When you serve the transportation industry – and delivering on customer commitments is one of your core values – what happens when a global pandemic threatens the availability of carriers in your logistics network? How do you continue to get the raw materials required to create the products your customers need – and do all of this in a safe and timely manner?

This was a recent challenge faced by Haltermann Solutions, but thanks to the quick thinking and flexibility of the Logistics team, one that was able to be overcome.

“The team has gone ‘Above & Beyond' by updating carrier requirements to ensure near-flawless operations and keep raw materials and finished products moving during these challenging times,” Don Phillips, Vice President and General Manager of Haltermann Solutions, noted when submitting this story.

“Updating our requirements allowed us to switch from using third-party carriers to Monument’s in-house carrier management system, Navisphere. This provides greater reliability and insight on the availability of trucks and rail cars, savings on freight rates by using a bidding model, and the assurance that common safety protocols are followed to help prevent the spread of COVID-19,” said Quinntine Dunford, Director of Manufacturing for Haltermann, whose role also includes oversight for Supply Chain operations.

Some of the safety protocols added to shipping procedures focus on minimizing contact with drivers on both ends of the process. When the outplants prepare to ship products, they now send the required documentation to customers in advance, so they know who’s coming and which products to expect.

“This approach allows the driver to stay in the truck and avoid interacting with anyone in the outplant. Most customers are following similar processes and now handle unloading their shipments directly to avoid another touchpoint with drivers," said Quinntine.