WI Platform provides Wisconsin companies sustainable solution to import/export concerns
(Dec. 21, 2020) – The ability to send and receive materials from the Chicago region via interstate highways has long been a concern to Wisconsin’s manufacturers and distributors. Electronic Logging Device (ELD) regulations, driver shortages and excessive wait times has made finding a solution to import/export concerns difficult for shippers.
GKM Wisconsin has awarded Midwest Carriers, an asset-based motor carrier with a proud 35-year history, the Chief Operations Control Execution Manager for the GKM WI TEU Circuitous Platform. Based in Kaukauna, Wis, Midwest Carriers’ 350,000-square-foot international import/export TEU processing complex in Joliet, Illinois will serve as chief operations center (COC) for Wisconsin businesses in need of an intermodal supply chain solution.
The Wisconsin Platform addresses manufacturing and distribution companies’ concerns about container turns and drayage shortages. In addition, the Platform stabilizes flows, helps clients manage costs and increases supply-chain efficiencies for companies using Chicago, the largest inland port in the world.
“Our partnership with Midwest Carriers offers an enormous benefit to the Wisconsin Platform’s users,” said Brian Harris, SVP of TEU Integration for GKM WI. “We have worked with Midwest Carriers for more than three years and named them our COC based on their asset base, impeccable percentage of control and efficiency rating.”
By using a data-driven approach and applying Six Sigma process management to supply chain practices, GKM independently researched, authored and designed a value proposition that uses solutions to improve the flow of containers to and from Chicago’s Inland Ports.
“The Platform provides value by allowing me to manage from the tower. My company uses the Platform to unload floor loaded containers and palletize by PO and product type. This saves our dock a lot of time. My containers are pulled from the rail ramp timely, avoiding any demurrage fees,” said Andrew Houtz, Transportation Director, School Specialty, LLC.
As the busiest transcontinental rail gateway in the country with more than 1,200 trains a day, Chicago creates a funnel for Wisconsin freight. As a result many Wisconsin shippers implement an intermodal supply-chain strategy that involves sending a truck to pick up empty or loaded TEUs that are trucked into or out of Wisconsin for processing.
GKM WI is hosting upcoming virtual information sessions to discuss the WI Platform’s origin, continued success and use of innovative lean processes for sustainable supply chain solutions. To learn more, click here.
To learn more about Midwest Carriers, visit https://drivemidwest.com/.
