The peak season for logistics companies is near and this year we’re noticing new logistics insights and supply chain trends. While consumption of products continues to increase, the need for reliable logistics and transportation is more present than ever within the supply chain. However, there are several obstacles that present themselves this season that are hindering many logistics companies’ ability to deliver.
Full Tilt Logistics has been closely following these supply chain trends and logistics insights to fully prepare for the work ahead. Take a look below to learn more about our findings.
The supply chain trends of the 2021 peak season are somewhat different than what was expected originally. While it is true that eCommerce and in-store shopping are projected to continue increasing throughout the holiday shopping season as is true of previous trends, the peak season itself is likely going to shift. In past years, the peak season typically sees its height around Black Friday. However, in 2021, roughly 25% of consumers claim that they plan to have their holiday shopping done before Black Friday, shifting the peak of the season to be earlier than anticipated.
Another supply chain trend we’re noticing is the growing backlog of container ships being held offshore. In 2020, the U.S. ports held their worst historical numbers of backlogged ships and though many people believed this would improve, the backlog has only continued to accrue more vessels. More than 100 ships were backlogged in October off the ports of Southern California, waiting to be unloaded. To fully clear this up, there would need to be a hold on all incoming vessels for about 2 weeks — a feat likely to never occur.
Challenges in logistics faced during peak season vary, but the most prominent we’ve seen thus far include the strict California regulations and taxes on logistics distributions, historically high fuel and insurance costs, inclement weather impeding the ability to safely travel, and finally, the nationwide labor shortage.
Doing business in California as part of the supply chain is not an easy task. California taxes and regulations significantly limit transportation opportunities in and out of the state. Take, for example, California’s state fuel tax rate which sits at 62.5 cents per gallon while the national average is at just 24.4 cents per gallon.
Fuel costs have risen significantly in the past year for both gas and diesel. Diesel fuel itself is up 57% from 2020. With the ever-changing fuel efficiency standards occurring in the nation, we’re bound to see costs continue to rise. Similarly, insurance costs are getting out of hand as well. With the cost of insurance going up, trucking companies are held responsible for more liability than ever before which drives up costs.
During the second quarter of 2021, more than 25% of open job positions were in the logistics industry. The biggest issue with this is that logistics require nearly 3x the labor force than traditional warehouses. With the demand for transportation being higher than the labor capacity allows, it’s evident that a large number of drivers are still needed and this number is likely to continue growing with the supply chain trends.
As it stands right now, roughly 110,000 drivers will need to be hired each year to keep up with the demand. Unfortunately, driver retention and recruitment continue to pose a constant threat to logistics businesses.
To operate a successful logistics company, your team must show exemplary problem-solving skills and strategic competency. As a knowledgeable logistics company with experience with almost every type of shipment there is and that includes winter freight shipping, we continue to lean into the situation and grow the company regardless of the challenges. With tested processes, robust technology, and talented professionals, we’re confident in our ability to navigate this peak season and deliver top-notch service.
Connect with us today at fulltiltlogistics.com and see first-hand how quality logistics management operates.
As leaders in our industry, Full Tilt is dedicated to providing clients with exceptional logistics and transportation solutions that are innovative, cost-effective, and efficient not only for us but for our clients as well. To accommodate the growing amount of transportation, logistics, and distribution needs of our ever-expanding industry, we’ve mastered the art of problem-solving to deliver reliable services at every step. This year, Nevada’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology (NCET) has presented Full Tilt Logistics with the Logistics Company of the Year award for the hard work and commitment they’ve shown throughout their work.
Full Tilt is a Certified Women-Owned WBENC Company that was founded in 2014 by the Novich’s who are native to the state of Nevada. They pride themselves on being a different kind of freight logistics service provider - one that strives to develop and maintain superior value for their customers and clients. Not only are Full Tilt’s drivers and other team members friendly, professional, and helpful, the owners are fully engaged in the day-to-day operations of the business and are actively seeking to continually improve the company.
Full Tilt’s full-service trucking enterprise is conveniently headquartered in Reno, NV which is a prime location for west coast distribution. They’re able to service the eleven western states with expedited, one-day shipping times at competitive rates. Staying within your budget and timelines are among their top priorities. Full Tilt aims to give its clients the best logistics solutions that utilize the best people, services, and technology available. Unlike other Reno trucking companies, Full Tilt commits themselves to service and the community.
NCET is Northern Nevada’s largest educational and networking organization which is solely supported by memberships, sponsorships, and program revenues. It was founded to be a state-wide organization that encourages and empowers entrepreneurs to promote an environment of high-growth entrepreneurial companies that can succeed and flourish. NCET’s initiatives include a wide range of events and programs that help the community discover business and technology opportunities for continued growth.
NCET’s Logistics Company of the Year award is presented to the company that best represents the following goals and objectives:
To find out more about how Full Tilt Logistics incorporates the latest innovative technology and equipment to meet modern-day shipping and logistics demands, connect with us. We are happy to answer questions about pricing and more. Join the growing number of shippers who choose Full Tilt Logistics – it could be the best business move you’ll ever make.
What a few months it has been. The Full Tilt team wishes you all good health both physically and economically. It has truly been a struggle for most Americans; however, we believe there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and we are getting closer to putting this pandemic in the rear-view mirror. Our business has been negatively impacted both by the immediate shutdown of many of our customers' industry-specific events, as well as the significant receivables we have yet to receive due to the virus’s impact on the economy. As a result, we have had to furlough employees and cut expenses wherever possible. The good news is that we have been forced to bring on new customers in other economic sectors and we are strategically growing that segment of the business.
Full Tilt relies heavily on gaming, special events, trade shows, and other recreational events so the virus’s impact on our company was devastating as these industries immediately shut down. We are starting to see movement in this customer base and these sectors are slowly waking up and beginning to reposition for business moving forward. They are coming back and we are beginning to revive our business partnerships with them. Because of our strong relationships built on years of excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving abilities they are relying on Full Tilt to get them back up and running as before. Our employees are experienced, knowledgeable, dedicated, results-driven, personable and excellent communicators so according to our customers it was a “no brainer” who they need to help bring them back.
We will do whatever it takes to make this pandemic a distant memory and believe the greatest economy in history will bounce back. Thank you to all our customers for their belief in Full Tilt and the belief that we are your best choice for a true transportation partner for any type of logistics and transportation solution.
We wish you all the best, stay safe and please contact us today to see how Full Tilt can help your company achieve their goals.
“A unique and distinctive culture emerges from the Burning Man experience. Rooted in the values expressed by the Ten Principles, this culture is manifested around the globe through art, communal effort, and innumerable individual acts of self-expression. To many, it is a way of life.”
Every year, thousands gather in the temporary city of Black Rock City, Nevada to celebrate Burning Man. This annual week-long event is known around the world and is famous for its unique culture. Participants from all over come to the Black Rock Desert to experience the culture, performances, and art. A few of the activities available to the "Burners" include spa treatments, temporary tattoo tents, yoga and meditation classes, and silent discos. Burning Man 2018 attracted over 70,000 people and exhibited over 70 art pieces.
Have you ever wondered how those gigantic art pieces get to the Playa? Shipping to Burning Man is an aspect of the event that often goes unnoticed but plays a significant part in the week. The art pieces vary in size and can weigh up to several tons, making them a challenge to transport. The best solution is to leave the transportation of Burning Man art up to the local professionals.
Operating a trucking and transportation company is always an adventure. Over the years, Full Tilt has provided Burning Man with freight brokerage services and has moved many types of freight to many different locations. This year we again were the major trucking company of burning man art, survival necessities, musical equipment, and camp supplies for several well-known celebrities.
Trucking freight to Burning Man may sound easy with delivery to the middle of the Nevada desert, however, nothing could be further from the truth. The regulations in place from the BLM, crossing reservation land, Burning Man security and required clearances make the job extremely challenging. Permits and passes are rigorously checked and enforced. Also, the inevitable delays associated with long lines, restricted access, and dust storms.
Deliveries occur at all hours and our drivers often dropped loads in the wee hours to accommodate the building of the various art projects. Bottom line…. Full Tilt gets the job done. We are flexible, dedicated, easy to work with the highest level of problem-solving skills. For on-time delivery of anything, anywhere Full Tilt Logistics and Transportation are the best in the business. Connect with Full Tilt today!
Planning every aspect of your trade show logistics or expo logistics is sometimes a nightmare. It's essential to communicate with each venue and the event staff, all while making sure critical event deadlines are met at each stop. These are just a few of the significant responsibilities Full Tilt Transportation can help you excel at.
One vital aspect of a successful tour, show or exposition is getting everything from one location to the next in a safe and timely manner. You need a transportation company that thrives under pressure and takes pride in exceeding your logistics expectations and deadlines every time.
You know that when it comes to meeting deadlines and getting the job done right that you need experience, flexibility, customer service, and frequent communication. These are all factors that separate good and bad logistics and transport companies from one another. Chances are good that you have critical time requirements. If your logistics company can't meet a deadline, everyone suffers.
Monster Jam is an example of logistics done right. Recently, Full Tilt Logistics is actively coordinating with Monster Jam and providing logistical support. Our prime objective is to ensure that the tour's equipment gets from point A to point B in the most efficient and economical way possible. Like many clients, Monster Jam's standards and expectations are demanding, regardless we are up to the challenge. Full Tilt's dedicated drivers work full time for Monster Jam, moving their equipment across the country. We regularly shuttle equipment to and from event sites and make sure all of the logistics are in order.
Monster Jam is often referred to as the "super bowl of monster trucks," featuring drivers who compete in Racing and Freestyle Championships. A Monster Jam engine will generate 1,500 horsepower, thanks to a blower that forces air and fuel into the engine. It is powered by methanol fuel, consumed at the rates of three gallons a minute from a specially constructed safety cell. The truck utilizes a four-link racing suspension with four main bars that link the front and rear axles to the frame. It rides on clusters of nitrogen-charged shocks that offer 30 inches of travel in the suspension.
At Monster Jam shows, monster trucks face off in two different forms of competition - Racing and Freestyle. The smaller shows feature a wheelie competition and or a donut contest. The goal in the wheelie competition is to hit a ramp and get big air while remaining perpendicular to the ground. In the donut competition a driver tries to spin their truck until he/she gets dizzy, the truck can't go anymore, or they think they have a high enough score to win. Side-by-side racing or traditional heads-up tournament racing requires that the first truck to cross the finish line can't move onto the next round until it is eliminated or wins the racing trophy by winning the Championship race. The freestyle competition allows drivers two minutes on an open floor to show off their skills as they drive the trucks over cars while completing stunts and tricks with their trucks.
The event itself dates back to 1992, but today the show is massive. Monster Jam travels throughout the United States and Canada putting on massive shows to sold-out arenas. Monster Jam holds shows throughout the year, with more shows during the winter than the summer. Locations also range around the world. Europe, Australia, Mexico, Costa Rica, Philippines, Saudi Arabia and recently Japan have all played host to Monster Jam. The culmination of all this global action occurs in Las Vegas at the Monster Jam World Finals where the best of the best come out to compete.
Moving Monster Jam Equipment is a massive undertaking. Putting things in perspective is important here. Each Monster Jam truck is approximately 10.5 feet tall, 12 feet wide, 17 feet long and weighs 12,000 pounds. The BKT tires are 66 inches in diameter and 43 inches wide, inflated to 16-20 psi pressure and (with wheel) weigh 800 pounds each. The driver’s compartment is a steel safety structure, built from tubing and mounted to the truck frame. The truck bodies are custom-built and constructed of fiberglass. To move these requires some specialized consideration.
Monster Truck logistics needs are similar to trade show logistics needs. Both typically entail the movement of large, oversized or specialty pieces of equipment on tight deadlines. On average Monster Jam drivers are on tour for around 25 weekends out of the year. However, some do as many as 40 weekends. This means that teams are constantly on the move and required to meet strict deadlines.
But how do you transport something as massive as a monster truck? You won't find a monster truck rolling down the highway, so how's it done? To transport a monster truck requires a specially prepared trailer. These trailers are massive and include spare parts and as many as two trucks. Fitting the truck inside of the trailer requires removing the monster sized tires. These are massive and require some special handling. The actual truck component of the monster truck rides on a toter-tire. These are considerably smaller, making it easier for the truck to fit inside of the trailer. Depending on the setup most everything travels in one or two enclosed trailers.
Streamlining, consolidating and outsourcing your logistics processes can result in huge long term financial savings and better overall client service. Connect with Full Tilt Logistics and learn what a dedicated expo logistics and trade show logistics transportation company can do for you. We're here to help you achieve your overall shipping needs across the United States. We are always happy to answer any and all shipping and logistics related questions and provide you with the best customer service!
Full Tilt Logistics is one of the leading 3PL transportation companies in the country for the tradeshow exhibit business. Timing is everything and nowhere does this apply more than a large trade show. We take extra care to make sure these time-sensitive events come off as planned. As a tradeshow logistics company, this requires special planning, coordination, and backup for these major national events.
Because of the unique requirements of large tradeshows in major arenas and convention centers across the country, the transportation of material necessary to pull off these events is an eight-day a week process. Pick-ups and deliveries to the shows occur 24 hours a day and the pace is energized with many moving parts. As the saying goes “the show must go on,” and we have fail-safe systems to ensure on-time delivery. Our tradeshow logistics services are thorough and include high-quality service that our customers have come to expect and rely on for these major events. Some of these services include:
Our tradeshow logistics company always hope for the best but expect the worst, and our planning models address the worst-case scenario. Because of this contingency planning, our tradeshow freight has a 99.9% on-time delivery and is 99.9% claim-free. Peace of mind with fewer disruptions is our goal and we settle for nothing less. We recently were the logistics company for the NCAA basketball tournament and fan experience, as well as the NFL meetings. Both events were in the Phoenix area and went off without a hitch. We’re successful and experienced in moving equipment to one tradeshow, but we also specialize in show to show moves.
The three major trade show components are exhibit companies, trade show management companies, and audio-visual companies. They are all specialized, and we are a tradeshow logistics company that provides transportation for all three. Booth equipment, banners, tables, carpet, rigging, lighting, electronics, hi-tech control equipment, electronics, and large video display units are only some of the materials necessary to organize and produce large trade shows and exhibits. As an added value, we provide on-site management, when necessary, to coordinate the delivery and removal of freight.
Full Tilt continues to improve the process and service to our tradeshow and exhibit customers. Every show provides unique challenges and continued opportunities to improve our service. We aim to be your go-to logistics company.
Please contact us with any questions or if you’d like the opportunity to see what we can do for you.