Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs for WAREHOUSING
What types of warehousing services do you offer?
We offer a comprehensive range of warehousing services to meet the diverse needs of our clients. These services include:
- Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ)
- Cross Docking
- Pick and Pack
- Raw Material Kitting
- Order Fulfillment
- Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI)
- Finished Goods Distribution
- Merge in Transit
- Reverse Logistics
- E-Commerce Distribution Services
- RMA Administration – Returns Program
- KanBan Systems
- Section 321
Our flexible solutions can be customized to align with the specific requirements of your industry and business model. Whether you need efficient cross-docking, order fulfillment, or specialized services like Section 321 processing, we have the expertise to optimize your supply chain.
What industries do you serve?
We serve all industries! We do not handle personal shipments, automobiles, hazardous cargo, and perishables.
What is the significance of Section 321 processing in your warehousing services?
Section 321 processing refers to the customs regulations allowing for duty-free entry of shipments valued at or below a certain threshold. This service facilitates the smooth and cost-effective movement of goods across borders, benefiting businesses engaged in international trade.
What is Pick and Pack, and how does it benefit e-commerce businesses?
Pick and Pack involves selecting items from inventory, packing them, and preparing them for shipment. This service is particularly beneficial for e-commerce businesses, ensuring accurate and timely order fulfillment, which is crucial for customer satisfaction.
What is Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI), and how does it optimize stock levels?
Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) is a collaborative approach where the supplier monitors and manages the customer’s inventory levels. This helps prevent stockouts, reduce excess inventory, and improve overall supply chain efficiency.
How does Cross Docking improve the efficiency of my supply chain?
Cross Docking is a logistics strategy where products are unloaded from an incoming shipment and directly loaded onto outbound vehicles with minimal storage time. This reduces handling, storage costs, and transit times, making the supply chain more efficient.
What is a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ), and how can it benefit my business?
A Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) is a secure area within the United States where goods can be stored, manipulated, and processed without being subject to customs duties. Utilizing an FTZ can lead to cost savings, improved inventory management, and streamlined customs procedures.
How does your Customs Brokerage and Warehousing Integration simplify the import and export process for my business?
Our integrated Customs Brokerage and Warehousing service ensures a seamless transition for your goods from customs clearance to storage and distribution. We handle all aspects of customs clearance, including documentation, tariff classification, and compliance with customs regulations. This not only streamlines the movement of goods across borders but also minimizes the risk of delays and penalties associated with customs procedures. Once cleared, your products seamlessly transition into our warehousing facilities, where we manage storage, inventory, and distribution. Whether you’re importing raw materials or exporting finished goods, our end-to-end solution ensures a comprehensive and efficient logistics process for your business.
FAQs for ROAD SHIPPING
What is EP Logistics' expertise in cross-border road shipping and freight services at the Mexico and United States border?
EP Logistics specializes in providing comprehensive cross-border trucking services, facilitating the smooth transport of goods between México, the United States, and Canada. Our services include road freight transport, road cargo transportation, and freight cargo domestically and internationally.
How does EP Logistics ensure the timely and reliable delivery of goods through its cross-border road shipping services?
We prioritize efficiency and reliability in our cross-border road shipping services. Utilizing advanced logistics technology and a strategically located network, we ensure that your goods are delivered promptly and securely, meeting your specific delivery requirements.
What types of road freight transport solutions do you offer, and how do they cater to different shipment sizes?
We provide a range of road freight transport solutions, including Full Truck Load (FTL), Less than a Truck Load (LTL), Hot Shots, Cargo Consolidation, Oversize Cargo, and Special Projects. These options cater to various shipment sizes and requirements.
Can you explain the benefits of choosing Full Truck Load (FTL) for cross-border shipments?
Opting for Full Truck Load (FTL) ensures that your shipment occupies the entire truck, providing a dedicated and direct transportation solution. This is ideal for larger shipments that require maximum security and efficiency, it is also cost effective.
How does Less than a Truck Load (LTL) contribute to cost-effective cross-border shipping for businesses with smaller shipments?
Less than a Truck Load (LTL) allows businesses to share space on a truck, reducing costs for smaller shipments. This flexible solution provides an efficient way to transport goods without the need for a dedicated truck.
Can your Hot Shots service accommodate time-sensitive shipments, and how does it expedite the delivery process?
Our Hot Shots service is designed for time-sensitive shipments, prioritizing expedited delivery. This ensures that urgent shipments reach their destination quickly and efficiently.
What is the process of Cargo Consolidation, and how does it benefit businesses with multiple smaller shipments?
Cargo Consolidation involves combining multiple shipments into one, optimizing space and reducing costs. Our efficient Cargo Consolidation process provides a cost-effective solution for businesses with smaller shipments.
Do you specialize in handling Oversize Cargo for cross-border road freight, and what precautions are taken to ensure safe transport?
Yes, we specialize in handling Oversize Cargo. Our team ensures compliance with regulations, obtains necessary permits, and takes precautions to transport oversize items safely and securely.
How do you stay informed about and adapt to changes in cross-border regulations and logistics?
We stay informed about changes in cross-border regulations through continuous monitoring, industry partnerships, and ongoing compliance training. Our team is dedicated to staying ahead of evolving requirements to ensure a seamless cross-border shipping experience. Additionally, we closely monitor the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) updates, enabling us to proactively adapt our processes to any changes in regulations and maintain compliance with the latest standards. This commitment ensures that our clients can trust us to navigate the complexities of cross-border logistics with accuracy and efficiency.
FAQs for Ocean Shipping
What services does EP Logistics offer in the realm of Ocean Shipping?
EP Logistics provides a comprehensive suite of Ocean Shipping services, including Non Vessel Operating Carrier (NVOC), LCL and FCL Services, Consolidation, Documentation such as Ocean Bills of Ladings, Container Drayage and Delivery, Container Yard Recovery and Return, Sea Rail Services, Door to Door Services, and Global Visibility.
Why choose EP Logistics for your Ocean Shipping needs?
EP Logistics ensures peace of mind with professional Sea Freight Forwarding. Our services are designed to cater to your unique cargo transportation requirements, and we boast strategic office locations with access to major ports. With a commitment to staying on schedule, competitive pricing, and a focus on customer satisfaction, we guarantee the safe and efficient transport of your cargo, regardless of its size.
What is Non Vessel Operating Carrier (NVOC) in Ocean Shipping, and how does it benefit businesses?
Non Vessel Operating Carrier (NVOC) is a service where the logistics provider arranges shipments without operating the vessels themselves. This cost-effective solution allows businesses to benefit from streamlined logistics without the complexities of vessel ownership.
How does EP Logistics handle the consolidation of shipments in Ocean Shipping?
LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load) services cater to different shipment sizes. LCL involves consolidating multiple smaller shipments into one container, while FCL dedicates an entire container to a single shipment. We offer both options to meet your specific cargo needs.
What role does Documentation, such as Ocean Bills of Lading, play in Ocean Shipping?
Documentation, including Ocean Bills of Lading, is crucial for legal and logistical purposes. We ensure accurate and timely documentation to facilitate smooth cargo transport, ensuring compliance with international regulations.
How does EP Logistics manage Container Drayage and Delivery for Ocean Shipping?
We handle the efficient transport of containers between the port and the final destination with our Container Drayage and Delivery services. This ensures a seamless transition of your cargo from the port to its intended location.
What is the process of Cargo Consolidation, and how does it benefit businesses with multiple smaller shipments?
Cargo Consolidation involves combining multiple shipments into one, optimizing space and reducing costs. Our efficient Cargo Consolidation process provides a cost-effective solution for businesses with smaller shipments.
What is Container Yard Recovery and Return, and how does it contribute to efficient Ocean Shipping?
Container Yard Recovery and Return involve the retrieval and return of containers to designated yards. This service streamlines the container management process, enhancing efficiency in Ocean Shipping.
How does EP Logistics ensure a smooth Door to Door Service in Ocean Shipping?
Our Door to Door Services cover the entire transport process, from the initial pickup at the sender’s location to the final delivery at the recipient’s doorstep. This end-to-end service ensures convenience and reliability for our clients.
FAQs for Customs Brokerage
What are customs brokerage services, and why are they essential for international shipments?
Customs brokerage involves handling the complexities of import and export declarations, duties, taxes, permits, and more during international shipments. EP Logistics specializes in streamlining this process, ensuring a hassle-free entry and export of goods.
Why should I choose EP Logistics for customs brokerage services?
EP Logistics, with licensed US and Mexican customs brokers and over 20 years of experience, ensures compliance with customs regulations. We facilitate the smooth entry and export of your products while offering customs consulting services to enhance your customs activities.
What customs brokerage services does EP Logistics provide?
EP Logistics offers a comprehensive range of customs brokerage services, including but not limited to:
- Customs Clearance: Border, Air, and Ocean
- ACS Entry Reconciliation
- In bonds – QP – Electronic
- ISF + Filings
- AES Shipper Export Declarations
- EDI – Electronic Data Interference
- ABI Certified – Automatic Broker Interference
- Mexican Brokerage Services
- Consolidated Pedimento Processing
- Maquiladora de Servicios Permit (IMMEX)
- Customs Consulting Services
- NAFTA Evaluation
How does EP Logistics utilize ACE Ready - Remote Entry Filing for Customs Brokerage services?
Our ACE Ready – Remote Entry Filing streamlines the customs entry process. It allows for the electronic submission of entry data, reducing paperwork and expediting customs clearance for shipments entering the United States.
Can EP Logistics handle Customs Clearance for shipments across borders, by air, and through ocean transport?
Yes, EP Logistics specializes in Customs Clearance services for shipments across borders, via air, and ocean transport. Our experienced team ensures compliance with customs regulations for various modes of transportation.
What is ACS Entry Reconciliation, and how does it contribute to efficient customs processes?
ACS Entry Reconciliation allows for the adjustment of entries after the goods have been released. This service enhances accuracy and compliance by reconciling discrepancies and updating customs documentation as needed.
How does EP Logistics manage In Bonds, QP - Electronic, and ensure compliance with electronic filing requirements?
EP Logistics handles In Bonds, including QP (Qualified Products) – Electronic filing, ensuring compliance with electronic filing requirements. Our expertise in electronic filing processes facilitates efficient and accurate customs procedures.
Can you explain ISF + Filings and how it plays a role in Customs Brokerage services?
ISF (Importer Security Filing) + Filings is a mandatory requirement for ocean shipments to the United States. EP Logistics ensures timely and accurate ISF filings, contributing to smooth customs clearance processes.
What role does AES Shipper Export Declarations play in EP Logistics' Customs Brokerage services?
AES (Automated Export System) Shipper Export Declarations are essential for outbound shipments. EP Logistics manages the electronic submission of these declarations, ensuring compliance with export regulations.
How does EP Logistics use EDI - Electronic Data Interference for Customs Brokerage processes?
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is employed for seamless data exchange in customs processes. EP Logistics utilizes EDI to enhance customs brokerage processes, facilitating the electronic exchange of information between our systems and customs authorities.
Can you elaborate on EP Logistics' expertise in Maquiladora de Servicios Permit (IMMEX) for Customs Brokerage services?
We have expertise in managing Maquiladora de Servicios permits (IMMEX), which allows for the temporary importation of goods for manufacturing, processing, or repair in Mexico. Our services ensure compliance with IMMEX regulations for businesses operating in Mexico.
How does EP Logistics handle Foreign Trade Zone Admissions and Withdrawals as part of its Customs Brokerage services?
Our services include efficient management of Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Admissions and Withdrawals. We navigate the complexities of FTZ procedures, allowing businesses to store, process, and re-export goods with certain advantages.
How does EP Logistics handle Section 321 processing to facilitate duty-free entry for low-value shipments?
Our expertise in Section 321 processing ensures the seamless and duty-free entry of low-value shipments, minimizing customs processing costs for businesses.
How does EP Logistics integrate CTPAT principles into its customs brokerage services?
CTPAT principles are integrated into our customs brokerage services through the implementation of secure and compliant processes. This includes secure data transmission, supply chain visibility, and adherence to high-security standards.
FAQs for Air Shipping Service
How does EP Logistics ensure quick transit for air cargo shipments?
EP Logistics prioritizes quick transit for air cargo by allocating space in all major carriers. Our strategic partnerships and efficient logistics planning ensure timely movement of your shipments.
What does "Constant Communication" mean in the context of EP Logistics' Air Shipping services?
Constant communication is a key aspect of our Air Shipping services. We provide real-time updates on shipment status throughout the transportation chain, keeping our clients informed at every stage of the process.
What is IAC (Indirect Air Carrier) and how does it benefit businesses using EP Logistics' Air Shipping services?
IAC (Indirect Air Carrier) certification allows EP Logistics to offer air cargo services without operating its own aircraft. This certification reflects our compliance with industry standards and ensures the secure transportation of goods.
What does TSA Certification mean for EP Logistics' Air Shipping services?
TSA (Transportation Security Administration) Certification signifies our adherence to strict security standards in air cargo transportation. It ensures the safety and security of shipments throughout the entire process.
How does EP Logistics arrange inland transportation and local drayage to gateway airports for air shipments?
What are the different service options provided for air shipping, such as Airport to Airport, Airport to Door, Door to Airport, and Door to Door?**
EP Logistics offers flexible service options, including Airport to Airport, Airport to Door, Door to Airport, and Door to Door. This allows clients to choose the level of service that best suits their specific needs and requirements.
Does EP Logistics offer charter services for air cargo?
Yes, EP Logistics provides charter services for air cargo, offering a customized and dedicated solution for time-sensitive or specialized shipments.
What are Hand Carriers, and how are they utilized in EP Logistics' Air Shipping services?
Hand Carriers are individuals or teams dedicated to hand-carrying sensitive or urgent shipments. EP Logistics may utilize Hand Carriers for specific situations that require personalized attention and secure transport.
FAQs for CTPAT CERTIFICATION
What is CTPAT, and why is it important for international trade?
CTPAT stands for Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism and is a voluntary partnership program between the U.S. government and businesses aimed at enhancing supply chain security. It is crucial for international trade as it helps secure and expedite the movement of goods across borders while preventing terrorism.
Is EP Logistics CTPAT certified?
Yes, EP Logistics is proud to be CTPAT certified. Our certification reflects our commitment to implementing and maintaining stringent security measures in our supply chain processes.
How does CTPAT certification benefit EP Logistics clients?
CTPAT certification benefits our clients by facilitating faster and more secure cross-border movements. It often leads to reduced inspections, expedited processing, and enhanced overall supply chain security.
What steps has EP Logistics taken to achieve and maintain CTPAT certification?
EP Logistics has implemented and maintains a robust security program that aligns with CTPAT requirements. This includes thorough risk assessments, enhanced physical security measures, and ongoing communication and collaboration with Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Will being CTPAT certified eliminate the need for customs inspections entirely?
While CTPAT certification can significantly reduce the likelihood of inspections, it does not eliminate the possibility entirely. Customs and Border Protection may still conduct random inspections or in response to specific intelligence or security concerns.
What industries can benefit most from CTPAT certification with EP Logistics?
Industries involved in international trade, especially those dealing with sensitive or high-value goods, can benefit significantly from CTPAT certification with EP Logistics. This includes manufacturers, importers, and exporters.
How often is CTPAT certification reviewed and updated?
CTPAT certification is subject to periodic reviews by Customs and Border Protection. EP Logistics is committed to maintaining the highest standards of security and promptly updating our practices to align with any changes in CTPAT requirements.