Background:
Turnkey Sales is a wholesale distributor who partners with large manufacturers to sell their products through their Small Business Set Aside status while also having an on-site fulfillment warehouse. The Company recently took on a critical project for Integrated ID Solutions, Inc. (IIDS), a valued customer seeking reliable and efficient international shipping services. The challenge was to receive four pallets containing mobile charging cabinets, AV carts, and industrial surge protectors , ensure proper packaging for aerial transport, and deliver to the end-user in Germany via UPS Supply Chain Solutions.
Need:
IIDS chose Turnkey Sales over conventional direct shipping methods, such as the US Postal Service or other traditional carriers due to Turnkey’s stellar reputation for meticulous inspection, packaging/repackaging, domestic and international shipping, and receiving processes. The client’s specific requirements were to receive multiple pallets, verify items against an advanced shipment notice, inspect items for any damage sustained in-transit, and package/repackage securely for international express shipment.
Process and Solution:
Communication and Coordination:
- Turnkey Sales initiated clear communication with IIDS upon receiving the shipping request. They established a line of communication to keep the client informed throughout the entire process.
Inventory Management:
- Upon the arrival of the pallets, Turnkey Sales conducted a thorough inventory check. Each item was methodically inspected, ensuring that the contents matched the provided advanced shipment notice.
Photographic Documentation:
- To maintain transparency and provide visual evidence of the received items, Turnkey Sales took detailed photographs of the entire inventory. This step was crucial for resolving any potential disputes or discrepancies and for verification of the condition of items prior to reshipment.
Pallet Building:
- Given the nature of the items, Turnkey Sales had to build custom pallets to accommodate the equipment, including meeting dimensional constraints established by the freight forwarder . This step required precision and coordination to prevent damage during transportation and ensure adherence with shipping guidelines.
Ongoing Orders:
- Recognizing the ongoing nature of IIDS’s orders, Turnkey Sales streamlined their processes to ensure future shipments could be handled efficiently. This included optimizing the pallet-building process for similar items.
Result:
The diligent approach adopted by Turnkey Sales led to the successful delivery of all items to the end-user in Germany within the specified timeframe. The client had their order delivered intact, with full tracking information throughout, without any damage or missing components.
Why it Worked:
Communication:
- Regular and transparent communication throughout the process ensured that both parties as well as 3rd party logistic providers, were on the same page, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or delays.
Attention to Detail:
- Turnkey Sales’ fastidious attention to detail during the inventory inspection, photographic documentation, and pallet building ensured that the shipment met the client’s specific requirements.
Preparedness:
- Planning and preparation before the arrival of the items allowed Turnkey Sales to address potential challenges proactively, contributing to the overall success of the shipping process.
In conclusion, Turnkey Sales’ commitment to communication, attention to detail, and proactive planning played a pivotal role in meeting IIDS’s shipping needs efficiently and reliably. This case highlights Turnkey Sales as a trusted partner for complex international shipping requirements.