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.
We’re excited to share that Porter Logistics has officially received Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) food storage approval to operate as a certified food storage facility. This recognition marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards in food safety, compliance, and operational excellence.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture regulates food storage and distribution facilities under a comprehensive set of safety and sanitation standards. Receiving this approval means that Porter Logistics has met all state-mandated requirements for the proper handling, warehousing, and distribution of food-grade products.
This includes compliance in key areas such as:
For more details on these requirements, visit the GDA Retail Food Program.
As a leading 3PL provider with a focus on cold chain logistics and food-grade warehousing, this approval reinforces the trust our clients place in us every day. It validates our investment in:
Whether storing packaged goods, perishables, or specialty items, our clients can move forward with confidence knowing their products are handled with the highest level of care and compliance.
With this certification, Porter Logistics strengthens its position as a premier logistics partner for food and beverage brands throughout Georgia and the Southeast. It also paves the way for expanded service offerings and new client partnerships in regulated sectors.
We’re proud to meet the rigorous standards set by the GDA—and even prouder to uphold them every day as we continue growing.
Looking for a GDA-approved partner for your food storage and logistics needs? Porter Logistics offers customized, scalable solutions backed by a team that understands the demands of a regulated environment.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your supply chain with certified food-grade warehousing and distribution.
In the fast-paced world of 3PL, growth isn’t just a metric—it’s mission-critical. Porter Logistics, a leading Atlanta-based 3PL provider, recently unlocked a game-changing transformation by partnering with Extensiv. The result? A staggering 100x growth with Extensiv growth in process efficiency, scalability, and profitability. Here’s how they did it.
As Porter Logistics expanded into new verticals—cold storage, hazmat, food safety, e-commerce—operational complexity hit a tipping point. Managing multiple SKUs, compliance standards, and order channels manually risked accuracy, service levels, and customer satisfaction.
PORTER NEEDED:
Porter adopted Extensiv’s Network Manager, 3PL Warehouse Manager, and integrated mobile tools. This unified suite brought together OMS, WMS, inventory control, and transportation logistics on a single easy-to-use platform.
Results included:
By streamlining workflows and automating key operations, Porter achieved remarkable outcomes:
To support food, pharma, and specialty chemicals, Porter deployed Extensiv across its new 145,000 ft² cold storage facility (chiller and freezer). Backed by rugged mobile terminals (StrikerX), scanning and inventory tracking in sub-zero environments have been reliable and accurate—down to −20 °F.
For Porter Logistics: Extensiv became their operational backbone, enabling:
For Porter’s customers: The benefits are palpable:
Partnering with Extensiv didn’t just solve Porter’s challenges—it future-proofed their whole operation. From cold-chain to e-commerce, regulated logistics to rail-served warehousing, they now have a platform that scales with every new venture.
If you’re a brand or manufacturer looking to modernize your distribution, comply with strict vertical standards, or prepare for aggressive growth—Porter Logistics, powered by Extensiv, has the proven path forward.
Contact Porter Logistics today to learn how this combined 3PL + technology solution can revolutionize your supply chain.
About Porter Logistics
A top-tier Atlanta‑based 3PL provider that is one of fastest growing logistics firms in the United States, Porter offers omnichannel warehousing, transportation brokerage, cold‑chain, hazmat, food‑grade, and DTC fulfillment—all backed by full tech integration and rigorous compliance measures.
At Porter Logistics, we know that outstanding service begins with exceptional people. This month, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on Shonquella Allen, our dedicated Customer Service Manager, whose leadership, empathy, and passion for logistics help shape the exceptional experiences we provide to our clients every day.
Shonquella Allen’s journey in logistics began with a simple yet powerful motivation: the challenge of connecting people, products, and solutions in the most efficient way possible. Over the years, she has developed a deep passion for delivering meaningful service.
“No two days in this field are ever the same,” Shonquella shares. “I love that I’m constantly learning and growing. What keeps me going is creating an environment where both clients and employees feel supported and heard.”
Her role as Customer Service Manager is rooted in professionalism, reliability, and care — values that resonate in every interaction she leads.
What attracted Shonquella to Porter Logistics was the company’s commitment to innovation and efficiency. But it wasn’t just the technology and systems that drew her in — it was the opportunity to make a real impact on the customer experience.
“I saw a chance to work with a team that values excellence and empowers people to do their best work. That’s rare, and it’s something I deeply respect.”
As a leader, Shonquella places strong emphasis on integrity, accountability, empathy, respect, transparency, and a growth mindset.
While her professional life is grounded in logistics and leadership, Shonquella brings her fun-loving side to the table too.
“I love karaoke,” she laughs. “And I know every single word to 90’s R&B songs!”
Outside of work, Shonquella finds joy and balance in her hobbies. Whether it’s shopping, bowling, or spending quality time with family, these activities help her recharge and stay grounded.
“I believe in finding joy in the little things. My family keeps me centered, and that balance helps me show up fully at work.”
Over the years, Shonquella has gathered career advice that she now lives by:
“These four principles are my compass,” she says. “They remind me why I love what I do, and why I show up every day with heart.”
At Porter Logistics, we’re honored to have leaders like Shonquella Allen shaping our customer experience with authenticity and care. Her dedication inspires us all to lead with purpose and treat every challenge as an opportunity to grow.
Whether your company handles food, pharmaceuticals, specialty chemicals, or other temperature-sensitive goods, cold chain logistics are integral to your success. A strong cold chain can reduce spoilage, maintain regulatory compliance, and increase customer satisfaction. A weak one can undermine your entire supply chain.
If you’re looking to improve your cold chain logistics or are considering cold storage solutions for the first time, you should be familiar with core cold chain logistics best practices. These will help you operate more efficiently and mitigate risk while scaling sustainably.
It’s easy to assume that cold chain logistics begins and ends in a temperature-controlled facility. In reality, every touchpoint in your supply chain matters. The handoff from the loading dock to a reefer truck, the staging areas in distribution centers, the time spent in transit—all of these affect product integrity.
Before you select a cold storage provider, look at their capabilities across the board. Can they receive freight efficiently? Do they offer cross-docking or transloading services? What kind of monitoring is in place for goods while they’re waiting to ship?
At Porter Logistics, we operate a certified, tech-enabled cold storage building in Georgia. Our 150,000 sq. foot Atlanta facility is strategically located to support fast-moving regional and national supply chains. But we’re way more than just square footage. We help clients streamline inbound and outbound transportation so products stay within spec from dock to dock.
Not every product needs to be frozen. Some require controlled ambient conditions; others need to stay in the 35–40°F range. The best cold storage environments offer flexibility: dedicated temperature zones for frozen, refrigerated, and ambient products, plus a warehouse team that understands the importance of maintaining those thresholds.
Storing products in the wrong zone (even for short periods!) can lead to spoilage or regulatory issues. That’s why our Atlanta cold storage facility is engineered with multiple temperature settings and continuous monitoring. Our team helps clients match the cold storage product profile to the correct environment, and adjust as needed based on seasonality or changes in inventory.
Cold chain logistics doesn’t leave much room for error. The moment something goes wrong, whether that’s a door left open or a cooler malfunction, time is against you. Real-time monitoring systems that track temperature, humidity, and equipment performance are a must. These systems should also integrate with Warehouse Management System (WMS) platforms to ensure inventory visibility at the Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) level.
If you’re vetting cold storage partners, ask about their monitoring tech. Are there alerts for temperature excursions? Is the data logged for compliance? Can your team access live reporting? If the answer to each of these questions isn’t a resounding yes, you’re better off seeking out other cold storage providers.
At Porter, every cold zone is outfitted with sensors and alert systems. Our integrated systems give clients access to real-time data, making it easier to plan, audit, and troubleshoot when needed.
Long wait times can throw off delivery windows and increase exposure to temperature fluctuations. A facility with inefficient inbound and outbound operations adds more risk than it removes.
To avoid these issues, look for cold storage providers with strong throughput metrics, multiple loading bays, and experienced warehouse teams. Speed matters—but so does accuracy. Product needs to move quickly, but not at the expense of inventory mismanagement or handling errors.
Our Atlanta cold storage warehouse was built with logistics flow in mind. From staging to outbound dispatch, we’re set up to move high volumes without sacrificing control.
Cold chain logistics works best when your providers aren’t just vendors; they’re collaborators. A good 3PL will help you forecast demand, scale storage intelligently, and solve pain points in your supply chain. They’ll also understand the regulatory environment your products are subject to, whether that’s FDA guidelines for food or GMP requirements for pharmaceuticals.
At Porter Logistics, we work with companies that see cold chain efficiency as a competitive edge. Our team isn’t just here to receive pallets. We’re here to optimize your supply chain.
A member of the Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA), Porter Logistics offers flexible cold storage solutions out of our Atlanta facility, with temperature-controlled space, inventory visibility, and integrated logistics support. Whether you need a long-term partner or a scalable option for peak season, we can help.
Contact us for a custom solution. Our Atlanta cold storage services are designed to streamline your supply chain and drive your growth.
Cold chain logistics is essential for industries like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, cosmetics, and specialty chemicals. Any product that’s temperature-sensitive during transport or storage can benefit from a well-managed cold chain.
Cold storage facilities often include multiple zones:
Key factors include temperature control capabilities, real-time monitoring, proximity to transportation hubs, inventory visibility, and experience handling your product type. A provider with integrated logistics services can help reduce handoffs and keep products moving smoothly.
Check manufacturer guidelines or compliance requirements. Products that degrade under heat or exposure (such as perishable foods, vaccines, and active pharmaceutical ingredients) almost always require temperature control from the point of manufacture to final delivery. If you’re unsure, give us a call.
While our cold storage operations are based in Atlanta, allowing us to serve major Southeastern markets quickly and efficiently, we also operate facilities in Savannah and Tampa.
At a cold dock, time matters more than anywhere else. When a refrigerated trailer arrives, speed, coordination, and temperature control become the main KPIs. Because if at this stage, unloading takes too long, temperature-sensitive products can begin to warm beyond safe thresholds.
This might compromise product quality and jeopardize both compliance and customer trust.
At Porter Logistics, we manage a wide range of regulated goods, including food-grade and pharmaceutical freight. That kind of work puts a higher standard on how we run our docks. One of the ways we protect our cold chain is by keeping scheduling structured, coordinated, and visible for our teams and our clients.
| Quick Stat Research found that reefer drivers experienced detention at more than 25% of stops. Their average wait times reached 1.7 hours beyond the standard 2-hour threshold. That extra time on the dock puts cold chain integrity directly at risk. |
Cold chain breaks often start with something as simple as a late trailer, a crowded staging area, or a dock door that stays open longer than planned.
Temperature-sensitive freight doesn’t offer much room for delay. And unlike dry storage, where staging can be more flexible, cold storage often has limited buffer space and stricter door controls. If schedule delays happen, the exposure adds up quickly, and it’s not always caught until later. These issues can lead to rejected shipments or compliance flags, even when the product was handled properly overall.
A study by ATRI found that in 2023 alone, detention time across for-hire trucking exceeded 135 million hours. And refrigerated trailer drivers experienced detention 56.2% of the time, which is significantly higher than the industry average. This shows that these delays aren’t hypothetical. They’re already built into daily operations unless dock management is actively optimized.
You might have seen that traditional scheduling methods (like calls, emails, or spreadsheets) don’t hold up well in cold environments. Cold docks require tighter planning and better coordination. Schedules need to reflect not just time slots, but actual operational capacity.
What actually needs to be scheduled is a set of conditions:
Without a system that ties all these variables together, things break down quickly. Double-booking becomes more likely, equipment gets stretched, and teams lose visibility. And when more than one trailer shows up without clear direction, the entire dock can fall behind.
| This inefficiency affects the larger logistics cycle According to recent data, 57% of drivers reported being late or canceling a delivery due to detention at a previous stop. Moreover, 52% drivers ran out of available driving hours because of delays. |
Cold storage operations operate under scrutiny, especially when handling food or pharmaceuticals. Under guidelines like the FDA’s FSMA, cold chain processes are required to be both controlled and documented, including how long a shipment stays on the dock and how it’s handled during transfer.
If scheduling is disorganized, it becomes harder to answer questions like:
These details matter in audits and inspections, and they shape how customers view your reliability. That’s how scheduling is directly tied to compliance, reporting, and accountability.
To maintain product safety and regulatory compliance, cold docks must run on a fixed rhythm. Every trailer turn, door assignment, and load plan must be thought through in advance and tracked in real time.
At Porter, our dock scheduling system gives us the precision needed to operate with that rhythm. Door usage is mapped based on temperature zones. Appointment slots are structured around load complexity, staging capacity, and required dwell time. As a result, our dock doors only open when they should, trailers are processed on time, and cold chain exposure is minimized.
This approach gives us operational clarity. Our workers know which door is tied to which appointment, equipment is aligned in advance, and staging plans are executed with intent. As a result, the chaos that can creep into busy loading docks is replaced by predictable flow.
To support this operation, Porter uses Arrivy’s dock scheduling software. With it, our customers can book appointments directly through a self-serve portal. Appointments are aligned with real-time dock availability and governed by customized rules (buffer times, booking limits, and resource-specific constraints).
Arrivy also enables us to:
For example, if a customer books a frozen seafood delivery, they can book a slot tied to a sub-zero dock door. The system blocks adjacent time windows for staging and cleanup. It also makes sure the right equipment and crew are ready when the trailer arrives.
What matters here is control. Arrivy helps our dock managers make informed decisions by presenting accurate, real-time data. And it provides our carriers with the consistency they need to plan routes and dwell time expectations.
The benefits aren’t abstract. With better scheduling tools in place, our customers get a more predictable experience at the dock. Appointments are faster. Wait times go down. And there’s less back-and-forth on confirming or adjusting times.
Internally, our teams can plan better. Fewer calls and emails mean fewer manual updates. Our crews spend more time loading and less time waiting for paperwork or direction.
From a compliance standpoint, it also means we have a clear record of what happened, when, and by whom.
Cold docks don’t give much room for error. Even a short delay can put a shipment at risk or cause a compliance issue. That’s why scheduling has to reflect real capacity, real conditions, and the actual pace of the work on the ground.
At Porter Logistics, we’ve built our dock operations with this in mind. With the help of Arrivy, we keep appointments on track, reduce dwell time, and maintain the cold chain every step of the way.
In the logistics and warehousing industries, understanding how to read a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is as much a regulatory necessity as it is a potential life-saving measure. When handling hazardous materials, one wrong move due to misunderstanding or lack of information can lead to serious health risks, environmental damage, or costly violations.
Whether you’re handling, shipping, or storing hazardous chemicals, knowing where to find SDSs and how to interpret them can protect your team and keep your facility compliant.
A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a detailed document that provides information about the properties, hazards, handling, storage, and emergency procedures for chemicals and substances. SDSs are designed to help employers, employees, first responders, and environmental agencies manage chemical risks.
Under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), manufacturers, importers, and distributors are required to provide an SDS for every hazardous chemical they supply.
The primary purpose of a Safety Data Sheet is to communicate essential safety and health information about chemicals to those who use or may come into contact with them. This includes:
SDSs are a critical part of a company’s safety protocols and risk management strategies. Without them, workers might not be fully aware, prepared, or equipped to handle dangerous materials.
An SDS is divided into 16 standardized sections under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). These sections ensure that safety data is communicated in a consistent and organized manner worldwide.
Here’s a quick overview of what each section includes:
Each SDS must include accurate and complete data covering the following required elements:
Chemical manufacturers, importers, and distributors are responsible for providing an SDS for every hazardous chemical. However, employers such as warehouse operators, 3PL providers, and logistics firms are responsible for:
Using a Software to track SDS sheets contained in a warehouse is a good best practice. Read about how Porte partnered with Velocity for SDS management here
If a company fails to comply with SDS requirements, it can result in serious OSHA penalties and safety violations.
SDSs are required whenever hazardous chemicals are used or stored in the workplace, transported or handled by employees, and/or supplied to other facilities or customers. This requirement applies to all workplaces under OSHA jurisdiction, including warehouses, manufacturing plants, and logistics centers.
If an SDS isn’t readily accessible, there’s little point in having one at all. SDSs must be available to all employees during every shift. Today, many companies:
At Porter Logistics, workplace safety is a top priority. We work to ensure that SDSs are always available and regularly reviewed as part of our compliance protocol.
OSHA does not specify an exact timeframe for retaining SDSs, but best practices and some regulatory interpretations recommend keeping SDSs for as long as the chemical is used or stored.
It’s also recommended to retain old SDSs for at least 30 years as part of exposure records (per OSHA standard 1910.1020). Maintaining historical SDSs is important for long-term worker health tracking and legal compliance.
If you’re a manufacturer or distributor introducing a new chemical to the market, you must prepare an SDS that meets GHS standards. Here’s how to create one:
For most companies in logistics and warehousing, creating SDSs isn’t necessary, but knowing how to interpret them is crucial.
When you learn how to read a Safety Data Sheet, you’re doing more than just checking off a compliance requirement, you’re understanding a cornerstone of warehouse safety. Whether you’re managing hazardous freight, running a distribution center, or operating a 3PL warehouse, knowing how to navigate and act on SDS information can make a real difference in workplace safety.
At Porter Logistics, our teams are trained to work safely with chemicals and maintain full SDS compliance across all operations. Looking for a logistics partner that prioritizes safety and compliance? Contact Porter Logistics today to learn how we can support your supply chain needs.
When it comes to supply chain logistics, not all products are created equal. Some are highly sensitive to temperature changes, requiring specialized cold storage and transportation solutions to maintain their integrity and safety. These products make up what’s known as the cold chain—a temperature-controlled supply chain designed to protect perishables from origin to final delivery.
Continue reading to learn about the main types of cold chain products, why they require temperature control, and how businesses can ensure they meet the highest standards for quality and compliance through reliable cold chain solutions.
Cold chain products are goods that must be stored and transported within specific temperature ranges to avoid spoilage, degradation, or loss of efficacy. The required temperature zone can range from ambient (controlled room temperature) to deep freeze, depending on the product type.
Industries that rely heavily on cold chain logistics include:
Now, let’s take a closer look at the types of cold chain products that fall into each category.
Food safety and freshness depend heavily on proper temperature control. The food industry relies on cold chain logistics to comply with regulations like the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and to extend product shelf life.
Common cold chain food products include:
Partnering with a logistics provider that offers cold storage in key markets like Atlanta can reduce transit times and preserve food quality.
Pharmaceutical products often have strict temperature requirements to ensure safety and efficacy. Even minor fluctuations can lead to degradation or render medications ineffective.
Cold chain pharma products include:
Many of these require storage in the 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) range, or even ultra-low temperatures (as low as -80°C) for mRNA vaccines and other cutting-edge therapies.
From probiotics and herbal blends to omega-3 capsules and collagen powders, nutraceuticals often require refrigeration or climate-controlled warehousing to protect shelf life and product efficacy. Many are made with natural or live ingredients that can break down under heat, light, or moisture exposure.
Products in this category may include:
It might come as a surprise, but many cosmetic and personal care items are temperature-sensitive. Products with natural ingredients, active compounds, or preservatives often require temperature control to prevent spoilage or separation.
Examples include:
Improper storage can lead to changes in texture, scent, and effectiveness—damaging both the product and the brand’s reputation. Cold chain logistics helps maintain consistency and consumer trust across every shipment.
Cold chain logistics also plays a critical role in transporting specialty chemicals and lab reagents that degrade or become dangerous if exposed to heat.
These include:
These materials often require documentation and real-time temperature monitoring to remain compliant with environmental and safety regulations. Porter operates 750,000 square feet of certified hazmat chemical warehouse space in Atlanta.
Fresh flowers and plants are highly perishable, requiring cold storage from farm to retailer. From the moment crops are harvested or flowers are cut, temperature fluctuations can accelerate spoilage, reduce freshness, or cause irreparable damage.
Key examples:
For many of these items, maintaining a temperature range of 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) is critical during post-harvest handling, storage, and transit. Inconsistent refrigeration can lead to wilting, discoloration, microbial growth, or loss of market value.
Many times, a higher price tag comes with higher expectations for care. High-end products like fine wines, cheeses, and gourmet chocolates require precise temperature control to maintain quality and customer satisfaction.
This category may include:
Luxury retailers and distributors rely on refrigerated logistics to protect these delicate goods from melting, spoilage, or crystallization.
Whether you’re storing vaccines or shipping frozen meals, cold chain failure can result in major product loss, safety issues, and financial liability. That’s why it’s critical to work with a trusted 3PL partner that offers:
For any business operating in food, pharma, agriculture, or specialty retail, it’s imperative that you understand the types of cold chain products (and the risks they face without proper temperature control).
At Porter Logistics, we help brands safeguard their cold chain every step of the way with certified, industry-leading cold storage and transportation solutions. We’re a proud member of the Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) and have the expertise to streamline your supply chain with scalable, certified cold chain solutions.
Learn more about our cold storage warehousing services and request a custom quote today.
Technology in logistics and warehousing is transforming the 3PL industry. As supply chains grow more complex and global, businesses must stay ahead to streamline operations, cut costs, and boost efficiency. At Porter Logistics, we know that embracing cutting-edge technology is crucial for maintaining smooth, high-performing supply chains that minimize risk for our clients.
As a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider, we weave technology into every aspect of our operations—from warehousing and distribution to order fulfillment and transportation brokerage. In this post, we’ll explore how technology is reshaping logistics and warehousing, showcase our solutions at Porter Logistics, and highlight how our partner, Ram Tech, keeps us at innovation’s forefront.
Real-time tracking systems, automated order fulfillment, and advanced inventory management now enable greater operational efficiency, better customer satisfaction, and fewer errors. In warehousing, robotics, RFID technology, and sophisticated warehouse management systems (WMS) have streamlined inventory tracking, picking, packing, and shipping.
We pride ourselves on staying at technology’s cutting edge in the logistic and warehousing space. Our technology in logistic stack integrates and automates supply chain functions, making it simple for clients to manage products and orders without operational concerns.
A Warehouse Management System (WMS) streamlines warehouse operations, inventory tracking, and order fulfillment. It optimizes space use, ensures accurate inventory tracking, and accelerates picking, packing, and shipping. The system integrates fully with other platforms, providing real-time updates on stock levels, order status, and shipment tracking.
A robust WMS improves order accuracy, shortens lead times, and gives clients complete transparency through real-time insights into their inventory and operations.
Our API-enabled technology automates order and inventory management workflows, eliminating manual updates across platforms. With over 50 pre-built integrations for popular shopping carts and marketplaces, we make it easy to connect our WMS to clients’ sales channels, ensuring smooth order processing with minimal errors.
We use advanced EDI to streamline communication with partners and clients. Our system automates the transmission of business documents, from purchase orders to shipping notifications. This ensures accurate, real-time data flow, reduces errors, and speeds up processing throughout our supply chain.
Data analytics at the heart of our operations. By analyzing supply chain data, we spot inefficiencies, track performance, and make informed decisions. This helps clients reduce costs and optimize their strategies, whether finding the most cost-effective shipping methods or improving warehouse performance.
While our logistics and warehousing operations rely heavily on technology, it’s essential to recognize the role of our IT partner, Ram Tech, in supporting and enhancing these systems. Ram Tech has been an integral part of Porter Logistics’ ability to provide top-notch service to our clients. As an outsourced IT partner, Ram Tech specializes in providing IT solutions tailored to our specific needs, ensuring that our technology infrastructure is robust, secure, and scalable.
Ram Tech helps us manage and maintain our entire IT ecosystem, ensuring that all our systems and technologies are running smoothly. Here are a few ways they support our business:
Ram Tech provides critical network security services, ensuring that our systems and data are protected from cyber threats. With increasing data breaches and cyber-attacks, having a trusted IT partner like Ram Tech ensures that our clients’ information is safe and secure.
Integrating various software systems (WMS, TMS, ERP, etc.) is essential for seamless logistics and warehousing operations. Ram Tech ensures that all our systems work together efficiently, allowing us to provide a smooth experience for our clients.
Ram Tech helps us implement cloud-based solutions, which ensure that our data is accessible from anywhere, anytime. This is especially important as we manage vast amounts of data for our clients across various platforms. Their cloud services also allow for greater scalability, so we can easily expand our capabilities as our business grows.
With the fast-paced nature of logistics, it’s crucial that our systems are operational around the clock. Ram Tech provides 24/7 IT support, quickly addressing any issues that may arise, ensuring minimal downtime and smooth operations.
Outsourcing IT services to Ram Tech allows Porter Logistics to focus on what we do best—providing exceptional logistics and warehousing solutions to our clients while leaving the complexities of IT management to the experts. Here are some key benefits of using an outsourced IT partner like Ram Tech:
At Porter Logistics, we’re committed to using technology to drive innovation, boost efficiency, and deliver outstanding service. From advanced warehouse systems to cutting-edge transportation technologies, we use the best tools to streamline operations and help our clients succeed.
Our partnership with Ram Tech ensures our IT infrastructure stays robust, secure, and scalable, keeping us ahead in the evolving logistics landscape. Their IT expertise lets us focus on what we do best—providing seamless logistics and warehousing services.
Visit their website at Ram Tech to explore their offerings and discover how they can support your IT needs.
