At Porter Logistics, our people are the heart of every smooth delivery, secure transfer, and positive customer interaction. Today, we are proud to highlight Evelyn Patricia (Pat) Luke, our Customer Service Manager, whose leadership and commitment to excellence continue to elevate our customer experience and internal operations.
Pat’s journey from military service to logistics leadership is a powerful example of dedication, integrity, and continuous growth—qualities that help drive Porter Logistics forward every day.
Pat began her professional career in the military, where she built a foundation of discipline, teamwork, and leadership. These early experiences shaped the way she approaches challenges and supports the teams she leads today.
Her logistics career officially launched in 2011 when she joined Amware as a Quality Checker. Over time, she advanced into roles such as:
Through each step, Pat strengthened her operational knowledge and developed a deep understanding of customer support within complex logistics environments.
In 2022, she joined Porter Logistics to continue growing her career in customer service and operational excellence. Today, she plays a key role in improving communication, supporting external customers and internal teams, and enhancing the processes that help warehouse and logistics operations run efficiently.
When asked what attracted her to Porter Logistics, Pat highlighted three key factors:
Porter’s modern approach to operational visibility—including advanced inventory tracking and real-time communication tools—immediately stood out.
Pat describes Porter Logistics as a place where employees feel valued and teamwork is at the center of every operation.
The Customer Service Manager role allows her to directly shape customer experience and strengthen cross-department communication.
As a leader, Pat is committed to creating an environment built on:
She believes leaders should empower their teams, streamline processes, and ensure that everyone has the guidance and tools needed to succeed. Her leadership style aligns perfectly with Porter Logistics’ mission to provide reliable, transparent, and customer-focused 3PL services.
Pat credits her parents as her most profound influences:
These values continue to guide her both professionally and personally.
Most people may not know that Pat is a skilled basketball player. While serving in the military, she competed for two years in Ansbach, Germany, at the Army Aviation level—an experience she describes as unforgettable.
Outside of work, she loves working on puzzles. For her, the satisfaction of turning small pieces into a complete picture mirrors the work she does every day: bringing together processes, communication, and teamwork to create consistent results.
If Pat could have dinner with any leaders, she would choose Barack Obama and Colin Powell. She admires their ability to lead with strength, composure, and moral courage—especially during times of intense pressure. Their leadership philosophies closely align with her own.
“Never stop learning, stay committed to the process, and always lead with integrity.”
This mindset continues to guide her as she supports Porter Logistics teams and customers.
As Porter Logistics Customer Service Manager, Pat strengthens the link between operations and customers by:
Her leadership helps ensure customers receive the reliable support and visibility they expect from a trusted 3PL partner.
Pat’s journey is a reminder that great logistics is powered by great people. Porter Logistics is proud to have leaders like her who bring dedication, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to customer experience.
To learn more about Porter’s team and services, explore our 3PL solutions or reach out for a custom quote.
Intro:
In late October 2025, the U.S. and South Korea announced that they had “pretty much finalized” a trade‐related agreement — part of a broader strategy to stabilize and deepen bilateral economic ties. Supply Chain Dive For the state of Georgia, this development is far from peripheral: South Korea is one of the fastest‐growing sources of investment in Georgia’s manufacturing and logistics landscape. Yet this opportunity also comes with complexity—most visibly the recent large‐scale immigration enforcement action at the Hyundai Motor Group/LG Energy Solution battery plant in Ellabell. Logistics providers need to understand both the promise and the risk to stay ahead.
Georgia has become a magnet for Korean investment in manufacturing, particularly in automotive, batteries, and advanced logistics operations. The new U.S.-Korea trade deal promises more favorable tariff conditions: for example, a drop in U.S. import tariffs on Korean goods from 25 % to 15 %. Supply Chain Dive
For logistics providers like Porter Logistics, this means:
Georgia’s statewide economic development strategy has long pitched the state as Korea’s gateway into the Southeastern U.S. market. Korean firms bring capital, technology, and manufacturing scale—and logistics providers must be structured, agile, and compliant to support that growth.
While the trade deal represents opportunity, a major enforcement action at the Hyundai/LG battery facility in Georgia underscores risk and regulatory complexity.
On September 4, 2025, U.S. immigration authorities raided a battery plant under construction at the Hyundai‐LG campus in Ellabell, Georgia, detaining approximately 475 individuals—over 300 of them South Korean nationals. I The event was described as the largest single‐site law‐enforcement action of its kind by U.S. authorities.
Key implications for supply chains and logistics:
Therefore, while Korean investment in Georgia is robust and growing, the recent enforcement action serves as a cautionary note: regulatory, immigration, and compliance issues must be front of mind for all supply‐chain actors.
As a logistics provider operating in Georgia and supporting international trade flows, Porter Logistics is well positioned to help clients navigate this evolving Korea-U.S. environment. Here’s how:
The Korea-U.S. trade deal signals a new chapter for Georgia’s economy—one where Korean investment deepens and logistics providers like Porter Logistics play a vital enabling role. Yet, the story is not without its cautionary side-bars: the massive enforcement action at the Hyundai/LG plant shows that regulatory and workforce risks remain real and can ripple through supply chains.
For Porter Logistics, the path forward is clear: position as the strategic partner for Korean manufacturing clients operating in Georgia, build deep expertise in Korea–U.S. trade flows, ensure high compliance and risk-management standards, and deliver agile logistics solutions that can respond not just to growing volume, but to complexity, speed, and cross-border dynamics.
By doing so, Porter Logistics isn’t simply moving freight—it’s helping anchor a global supply-chain partnership between Korea and Georgia, supporting regional economic growth and enabling Korean manufacturing investment with logistics reliability and strategic foresight.
In the food & chemical industries, most liquid products don’t stay in the container they start in. A shipment might leave a manufacturing plant in a rail car or ISO tank and end up in a drum, IBC (intermediate bulk container), or five-gallon pail by the time it reaches a customer.
That in-between step lives inside a chemical logistics market worth about $275.1 billion in 2025 and projected to reach $391.7 billion by 2034, where services like repackaging, labeling, and specialized handling drive value.
For chemical, hazmat, and food-grade suppliers, repackaging can be the difference between meeting demand and losing shelf space. It’s also one of the more effective ways to reduce freight costs and tighten up compliance.
Liquid repackaging refers to decanting or transferring bulk liquids — such as oils, surfactants, solvents, flavorings, or food ingredients — from one container format to another. (Not to be confused with transloading, which refers to transferring cargo between modes of transport.)
Common transfer types include:
The objective varies: smaller pack sizes for distribution, easier handling for customers, export packaging compliance, or cross-contamination prevention for food and hazmat materials.
Because these products are high-value and often high-risk, the process happens inside controlled environments like certified 3PL facilities equipped for hazmat, food-grade, and other regulated materials.
Many manufacturers ship product in bulk, but sell it in smaller volumes. Repackaging allows them to service both. For example, a liquid chemical might ship in a 20,000-gallon tank car and then be repackaged into 55-gallon drums for domestic customers and 1,000-liter IBCs for export buyers.
Drayage and detention charges add up when bulk containers sit idle, but repackaging can free rail cars and ISO tanks faster. Once product is in portable drums or totes, it can move by LTL, truckload, or parcel freight.
Hazardous materials, food ingredients, and industrial liquids often face different packaging and labeling rules across regions. Repackaging ensures the product meets each market’s container, labeling, and documentation standards.
Drums and totes can be barcoded, sealed, and stored with batch traceability. That allows producers to separate lots by quality or expiration date. This is especially advantageous for food ingredients, adhesives, and specialty chemicals.
At a qualified 3PL or bulk-handling facility, liquid repackaging happens under strict safety and sanitation controls. A typical workflow includes:
Many liquids transfer optimally at different temperatures. Heating methods like steam generators or warming blankets for IBC’s are used to heat product as high as 110F to facilitate smooth transfer.
The entire process is documented digitally — temperature, volume, seal numbers — to satisfy audits or inspections.
| Source | Destination | Typical Use Case |
| Rail car | 55-gal drum | Regional distribution or export sales |
| ISO tank | IBC tote | Contract manufacturing or intermediate supply |
| Tank wagon | Retail pack | Finished goods, cleaning products, flavorings |
| Bulk tote | Drum | Small-batch sampling or product segregation |
Each conversion step must preserve product integrity, avoid contamination, and prevent exposure to air or moisture. Many operations use nitrogen blanketing or closed transfer to achieve this.
While repackaging adds a handling step, it often lowers total cost when you view it across the supply chain.
Not to mention, companies that use 3PLs for their liquid repackaging also avoid the capital costs of installing pumps, containment pads, and safety systems onsite. 3PLs have this infrastructure ready-to-go along with a team that knows how to use it safely and efficiently.
Both hazmat and food-grade logistics require segregation, sanitation, and traceability. At Porter Logistics, we handle both classifications and more. That means the same infrastructure can safely move a food ingredient one day and a regulated solvent the next, using dedicated lines and storage zones.
Hazmat repackaging requires compliant transfer systems, spill containment, secondary barriers, and trained hazmat technicians. Facilities must adhere to OSHA and DOT requirements and maintain SDS documentation for every product handled.
Food-grade repackaging must operate under GMP and AIB (or SQF) standards (all are certifications that Porter possesses). Tanks and hoses are stainless or food-grade lined, and every transfer line is sanitized between products. Pest control, lighting, and air-handling systems must also meet FDA or state food code guidelines.
A small number of 3PLs specialize in liquid repackaging because the barrier to entry is high. The equipment, permits, and certifications require ongoing oversight.
Porter Logistic’s 3PL facility in Savannah (along with our Atlanta 3PL warehouses) handles:
Our main advantage lies in combining compliance infrastructure with supply-chain proximity. Being close to the Port of Savannah shortens turnaround times for inbound bulk cargo while giving exporters access to immediate container availability.
Each and every transfer needs a paper trail. Under U.S. DOT hazmat rules, shipping papers have to identify the material (UN/ID number, proper shipping name, hazard class, packing group) and quantity so that the movement of every drum, tote, or tank can be tracked.
For food-grade liquids, the bar is higher. FSMA and CGMP expectations push facilities to keep records that show a clear history for each lot, typically through:
Most customers expect to review those records during audits, so a repackaging partner that treats documentation as a core process tends to have a smoother time with both regulators and clients.
Repackaging demand continues to climb as more producers consolidate bulk shipping and regionalize final distribution. E-commerce in B2B chemicals, smaller production runs, and sustainability goals (reuse of IBCs and drums) are driving the trend.
At the same time, regulatory scrutiny is getting tighter. Companies that invest in specialized liquid-handling and repackaging operations have an advantage: they’ll respond faster to shifting markets and regulatory changes without having to redesign their entire distribution system.
Liquid repackaging may look like a behind-the-scenes process, but it keeps the supply chain moving. From transferring hazmat materials from ISO tanks to converting food-grade ingredients into IBCs for export, it all requires precision, documentation, and experience.
At Porter Logistics, our team manages liquid repackaging with certified processes that protect both the product and the people handling it. Every transfer is performed with safety, efficiency, and compliance at the forefront.
Learn more about what Porter has to offer by exploring our different 3PL services and request a free custom quote today.
As global food and agricultural supply chains evolve, Savannah, Georgia, has proven to be the Southeast’s most vital logistics hub. Positioned at the intersection of domestic production and international trade, Savannah’s infrastructure enables seamless movement of both imported and exported goods.
With the Port of Savannah ranked as the #1 U.S. port for agricultural exports, the region has transformed into a dual-flow powerhouse. Imports of finished goods and packaging for major retailers come in, and exports of U.S.-grown commodities and food products head out to international markets.
For food manufacturers, agribusiness exporters, and distributors, this combination comes with a unique advantage. The same logistics infrastructure that moves packaged foods for big-box stores like Walmart and Target can also move soybeans, corn, and poultry from South Georgia farms to buyers all over the world.
At Porter Logistics, our food-grade 3PL facility in Savannah sits at the heart of this flow. Audited by the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) among other certifying bodies, our warehouse meets food safety standards while optimizing throughput for importers and exporters alike.
Savannah’s rise as a food and agricultural export leader comes as no surprise, and the numbers speak for themselves. In September 2025, the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) reported that the Port of Savannah handled 486,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), which represents an 8% increase year-over-year.
The same report showed that from July 1st–Sept 30th, container trade was up 4.7%, with nearly 1.5 million TEUs moved through the port. On the rail side, the port achieved its busiest September ever with 51,235 container lifts, up 21% versus the same month last year.
With truck gate turn-times averaging 32 minutes for single moves and 50 minutes for dual import/export moves, Savannah offers one of the fastest throughput profiles in the U.S. container-port network — making it especially ideal for food and agribusiness logistics.
While some U.S. ports specialize in either imports or exports, Savannah’s advantage lies in its dual-flow capability.
This dynamic creates natural efficiencies for food-grade 3PL providers: consistent container availability, shorter dwell times, and better rail/highway access for both inbound and outbound shipments. Shippers can expect lower drayage costs, faster port turns, and access to temperature-controlled warehousing near the terminal.
At Porter Logistics, we provide flexible food-grade import handling, export staging, and compliant storage that serves both flows of the food supply chain.
Georgia’s agricultural output continues to fuel its dominance in global food exports. According to the GDA, the industry generates more than $74 billion in annual economic impact and supports nearly 400,000 jobs statewide.
To provide a real-world snapshot, export commodities moving through Savannah include:
As refrigerated export capacity and intermodal access expand across Savannah, Porter Logistics translates that infrastructure into measurable efficiency for food manufacturers, agribusiness exporters, and dozens of other industries.
Savannah’s logistics ecosystem continues to expand. Recent and ongoing projects by the GPA enhance the port’s ability to move agricultural goods at scale:
Savannah’s dual-flow ecosystem benefits both sides of the supply chain. The steady flow of retail imports from global suppliers (e.g., food, beverages, packaging materials, and household goods) ensures a constant supply of containers and truck capacity in the region.
For exporters, that means fewer empty containers leaving the port and more availability to load agricultural goods outbound. This closed-loop efficiency is why Savannah continues to grow faster than many competing ports.
At our facility, imported food products for big-box retailers can be received, stored, and redistributed across the Southeast while outbound agricultural goods can be staged and stuffed into containers for export, often using the same logistical infrastructure.
Operating in Savannah as a food-grade 3PL means serving as a strategic supply-chain partner that meets both regulatory and operational demands. Porter Logistics’ Savannah facility is:
This makes our warehouse ideal for companies that handle agricultural commodities for export, packaged or processed foods for distribution, and/or raw ingredients awaiting conversion or re-export. Whether consolidating exports for international shipment or receiving retail imports for U.S. distribution, our infrastructure supports both.
For manufacturers and exporters considering Savannah as an agricultural logistics hub, choosing the right food-grade 3PL is critical. Consider these factors:
Porter Logistics meets all of these criteria, offering scalable, compliant, and strategically located Savannah-based food-grade warehousing to support the city’s growing export market.
Porter Logistics’ Savannah facility sits at the intersection of Georgia’s agricultural production and global trade. We strive to help companies in the food and agriculture sectors move their products safely, efficiently, and compliantly.
We provide:
Learn more about our food-grade logistics in Savannah and how Porter Logistics helps businesses bridge global supply chains through the Port of Savannah.
At Porter Logistics, we’ve always believed that trust, quality, and compliance matter just as much as speed and efficiency. That’s why we’re proud to announce that our facility has achieved SQF certification, meaning our food safety and quality systems now meet one of the most rigorous, globally recognized standards in the supply chain.
We received a SQF food safety score of 96, which is considered “Excellent.”
The Safe Quality Food (SQF) program is a GFSI-benchmarked certification that verifies a company’s processes comply with internationally accepted food safety and quality standards. SQFI+2SQFI+2 It’s not just about safety: SQF helps instill confidence with retail partners, brands, and regulators, while protecting your reputation and reducing risk.
SQF requires strong systems in:
Because SQF is recognized by GFSI, achieving it helps open doors to higher-tier customers and reinforces that your operations are up to the highest industry standards. SQFI+2FoodChain ID+2
Earning our SQF certification wasn’t something we took lightly. It demanded discipline, teamwork, and strategic investment. Here’s how we did it:
Greater Trust & Assurance
Your products will be handled under processes verified by external auditors — protecting quality, safety, and your reputation.
Easier Market Access
Many retailers and brands demand SQF or equivalent standards from their logistics and storage partners. Now, we can meet that expectation head-on.
Risk Reduction
With stronger traceability and compliance, we minimize risks of recalls, contamination, or regulatory issues.
Competitive Edge
SQF sets us apart in a crowded logistics marketplace. You now have a partner that combines logistics excellence with certified food safety controls.
Achieving SQF is a milestone, but not the endpoint. We’re committed to:
At Porter Logistics, we believe that hard work, integrity, and attention to detail make all the difference. Our new SQF certification is proof: we are fully committed to providing logistics services that are not only efficient, but safe and trustworthy. We look forward to continuing the journey — raising the bar for food safety while empowering your supply chain.
No matter if it’s a small collection of household cleaning agents or large-scale barrels containing corrosive substances, handling and storing hazardous materials (hazmat) is a high-stakes responsibility.
Every product classified as a “dangerous good” carries risks that require strict compliance and specialized logistics.
Whether you’re a chemical manufacturer, distributor, or importer, understanding the do’s and don’ts of dangerous goods storage is critical to safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
At Porter Logistics, we’ve built our hazmat warehousing operation in Savannah, Atlanta, and Tampa to meet these exact challenges. In Savannah specifically, our secure and certified facility is strategically located near major chemical manufacturing hubs and the Port of Savannah.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a dangerous good (also known as hazardous material or hazmat) is “any substance or material capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce.”
Hazardous goods can include, but are not limited to:
Each of these requires unique handling protocols, storage conditions, and compliance documentation. In the U.S., the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) define strict guidelines for how hazardous materials must be labeled, stored, and transported.
According to OSHA chemical storage requirements, employers must store hazardous materials in a way that:
OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200) is the cornerstone of these requirements, mandating that employees understand the risks associated with the chemicals they handle and how to respond safely.
In addition, NFPA 30 (Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code) from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides additional guidance for the safe storage of flammable materials.
All warehousing operations must adhere to these guidelines. Understandably, most companies choose to outsource their dangerous goods storage to a chemical 3PL—where the warehouse is specially designed to accommodate these substances—to ensure that these guidelines are being met.
Always keep incompatible materials separate. For instance, oxidizers should never be stored with organic materials or flammables, and acids should be kept away from bases. Refer to the hazardous materials segregation table to ensure the safe storage and transportation of hazardous materials.
If your primary storage container (i.e. a drum, barrel, or storage tank) fails, a secondary container is a precautionary system to prevent a spill from spreading. Containment pallets, berms, and spill trays prevent small leaks from becoming disasters. It’s important to keep up with regular inspections to ensure that these systems are clean and functional.
Looks can be deceiving. Just because a chemical storage warehouse appears organized doesn’t mean that the boots-on-the-ground personnel are following proper protocol at all times. Employees must be trained in both OSHA/DOT hazmat handling as well as the specific facility’s emergency procedures and storage layout.
Keeping detailed records of what’s stored, where it’s located, and its condition helps minimize errors and ensures compliance. At Porter Logistics, we use an all-in-one warehouse management system (WMS) from Extensiv to scale our operations without compromising safety or visibility. From receipt to outbound transfer, our WMS tracks lot codes, expiration dates, and regulatory data.
Locating storage near ports, highways, and rail lines reduces handling steps and transit risk. That’s one reason our Savannah hazmat warehouse is strategically positioned near the Port of Savannah, which is one of the busiest container ports in the country.
As mentioned earlier, combining certain chemicals can cause violent reactions, fires, or toxic gas releases. Always consult the SDS (as well as the hazardous materials segregation table) before placing products in shared storage.
Improper temperature control can lead to pressure build-up or degradation of chemicals. Facilities should have active ventilation and climate management systems. At Porter, we take temperature-sensitive storage seriously. One way we do so is by implementing continuous temperature and humidity monitoring to stay on top of any potential fluctuations.
Unlabeled containers or missing SDS documentation are among the most common (and preventable!) compliance violations. Remember that it’s always better to over-document than to under-document. When in doubt, write or type it out.
It’s never acceptable to use improvised or damaged drums, totes, or tanks for dangerous goods storage. All containers must meet DOT specifications and be routinely inspected for corrosion or wear.
The DOT rating system uses a set of codes to determine whether a container meets the required safety parameters for use in transportation. Approved containers are specifically designed to sustain extreme forces such as vibration, impact, and high pressure.
Hazmat warehouses must have fire suppression systems tailored to chemical risks, such as foam suppression for flammable liquids or inert gas systems for volatile vapors. There should also be well-documented emergency protocols that all employees are trained and regularly refreshed on.
The Savannah region is a hotspot for chemical manufacturing and logistics. It’s one of the most strategic locations in the Southeast for hazardous goods storage and distribution.
Notable players in the area include:
Proximity to these manufacturers, coupled with direct access to the Port of Savannah, positions the region as a hub for bulk transloading, import/export of raw materials, and domestic chemical distribution.
Our port-proximate warehouse reduces short-distance transportation, lowers inland shipping costs, and improves lead times for importers/exporters.
Our certified Savannah hazmat warehouse is built for safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. Key features include:
We provide dangerous goods storage solutions for manufacturers, importers, and distributors who need secure, compliant, and strategically located warehousing for hazardous materials. From small-batch chemicals to bulk containers, we’ll help you handle it all with confidence.
Learn more about Porter’s HAZMAT certified warehousing in Savannah and submit a form so we can set up a custom solution fitted to your needs.
As a leading logistics firm with deep ties across North America’s transportation networks, Porter Logistics closely monitors developments like the CSX–BNSF agreement and the Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, which signal a shifting landscape for shippers and logistics managers alike. Recent news—particularly the unfolding strategies among Class I railroads such as CSX, BNSF, Union Pacific, and Norfolk Southern—signals a shifting landscape with profound implications for shippers, logistics managers, and the industry at large.
On August 22, 2025, CSX and BNSF (a Berkshire Hathaway unit) unveiled a joint initiative to launch new coast-to-coast intermodal routes, connecting Southern California with hubs like Charlotte, NC, and Jacksonville, FL. This move improves shipping connectivity without pursuing a formal merger—intended to deliver many of the same customer benefits via operational collaboration, while avoiding the complexities of corporate consolidation.
Notably:
Further affirming this posture, Canadian Pacific Kansas City also publicly declined near-term merger discussions—reinforcing a trend favoring partnership over consolidation.
Meanwhile, in July 2025, Union Pacific proposed a blockbuster $85 billion merger with Norfolk Southern, aimed at creating the first modern coast-to-coast rail operator in the U.S. Early reports suggest regulatory reviews could extend up to 22 months. This plan—if approved—would instantly reshape the competitive dynamics of U.S. freight rail.
From Porter Logistics’ vantage point, the CSX–BNSF agreement appears to be a strategic reaction—not just a standalone initiative. Union Pacific’s coast-to-coast ambitions have put their rivals on notice. For CSX, the choice to pursue incremental expansion via partnership offers a way to remain competitive without triggering the regulatory headaches and cultural friction of a full-blown merger. As one analyst put it, CSX and BNSF are “waiting to see how the Union Pacific/Norfolk Southern regulatory path unfolds” before making long-term commitments.
CSX is under investor pressure to be proactive:
| Event | Description | Strategic Implication |
|---|---|---|
| CSX–BNSF service agreement | New coast-to-coast intermodal routes without merging | Collaborative response to avoid regulatory complexity |
| UP–NS proposed merger | $85B deal to form first coast-to-coast operator | Spurs competitive counter-moves and investor pressure |
| Ancora & Goldman Sachs pressure | Calls for merger or leadership change; strategic review underway | Adds urgency to CSX’s strategic planning |
| Regulatory environment | Surface Transportation Board review may take up to ~22 months | Encourages cautious, flexible approaches |
The recent CSX–BNSF pact highlights a broader trend: rail operators seeking to balance competitive positioning with regulatory caution. At Porter Logistics, we view this modus operandi—favoring operational partnerships over consolidation—as one that can preserve service improvements while minimizing merger-related uncertainty.
Nonetheless, the landscape remains dynamic. Should the UP–NS merger proceed, CSX and BNSF will need to evaluate whether partnership alone can deliver sufficient scale or if more structural alignment becomes inevitable.
We’ll continue to track developments closely—and support our clients with multi-modal strategies to navigate this evolving terrain.
At Porter Logistics, our people are at the heart of everything we do. This month, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on Monica Lewis, our dedicated Customer Service Manager, whose leadership, resilience, and approachable personality help shape the exceptional experiences we provide to our clients every day.
Monica brings a truly diverse professional background to her role. Before stepping into logistics, she gained experience as a Correctional Officer, QC Lab Clerk, Manufacturing Line Person and Bookkeeper. Each role sharpened her skills in communication, attention to detail, and adaptability—qualities that now serve her so well in customer service leadership.
Her journey with Porter Logistics began when the company she was working for was acquired by Porter. Starting as a Customer Service Representative, Monica quickly stood out. Shortly after the acquisition, she was offered the Customer Service Manager position—an opportunity she embraced wholeheartedly.
As a leader, Monica is guided by three core values: honesty, trust, and passion for the business. She believes that building trust within her team fosters collaboration, transparency, and success. Her resilience in the face of challenges ensures that her team remains focused and motivated, no matter what comes their way.
“I believe honesty and trust are essential to creating a team that works well together,” Monica shares. “And passion is what keeps us all striving to do our best every day.”
When asked who inspires her most, Monica doesn’t hesitate: her father. His ability to remain composed in any situation left a lasting impression on her. “My father’s calm strength taught me that maintaining composure—especially in challenging circumstances—is one of the most powerful traits a person can have,” she reflects.
While Monica’s professional demeanor might lead people to think she’s all business, she reveals a more playful side: “People often think I’m very serious, but I’m actually kind of silly most of the time.”
Outside of work, Monica enjoys bike riding, swimming, hiking, and watching movies, finding balance and joy in the activities that keep her active and connected.
The best career advice Monica has ever received is simple but powerful: “If in doubt—ASK!” It’s a reminder that curiosity and communication are key to growth, understanding, and effective teamwork.
At Porter Logistics, we’re proud to have leaders like Monica Lewis who embody the values of honesty, resilience, and passion. Her ability to connect with customers, empower her team, and lead with heart makes her an invaluable part of the Porter family.
Savannah has become a key player in U.S. logistics. Its location, infrastructure, and growing industrial footprint make it a smart choice for brands that want to expand on the East Coast without the bottlenecks that often come with larger ports.
As with any strategic business decision, choosing the right 3PL provider in Savannah isn’t about picking the first name you see near the port. That’s how you end up with a Savannah 3PL that locks you into rigid contracts, uses outdated methods to manage inventory, and gives you little room to grow.
Choosing the best 3PL in Savannah is about finding a partner who can support your supply chain with real efficiency, adaptability, and local expertise.
When you know what to look for when evaluating the best 3PLs in Georgia, and the Savannah area in particular, you’re better equipped to make a smart choice for your business—allowing you to scale with ease and feel confident in your partnership.
One of Savannah’s biggest advantages is access to the Port of Savannah at Garden City Terminal, which is the fastest-growing container terminal in the U.S. According to the Savannah Economic Development Authority, the port is located within 300 miles of 37.2 million residents, 11 major metro areas, eight major international airports and five major ports.
But you can only leverage that advantage if your 3PL provider is positioned nearby. The closer your 3PL warehouse is to the port, the less you’ll spend on drayage and delays.
A strategically located Savannah 3PL warehouse also helps avoid congestion during peak shipping seasons. Keep an eye out for 3PLs that can offer fast container turnarounds and easy access to major interstates like I-16 and I-95. When a 3PL
What works for your supply chain now might not work six months from now. The best 3PL companies in Savannah understand that and offer scalable services, meaning they can flex to match your volumes, SKUs, and storage needs without skipping a beat.
Ask potential partners how they handle seasonal spikes, product line expansions, or temporary overflows. Do they have flexible storage terms? Can they quickly scale labor or space when needed? These are the types of capabilities that separate an average provider from a long-term partner.
Savannah’s proximity to global trade routes is only an advantage if your 3PL understands how to navigate it. That includes experience with port processes, customs clearance, container handling, and international documentation.
An ideal partner doesn’t just move product from Point A to Point B, they also help you sidestep red tape and avoid costly missteps. Look for 3PLs that work regularly with freight forwarders and customs brokers. You’ll spend less time worrying about compliance and more time moving product.
There’s no excuse for low visibility given the availability of advanced 3PL technology. Today’s supply chains need to move fast, and guesswork doesn’t cut it. Your 3PL should give you full visibility into your inventory, order status, and performance metrics.
The best 3PL companies in Savannah leverage:
Technology is what turns logistics from a cost center into a strategic advantage. If a provider can’t offer modern tools and easy access to your data, it may be time to keep looking.
At Porter Logistics, we use the Extensiv 3PL system which offers game-changing features such as EDI & API connections, eCommerce store integrations, and real-time inventory tracking. We’ve also developed in-house dock management software to book appointments, minimize dock congestion, and increase loading and unloading efficiency.
Storage and fulfillment services are the baseline. The best 3PLs go further, offering services like:
When you can handle these tasks in the same facility as your storage and shipping, you save time and avoid added transportation costs. Porter’s Savannah team supports these value-added services to help clients simplify their supply chain and reduce touchpoints.
Every logistics partner will say they’re reliable. What matters more is how they respond when things go sideways. Whether it’s a shipment delay, weather disruption, or an unexpected surge in demand, your 3PL should be a true partner—ready to solve problems and communicate clearly.
Ask how their team handles exceptions. Do they offer dedicated account support? Will they proactively flag issues or wait for you to discover them? A collaborative mindset is just as important as equipment and square footage.
One of the biggest mistakes companies make when choosing a 3PL is locking into a rigid contract too early. Your storage and fulfillment needs can change month to month, especially if you’re launching new products, navigating seasonality, or responding to market shifts.
The best Savannah 3PL providers offer flexible storage agreements without long-term commitments or minimum space requirements. You should only pay for what you use. That’s how logistics becomes a cost-effective extension of your business rather than a fixed overhead burden.
At Porter Logistics, we don’t force minimums or require clients to overcommit. Our Savannah 3PL services are designed to scale with your business, so you can adjust space and services as needed without jumping through hoops. Learn more about our engagement models.
Savannah supports a wide range of industries, including consumer packaged goods, eCommerce, food and beverage, HAZMAT, and more. Its access to the port and Southeast markets makes it ideal for both imports and regional distribution.
The closer the better. A facility within 10–15 miles of the port can significantly reduce drayage costs and speed up container movement. Porter’s Savannah location is designed for this type of proximity and port efficiency.
Yes, many 3PLs—Porter included—work closely with freight forwarders and customs brokers to ensure that containers are processed quickly and accurately. While we don’t file customs entries directly, we act as a logistics liaison for importers that need help coordinating shipments.
Onboarding typically includes systems integration, process mapping, inventory receiving, and a testing phase. The best 3PLs will guide you through this process and make sure your team knows exactly how to operate within their systems from day one.
In many cases, yes. Savannah offers direct rail access, faster port processing times, and less congestion than ports like New York/New Jersey. It’s also well-connected to Atlanta and other Southeast markets, making it an efficient hub for regional distribution.
Porter Logistics offers third-party warehousing and logistics services directly out of our Savannah, GA, 3PL facility with scalable solutions designed to support high-volume, high-efficiency supply chains. Whether you need help managing imported freight, regional fulfillment, or overflow warehousing, we’re ready to collaborate with reliable Savannah 3PL warehousing.
If your business relies on fast-moving supply chains, you know that choosing the right warehouse partner in Savannah, GA makes all the difference. Savannah is home to one of the busiest ports in the United States, making it a strategic hub for both importers and exporters.
But many businesses are hit with the age-old dilemma: With so many options, how do you know if a warehouse provider is truly reliable for Savannah B2B order fulfillment?
It’s easy for 3PLs to tout their expertise and hit all the right buzzwords, but it takes a keen eye to discern the fulfillment centers who just say they provide end-to-end support from those that actually do.
To choose the right 3PL partner for your Savannah B2B needs, you need to know what to look out for. Here are 10 key traits that set apart a dependable B2B and retail warehouse in Savannah.
A reliable B2B/retail warehouse in Savannah starts with location. With the Port of Savannah serving as a gateway for global trade, your warehouse partner should be positioned to handle both imports and exports efficiently. Proximity to the port means quicker drayage, lower transportation costs, and reduced lead times.
Beyond port access, look for a facility that has established relationships with freight brokers and carriers. Even if a warehouse doesn’t own trucks, it should have the ability to coordinate drayage, full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and international freight solutions on your behalf. All of this helps to ensure that goods move seamlessly no matter if they’re coming in from overseas or headed across the U.S.
If your products fall into regulated categories—like chemicals, food, or pharmaceuticals—you’ll need a warehouse that’s well-versed in compliance. A reliable partner will have certifications that demonstrate their ability to meet industry standards. These certifications aren’t just badges; they reflect processes and training that protect your products and your reputation.
Importers especially benefit from working with a warehouse that understands international compliance requirements. From customs documentation to export preparation, an experienced warehouse team can minimize delays and keep your supply chain moving.
Modern supply chains demand visibility. A warehouse that relies on outdated systems can leave you in the dark about where your products are, when they’ll ship, or how much inventory you really have on hand.
Reliable B2B/retail warehouses in Savannah use advanced warehouse management systems (WMS) to deliver real-time insights. For example, the Extensiv 3PL system used by Porter Logistics allows for:
On top of WMS capabilities, some warehouses develop their own in-house tools to solve bottlenecks. Dock management software, for instance, can reduce congestion by streamlining appointment booking for deliveries and pickups. These kinds of innovations translate into faster turnaround times and fewer headaches for your team.
Technology alone isn’t enough and it doesn’t paint the entire picture. You also need confidence that your products are being scanned, counted, and stored accurately. Dependable B2B warehouses invest in best-in-class equipment like Zebra scanners, which provide precise tracking for products moving in and out of the facility.
When a warehouse provides this level of accuracy, it ensures that inventory reports match reality, reducing shrinkage and costly errors. For businesses fulfilling retail or B2B orders in Savannah, that reliability is critical. A mis-shipped pallet or missed carton can quickly erode trust with your customers.
Not every warehouse is built to serve the same kind of customer. Some specialize in startups with just a few pallets of inventory, while others cater to massive enterprise needs. A reliable B2B/retail warehouse in Savannah will be transparent about its client fit.
The best partners are equipped to handle both large and mid-sized businesses. They’ll be able to offer 10,000+ pallet spaces for Fortune 10 companies, while still providing room for privately held brands with a few hundred pallets. This flexibility allows businesses to grow without worrying about whether their warehouse can keep up.
A dependable warehouse isn’t limited to one niche. Look for a partner that has proven success across a variety of industries, such as:
This diversity of experience means the warehouse is adaptable and understands the unique needs of different supply chains. Whether you’re storing regulated materials, temperature-sensitive items, or consumer products destined for retail shelves, a seasoned partner will already have the processes in place.
Even with the best systems, warehousing comes down to people. Reliable warehouses maintain open lines of communication with their clients. That means quick responses, clear reporting, and proactive updates if issues arise.
For B2B and retail fulfillment, transparency is especially important. From purchase order management to final delivery, you should know exactly what’s happening with your inventory. A warehouse partner that prioritizes communication builds trust and helps your business run more smoothly.
This is where 3PL warehouse reviews come especially in handy. Take a look at what real customers are saying about their partnerships and boots-on-the-ground support. Are the warehouse employees efficient and professional? Are wait times short? Is there face-to-face interaction? If you’re not seeing any reviews at all or they seem to be artificially skewed, that’s a red flag.
One trait that sets reliable warehouses apart is their approach to transportation. Some companies own their own trucking fleets, which can limit flexibility or create conflicts of interest. Others, however, build strong partnerships with multiple freight brokers.
By maintaining tight relationships with trusted brokers, a warehouse can provide competitive pricing for drayage, FTL, LTL, full container load (FCL), and less-than-container load (LCL) shipments—without pushing you toward one particular solution. This flexibility gives you access to the right mode of transportation for your needs, whether you’re moving goods domestically or internationally.
In a city like Savannah, where international trade is a daily reality, reliable warehouses are those that can manage both imports and exports with ease. That includes:
Global expertise ensures that your supply chain doesn’t just stop at the warehouse door. Instead, your provider becomes a true partner in moving goods across borders and continents.
Many B2B/retail warehouses in Savannah can remain steady in normal conditions, but what happens when there are sudden disruptions? A truly reliable warehouse in Savannah can weather the storm.
When a warehouse demonstrates this level of preparedness, it builds long-term confidence that your supply chain won’t grind to a halt during unexpected events.
When it comes to B2B and retail logistics, reliability is the foundation of your business operations and you should settle for nothing less than the best. After all, every late delivery, inventory error, or compliance misstep ripples down to your customers.
By choosing a Savannah B2B/retail warehouse with the traits outlined above, you can build a supply chain that’s resilient, efficient, and ready to grow. A warehouse that prioritizes visibility, accuracy, and communication will help your business thrive.
Ready to take the next step toward optimizing your B2B warehousing in Savannah? Call us for a free, zero-obligation quote.
