​Reducing the Carbon Footprint Still a Work-in-Progress for the Complex Equipment Logistics Space

By Len Batcha

President

Technical Transportation, Inc

Going green is big business. As consumers change their personal habits — carrying reusable aluminum straws and canvas grocery bags, trading in their old cars for Prius or Tesla and buying local and certified organic whenever possible — they also are looking to companies to take on dynamic industry changes as well.

Retailers like Amazon, Walmart and Best Buy have made innovations in getting small packages delivered to businesses and residences faster than ever, but incorporating more eco-conscious practices has proven challenging.

For these companies, the use of electronic devices to deliver small packages has been a major topic, though with only mixed success. This is in part because electric power isn’t necessarily as “clean” as it seems at first glance.

Take electric-powered vehicles, for instance. Although they do put out fewer emissions than gas or even hybrid vehicles, these aren’t necessarily the answer. It takes electricity to use electricity, which currently creates an even bigger carbon footprint.

Drones are another solution drawing much interest. However, they’re problematic in residential areas because of the potential of highly trafficked air spaces. They might have applications in more rural areas, but extending the life of the batteries for this to work might not result in energy-use or carbon footprint reductions.

eBicycles have been workable in urban areas, though geography plays a role in their efficiency. In places like San Francisco and Seattle, steep hills mean bikes require extra charging to generate more electrical power.

The space of highly complex and sensitive equipment, however, has proven even more challenging with regards to emissions reduction. The specialized nature of this kind of cargo — in terms of not only complexity but also sheer scale — demands individual assessment and personalized service.

For this reason, Artificial Intelligence (AI) — which is becoming a major player in other industries — isn’t taking the same hold here. For such a model to be successful, the AI would have to be programmed to analyze facilities and make decisions on how to best optimize the equipment at hand. This would require constant assessment and calculation. Any time you introduce any kind of anomaly into the mix — a frequent occurrence in this complex equipment space — human interaction and decision making is necessary to ensure success.

That isn’t to say we will escape the AI component in its entirety. AI could be used to take on more of the proof-of-performance functions such as taking pictures to show completion and accuracy of the delivery.

The actual transport segment does offer some possibilities as well. Self-driving and autonomous vehicles may be used in cases where multiple deliveries to multiple areas can maximize efficiency and energy usage. In the complex equipment space specifically, box trucks running on diesel will eventually be replaced by low-fuel trucks as they become more affordable. We’re already seeing this application in medium and light-weight trucks, which can operate at fewer kilowatts per hour.

Beyond transport, the use of robotics to actually deliver and install complex equipment may only solve part of the problem. Though a robot may be sturdy enough to handle heavy-weight equipment, it would also have to be able to maneuver with the necessary agility to get the equipment into often tight or limited-area floor spaces. Right now, this component of the supply chain is better handled with a trained crew that can better assess the situation on the spot and make informed decisions that best serve the equipment and end-user’s needs.

Though measures to improve the carbon footprint are advancing every day, in the logistics segment of highly complex, high-value, heavy weight or complex equipment, this is still a distant reality.

Contact us today and we can provide counsel and support to help you make informed decisions.

​Finding the Prescription for Pharmacy Automation Logistics

By Phil Burnette

Vice President, National Account Sales

Technical Transportation, Inc

The world of pharmacy automation is still in its infancy, but the industry is quickly growing. And this growth brings along many logistical challenges for manufacturers that need to ship, deliver and install this sensitive automated equipment to pharmacies across the country.

While pharmacy automation equipment ranges in size, the more prevalent solutions feature large, complex robotic units that mechanically dispense pharmaceuticals. The technology is now being implemented down to the retail level, which will bring more efficiency and accuracy to traditional operations. It also presents the challenge of safely putting this technology into a wide variety of retail footprints with minimal operational downtime or disruption to the facility.

There are still a number of obstacles to overcome, especially compounded by the fact that space in these central fulfillment and retail facilities is at a premium. Yet the right prescription for manufacturers of pharmaceutical automation equipment may be as simple as selecting the right logistics partner to help them bring their products to market. Listed below are items that need to be considered:

1. Skilled team – With the growth of this industry, logistics and service providers will play an even bigger, value-added role in getting pharmacy automation technology to market, and making it operational as expediently as possible. The right logistics provider for the job should possess the infrastructure and expertise to transition the equipment from the distribution facility to operational with no damage to product, property, or personnel.
2. Certified provider – The pharmaceutical industry is highly regulated, so it’s critical to have a partner that understands the processes and requirements of the industry and can navigate you through any challenges. They should also be intimately knowledgeable about your products and execute compliance to processes and procedures for delivery and installation.
3. More than just delivery – These complex machines require logistics and service partners that are willing and able to go above and beyond simple product delivery. The best partners will unpack, expertly assemble and set up the unit so it is operational for the end-user in the shortest amount of time possible. They should also be able to do pre-install site surveys and assessments to ensure there will be no obstacles for a seamless installation, as well as a post-site review to make sure all packaging materials are removed from the site prior to departure.
4. Training for end-users – The right partner should also be able to train end users on how to operate the technology and troubleshoot any problems that may arise. This should be completed the day-of or day-after the product is installed, so the end customer can begin use of the system as quickly as possible.
5. Single source partner – Your logistics and service partner should be an extension of your team, therefore, having a single-source provider takes away the complications of scheduling and coordinating field service and technician teams that are required for each implementation. The right provider should offer a single point of contact for all activities, questions and concerns, as well as, a single consolidated invoice for simplified payment. And ultimately, the peace of mind that your supply chain is being managed by experts in your growing field of pharmacy automation.

Are you ready for the changes impacting the pharmacy industry? Contact us today and we can provide counsel and support to help you make informed decisions.

​TechPlus: A Service Above and Beyond Delivery Expectations

By Sean Horner

Vice President Operations

Technical Transportation, Inc

A major difference between a logistics provider and a logistics partner is the partner’s willingness and ability to go the extra mile and solve a multitude of issues or problems that may arise in your supply chain operations.

Beyond getting a manufacturer’s product from point A to point B, and even performing basic debris removal and setting product in place, some customers need more specialized services. That’s where our TechPlus services come in, offering a range of additional services that go above and beyond, including:

• Product Assembly
• Programming / Configurations
• Diagnostic Testing
• Software Upgrades
• Installation / Networking

With these options available under our service umbrella, our customers with heavy weight or highly specialized equipment don’t have to source these separately, nor do they have to send their own field service personnel, thus incurring additional expenses (sometime to the tune of $200-$400 per hour).

With our TechPlus services, we employ delivery crews that do the basics, and then we coordinate our more technical teams to arrive as the shipment arrives, so the setup services are done on the spot, reducing product downtime by making it operational as quickly as possible. We also coordinate scheduling with the manufacturer’s internal people as well, to minimize any of their time or dollars spent to manage the process.

In our TechPlus portal, we also set up electronic checklists for our clients to aid in transparency and ensure the required steps are completed. This includes conducting site surveys ahead of the shipment’s arrival to determine if there are any issues on site that should be anticipated during delivery, assembly and set up. The portal also features:

• Seamless status updates
• Photos of the installed product(s)
• Necessary signed documentation
• And more.

Our TechPlus services are efficiently designed to get our clients’ products operational as soon as possible, saving everyone both time and money. Contact us today to learn more.

Where’s My Stuff?

By Len Batcha

President

Technical Transportation, Inc

Not long ago when a manufacturer wanted to transport large equipment or technology to a customer or designated facility, the tracking and management of that order was done via paper waybills and phone calls. These methodologies were extremely cumbersome, inefficient and prone to erroneous or misleading information.

But as time and technology has progressed, the industry has been able to recognize improved benefits, accuracy, and efficiencies of electronic shipment tracking and information reliability.

The emergence of the Amazon Effect has accelerated this trend, as real-time electronic tracking from seller to consumer (and all points in between) has become both the expectation and the norm.

In today’s business and consumer world, you want the affirmation and reliability that comes with knowing your shipment order is on pace to deliver on time and is delivered successfully. This is especially true for high-valued equipment that, in some cases, is being shipped across continents.

Any quality logistics provider today will have electronic shipment tracking as part of their strategic business process in the form of a mobile app or online portal. But the top providers will go a step further and include additional features in their offering that help you manage your business. Those include:

• Customization to fit your brand and your needs
• User-friendly and seamless interface
• Shipment details and tracking
• Waybill visibility
• Invoicing services
• On line order placement
• Proof of delivery (POD) information with consignee and delivery time
• Picture uploads
• Setup and installation confirmation
• Instant quality feedback
• On-demand activity reports
• Private and multi-level access options

One of the key features on that list is customization, because if your partner isn’t willing to work for you and provide you with the information and service that you require, then they’re likely not a partner at all. They’re simply a service provider.

So if you’re looking for a true logistics partner that will provide you with the tools, knowledge and transparency to get the job done, then feel free to reach out to us today to learn more.

Your Logistics Partner Should Be an Expert on YOU

By Len Batcha

President

Technical Transportation, Inc

If you’re looking for a logistics partner, there is a plethora in the market, but not all are created equal. So how do you find the right partner that will best meet your needs?

One determining factor to consider is, does the provider understand you? That means:

• Knowing your industry
• Knowing both your company and culture
• Knowing your products intimately

And it’s this last point that we want to focus on in this blog. Think about it, you’re a manufacturer of complex, sensitive equipment or technology, where untrained handling could mean serious (and expensive) consequences and delays.

If your logistics provider is not willing to learn and understand the required processes and nuances of your products to minimize mistakes, then they’re not the partner for you.

Delivering specialized equipment requires skill, experience and product knowledge. The ideal partner would have a fully scalable, in-house training program to certify that their field service teams can properly handle your equipment.

At TechTrans, our customized training program features:

• Training videos
• Written instructions/documentation
• Online testing
• Certification of completion

A good training program assures that your logistics provider’s field service technicians understand your delivery expectations and how to best represent your brand to your customers. This includes:

• Complying with your procedures
• Understanding proper equipment handling
• Maintaining consistency for all deliveries
• Meeting quality control and assurance standards

So when searching for the best logistics partner for your company, make sure they’re willing to learn the details about you and your products. And make sure they’re willing and able to train their field service teams as well as everyone who comes in contact with your product. The effort will prevent many future headaches, both operationally and financially. It will also mean success for you with your end customers.

Have Questions?

If you have questions about finding the right logistics provider for your company, feel free to Contact us today and we can provide answers and guidance.

Real-Time Shipment Transparency is the New Norm

By Michael Pyle

Information Systems Manager

Technical Transportation, Inc

Logistics technology has had more than its fair share of impressive advancements over the past few years. But for the most part, advanced shipment technology has still been a “nice to have,”” rather than a business requirement for logistics providers.

Not anymore.

Technology has now advanced to the point that virtually every stakeholder can see where a shipment actually is in real-time, regardless of where it may be in the supply chain. Such powerful technology not only makes it easier for companies to share information, submit orders, track shipments and access informational updates-it also raises the bar on what customers expect from a shipment company.

Electronic paths with real-time transparency are fast-becoming the new norm for logistics providers. Because of the great influx of data now available, shippers can provide customers and suppliers on both ends of the spectrum with more information than was ever possible before.

Greater transparency, greater benefits.

Technology now allows us to better assess how much product is actually being used in the field. This offers a number of both business and consumer benefits because it’s now possible to:

• Get a clear picture of the condition of equipment in transit
• More accurately assess inventory needs
• Reduce overhead that was previously needed to ensure sufficient supply
• Actively utilize GPS trackers to monitor inventory
• Give precise locations for product in transit at all times
• And many more important benefits to transportation professionals and novices alike.

Besides the ability to precisely pinpoint every product’s location, advancements in the Internet of Things (IoT) will soon be able to harness unforeseen benefits with the increasing amounts of internet-equipped products Examples include:

• Remote diagnostics
• Remote service and upgrades on some equipment
• Easily accommodate software upgrades
• Provide real-time access to any damages or equipment failures in the field
• And, of course, countless benefits we haven’t even thought of today.

Think of a world where drivers can have real-time communications back and forth to dispatch; instantly transmit paperwork and images including proof of delivery; share information to resolve issues immediately; enable dynamic shipping that begins the delivery process even before the paperwork is completed; and speeds up time of delivery without sacrificing quality.

It’s a world that’s already here today and will continue to provide significant advancements in the future. With the ability to share real-time shipment transparency at every stage in the delivery supply chain, everybody wins.

Have Questions?

Do you need help or have questions about simplifying your logistics? Contact us today and we can help point you in the right direction.

New Year’s Resolution: Make Logistics Simple

By Len Batcha

President

Technical Transportation, Inc

If you’re still considering making your new year’s resolutions and setting your business goals, here’s one that can be quickly achieved:

Make your logistics simple.

Many manufacturers oversee complex supply chain operations, with separate providers for each step of the journey, starting at their warehouse and ending at the end-user’s location. From packaging, to transportation and delivery, to set-up and installation, there are a lot of moving parts to manage.

And for some manufacturers, simplifying this process may seem like a huge hurdle to overcome. But it can be achieved quickly with the right logistics partner that has the right mix of skills, expertise and capabilities.

The right third-party logistics (3PL) company could simplify your logistics by:

1. Consolidating Vendors – There’s no need for you to juggle and manage all the moving parts of your supply chain. The right 3PL partner will ideally be a one-stop, single-source provider for you. They should be able to do it all, or at least have a network of partners that they manage to get the job done without any hassle or haggling for you.
2. Providing a Single Contact – Even better, with the ideal partner, you should only have to interface with a single contact for all of your logistics needs. This person would get to intimately know your company and provide concierge-like service, helping you meet your supply chain goals. They should be your go-to person and an extension of your internal team.
3. Simplifying Billing – In addition to managing the operational side of your logistics, the right partner for you will also handle the administrative side of logistics, and simplify any scheduling, contracting and billing so you only have to deal with a single invoice.
4. Representing Your Brand – Your ideal partner, their employees and any other connected constituents should always have your brand values at the forefront of everything they do for you. From handling with care during shipping and delivery to providing friendly and helpful service and support during the final mile, the right partner should be your brand ambassador every step of the way.
5. Single Point of Contact — The best supply chain partners will be single source providers that handle all of the moving parts for you, while proactively keeping you and your stakeholders updated on important deliverables and outcomes. Even better, they’ll supply you with a single contact person to further simplify your logistics processes.

Have Questions?

Do you need help or have questions about simplifying your logistics? Contact us today and we can help point you in the right direction.

Why the Last Mile Should Be Your First Consideration

By Phil Burnette

VP, National Accounts Sales

Technical Transportation, Inc

Of the hundreds or thousands of miles your products might travel to reach their final destinations and end-users, the last mile may be the most important.

It’s where all the magic happens, and where a truly valuable logistics partner can shine, and make you shine in front of your customers. But it can also be where most of the mistakes are made, which end up costing you more in terms of repairs, time in the field or returns/replacement of product.

When looking for a third-party logistics partner (3PL), make sure their last mile services consist of the following:

• Brand Ambassadors — Your logistics partner should be a seamless extension of your brand. That means they must be eagerly willing to learn about your company’s values, culture and expectations. They should then deliver upon those values with a high level of customer service by seeing each project through until it meets the customer’s ultimate satisfaction.
• White Glove Delivery — Sometimes typical delivery and freight services aren’t enough, especially in the realm of highly complex equipment where even a minor bump can have major consequences. You need a partner that understands the intricacies of your products and how transportation and delivery processes can affect them. Your provider should also be able to create customized procedures that will serve the best interests of you, your products and your customers.
• Expert Installation — Your provider of choice should have the capability to not only transport and deliver your products, but expertly set up and install them to full working capacity. At the end of the process, your customer should be able to use the product as it’s fully intended.
• Real-Time Confirmation — Tracking and real-time confirmation of where your product is during transport is critical throughout the whole process, but is especially critical in the last mile, once it reaches its final destination. You provider should have a robust IT infrastructure in place to make it possible to track your shipment at any time, and also receive real-time confirmation, with signature and photo evidence, of the successful delivery and installation of your product.
• Single Point of Contact — The best supply chain partners will be single source providers that handle all of the moving parts for you, while proactively keeping you and your stakeholders updated on important deliverables and outcomes. Even better, they’ll supply you with a single contact person to further simplify your logistics processes.

Have Questions?

If you have questions about last mile services, contact us today and we’ll provide our advice, or a helping hand if needed.

Tips for Residential Delivery of Big Ticket Items this Holiday Season

By Louis Black

VP, National Account Sales

Technical Transportation, Inc

The holidays are once again upon us, which means a busy shopping season, as well as a busy season for logistics companies that deliver online sales directly to consumers.

According to Coresight Research, “total online sales excluding automobiles will rise over 16 percent year over year during the holiday period.” In addition, “e-commerce will capture 20 percent of all non-food retail sales, up from around 18.5 percent for the final quarter of 2017.”

This translates to lots more packages being delivered this holiday season. And while the USPS, UPS and FedEx handle many of the smaller items, big-ticket items such as consumer electronics, furniture and appliances still require more skilled transportation and delivery.

Manufacturers and retailers should consider the following when looking for a value-added logistics partner this holiday season (and really, any time of year).

• Handle with Care — Unlike smaller boxed items, larger furniture and electronics require more care during transportation and delivery. Logistics partners should have the tools and know-how to properly navigate a variety of home environments, from single-story homes to multi-level apartments of any size or age. For consumers, these are expensive purchases and should be treated as such.
• Installation Needed — A residential logistics partner should offer the expertise and capability needed to install your products if requested by the customer. Whether it’s a TV, washing machine or refrigerator, a good partner would be well-versed in residential installations.
• Customer Service a Priority — Since there are many buying options for consumers in the new omnichannel retail world, it’s important that logistics providers demonstrate good customer service, and go the extra mile for customers if needed.
• Efficiently Efficient — Part of good customer service is a commitment to efficiency. Time management is important for your customers, as well as for you as the manufacturer or retailer. An efficient partner can fit in more deliveries in a day, which helps you move more merchandise and keeps everyone happy.

Good timing and an eye on the sky is also important. Weather can potentially affect schedules for deliveries, and residential areas that are experiencing heavy snow or flooding may be difficult to access. That’s why many carriers are advising to have products shipped by Dec. 14 in order to have them delivered before Christmas Day.

Have Questions?

If you have questions about residential deliveries, feel free to contact us today and we’ll get right back with you.

Carriers are advising to have products shipped by the 14th in order to have a chance of delivery before Christmas Day.

The Responsible Disposal of Old Medical Devices

By Louis Black

VP, National Account Sales

Technical Transportation, Inc

As we all know, existing medical equipment and technology begin to go out-of-date almost as soon as they hit the market for use. Medical equipment manufacturers prepare for obsolescence by developing new products with approved technologies and ergonomic enhancements, all while existing products are still in production. This ensures the constant development of new-generation products, but also leaves a continued supply of obsolete equipment in its wake.

When new products go to market, marketing and sales are tasked with developing strategies to replace existing products in the field with the new-generation products. Logistics departments are tasked with developing strategies to transport, deliver, and install the new equipment to minimize downtime for the end user, and ensure they meet sales- and corporate-defined budgets and goals.

Certainly, these new product roll outs are exciting and include involvement from production, sales, logistics and the customer to implement processes to deliver the new equipment and configure for immediate use. However, what is less exciting is managing the process for removing the equipment they are replacing.

When mature devices are finally taken out of service, are decommissioned, reach their end of life, or are traded in, the end user often turns to the original manufacturer for help.

However, the manufacturer may not want the equipment back. They may not have the space to keep or store the out-of-date devices, and they may not need it for spare parts either. But they certainly don’t want to see their legacy products show up on the secondary market to compete directly against their newer offerings.

Since medical equipment that has reached its end of life cannot simply be put into a dumpster, what are the proper steps for disposal?

Out with the Old…

In most cases, obsolete equipment needs to be destroyed, recycled, disposed of, or all of the above. It’s a process that is not glamorous to deal with, as its time consuming and means dealing with product that can no longer yield a return on investment.

To complicate things, many old medical devices may be exposed to bio-hazard contamination, having come in contact with human fluids, tissues and/or other exposures. A manufacturer’s worst nightmare would be having such a device show up in a landfill without proper documentation of decontamination or disposal.

You need a logistics partner that understands the proper means of disposal and can create solutions customized to your needs. Whether it’s simply removing a retired model from the end- user site and recycling it, or handling the proper decontamination process, an experienced logistics partner can manage the entire process for you. Properly handled, you should expect to receive a “Certificate of Destruction” with the make, model, serial number, date of recycling and the location of disposal / recycle facility.

The best providers will manage the entire process for you and trust that all compliance requirements are met. Particularly, look for a partner that will act as a single source provider for your disposal and recycling needs. Even better, your provider will assign a single point of contact to your account, further simplifying the entire process for you, leaving you to focus on the equipment that can still make money for you.

Have Questions?

If you have questions about medical device destruction, recycling and disposal, feel free to send us a note and we’ll get right back with you.