eShipping Marketing Team 4/16/20 eShipping Marketing Team 4/16/20

FedEx Freight Shifts to Rail Effective 4.19.20

eShipping Customers –

Beginning April 19, 2020 FedEx Freight will shift selected Economy service shipments to Rail, to ensure capacity for Freight Priority service shipments. The specific impact to customers is unknown at this time, as we are unable to determine which shipments will move to rail service and the impact it will have on transit time. In the meantime, our team will continue to track your FedEx Freight shipments and communicate accordingly should any shipment delays or other disruptions occur.

eShipping Customers –

The eShipping Team

eShipping Marketing Team 4/14/20 eShipping Marketing Team 4/14/20

China’s Manufacturing Sector Fires Back Up: Capacity Tightens and Rates Increase

China’s manufacturing sector fires back up as the country is far along in its recovery from the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. However, other countries like the US are still combating the virus; the demand of goods does not match the supply, which has led to ports operating at max capacity and increased rates.

According to an article from JOC.com, the demand in major consumer markets has decreased in the US, and there is potential for a major backup of loaded containers throughout the US port system:

The demand is growing as some retailers and manufacturers fail to pick up containers because warehouses are full or closed due to not being deemed essential service providers responding to COVID-19, or because retailers have requested delayed deliveries at distribution centers. Although the situation remains fluid, ports are warning that because all US import gateways may be simultaneously facing the same situation, a bottleneck of national proportions may be beginning to take shape. . . .

US importers this week triggered a wave of canceled, reduced, and postponed ocean shipment bookings for April, forwarders told JOC.com. But with Chinese factory production recovering, ships from China to North America are sailing at full capacity, said Matthew Leech, CEO and managing director of the Americas at DP World.

The article continues to note that ports are looking at all sides of the situation to find the best solution for the lack of space, including possible negotiations with other ports to take on cargo and gauging warehouse capacities around the country.

According to a Freightos weekly update, air freight rates continue to stay high due to the demand for essential goods and the removal of passenger jet cargo capacity. While additional passenger jets are being used as freighters to ease some of the capacity crunch, rates are remaining high.

“China’s limited the already reduced volume of passenger flights entering the country, further increasing prices. Some Freightos.com marketplace forwarders report rate increases of up to 30% out of China in the last two weeks, with a compound weekly growth of 13% over the last six weeks,” the update states.

The US is trying to expedite the supply chain by suspending tariffs on certain critical items, and the Maritime Commission will soon announce its rules for demurrage fees, which are aimed to protect shippers due to projected delays at ports, according to Freightos.

For information specifically regarding airfreight rates, please refer to our article “Aircargo New: Airfreight rates continue to rise as capacity crunch goes global.”

eShipping Marketing Team 4/14/20 eShipping Marketing Team 4/14/20

Update on China’s Manufacturing Sector

All carriers are confirmed to implement the April 01 GRI, But even as China’s manufacturing comes back online, shippers faced with plummeting demand have begun a process of slowing the supply chain — canceling orders, requesting containers not be loaded on ships, and seeking to store cargo at destination ports. Some consignee instructed not to accept new bookings, stop any shipments that have not shipped or even ask to return containers to cancel booking.

Below is a rough summary of the current booking cancellation status in each origin in China. Please note: These cancellations are the result of not only the COVID-19 pandemic, also because of the coming Ching Ming Festival holiday from April 4-6).

Xingang: 15-20% cancellation

Qingdao: 20% cancellation

Ningbo: 10-15% cancellation

Shanghai: 5-10% cancellation

Xiamen: 20% cancellation

Fuzhou: 30% cancellation

SPRC: 2-5% cancellation

Dalian: 10-15% cancellation

Taiwan: 10% cancellation

And even with Chinese factory production recovering, carriers continue launching blank sailings, so some ships from China to North America are sailing at full capacity.

Updated blank sailing summary list is found below:

• CPRC: Space to WC and EC is full especially for PNW due to blank sailings. Some carriers like ZIM, CMA and ONE has weight limitation to EC

• NPRC: space is normal of most carriers due to low volume and booking cancellation

• SPRC: Generally speaking space is normal, but PNW service is full out of HK due to blank sailing and space cut of Ocean Alliance

• Fujian: Space is normal, volume dropped due to booking cancellation

• Taiwan: Space is full on PSW due to blank sailing except HMM

eShipping Marketing Team 4/14/20 eShipping Marketing Team 4/14/20

Aircargo News: Airfreight rates continue to rise as capacity crunch goes global

Below is an article from Aircargo News describing the current airfreight rates due to a global lack of capacity:

Airfreight rates continued their rapid ascent last week, breaching the $5 per kg mark on the transpacific trade lane for the first time in years.

The latest figures from Tac Index show that last week airfreight rates between Shanghai and North America increased by 18% compared with a week ago – the highest level since the data provider began monitoring pricing in 2016.

Meanwhile, prices from Hong Kong to North America increased by 19.4% on a week earlier. While this isn’t a record, it is 29.6% up on the same week last year.

There were also big increases on services from Shanghai to Europe, which saw average prices last week increase by 28.2% on a week earlier to $4.09 per kg – a record on the route for Tac Index.

From Hong Kong to Europe prices were up by 21.3% to $3.47 per kg. Not a record, but still 32% ahead of the year ago level.

Transatlantic rates also increased rapidly last week following a US ban on travelers from many countries in Europe, while Europe began to close its borders.

Prices from Frankfurt to North America jumped by 56.6% compared with a week earlier, while from Chicago to Europe there was an 87.6% increase.

The increases come as carriers have been slashing bellyhold capacity from the market – on the transatlantic it is estimated that belly capacity is down by 90%.

A freight forwarder said: “Global cargo capacity reductions are a reality at this point, [and] no longer just a China and intra-Asia issue.”

It reports capacity constraints on many key markets, including Asia-Europe, Europe-Asia, transatlantic, Intra-Asia, transpacific and the Middle East.

However, additional freighter capacity is being deployed out of China.

“Outbound airfreight capacity is under tremendous pressure among all mainland China export markets as production resumes and passenger flight cancellations are sustained,” the freight forwarder said.

“A trend of ocean-to-air conversions exacerbates pressure on capacity outbound China. However, more freighters are entering the market.”

“Customers may want to explore alternative transport models (Sea/Air option or Cross-border truck)”.

On intra-Asia lanes, it said that there is a massive capacity reduction resulting from passenger flight and freighter cancellations.

“Airfreight rates on Intra-Asia lanes are extremely high, volatile and have been increasing rapidly, which are in turn constraining the long-haul export capacity to both Europe and US,” the freight forwarder said.

On the Middle East and Africa, the freight forwarder said that committed capacity can no longer be guaranteed and that contractual rates and tariffs had been suspended.

They explained: “Rates for charters have doubled, and in many cases, are higher than that. Airfreight rates have reached unprecedented levels. Premiums must be paid to get cargo uplifted on a priority basis.”

eShipping Marketing Team 3/25/20 eShipping Marketing Team 3/25/20

Carriers Require Additional Confirmation Before Tendering Shipments Due to COVID-19

Old Dominion is the first carrier to require additional confirmation (prior to pick up) in light of many “non-essential” businesses being temporarily closed. This is all in an effort to keep the carriers’ capacity focused on delivering to “essential” businesses and keep shippers from incurring additional fees. We will continue to update this list as eShipping receives word from additional carriers who choose to follow suit.

FedEx Freight:

Effective today 3/25/2020, FedEx Freight is no longer asking our drivers to review restricted states, essential business or commodities. Rather, FXF has adopted a new Rapid Return process which allows us to Return To Shipper as soon as we confirm the consignee is closed. The returned shipments will move on a revenue bill, and it is the shipper’s responsibility to confirm if the consignee will be open prior to shipping. This process will allow our network to remain fluid and prevent centers from gridlocking.

Old Dominion:

For inbound pickup requests made by phone, customers will be asked to provide the name of the Consignee, so they can be cross-checked in the ODFL system to confirm they are open for delivery. For inbound pickup requests made online, via EDI feed, or drop trailer, the ODFL system will verify the Consignee is open for delivery. If the system shows they are closed, the ODFL team will notify the booking party and make adjustments to the shipment accordingly.

Note to Customers:

Given the rapid development and realities of this ever-changing market, freight rates will be maintained providing no substantial changes occur in the economic conditions, operational characteristics, carrier availability, and/or capacity. Please note, eShipping is not liable for additional costs incurred as a result of your company’s visitor and driver requirements related to coronavirus and/or the consignor’s or consignee’s inability to load or unload freight. Any additional charges for incidents are the sole responsibility of your company. These incidents include (but are not limited to) re-deliveries, rescues, temporary storage, returns, container demurrage, container detention, terminal free time, per diem etc.

eShipping Marketing Team 3/18/20 eShipping Marketing Team 3/18/20

U.S. States Enacting Stay-At-Home Mandates for Non-Essential Businesses and Employees

The atmosphere we are working through is unlike any we have seen before, and it is changing daily. We will continue to build the list below (to the best of our knowledge), links to U.S. cities enforcing operational shutdowns and/or limiting inbound freight and goods only to those businesses deemed essential. Their efforts are to ensure items critical to the safety and security of their communities are given first priority over non-essential shipments.

Examples of essential businesses include: Supermarkets and grocery stores; Big box stores; Pharmacies; Daycare centers; Hardware stores; Gas stations; Banks; Post offices; Laundromats and dry cleaners; Veterinary clinics; and Pet stores.

The atmosphere we are working in is unlike any we have seen before, and it is changing daily. We will continue adding to the list below (to the best of our knowledge), links to U.S. states enforcing operational shutdowns and/or limiting inbound freight and goods to businesses deemed “essential. Their efforts are to ensure items critical to the safety and security of their communities are given first priority over non-essential shipments.

A note to our customers:

To avoid shipping delays, please double-check your destination city’s status before shipping non-essential items. Our Client Care Team is here to answer questions and help re-route your shipments, as needed. Should you need temporary warehouse storage, please REQUEST A QUOTE and our eShipping Distribution Services team will be in touch.

Links to Updates by State:

Note to Customers:

Given the rapid development and realities of this ever-changing market, freight rates will be maintained providing no substantial changes occur in the economic conditions, operational characteristics, carrier availability, and/or capacity. Please note, eShipping is not liable for additional costs incurred as a result of your company’s visitor and driver requirements related to coronavirus and/or the consignor’s or consignee’s inability to load or unload freight. Any additional charges for incidents are the sole responsibility of your company. These incidents include (but are not limited to) re-deliveries, rescues, temporary storage, returns, container demurrage, container detention, terminal free time, per diem etc.

eShipping Marketing Team 3/18/20 eShipping Marketing Team 3/18/20

Carrier Positions on Social Distancing and Other Client Requests Related to COVID-19

We at eShipping are experiencing an uptick in activity related to customer requests for carriers, as coronavirus continues to progress. (i.e. health screening information from drivers and other requirements). The situation and carrier responses continue to change daily, so to assist our customers in understanding the position of each carrier, we have included links below to carriers in our shipping network.

Note to Customers:

Given the rapid development and realities of this ever-changing market, freight rates will be maintained providing no substantial changes occur in the economic conditions, operational characteristics, carrier availability, and/or capacity. Please note, eShipping is not liable for additional costs incurred as a result of your company’s visitor and driver requirements related to coronavirus and/or the consignor’s or consignee’s inability to load or unload freight. Any additional charges for incidents are the sole responsibility of your company. These incidents include (but are not limited to) re-deliveries, rescues, temporary storage, returns, container demurrage, container detention, terminal free time, per diem etc.

eShipping Marketing Team 3/17/20 eShipping Marketing Team 3/17/20

A Message from the CEO of eShipping Regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19)

As you are aware, the world is facing many unknowns and issues of substantial scale and human impact with the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19). Our hearts go out to all those affected.

In times of crisis, it remains our top priority to protect the safety and well-being of our employees, vendors, and clients, while ensuring that we do everything within our power to protect the health of our clients’ business. We wanted to reach out to you personally today, to confirm we have business continuity measures in place, which have been tailored to include precautionary steps we are taking as we navigate the coronavirus pandemic together.

As you are aware, the world is facing many unknowns and issues of substantial scale and human impact with the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19). Our hearts go out to all those affected.

The bottom line is this: Your business and distribution chain must remain operational, and we have practices and processes in place to ensure you experience minimal disruptions.

Engaged Companies Emergency Preparedness

For any major catastrophe, not limited to the coronavirus, our company’s long-standing business continuity plan includes investments made in mobile technology, hardware, and systems that allow for all departments and all employees located in our offices to effectively manage daily operations from remote locations. We are an asset-light organization and can make the switch to move completely off-site in mere hours, should the need arise. Our financial operations, logistics, and support departments are designed to remain operational, with minimal downtime.

Employee Standards & Expectations

We are communicating regularly with our teams and have heightened awareness and expectations in place regarding office etiquette and hygiene, precautionary actions to take should they experience symptoms of coronavirus, flexibility in travel schedules, and reliable options for sick leave and working remotely. Grounded in our mission and core values, our team is comprised of caring adults who value the health, safety, and productivity of our organization as well as that of our customers. Our team is here to serve our customers and will continue to do so, in spite of coronavirus.

We wish your organization continued health and productivity during these uncertain times.

Yours,

Chad Earwood
Founder/CEO, Engaged Companies & eShipping

Note to Customers:

Given the rapid development and realities of this ever-changing market, freight rates will be maintained providing no substantial changes occur in the economic conditions, operational characteristics, carrier availability, and/or capacity. Please note, eShipping is not liable for additional costs incurred as a result of your company’s visitor and driver requirements related to coronavirus and/or the consignor’s or consignee’s inability to load or unload freight. Any additional charges for incidents are the sole responsibility of your company. These incidents include (but are not limited to) re-deliveries, rescues, temporary storage, returns, container demurrage, container detention, terminal free time, per diem etc.

eShipping Marketing Team 2/17/20 eShipping Marketing Team 2/17/20

3 Things Manufacturers and Distributors Can Anticipate at the 2020 Work Truck Show

The Work Truck Show (WTS), which is held in Indianapolis, Indiana, features hundreds of manufacturers, distributors, and truck lovers who come together to explore the latest vocational trucks, vans, vehicle components and truck equipment. The event is also known for industry-specific training and educational conferences.

As you and your team plan a trip to Indianapolis for WTS 2020, here are a few things to anticipate and plan for.

The Manufacturer and Distributor Innovation Conference

Are you a manufacturer or distributor of commercial truck parts or bodies? Do you want to enhance your manufacturing processes and build business results? There’s a conference for that.

“Held in conjunction with The Work Truck Show® 2020, this conference teaches commercial truck manufacturers, upfitters, distributors and body builders of all sizes how to improve manufacturing efficiency and business results using the latest techniques and technology” (source: The Work Truck Show).

Photo courtesy of The Work Truck Show Facebook page

The conference includes a variety of speakers, including Paul Akers, founder and president of FastCap, a product development company specializing in woodworking tools and hardware for the professional builder. Paul will deliver the keynote address to discuss how technology, best practices and lean thinking can power business success.

To attend, an extra package is required. Learn more about the conference or purchase your package, click here.

Hyper-Focused Networking Events

Traditional networking events can often be stale and misguided, giving you small pockets of time to meet others and have good conversations. But at WTS 2020, you have designated times to meet other industry professionals and build better relationships.

The Opening Reception, the Generation Next Leadership Workshop & Networking Reception, and the NTEA Annual Meeting are all hyper-focused networking events you can attend (source: The Work Truck Show).

If you’re a fan of arcades or racing games, you’ll need to make sure you attend the opening reception. There will be arcade racing games, a pit stop tire change challenge, and a micro reality race track

If you would like to attend any one of these events, separate registration is required. Be sure to register before March 3rd so you can maximize your networking opportunities!

You’ll Be in a Hidden-Gem City

Indianapolis is, by far, one of the most underrated cities in the United States. With one of the nation’s safest and vibrant downtown areas, you’ll be surprised by how much you can do.

After the show, relax and enjoy the city. The Indiana Convention Center is located right next to the Indianapolis Colt’s Stadium, connected to a four-story urban shopping mall by a skywalk, and is surrounded by more than 200 restaurants.

There’s even the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, which takes residents and visitors to different locations around downtown.

You can see gardens and memorials, explore restaurants, visit local shops, and more! If you’re finding it hard to decide what to do, following the trail will help you explore this beautiful city.

How Much are Industry and Market Challenges Costing Your Company?

If you’re a manufacturer or distributor in the automotive space, you most likely run into major business challenges within the industry and market. These challenges can easily stunt or inhibit business growth — like the international trade war, product speed to market, eroding margins, and more.

It’s easy to let these issues go unsolved. Or, even if we desire to combat them, the difficulty is in the execution and development of a sustainable strategy. If not implemented correctly, it can easily cost your company hundreds of thousands of dollars in the long term.

These industry and market challenges are here to stay. So, how do we combat them? What strategy do we need to employ? One effective outlet that is often forgotten about is the distribution chain.

Defined as, “A series of businesses that transport, store, and sell goods to customers,” the distribution chain is much like a supply chain, however, it offers even more access and visibility to layers of freight data (like landed costs, SKU level costs, and non-compliance missed savings) and services (like distribution mapping, process waste analysis, and eCommerce fulfillment). With the right team, data, and tools set in place, the distribution chain can act as a competitive edge for your business, reducing costs and improving customer experience.

At eShipping, that is what we do and specialize in. We work with your team and your data and pair it with our technology to put you back in control of your distribution chain to reduce costs and improve customer experience.

We’ve invested time and money in the automotive space to better understand the frameworks for company growth and success. Our investment in the industry means we understand what it takes to succeed in this space. Our proven distribution chain strategies and technology means you can make better decisions to support other business functions.

Our team will be at the Work Truck Show, and we’d love to meet with you to show the first step needed to reduce costs and improve customer experience.

Click here to schedule an intro with a team member at the show. We’d love to meet you and understand your business.

About eShipping

We provide distribution chain management solutions that encompass both people and services for all modes, with full optimization, and complete visibility into your data.

Email: connect@eShipping.biz

Phone: 816.505.0198

eShipping Marketing Team 1/27/20 eShipping Marketing Team 1/27/20

3 Things Pet Food Manufacturers Forget While Attending Global Pet Expo 2020

Global Pet Expo 2020, the “pet industry’s largest annual trade show,” is February 26-28 at Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL (source: GlobalPetExpo.org).

It can be easy to forget why this event is so popular. From the new product showcases and “Petworking” Receptions to the energizing like-minded atmosphere and opportunities to pet so many animals, the Global Pet Expo is one event pet lovers and manufacturers enjoy attending and find value in.

As you and your team plan your trip to the ‘Sunshine State’ for the first, second, or even tenth or more time, we’d like to remind you of a couple of things that are easy to forget while exhibiting at the show.

Global Pet Expo 2020, the “pet industry’s largest annual trade show,” is February 26-28 at Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL (source: GlobalPetExpo.org).

From the new product showcases and “Petworking” Receptions to the energizing, like-minded atmosphere and opportunities to pet so many animals, the Global Pet Expo is one event pet lovers and manufacturers love to attend each year for the incredible value gained.

As you and your team plan your trip to the ‘Sunshine State’ for the first, second, or even tenth time, we’d like to remind you of a couple of things that are easy to forget while exhibiting at the show.

The Show is in Beautiful, Sunny, Warm, Orlando, Florida

What better place to host a trade show in winter than Orlando? Could you ask for a better place to attend for a business trip?

The Orange County Convention Center is in the heart of the area’s tourism district: there’s shopping, dining, and entertainment options for miles.

Are you into luxury shopping or delicious food? After the show, take a quick Uber to Mall at Millenia, just five miles from the convention center. With over 150 high-end stores including Apple, Lacoste, Banana Republic, and Burberry, it will be hard not to find what you’re looking for. The mall is also home to many popular dining choices, featuring the Cheesecake Factory, Brio Tuscan Grille, and other delicious options.

If you have your furry friend with you, a must-see in Orlando is Bark Avenue Bakery. This bakery has plenty of sweet treats to share with your pet, from homemade baked goods, to rawhides, clothing, and more. If you didn’t bring your pet with you, you can always pick up a surprise present to take home!

“Petworking” Receptions Are Awesome

If you’ve been to Global Pet Expo before, you’ll know they call their networking events “Petworking” Receptions. There, you can meet other industry leaders at the show. It’s the “time and place to rub elbows with people you might never have another opportunity to meet” (source: Global Pet Expo). They also have free drink and some eats for you to munch on.

Note: No registration is required but they ask that you wear your badge to the event.

YOu Can Learn From 81 Different Countries

It’s easy to forget, but you have opportunities to meet so many fascinating and amazing business professionals who originate from countries across the world. The Petworking Reception is a great place to meet these types of people, but even walking around visiting other booths is a fantastic way to engage with like-minded individuals.

Get this: Within the 1,174 exhibitors at the Global Pet Expo, there are 81 countries represented, from China, Taiwan, and more. That’s impressive! Take this opportunity to network and learn about new cultures, products, and business processes.

Challenges Pet Food Manufacturers Face

If you’re a manufacturer, distributor, supplier, or wholesaler in the animal health and pet food industry, you face a couple of supply chain challenges:

eCommerce pressures: meeting standards, customer needs, and fulfillment goals
Being agile and adapting to industry changes quickly: 2-day shipping, capacity at warehouses, and delivering freight on-time
Retail compliance: meeting vendor guidelines, reducing chargebacks, and gaining visibility to transportation costs

These supply chain challenges often stand in your way of meeting business growth goals. However, the problem is not if these challenges can be solutioned, it’s how they are solutioned and executed on. There are proper and improper ways of maximizing value within your supply chain.

Today, you have real-time access to new layers of freight data that can be funneled to a single source, which provides you with full visibility and performance across modes, locations, and brands. Real-time access to things like landed costs, freight spending, carrier usages, SKU level costs and projections, estimated shipment delivery times and notifications, and more. Having technology and a system like this empowers you and your team to do so much more with your time, reduce costs, and operate more efficiently.

If you want to learn how your business can implement a proven and sustainable plan across your supply chain, we’d love to talk with you and understand how you operate.

Visit us at booth #3642 any time during the Global Pet Expo and we’d love to answer your eCommerce, warehousing and fulfillment, freight data, and retail compliance questions.

Meet With an Expert

Let us guide and empower you toward supply chain success. Request time to meet with a team member at GPE 2020.

eShipping Marketing Team 1/13/20 eShipping Marketing Team 1/13/20

HDAW 2020: How to Enhance Your Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week Experience

The Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week is “the largest North American gathering of the independent heavy-duty industry,” according to HDAW.com. There are once-a-year opportunities at this event, along with great experiences in the city of Grapevine, Texas, that we recommend you check out to enhance your experience.

Explore the City of Grapevine

If you have extra time during or after the HDAW 2020 show, Grapevine is a goldmine for experiences, as it is centered just north of Fort Worth and Dallas. A quick Uber drive will get you to various wineries, art galleries, restaurants, and outdoor activities. Two must-visit restaurants are Ring of Honor Kitchen & Bar and Tolbert’s Restaurant & Chili Parlor.

Ring of Honor boasts an inviting atmosphere and unique dining experience on its website. Because this restaurant is connected to a golf course, the scenery is stunning. It has creative fare, craft cocktails, and outdoor seating that is hard to beat.

Photo courtesy of cowboysgolfclub.com

At Tolbert’s, guests can expect classic southwest cuisine and great entertainment. The restaurant is in the heart of historic Grapevine on main street, and there are local bands who provide live entertainment nearly every night. If you're considering Tolbert’s as your restaurant of choice, check out their events calendar to plan ahead.

Photo courtesy of usarestaurants.info

Attend the HDAW Workshops & Product Releases

The Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week website states that it is the only place where you can see the latest products and innovations in the heavy duty aftermarket. Now is the time to take advantage of all you can at the show, and the best place to start is the workshops. Topics include efficient solutions for delivery, service management, and more. See the full list of workshops and product releases at the HDAW Education & Features page.

Photo courtesy of flickr.com

Build Your Network

If you’ve been to HDAW before, you’ll know there are many executives and managers from multiple countries, backgrounds, and companies you can create relationships with. These include distributors, suppliers, service providers, educators, and more. With that many people in one place for four days, there is plenty of opportunity to meet with individuals and companies you’d like to build partnerships with or simply engage with to learn how they solve problems and meet customer demands.

Photo courtesy of GobyTruckNews.com

Bonus: Texan Station Sports Center

If you like sports, 52-foot HDTV viewing experiences, and chatting with like-minded sports fans, you’ll want to visit the Texan Station. It’s located right inside the convention center and is quickly accessible if you need a quick drink, meal, or somewhere to take your laptop and get work done. They also accept reservations for large groups of 16 or more. For dining reservations or private parties, call 817-778-2210.

If you’re a manufacturer, distributor, supplier, or wholesaler looking to improve on-time freight arrivals to your customers, gain transportation visibility across modes, or build a supply chain plan that harmonizes with the rest of your business, we’d love to have a conversation with you.

eShipping will be at HDAW 2020 meeting with current clients as well as discussing opportunities for companies to better understand their supply chain data, meeting 2-day shipping demands, strategies to combat the tariffs, and more.

If you’d like to schedule an intro meeting with one of our team members to go over your supply chain questions, click here or look for our team in the white eShipping polos. We’re always here to help.

Schedule an intro at Hdaw 2020

About eShipping:

We provide supply chain management solutions that encompass both people and services for all modes, with full optimization, and complete visibility into your data.

Email: connect@eShipping.biz
Phone: 816.505.0198

eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19 eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19

3 Things to Know Before Attending The 2019 Great American Trucking Show

The Great American Trucking Show (GATS) is “an interactive and all-encompassing public convention of trucking professionals” (Source: GATS). With over 500 exhibitors, 50,000 attendees, thousands of industry products, and more, GATS is a premiere event that provides community resources and industry insights for anyone in the automotive and trucking space.

If you’re planning to attend The Great American Trucking Show 2019, here are a couple things you should know as you plan your schedule and arrive at the expo.

1. The Recruiting Pavilion

The show is heavily focused and involved with helping trucking professionals grow and develop their careers. They do this by connecting them with recruiting representatives from “over 100 exhibiting fleets” at their Recruiting Pavilion (Source: GATS). There, they can receive more information regarding a company’s fleet programs, benefits, and opportunities.

2. Dallas, Texas: The Place to Be

For the last 6 + years, The Great American Trucking Show has been hosted in sunny Dallas, Texas. With the area’s high concentration of restaurants, numerous shopping centers, and world-famous architecture, it’s a popular place for expos such as this.

If you’re visiting Dallas for the first time or have been there multiple times already, here are some interesting facts about the Dallas area, including some fun locations and restaurants to visit:

Famous Architecture
“The world-famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed Dallas Theater Center’s Kalita Humphreys Theater, a gorgeous performance space located in the Turtle Creek area of the city.” (Source: Mentalfloss.com).

Famous Movies:
“A few of the movies/TV series filmed in the area: Dallas; Silkwood; Places in the Heart; RoboCop; Born on the Fourth of July; Walker, Texas Ranger; Prison Break” (Source: Visitdallas.com).

The Sixth Floor Museum
“The Sixth Floor Museum documents the much-loved President John F. Kennedy’s assassination and legacy, housing many facts about the tragic day as well as covering the President’s early life and presidential policies” (Source: thecrazytourist.com).

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
If you’re looking for good food in the “Lone Star State,” this steakhouse has you covered. They are rated as one of the top steakhouses in the surrounding Dallas area, boasting a clean environment, exceptional service, and an ambient atmosphere.

3. Educational Sessions

In year’s past, the show has provided educational sessions and workshops from industry leaders and experts in the automotive space. In 2018, the show provided seminars covering topics like general business tips, the ELD mandate, and industry trends.

For the 2019 Great American Trucking Show, the sessions are scheduled to incorporate much of the same material through Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. To view the updated list of educational sessions, visit their events page by clicking here.

eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19 eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19

Here’s What You Can’t Miss at AAPEX 2019

Whether you’re selling automotive parts or looking for cutting-edge products that can help your business stay ahead of the competition, the 2019 AAPEX Expo in Las Vegas is just the place you need to be.

If your company plans to exhibit at the trade show or you simply plan on attending, here are some key events and you can’t miss out on.

George W. Bush is a Keynote Speaker

George W. Bush, the 43rd President of the United States, will be speaking at the Keynote Breakfast on Nov. 5. The AAPEX website states that his fireside chat topic is “The Challenges Facing Our Nation in the 21st Century and the Power of Freedom.”

The doors open for this early-bird event at 6 a.m. in The Palazzo Ballroom at The Venetian, so be sure to get there early to grab breakfast and find a seat!

The AAPEX Virtual Vehicle Challenge is Back

Competing in this challenge has its perks. According to AAPEX, the winning competitor for each day earns free registration for the AAPEX 2020 Show and housing for up to 4 nights.

How do you win this deal? By being the fastest competitor to install parts into a vehicle using virtual reality goggles. Watch this video of the Virtual Vehicle Challenge to know what to expect.

Networking and Product Viewing Possibilities

The AAPEX Show is “the world’s gathering place for the more than $1 trillion global automotive aftermarket industry,” according to the MEMA website.

There are more than 2,500 exhibiting companies, over 48,000 buyers, and plenty of exhibits to experience in just 3 days. From the AAPEX website, here are just a few exhibits you can attend:

The New Products Showcase: you can preview the new products entering the aftermarket
The New Packaging Showcase: discover innovative and eco-friendly ways to package your product and increase your sales

Product Demos: these provide one-on-one opportunities for you to see how products work and to converse with manufacturers and suppliers

Anyone in the automotive industry knows the value of the AAPEX Show, so make sure you take advantage of all that there is to offer!

eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19 eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19

The 3 Most Anticipated Events at SuperZoo 2019

As one of the leading tradeshows in the pet food and animal health space, SuperZoo hosts major dealers and suppliers in the industry who come together to network and share new ideas, inspirations, and innovations.

SuperZoo 2019 dates are August 20-22 at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada. Attendee registration opened January 2019 and will continue to stay open until the start of the event. If you haven’t gotten your tickets, you can do so by clicking here.

If you’ve already purchased your tickets and/or are exhibiting at this year’s event, here are three notable events you should plan to attend. Don’t miss out!

As one of the leading trade shows in the pet food and animal health space, SuperZoo hosts major dealers and suppliers in the industry who come together to network and share new ideas, inspirations, and innovations.

If you’ve already purchased your tickets and/or are exhibiting at this year’s event, here are three notable events you should plan to attend. Don’t miss out!

Retail Educational Sessions

Each day at the expo there are “retail educational sessions” hosted by various expert speakers in the retail space and pet industry. These sessions are meant to give you creative ideas, industry tips & tricks, and advise you on best practices so that your business can grow and meet customer needs.

Two notable sessions we would plan on attending are (1) “Solving Generational Challenges – 4 Essential Steps to Build Your Multi-Generational Staff” with Tammy Bond and (2) “How Customers Shop Today Online is a Way of Life – Not Just a Way to Shop” with Lynn Switanowski.

Finding and developing the right team to carry out day-to-day operations can be challenging, especially with the generation gap facing most teams today. In this session, Tammy will teach you 4 essential steps and strategies leaders of organizations can use to develop a proactive team and increase productivity. For more about this session, visit SuperZoo’s events page.

With the growing trend of online sales, how customers shop online is not only a topic for retailers, but for manufacturers, distributors, and anyone who has product they sell to their end consumer. Lynn’s session will walk you through why consumers believe a great customer experience is having the convenience of shopping online, how to create engaging programs that make your customers want to engaged via online, video, and in-store, and how to “rethink” retail to meet today’s modern consumer where they want to shop (Source: SuperZoo). For more about this session, visit SuperZoo’s events page.

Free Networking Reception

Networking sessions are not new by any means, and if they’re not hosted and planned correctly, can seem a little forced. However, SuperZoo’s free networking event is just the opposite. With the mass amount of industry leaders, professionals, and creative thinkers attending, you’ll be surprised who you’ll meet and what relationships you will personally make, not to mention the ones that could benefit your business down the road. For more on the free networking event, visit SuperZoo’s events page.

Live Concert

During your stay in Las Vegas, it’s important to not only work hard and do business, but to relax and enjoy your stay. While there are plenty of things to do in Vegas on a weekday night, you might want to consider staying within the vicinity of your hotel.

SuperZoo 2019 attendees have an exclusive live event they are invited to Wednesday, August 21 at 6:15 PM. Who’s the headlining band? REO Speedwagon, famous for multiple classics including “Take it On the Run” and “Keep on Loving You.” For more on the live concert, visit SuperZoo’s events page.

BONUS: Where to Eat

We couldn’t end without sending you some recommendations for the top places to eat. While there are plenty of top-rated restaurants in Vegas, here are some that we recommend trying out if you have time.

Kabuto: If you’re into sushi, you’ll need to visit this place. They make fantastic omakase style sushi, the nigiri are prepared right in front of you, and their service is best-in-class.

Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse: These guys feature an elegant atmosphere with a high attention to detail. Pork chops, filet mignon, classic steaks, you name it – it’s all good.

Steak ‘n Shake: This is no ordinary Steak ‘n Shake - it’s a Vegas Steak ‘n Shake. With its affordability, chocolate chip pancakes, baked beans, and friendly hosts, a visit to this location won’t disappoint.

eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19 eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19

What You Need to Know Before Attending the 2019 ICUEE Expo

It’s “North America’s Largest Utility & Construction Trade Show,” the 2019 ICUEE Expo. Held in Louisville, Kentucky, this year’s ICUEE Expo, or Demo Expo, hosts over 1,000 exhibitors and includes over 28 new products.

Whether you’ve been to ICUEE in previous years or this is your first time to attend, there are a couple of things you need to know before you pack your bags and head out to Louisville.

Access Their Event Overview Guide

It’s easy to show up the week of the trade show without fully planning out and considering all the activities and opportunities that are available.

At ICUEE, they’ve created what we like to call their Show Overview Guide. It’s a helpful online PDF to inform you of the type of people who attend, what products will be showcased, a schedule of events, registration and travel information, and more. If you’re looking to review the event as a whole and/or are looking for some direction regarding what to do at the event, this overview guide is something we would recommending reading before heading out.

Bourbon, Beer, & Bites Reception

Other than being known for the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky is practically a breeding ground for bourbon distilleries, as they claim to be the whiskey’s birthplace.

To promote Kentucky’s unique history and pride for distilleries, ICUEE is hosting a free reception called “Bourbon, Beer, & Bites,” sponsored by Louisville. According to their event’s page, the reception will feature “bourbon tastings from distilleries located in Kentucky, beer samples from local breweries, as well as small bites of Kentucky-inspired cuisine.”

Educational Sessions

For us, a major part of going to a trade show is to develop and educate myself by attending workshops and meeting like-minded individuals. If you’d like to capitalize on your time at ICUEE, you should consider participating in relevant educational sessions.

Taken from ICUEE’s website, here is a quick list of some educational events they offer:

Field Classrooms: Walk the show floor and gain an overview on topics geared toward those new to the industry
Eat & Learn Workshops: Eat lunch and discuss hot topics, like effective applications in the utility industry, business models for building and maintaining a smart utility structure, and workforce development
Disaster Simulation Lab: Walk through a crisis situation and review a three-step process to help organizations become better prepared for sustainable resiliency

Diesel Progress Summit: “Held the day before ICUEE, the Summit will focus on the future of diesel and the development of hybrid and electric powertrain technology”

Virtual Tour

An easy way to quickly grasp everything there is to see and do at the show is to take a virtual tour.

On the virtual tour, you’ll be guided through four videos that showcase the Underground Demo Lot, Above Ground Demo Lot, the Lift & Haul Demo Lot, and the Safety Tools & Equipment Demo Lot. With videos like these, it’s always helpful to see the floor plan and products in each section before the event takes place.

We hope these tips will help you better navigate through the 2019 ICUEE Expo. See you at the show!

eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19 eShipping Marketing Team 7/25/19

3 Favorite Things to Do While at Pack Expo 2019

With over 30,000 attendees, 2,000 exhibitors, and 900,000 square feet of space, the Pack Expo is a premier trade show that hosts professionals from all packaged goods industries.

If you’re planning on attending or exhibiting at this year’s show, it’s important to know the events and activities you should prioritize so you can make the most of your time in beautiful Las Vegas, NV. Here are three of our favorite things to do while at the Pack Expo 2019.

With over 30,000 attendees, 2,000 exhibitors, and 900,000 square feet of space, the Pack Expo is a premier trade show that hosts professionals from all packaged goods industries.

1. Attend the ALL NEW Industry Knowledge Exchange

We all know one aspect of going to a trade show is to network with other like-minded individuals and ultimately do our best to build mutually beneficial relationships. The other aspect is to better ourselves and our company by learning industry updates, trends, and forecasts.

This year, the Pack Expo is hosting a new forum called “The Industry Knowledge Exchange.” This free 45-minute forum “offers attendees a unique, interactive learning experience,” according to PackExpo.com. Leading organizations like OpX Leadership Network, Robotic Industries Association, the Institute of Packing Professionals, and more will be holding the sessions.

As with most forums, there will be small group discussions and a Q&A at the end of each day, the perfect time to have your questions answered and to engage with others regarding each topic presented.

2. Visit the ALL NEW Robotics Zone

Who doesn’t love robots and the innovative technology that makes life and business easier?

Listed on Pack Expo’s website, another new event this year is the Robotics Zone, a “fun and interactive robotic activities and display,” located in the North Hall. There you can see live robots packing food, demonstrating end-of-arm tools to mimic the human hand, playing sports, and even performing songs on the piano.

Robots and automation technology like these are transforming the industry and are undoubtably something we all need to learn more about and harness for our business.

3. Eat Really Good Food

Since the 2019 Pack Expo is located at the Las Vegas Convention Center, you’re in a prime location to satisfy any food craving!

Depending on what hotel you’re staying in, you most likely are minutes away from some amazing restaurants. One highly recommended place to visit is Andiamo Italian Steakhouse. Known for their elegant atmosphere and beautifully crafted “Bone-in Rib Eye,” it’s no wonder why it’s a favorite.

Another popular place to eat is Hatsumi. Located in a remodeled retro entertainment space, Hatsumi serves robata. The Thrillist.com describes robata as “where charcoal burns at high temperatures to minimize smoke and trap in the juices and natural flavors of the ingredients. Every part of the chicken is fair game -- breast, thigh, wing, heart, liver, skin, or even a meatball buried in cured egg yolk.” Sounds good? You bet it is.