REPOST: Global Giants: ICAT Moves the World's Largest Cargo with Chris Cser
Chris Cser and Joe Lynch discuss global giants - ICAT moves the world's largest cargo. Chris is the Director of Operations at ICAT Logistics Detroit where they handle the shipments that other companies don't, can't, and won't. Summary: Global Giants: ICAT Moves the World's Largest Cargo In this podcast, Chris Cser, Director of Operations at ICAT Logistics, takes us on a journey through the complex world of global logistics. Founded in 1992 in Baltimore, ICAT Logistics has expanded across the United States and Europe, specializing in handling unusual, high-value, and oversized freight that often falls outside the scope of standard containerized shipping. Chris shares his personal story of entering the logistics industry and delves into the intricacies of project cargo, from moving entire assembly lines across continents to navigating the challenges of transporting oversized, heavy, and hazardous materials. He also discusses the importance of having a logistics partner with global expertise and the ability to provide flexible shipping options in the face of unexpected disruptions. Throughout the podcast, Chris emphasizes the need for companies to ensure compliance and ethical practices in their global supply chains, highlighting the severe consequences of non-compliance in today's transparent world. Finally, he touches on his company's role as the preferred logistics carrier for the National Guard and their involvement in upcoming events. #ProjectCargoLogistics #GlobalTransportationExpertise #SpecializedFreightSolutions About Chris Cser Chris’s expertise in global logistics is tied to his experience growing up and marrying into a military family. That background has helped him build the skills to develop a worldwide network of trusted partners over the past three decades. His leadership in international logistics is enhanced by his continuous education including extensive travel in Europe, Asia, Mexico and the Middle East to see port operations for himself. In his off hours, Chris is a sports enthusiast who enjoys cooking. As the father of a son with Coffin Siris Syndrome, Chris devotes significant time to advocating on behalf of people with CSS and Autism. About ICAT Logistics ICAT Logistics Detroit is family-owned and operated and has been since its inception more than 30 years ago when it was created to ensure safe, secure and timely delivery of goods. Customers have come to depend on the experience, knowledge and capabilities of ICAT Logistics Detroit and its established partnerships around the world. Their team always finds a way to get the job done. It’s the result of years of working together and building a worldwide network of resources and relationships to solve complex shipping challenges. The experts at ICAT Logistics Detroit know that every shipment is mission critical to our customers, who represent a wide range of companies from multinationals to family-owned enterprises and start-ups. We think through the critical details so that they don’t have to. The best routes. The most efficient modes of transport. Getting through customs. Packaging bulky loads. Warehousing, if necessary. Key Takeaways: Global Giants: ICAT Moves the World's Largest Cargo Discover how ICAT Logistics has expanded across the United States and Europe over the past 30 years. Learn about the complexities of handling unusual, high-value, and oversized global transportation. Explore the challenges and regulations involved in transporting oversized, heavy, and hazardous materials. Understand the importance of precise project management and sequencing when moving entire assembly lines and manufacturing equipment. Gain insights into the evolving regulations and safety concerns surrounding the transportation of lithium batteries. Recognize the significance of having a logistics partner with global expertise and flexible shipping options. Appreciate the complexities of moving freight internationally, including regulations, customs clearance, and multiple parties involved. Timestamps (00:00:02) ICAT Moves the World's Largest Cargo (00:01:52) Navigating the Challenges of Global Logistics (00:03:14) Chris Cser's Journey into Logistics (00:04:44) Defining Project Cargo: High Value, High Consequences (00:07:05) Moving Manufacturing Equipment Across the Globe (00:08:51) Moving Big, Bold, and Hazardous Freight (00:13:14) Lithium Batteries: A Hot Topic in Freight (00:19:18) International Customs can be Challenging (00:19:48) Navigating Global Logistics Challenges with Flexibility (00:26:06) Navigating the Complexities of Global Logistics (00:29:32) Ensuring Compliance in Global Supply Chains (00:32:18) Navigating the Complexities of Project Cargo (00:37:56) National Guard Logistics with Chris Cser Learn More About Global Giants: ICAT Moves the World's Largest Cargo Chris Cser | Linkedin ICAT Logistics: Detroit Agency | Logistics ICAT Logistics Mission Accomplished: Beating The Clock With An Oversized Cross-Border Delivery | ICAT In Perfect Harmony: Icat’s Custom Shipping For The United States Air Force (Usaf) Band’s Precious Cargo | ICAT Oversized Fire Truck To Iraq | ICAT EV Charging Stations Get A Boost From Icat Logistics Detroit | ICAT The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
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39:42
The People-First Approach to Funding the Future of Logistics with Michael Sachaj
Michael Sachaj and Joe Lynch discuss the people-first approach to the future of logistics. Michael is a Partner at Hyde Park Angels (HPA), a leading early-stage investor based in Chicago. About Michael Sachaj Michael Sachaj is a Partner at HPA and manages and supports HPA’s investment opportunities through their lifecycle. Michael has led investment in a number of HPA’s top performing investments including ShipBob, FourKites, Paccurate, and Digit. Prior to joining HPA in 2013, Michael attended Northwestern University and worked at strategy consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton supporting various government clients in the Pentagon. Michael is an avid sneakerhead, new dad, and fluent in Polish. About HPA Hyde Park Angels (HPA) is a leading early-stage investor based in Chicago. HPA's People First model leverages world-class operating expertise, a powerful business network, and venture capital to fuel startup success. HPA’s extensive network of 150+ members—comprising entrepreneurs, executives, and venture capitalists—provides strategic value to entrepreneurs by offering expertise and connections to foster growth and innovation. Key Takeaways: The People-First Approach to Funding the Future of Logistics Michael Sachaj and Joe Lynch discuss the people-first approach to the future of logistics. Michael is a Partner at Hyde Park Angels (HPA), a leading early-stage investor based in Chicago. Hyde Park Angels (HPA) is a prominent early-stage investment group based in Chicago, known for its people-first approach to investing. Positioning HPA in a Thriving Investment Ecosystem: Chicago’s early-stage funding market is more vibrant and competitive than ever, reflecting the strength and momentum of the region’s innovation economy. In response, HPA is leaning into this opportunity by elevating its brand and deepening its bench of experienced investors. By combining capital with meaningful industry access and hands-on support, HPA is increasingly positioned as a partner of choice for ambitious founders. Integrating Capital with Strategic Expertise: HPA is committed to delivering more than just capital—it provides startups with access to strategic guidance from experienced investors across a wide range of industries. By thoughtfully aligning portfolio companies with members who bring relevant expertise, HPA ensures that founders receive meaningful, tailored support. This deliberate approach strengthens outcomes and reinforces HPA’s role as a high-impact partner in early-stage growth. People-First Investment Philosophy: HPA stands out by prioritizing relationships over transactions. By aligning investors who bring deep operational and industry experience with entrepreneurs, HPA creates a mentorship-driven ecosystem that goes beyond capital—turning passive funding into strategic partnership. This approach builds long-term value and attracts high-quality startups. Robust Midwest Deal Flow and Ecosystem Ties: Located in Chicago, HPA leverages its geographic advantage to tap into the Midwest’s growing startup ecosystem. With strong ties to local universities, accelerators, and business leaders, HPA gains early access to promising ventures often overlooked by coastal VCs, giving it a unique sourcing edge. Learn More AboutThe People-First Approach to Funding the Future of Logistics Michael Sachaj | Linkedin HPA | Linkedin HPA Paccurate Unpacking HPA's Investment in Paccurate ShipBob Digit Software Manifest Logistics Conference The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
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57:30
Tech-Driven Drayage: A PortPro Perspective with Corey Abbott
Corey Abbott and Joe Lynch discuss tech-driven drayage: a PortPro perspective. Corey is the Chief Growth Officer and his team lead enterprise initiatives at PortPro, an innovative technology company that keeps the drayage industry moving efficiently with its operating platform built for drayage trucking companies, brokerages, and those that do both. About Corey Abbott Corey Abbott, Chief Growth Officer and his team lead enterprise initiatives at PortPro, focusing on developing comprehensive products designed to enhance the customer experience, guided by their needs and feedback. Corey spent over a decade at STG Logistics, the nation's leader in containerized freight, and XPO Logistics, where he built operational, financial, and back-office solutions to help companies and users across the globe. He also partnered with companies across multiple industries and modes of transportation (OTR, Drayage, Intermodal, Global forwarding, LTL, Supply Chain Warehousing/ Transloading, Expedited Air, Road, and Water). He held roles of CIO, Intermodal, and Drayage, and most recently, Chief Product Officer. He holds a Master’s degree in accounting and finance from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. About PortPro PortPro is an innovative technology company that keeps the drayage industry moving efficiently with its operating platform built for drayage trucking companies, brokerages, and those that do both. Its flagship TMS platform streamlines order entry, dispatch management, container tracking, communication, appointment-setting, accounts receivable, accounts payable, reporting, AI-driven features, and more for our customers - who can then provide full transparency and better service to their customers. Visit www.portpro.io for more information and to schedule a demo. Key Takeaways: Tech-Driven Drayage: A PortPro Perspective Corey Abbott and Joe Lynch discuss tech-driven drayage: a PortPro perspective. Corey is the Chief Growth Officer and his team lead enterprise initiatives at PortPro, an innovative technology company that keeps the drayage industry moving efficiently with its operating platform built for drayage trucking companies, brokerages, and those that do both. Drayage carriers and brokers face the following challenges: Operational Inefficiencies & Lack of Real-Time Visibility: Difficulty managing complex drayage processes and tracking critical information (containers, status, appointments) leads to wasted time, errors, and increased costs. Manual Processes & Poor Communication Hindering Productivity: Reliance on outdated methods for order entry, scheduling, invoicing, and communication creates administrative burdens, slows down operations, and limits collaboration. Stuck with Outdated Tech or Ill-Suited Systems: Drayage carriers and brokers often face a dilemma: either wrestle with legacy TMS platforms that hinder integration and lack modern AI, or try to force-fit traditional TMS solutions missing crucial drayage-specific features like appointment management. Missing the Mark on Drayage Needs: Existing TMS options frequently fail to address the unique complexities of drayage, lacking the specialized fields and functionalities required for efficient appointment scheduling, container tracking, and overall drayage operation PortPro customers enjoy the following advantages: PortPro’s platform, is a cloud-based TMS (Transportation Management System) built specifically for drayage operations. It streamlines everything from dispatching and invoicing to document management and container tracking, offering users a centralized platform that eliminates manual workflows and siloed systems. Automated Workflows and Real-Time Visibility: With features like EDI/API integrations, automated billing, and GPS-based container tracking, PortPro empowers carriers and brokerages with real-time operational visibility and faster decision-making. This reduces delays, improves on-time performance, and boosts overall efficiency — critical in an industry where time is money. Compliance and Scalability at the Core: PortPro’s technology is designed to adapt to regulatory complexities like AB5 and environmental compliance laws. It helps companies stay ahead of legal changes while scaling their operations without needing to invest heavily in back-office expansion. This makes it especially valuable for mid-sized drayage companies aiming to grow. Specialized AI Agents & Optimizers: PortPro launches AI-powered tools integrated directly into their TMS, offering targeted automation for specific drayage workflows like spreadsheet updates and empty container returns, accessible via an AI Marketplace and customizable chat interface. Key AI Features for Efficiency: The initial rollout includes "AI Chat" for real-time data queries, "Spreadsheet AI Agents" for automatic data synchronization with Excel and Google Sheets, and "Empty Return Agents" to automate the often cumbersome process of managing empty container returns. Addressing Drayage's Manual Inefficiencies: These AI innovations directly tackle the significant administrative burdens in drayage, which can account for up to 20% of operating costs, freeing up operations teams to focus on more strategic and customer-centric activities. Learn More About Tech-Driven Drayage: A PortPro Perspective Corey Abbott | Linkedin PortPro | Linkedin PortPro PortPro's Informative Blogs Case Studies Latest news about PortPro PortPro's Complementary Carrier Guide to Growth State of Drayage Industry Report The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
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43:53
Carrier Sales Teams Are Being Run the Wrong Way with Brent Evens
Brent Evens and Joe Lynch discuss how carrier sales teams are being run the wrong way. Brent is the Co-founder of NextBoard, a carrier sales platform purpose-built for freight brokerages. About Brent Evens Brent Evens is the Co-founder of NextBoard, a freight tech startup helping brokers streamline carrier sales and build stronger, more efficient networks. He brings a diverse background in logistics, SaaS, and product strategy—including time at Delta Air Lines, where he worked on digital product initiatives that improved customer experience and operational performance. Before launching NextBoard, Brent also held leadership roles in product and growth at other startups, focusing on solving operational challenges and modernizing how freight teams work. Based in Georgia, Brent is passionate about helping logistics companies scale smarter by leveraging better tools, data, and processes—and he's always up for a conversation about the future of freight, carrier relationships, or a good pickleball match. About NextBoard NextBoard is a carrier sales platform purpose-built for freight brokerages. Designed to replace spreadsheets, manual processes, and scattered carrier data, NextBoard acts as a CRM for broker-carrier relationships. The platform enables reps to centralize carrier profiles, automate freight matching, send digital offers, and improve visibility into engagement—all in one place. NextBoard helps brokerages reduce their reliance on load boards, increase carrier utilization, and operate more efficiently. Whether a brokerage is looking to grow strategically or simply tighten up day-to-day operations, NextBoard gives teams the tools they need to move faster and smarter in a highly competitive market. Key Takeaways: Carrier Sales Teams Are Being Run the Wrong Way Brent Evens and Joe Lynch discuss how carrier sales teams are being run the wrong way. Brent is the Co-founder of NextBoard, a carrier sales platform purpose-built for freight brokerages. Brent thinks that carrier sales teams are making the following mistakes: Disorganized Carrier Data: Scattered carrier info hinders comprehensive understanding and relationship building. Ineffective Freight Matching ("Post and Pray"): Over-reliance on load boards and manual processes wastes time and underutilizes networks. Manual Sales Processes: Repetitive tasks limit time for relationship building and strategic activities. Lack of Performance Insights: Limited data on carriers prevents informed decisions about selection and improvement. Carrier sales teams that use NextBoard gain the following advantages: AI-Driven Freight Matching and Workflow Automation: NextBoard leverages artificial intelligence to analyze historical data and current market conditions, enabling smart freight matching that prioritizes trusted carriers based on lane preferences, equipment types, and performance history. This automation streamlines repetitive tasks such as quote collection and carrier follow-ups, freeing up representatives to focus on strategic relationship-building activities. Comprehensive Carrier Profiles and Performance Analytics: The platform provides 360° carrier profiles that include equipment types, lane preferences, rate history, and performance metrics. Real-time analytics offer insights into carrier performance, allowing brokerages to identify their most reliable partners and make data-driven decisions to optimize their carrier network Seamless Integration with Major TMS and Compliance Monitoring: NextBoard integrates seamlessly with all major Transportation Management Systems (TMS), eliminating the need for double data entry and ensuring a unified workflow. Additionally, it offers compliance monitoring by automatically tracking carrier insurance, authority status, and safety scores, thereby reducing fraud risk and enhancing operational efficiency. Learn More About Carrier Sales Teams Are Being Run the Wrong Way Brent Evens | Linkedin NextBoard | Linkedin NextBoard The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
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50:22
Blind Spots & Bottlenecks: Unmasking the Hidden Enemies of Supply Chain with Briana Birkholz
Briana Birkholz and Joe Lynch discuss blind spots & bottlenecks: unmasking the hidden enemies of supply chain. Briana is the Vice President of Product Management for the 3PL market segment at SPS Commerce, the world’s leading retail network, connecting trading partners around the globe to optimize supply chain operations for all retail partners. About Briana Birkholz Briana Birkholz is the Vice President of Product Management for the 3PL market segment at SPS Commerce. With a passion for overcoming supply chain and logistics challenges, Briana is committed to addressing the distinct needs of customers through comprehensive, full-service solutions. Briana’s extensive experience in driving innovation, strategic development and execution consistently delivers outstanding results for third-party logistics companies. About SPS Commerce SPS Commerce is the world’s leading retail network, connecting trading partners across the globe to optimize supply chain operations for all stakeholders in the retail ecosystem. The company enables data-driven partnerships through innovative cloud-based technology, customer-centric service, and a team of accessible industry experts—allowing clients to focus on their core business. With over 45,000 recurring revenue customers spanning retail, grocery, distribution, supply, manufacturing, and logistics, SPS Commerce powers a vast and growing global retail network. Key Takeaways: Blind Spots & Bottlenecks: Unmasking the Hidden Enemies of Supply Chain Briana Birkholz and Joe Lynch discuss blind spots & bottlenecks: unmasking the hidden enemies of supply chain. The hidden enemies include the following: Inconsistent Time to Revenue: The Silent Growth Killer - Lengthy onboarding processes erode cash flow and strain customer relationships, highlighting evolving customer expectations. SPS Commerce's "plug-and-play" solutions drastically reduce onboarding time from months to days. The Cost of Chaos: Inconsistent Order Intake - Managing orders through disparate channels (phone, email, portals, PDFs) breeds errors and jeopardizes SLAs due to human error. SPS Commerce standardizes order formats for improved efficiency and control. Decoding Retailer Complexity: Unravel the challenges of adhering to intricate retailer requirements (packing slips, labels, routing guides, ASN timing) and the costly consequences of non-compliance (chargebacks, damaged relationships, lost shelf space). SPS Commerce automates document generation and validation to ensure first-time compliance. SPS Commerce is the world’s leading retail network, connecting trading partners around the globe to optimize supply chain operations for all retail partners. SPS Commerce brings the following advantages: Industry Leader in Cloud-Based EDI Solutions: SPS Commerce specializes in cloud-based supply chain management, helping retailers, suppliers, and logistics providers automate and streamline their operations through advanced EDI and data analytics tools. Demonstrated Consistent Growth as a High-Performing Public Company: SPS Commerce has a long and consistent track record of growth, primarily organic, underscoring its position as a strong performer on NASDAQ (ticker: SPSC). Global Presence with Local Support: Headquartered in Minneapolis, SPS has expanded internationally with offices in major cities like Toronto, Melbourne, Amsterdam, and Hong Kong, supporting a worldwide customer base with localized service. Growth via Smart Acquisitions: Strategic buys like Data Masons, InterTrade, and SupplyPike have allowed SPS to broaden its tech stack and deepen its value across the retail supply chain ecosystem. Recognized for Culture and Innovation: Known for its positive workplace environment, SPS was ranked the best large workplace in Minnesota in 2015 and continues to invest in talent and innovation to drive forward-thinking supply chain solutions. Learn More About Blind Spots & Bottlenecks: Unmasking the Hidden Enemies of Supply Chain Briana Birkholz | Linkedin SPS Commerce | Linkedin SPS Commerce Woods Distribution Case Study Arcadia Cold Storage & Logistics Case Study The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
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