Navigating the Francis Scott Key Bridge Fallout

Strategies for Shippers & Logistics Professionals Rerouting Cargo in the Mid-Atlantic

The recent collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore has disrupted supply chains in the Mid-Atlantic region, severing a vital link to the bustling Port of Baltimore.

In this article, our team of experts offers practical insights and tips for shippers dealing with the impact on international freight shipments and drayage operations. We also discuss the importance of selecting the right third-party logistics provider (3PL) to help navigate these challenges.

I have freight transiting through Baltimore – what is the first thing I should do?

First and foremost, it is crucial to understand how your cargo that normally transits through Baltimore is being routed. Which ports are you rerouting to? Are your shipments being directed to nearby ports such as New York / New Jersey or Norfolk? Will you need to transload your freight?

Remember: Even though your cargo may be destined for the Mid-Atlantic region, chassis will need to be returned to the port of entry and not the port of Baltimore (unless you have permission to return to an alternate port).

Keep track of your containers to ensure a smooth transition and timely delivery. Being proactive and staying informed can help you mitigate further disruptions or issues.

Make sure you understand your costs and keep track of them for any potential possible claims. Get everything in writing so you have proof and receipts in case any issues arise.

 

International Shipments – What should I expect to deal with?

As expected, carriers are starting to invoke Force Majeure, meaning they will discharge at alternate ports and not be responsible for associated costs.

Sailing schedules are being adjusted for vessels en route and those not yet departed, expect this will continue for some time.

Expect berthing delays at alternate ports, NY/NJ and Norfolk in particular.

Be prepared to adjust shipping documents and Customs Entries to accommodate alternate ports of arrival.

 

Trucking and Drayage Operations – What should I expect?

Truck capacity will tighten as traditionally short-haul lanes transition to longer-haul regional runs due to diversions reducing the number of hauled loads per truck per day.

Port/pier terminal and container depot congestion and wait time is expected to increase as diversions begin.

Reduced chassis availability is expected to impact congestion and capacity in these markets.

Communication to ocean carriers and chassis providers is encouraged to help mitigate potential charges and promote capacity fluidity as truckers move trucks from Baltimore to the diversion markets.

 

How do I quickly connect with a 3PL expert in the area?

Alternate ports of call will be coordinated with the steamship line or NVOCC.

You’ll need to understand revised arrival timing and gather details of the freight you’ll move through alternate locations.

Drayage costs, tolls, and timing will be different in alternate ports, understanding costs surrounding transload such as drayage will help with comparison.  A 3PL option offering integrated drayage may offer more competitive costs and will help provide a more seamless invoicing experience.

Asking within your network is a great place to start, the initial shipments will be urgent, and you’ll need a trusted partner, even if temporary.

 

What should I look for in a temporary 3PL?

Look for well-prepared subject matter experts who listen to your needs and are ready with solutions. Questions to ask potential partners:

  • Does the 3PL have a dedicated resource to support you, available when you need assistance?
  • Is the facility a match for your needs and are they familiar with the type of work you’ll need performed?
  • What, if any, certifications do you require and does the 3PL meet the necessary requirements?
  • What is needed to get started – a credit application, delivery orders, freight details, etc.?

Be prepared to discuss rates. You’ll need to understand not only the capabilities of the 3PL, but also the costs. Rates may look different across vendors, so it’s important to ask questions to confirm understanding.

A prepared 3PL should be ready with a quick onboarding process to help make the last-minute transition seamless – what does that process look like?

You may not have time to visit the facility initially – can a same-day video conference call be set for a virtual face-to-face with the team and a video tour of the facility?

 

I’ve selected my temporary 3PL solution, now what?

Your temporary 3PL should be ready to arrange transload and processing of your freight (as well as drayage, if included).

The team supporting your account should maintain clear communication and provide timely & accurate invoicing.

 

In Conclusion

As shippers and logistics professionals grapple with the fallout from the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, the road ahead remains uncertain but not insurmountable. By leveraging practical strategies and seeking out reliable third-party logistics partners, businesses can successfully navigate the challenges of disrupted supply chains and rerouted cargo flows.

 

Contributors: Bob Leef, SVP Commercial at CPG; TJ Frye, SVP Operations at CPG; Martin Karczewski, VP 3PL Solutions at UWL; and Brian Noonan, SVP at World Distribution Services contributed to this article.

 

Dive Deeper

For more information and updates on the situation in Baltimore, dive deeper into these resources:

Transportation & Transloading Solutions

The loss of the Francis Scott Key Bridge will be a complex challenge, with freight needing to be rerouted locally and across the Eastern seaboard. If you need logistics support during this time, we are here to help.

World Shipping, Inc. - Vessel Operations - Great Lakes Vessel Agents - Canadian Vessel Agents

UWL celebrates their 10 year anniversary

PRESS RELEASE

CLEVELAND, OH (April 27, 2017) – The evolution of World Shipping, Inc., headquartered in Cleveland, OH, reached another milestone as their ocean NVOCC, forwarding and airfreight subsidiary, UWL, Inc. celebrated its 10-year anniversary in the first quarter of 2017.

Responding to the global market shift in the shipping industry, World Shipping created United World Line, now UWL, Inc., to serve as its asset-based, worldwide 3PL division in 2007. UWL is a completely full service, one stop shop for any clients’ global shipping needs. The company offers air and ocean services through a large network of ocean carriers, airlines and distribution channels. UWL’s advantages are significant, with World Shipping’s 55+ years of international container handling experience and full integration with other World Group asset-based companies.

“This anniversary is a celebration of UWL’s success since its founding,” commented President Duncan Wright, “This is a company that grew from the passion and vision that thrives at World Shipping, and their ability to evolve with the changes occurring within the Great Lakes region and as customer’s global logistics needs grew.”

Over the past 10 years, UWL has continued to grow while maintaining its dedication to personalized customer service. “Our focus has always been on providing exceptional service, flexibility and solutions to our customers. We continue to stay agile and responsive to the constant changes in the international shipping sector,” Wright explained. “We believe in long-term partnerships, transparency and trust. Our close customer relationships allow us to deliver unique solutions combining our global logistics expertise, domestic warehouse and distribution platform with our customized technology platform.”

When asked why he feels UWL has seen tremendous growth, Wright says: “One of the greatest keys to our success is our people, and the genuine heart at World Shipping. We have always operated as a customer centric organization, with unparalleled service at the local level. This a culture we are also pushing out into our regional expansion across the USA and we continue to operate as one company, not as a company of fragmented pieces.” UWL’s unique ethos is a driving force and will sustain them for many years to come.

Innovation, client-centricity and a world-class team approach have defined the global 3PL NVOCC & freight forwarding company since its inception. The future for UWL is very bright, and the Cleveland-based company has seen tremendous growth over the last decade. UWL now has over 170 employees and continues to grow its team of supply chain professionals, working to stay one step ahead – WE’RE ON IT!

Success metrics include:

About UWL
UWL is a full service, asset-based global 3PL. We are fully licensed and bonded to provide freight forwarding, customs house brokerage, ocean freight (FCL, LCL), bulk liquid logistics, supply chain visibility, vessel chartering services and project cargo and airfreight internationally. We also provide road and rail freight, overweight cargo solutions, domestic truck brokerage (FTL/LTL), warehousing and distribution using our network of 8 owned and operated warehouses strategically located across the U.S. We use technology to tie these services together to provide worldwide, integrated solutions. UWL is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio with additional management offices across the U.S., Asia, Europe and South America.

UWL is a subsidiary of World Shipping Inc., an industry leader since 1960 with over 55 years of market experience dedicated to providing innovative cargo transportation and freight services while delivering the highest level of customer service available in the industry. Headquartered in Cleveland, OH, The World Group of Companies include World Shipping, Inc., ContainerPort Group, UWL, World Distribution Services and Newport Tank Containers. The World Group provides seamless end-to-end solutions with maximum control of the supply chain.

CONTACT:
Jenna Porostosky (UWL)
Tel: 440-895-8228
Email: marketing@worldgrp.net

World Shipping, Inc. - Vessel Operations - Great Lakes Vessel Agents - Canadian Vessel Agents

UWL Receives DDTC Broker Registration, Opens New Business Channel to Service Defense-Related Customers

CLEVELAND, OH (January 12, 2016) – Asset-based freight forwarder, UWL, has announced that they recently received a Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) broker registration. This notable classification is a necessary step in providing ITAR compliant services to customers. This classification allows them to assist customers in need of safely, securely and legally transporting defense-related articles and services included on the United States Munitions List (USML).

UWL’s Albena Dimitrova, Director, Global Network, cites this as an important addition to the company’s growing breadth of services: “At UWL we find ourselves constantly innovating to meet customer needs. We strive to make sure that there is no move in which we do not have the proper expertise or certifications to meet desired outcomes. Obtaining our DDTC broker registration opens us up to work with new customers – and assist current customers in new ways. We’re thrilled to be able to offer this new service.”

UWL will be represented at the Shot Show Convention taking place January 19th through 22nd. This show is the world’s premier exposition of combined firearms, ammunition, law enforcement, cutlery, outdoor apparel, optics as well as related products and services. The Shot Show attracts buyers from all 50 states and more than 100 countries.

This certification goes into effect immediately. Business inquiries may be directed to Jane Colazzo, SVP Global Sales.

For more information, please contact marketing@shipUWL.com

About The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)

The Department of State is responsible for the export and temporary import of defense articles and services governed by 22 U.S.C. 2778 of the Arms Export Control Act (“AECA”; see the AECA Web page) and Executive Order 13637. The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR,” 22 CFR 120-130) implements the AECA. The ITAR is available from the Government Printing Office (GPO) as an annual hardcopy or e-document publication as part of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and as an updated e-document.

ITAR is a set of US Government regulations that control export, import, and temporary movement of defense-related articles and services on the United States Munitions List (USML). The DOS interprets and enforces ITAR to safeguard US national security and further US foreign policy objectives. All US exporters and brokers are required to register with US DOS to provide the US Government with necessary information on who is involved in certain manufacturing and exporting activities.

Shipments subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) require filing Electronic Export Information (EEI) to obtain an Internal Transaction Number (ITN) from the US Government regardless of value per Department of State 22 CFR 123.22 Filing, retention, and return of export licenses and filing of export information. UWL can assist you with exports of commodities subject to ITAR regulations once all requirements have been met. Streamline your process to save time and extra steps with shipping through UWL.

About UWL 

UWL is a full service, asset-based global 3PL. We are fully licensed and bonded to provide freight forwarding, customs house brokerage, ocean freight (FCL, LCL), bulk liquid logistics, supply chain visibility, vessel chartering services and project cargo and airfreight internationally. We also provide road and rail freight, overweight cargo solutions, domestic truck brokerage (FTL/LTL), warehousing and distribution using our network of 20 warehouses strategically located across the U.S. We use technology to tie these services together to provide worldwide, integrated solutions. UWL is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio with additional management offices across the U.S., Asia, Europe and South America.

UWL is a subsidiary of World Shipping Inc., an industry leader since 1960 with over 55 years of market experience dedicated to providing innovative cargo transportation and freight services while delivering the highest level of customer service available in the industry. Headquartered in Cleveland, OH, The World Group of Companies include World Shipping, Inc., ContainerPort Group, UWL, World Distribution Services and Newport Tank Containers. The World Group provides seamless end-to-end solutions with maximum control of the supply chain.

For more information, please visit www.shipUWL.com.

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World Shipping, Inc. - Vessel Operations - Great Lakes Vessel Agents - Canadian Vessel Agents

Transportation & Logistics International – Fall 2015 Cover Story – “End-to-End Service” World Shipping, Inc.

No matter where in the world a product or piece of machinery needs to go, World Shipping can get it there. “We’re a middle-market company that’s focused on high-service delivery to the discerning international shipper,” President and CEO Fred Hunger says.

World Shipping’s advantage in the logistics market stems from the ability to coordinate and connect its subsidiary companies, each of which specializes in aspects of the supply chain. “We tie together our assets, such as trucks, chassis, tank fleet, warehouses with our customs house brokerage, import/export teams, international offices and deep-sea operations. There’s virtually no international logistics move that we can’t solve or perform with our group,” Hunger explains.

The typical World Shipping customer is focused on manufacturing and marketing products and needs a partner to provide shipping solutions. “They’re relying on us to provide a global, effective distribution system for them,” Hunger says of clients. World Shipping’s subsidiaries have offices in more than a dozen countries, allowing the company to provide customers with a local structure and to work closely with manufacturing clients to lessen the time it takes to deliver a product to market. “Our company has a proud history of providing world-class customer service. We now look to build on that legacy with key investments in technology and skin in the game in terms of assets to service clients,” Hunger adds. “[We are] growing globally while maintaining our continued focus on service and quality.”

Fred Hunger’s father, Jack Hunger, founded World Shipping in 1960 following the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway the year before. The series of canals and locks made the Atlantic Ocean accessible to Great Lakes communities and provided business opportunities for logistics companies, such as World Shipping, to coordinate the rising delivery of goods to the region. By the 1960s, containers had become a more significant part of the shipping industry and World Shipping transitioned its business to liner agents for steam ships to enter the global trade market. “Over time we have grown strategically into a complete international logistics company,” Hunger says.

Read more below.

World Shipping, Inc. - Vessel Operations - Great Lakes Vessel Agents - Canadian Vessel Agents

UWL Experiences Growth, Expands Staff in Q3 2015 to Meet Customer Demand

CLEVELAND, OH (September 24, 2015) – The full service, asset-based global 3PL, UWL, continues to see significant growth leading into Q4 2015 and expands team to consistently deliver world-class customer service. An increased customer base has prompted UWL’s need to grow its team of best-in-class supply chain professionals. Recent additions include three Regional Sales Directors:

Joe Pugh

Joe Pugh – Joins UWL as Director of Regional Sales with 20+ years of logistics operations and sales management experience. Pugh has held multiple executive positions within various organizations that included such responsibilities as supply chain diagnosis, custom house brokerage, ocean and air freight sales and operations, pre- and post-distribution network optimization and vertical industry specific sales management. He attended the Belmont College of Business.

Chris Krawczyk

Chris Krawczyk – Joins UWL as Director of Regional Sales with 8+ years of global logistics sales and operations experience for imports and exports. Krawczyk has held positions in both Operations and Sales with a focus on Trans Pacific East Bound General Cargo and Fireworks. He graduated Cum Laude from Missouri State University.

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Dylan Royal – Joins UWL as Director of Regional Sales with 6+ years of global logistics sales and operations experience. Royal started his career in logistics with an ocean carrier before transitioning to a Regional Sales Manager role with an NVOCC and Customs Broker in Dallas, TX. He graduated from the University of Memphis with a BBA and concentration in Finance.

About UWL UWL ‎Senior Vice President, Global Sales, Jane Colazzo, is excited to share this news: “Our growth is a testament to the fact that we are all about serving our customers and exceeding expectations at UWL. Our team brings decades of experience to each opportunity either through past work with our parent company World Shipping or within the industry. Our customers appreciate our expertise, responsiveness and commitment to quality work and also the high service levels not being offered by the consolidating steamship lines and largest NVOs.”

UWL is a full service, asset-based global 3PL. We are fully licensed and bonded to provide freight forwarding, customs house brokerage, ocean freight (FCL, LCL), bulk liquid logistics, supply chain visibility, vessel chartering services and project cargo and airfreight internationally. We also provide road and rail freight, overweight cargo solutions, domestic truck brokerage (FTL/LTL), warehousing and distribution using our network of 20 warehouses strategically located across the U.S. We use technology to tie these services together to provide worldwide, integrated solutions. UWL is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio with additional management offices across the U.S., Asia, Europe and South America.

UWL is a subsidiary of World Shipping Inc., an industry leader since 1960 with over 55 years of market experience dedicated to providing innovative cargo transportation and freight services while delivering the highest level of customer service available in the industry. Headquartered in Cleveland, OH, The World Group of Companies include World Shipping, Inc., ContainerPort Group, UWL, World Distribution Services and Newport Tank Containers. The World Group provides seamless end-to-end solutions with maximum control of the supply chain.

For more information, please visit www.shipUWL.com.

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UWL - The Asset-Based Freight Forwarder - NVOCC

UWL Europe Moves Office to Support Growth and Expanded Service Offerings

CLEVELAND, OH (September 1, 2015) – UWL Europe celebrates the milestone of substantial growth by moving to a new office, followed by extended service offerings to meet customer demands. Throughout the past year, UWL Europe has doubled its staff, resulting in the need for a larger office space. With expansion of both office space and staff, UWL will begin increasing their product offerings later this year. Vice President, Eelco Cossee was intentional with the business growth by creating a new process model where team members are aligned by product and service.

“We are extremely excited that we have been able to double our resources this past year and it has given us the opportunity to move to a new location and expand our services to meet the demands of our clients. It was of the utmost importance to us to find the right people to match our growing products. We were able to find the right fits from both internal and external candidates looking to specialize or focus their skill-set in a particular area. I am optimistic about our future and know that we will continue to expand.”

The new office is strategically located between the Rotterdam and Antwerp ports, two of Europe’s largest ports and freight gateway. The Moerdijk industrial park and port is connected to the two ports by road and inland vessels, making it an ideal logistic hub. In addition to a larger footprint to accommodate the increase in staff, the new space features a new complete set of computer hardware, telephone system and a state-of-the-art meeting room to host both customers and internal team gatherings. “We wanted our new space to have a polished look and feel for our visitors and our internal team,” said Cossee when describing the new office.

On September, 18th 2015 Moerdijk Port Authority President, Mr. Ferdinand van den Oever will officially commemorate UWL Europe’s new office followed by an invitation-only open house.

The new office space is located at:

Plaza 4a, Port M009
4782 SK Moerdijk
The Netherlands
E: infoeur@shipUWL.com
T: +31(0) 88 – 205 4300

About UWL 

UWL is a full service, asset-based global 3PL. We are fully licensed and bonded to provide freight forwarding, customs house brokerage, ocean freight (FCL, LCL), bulk liquid logistics, supply chain visibility, vessel chartering services and project cargo and airfreight internationally. We also provide road and rail freight, overweight cargo solutions, domestic truck brokerage (FTL/LTL), warehousing and distribution using our network of 20 warehouses strategically located across the U.S. We use technology to tie these services together to provide worldwide, integrated solutions. UWL is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio with additional management offices across the U.S., Asia, Europe and South America.

UWL is a subsidiary of World Shipping Inc., an industry leader since 1960 with over 55 years of market experience dedicated to providing innovative cargo transportation and freight services while delivering the highest level of customer service available in the industry. Headquartered in Cleveland, OH, The World Group of Companies include World Shipping, Inc., ContainerPort Group, UWL, World Distribution Services and Newport Tank Containers. The World Group provides seamless end-to-end solutions with maximum control of the supply chain.

For more information, please visit www.shipUWL.com.

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