern against a large data set is both no mean feat and hugely beneficial in a supply-chain setting. In the end, however, these implementations are no different than a rules engine – albeit one with a high degree of complication. For example, take an area of the supply chain that has had this form of technology applied to it, quite successfully, for many years – route optimization.  

Optimizing a single route is relatively simple but optimizing the routes of multiple vehicles in conjunction with related schedules of item delivery commitments and layering in things like round-trip requirements and least amount of non-productive miles (miles driven without a load) and the level of complexity moves well beyond what an individual could do in a reasonable period of time.  What can take on this type of task is a processing engine designed to apply complex patterns within a given boundary set – and that’s what current implementations of AI can do. And they do it well.

Why AI Can’t Replace Humans

The first problem comes in when we examine the stated goal of AI – the ability for a machine to work intelligently. The difference between hype and reality is in how we interpret a keyword – intelligence. Even the most recent and hyped AI systems continue to fail at the same core intelligence functions such as understanding nuanced context and broader application of existing patterns.  

Take Gato from DeepMind, a division of Alphabet, as an example. While it can examine an image and draw basic conclusions, the context and understanding are both entirely missing from its analysis. Tesla provides another example where a driver had to intervene as autopilot couldn’t recognize a worker holding a stop sign as something it should avoid. These limitations minimize the tasks for which AI technologies can, and should, be leveraged.  

The second problem is related to the first. The acceptance of “AI” from teams has been wrought with, at a minimum, intense change management and, in the worst case, rebellion. If you are bringing in AI to a team, why wouldn’t they draw the conclusion that your goal is to replace them? To start down the path of both realistic expectations from senior management and more widespread adoption of technology, we must change the approach we take with stakeholders impacted by implementations of AI. We need to talk about CAI.

It’s Time to Set the Stage for CAI

Just the acronym alone talks to a much more practical and achievable marriage between a person and a computer. It’s not the computer that’s intelligent; it’s the person using the computer. What a computer can be taught to do, is to effectively deliver relevant information to a person at the time they need it based on their job function and recognized point in the process. So instead of using a technology such as a recommendation engine to pick a product you might like or a movie you’re likely to want to watch, let’s turn our focus to delivering salient business information to our people. We can effectively use analytics and machine learning to create data recommendations and deliver those recommendations directly to users in their primary applications at the right time in their process, so they don’t have to go find data in multiple reports or sites. Once a pattern is recognized, by people, and the data is organized correctly, again, by people, we can use things like machine learning and analytics to deliver that result set effectively and consistently.  

What this approach achieves is reduced interaction by a person and the machine reclaiming time for people to connect with customers outside of transactional conversations. By providing relevant data in-process, you make your team more efficient in their use of the system and create more opportunities for person-to-person interactions and relationships. The goal of any system implementation should be to reduce the time needed for a person to interact with it to achieve the desired result. This is different from having the perspective of the machine doing what a person does – which can be a misguided goal of AI. Instead, the system needs to be built to strategically leverage AI in areas that support the reduction of repetitive, rote work, enabling teams to focus on higher-value work.

A 3PL Focused on People

As a 3PL, a large part of our work tends to gravitate toward the identification and management of exceptions, but many times that is reactionary. We can leverage the technologies present today to enhance exception identification and management. Via AI-enabled supply-chain systems, information can be more present for teams to apply their intelligence, experience, and skill to solving issues optimally. The ability to recognize early in the life of a load the potential of a delayed delivery enables teams to make proactive adjustments with the receiving facility and the recipient. We can gather documents automatically and provide the information in a consumable fashion reducing the amount of manual effort to extract relevance from the documents.

As a 3PL we rely on two primary skills – intelligent use of data and building and maintaining relationships. Neither a computer nor an algorithm can do either of those alone, but a person backed by a Computer-Aided Intelligence system can. Creating systems that focus on CAI is what allows Trinity’s true source of intelligence, our team, to shine and deliver consistently phenomenal results for our customer partners. Now, you might be the exception and prefer to converse with a chatbot, but I’m guessing if you read this far, you’d rather talk to a person – which is what you get when you call Trinity – a person, backed by computer-aided intelligence systems, who is ready to do the work to create a relationship with you and deliver phenomenal results.

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Optimizing your logistics can make all the difference in your business’s bottom line. However, to fully understand your logistics processes you need to look at your logistics analytics.

To start, you’ll need access to the right technology. One such piece of technology is a transportation management system (TMS). A TMS is an excellent investment and according to Logistics Management Magazine, has been shown to reduce transportation costs by up to 30 percent.

Not interested in reading? Find out these priceless tips on improving your logistics processes.

To get the most out of a TMS and your logistics, you’ve got to know what you should be watching. All the data a TMS provides can be overwhelming and the possibilities of what you could analyze are endless. Ultimately, sifting through that data can be complex and time-consuming. So, to make things easier for you, our Team of TMS experts found the top 5 reports you should be running so you can see your best return on investment (ROI).

Get started with a demo of Trinity's TMS

TOP 5 LOGISTICS REPORTS YOU NEED

Getting the data you need for a good overview of your logistics processes doesn’t need to be complicated. These reports should give you a broad view of logistics analytics to help you reach your KPIs.

Freight Accruals

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Freight accruals can give you insight to your transportation costs in your logistics analytics.
Image of Freight accruals report (details) - carrier breakdown

Freight accruals is a report used to keep track of the costs associated with transporting your goods to a customer. These costs begin accruing from the moment the goods deliver, and they get discharged once a freight invoice is paid.

Tracking freight accruals allows your company to calculate your true net revenue at any given time. As a result, you’ll gain a better insight into any outstanding balances accumulated during a specific timeframe, whenever you may need it.

Cost Allocation

A cost allocation report breaks down your freight charges by a mile, pound, or SKU.

For any multi-stop loads, or loads made up of many POs, freight charges can be allocated to each order based on the percentage of distance, weight, or quantity the individual order contributed to the whole. Therefore, tracking your cost allocations will give your company a better look into the true cost of transporting your goods. You can then use this report to identify your most costly SKUs or lanes.

Carrier Scorecard

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Carrier scorecard can give you insight to your carrier’s performance in your logistics analytics.

Carrier scorecard reporting helps you track a carrier’s performance. This will show data such as tender acceptance, on-time pickups, and on-time deliveries.

A carrier scorecard report can help you find which carriers are meeting your transportation needs and which are causing extra work. For example, carriers who bid low on a request-for-proposal (RFP), proceed to decline tenders, or provide poor service can cost your company. Without knowing how your selected motor carriers are doing, you could be facing thousands of dollars in extra expenses or, worse yet, lose customers.

By tracking your carriers’ performance, you can reevaluate your routing guide by selecting more reliable carriers on trouble lanes, improving both your costs and customer service. Additionally, this can help you set solid KPIs with your relationship carriers so you can better communicate your needs.

Least Cost Carriers

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Least cost carriers can give help you identify potential problem areas in your logistics analytics.

Least cost carrier reporting helps you identify loads where the carrier with the lowest cost didn’t haul the freight, the reason why, and the extra freight charges that occurred as a result.

This logistics report can help your company identify potential problem areas, resolve the underlying issues, and prevent unnecessary expenses from occurring in the future. If you’re looking to cut freight costs, this report clarifies where your missed opportunities are located.

Since cost isn’t the only factor when selecting a carrier, this report can also help you identify carriers that get repeatedly passed over despite offering lower rates. Therefore, these carriers provide you with the opportunity to work with them on a service-level agreement before you award business solely based on cost.

Power Lanes

Power lane reporting identifies new lanes and provides a benchmark for negotiating contracted rates with carriers.

You can identify a new lane as an origin-destination pairing that occurs a set number of times. Once a new lane is identified, the spot market rates paid to move that lane get broken down by load, mileage, pound, and more. This helps you have a point of reference when negotiating rates with carriers.

Identifying power lanes will help you secure fixed rates and better predict future freight costs.

Note: Most transportation management software products have the ability to run the five reports listed above. If you’re missing out on these exclusive reports, or you’re interested in a TMS for your supply chain, request a special demo with our logistics experts, who can help assess your needs!

MAKE LOGISTICS ANALYTICS MEANINGFUL

The logistics part of your business is complex and dynamic. There are lots of moving parts with many potential bottlenecks, so it’s important the metrics you report on are meaningful.

The right logistics analytics will help you measure performance, optimize routes, and streamline functions. Without the proper data, your business growth will be stagnant. There’s no way to know what needs to be changed if you don’t have visibility.

Additionally, unfound inefficiencies can impact your customer service and carrier relationships and can lead to lost sales and higher costs. Having the right logistics analytics can be one of your most powerful tools and make a big difference in your everyday business activities.

START LEVERAGING YOUR LOGISTICS ANALYTICS

According to research, 93 percent of shippers believe logistics analytics are critical to making intelligent decisions. And 71 percent believe that data improves quality and performance. Yet, too many businesses continue to use manual, time-consuming processes to analyze their logistics.

Take advantage of logistics technology and innovative logistics analytics so you can find actionable insights with the right reporting. And if you need help with your logistics analytics, we can help.

Start hitting that easy button because a TMS with Trinity can make tracking your logistics data a breeze. Not only do we understand everyone’s needs are different and offer customized solutions, but you also have the option of as much or little support from our superusers as you want.

And if you’re looking for expert advice based on your logistics analytics, Trinity offers Quarterly Business Reviews so we can help you find efficiencies.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s get connected and see how we can optimize your processes.

I'm ready for a clearer insight into my logistics analytics.