MELVINDALE, Mich., Aug. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Transportation and trucking companies are increasingly relying on third-party logistics providers to grow their businesses, according to Evans Distribution Systems, a full-service third-party logistics provider of warehousing, transportation and value-added solutions.

"Seventy-seven percent of domestic Fortune 500 companies are using 3PLs for logistics and supply chain functions*, and transportation is a key component of this work," said Doug Ostrowski, Evan Distribution Systems' vice president of transportation. "This represents an opportunity for trucking companies to win business."

He says there are three ways for trucking companies to position themselves for success with 3PLs.

    --  Get certified: When 3PLs are looking for a transportation partner, those
        with relevant certifications provide added value. Increased
        consideration is often given to companies who show green commitment and
        more fuel efficient transportation via a SmartWay Transport Partnership;
        quality standards and continuous systems improvement through ISO
        9001:2000 certifications; and reduced border delays and priority
        processing for inspections with C-TPAT status.
    --  Focus on safety: Trucking companies should ensure their safety record is
        accurate and up-to-date on the U.S. Department of Transportation's SAFER
        website. It's visible to the public and gives a snapshot of inspections,
        crashes, safety rating and insurance. This factor is weighed
        considerably since a safe company decreases liability and insurance.
    --  Offer visibility through technology: Integrating technology into a
        truck's everyday systems allows for maximum tracking and data exchange.
        Most importantly, to an end customer, it means increased visibility into
        their supply chain.

"Although many trucking companies saw declines in loads over the last year, the economy is starting to pick up," said Ostrowski. "The transportation providers that survived need to stay competitive and be smarter than ever in going after new business. Contracting with a 3PL can be an effective inroad to more business opportunities and contracts."

Evans Distribution Systems, headquartered in Southeast Michigan, was founded in 1929 as the Central Detroit Warehouse Company. It has evolved into a full-service, third-party logistics provider offering warehousing, transportation, contract packaging and staffing to the manufacturing, food and beverage, consumer goods, and chemical industries. Evans currently employs about 300 associates and operates more than 1,800,000 square feet of space throughout the United States. www.evansdist.com.

*Statistic from Armstrong & Associates, Inc.

SOURCE Evans Distribution Systems