JAS IN THE AMERICAS

News From JAS Worldwide - Americas Focus

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New IMO Regulations: Introducing Carbon Intensity Measures into Ocean Freight

By
JAS Sustainability Team
September 12, 2023
In a bold move to address the need for reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry, the International Maritime Organization introduced groundbreaking regulations concerning energy efficiency and carbon intensity for all ships.
In a bold move to address the need for reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry, the International Maritime Organization introduced groundbreaking regulations concerning energy efficiency and carbon intensity for all ships.

In a bold move to address the need for reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) introduced groundbreaking regulations concerning energy efficiency and carbon intensity for all ships. These measures require ships to calculate their attained Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) to determine energy efficiency and to initiate data collection to report their annual operational carbon intensity indicator (CII) and CII rating. 

Understanding the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI):

The EEXI is a score given to ships based on their energy efficiency. Ships attained EEXI will be compared to a required EEXI based on an applicable reduction factor expressed as a percentage relative to the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) baseline. Each ship's calculated attained EEXI value must be below the required EEXI to meet the minimum energy efficiency standard. 

Exploring the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) Rating:

The CII is set to rank and monitor the carbon efficiency of each vessel concerning the cargo carried, and the distance traveled. The actual annual operational CII achieved must be documented and verified against the required annual operational CII, allowing the operational carbon intensity rating to be determined. The rating ranges from A to E (where A is the best), and the threshold requirements will become stricter year over year.

Impact:

  • Environmental Benefits: The primary goal of these IMO regulations is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). By measuring and monitoring energy efficiency, shipping companies can identify areas for improvement and optimize their operations to minimize carbon footprints.
  • Technological Advancements: These regulations will encourage the development and adopting of cleaner technologies within the maritime sector, fostering innovation and creating a demand for sustainable solutions.

Challenges:

  • Compliance Costs: Implementing the EEXI and CII measures will require investments in ship upgrades, retrofitting, and enhanced operational practices. For shipowners and operators, this could pose a significant financial challenge, particularly for older vessels.
  • Disruptions to Shipping Schedules and Supply Chains: As the cost of technological advancements is high, ships implement fuel-saving measures like slow-steaming, which can lead to longer transit times, affecting the predictability and reliability of cargo delivery.
  • Data Collection and Reporting: The accurate measurement and reporting of a vessel's carbon intensity require reliable data collection systems. Shipowners must adapt to new reporting standards and overcome potential technical barriers in gathering and transmitting data.

Conclusion:

Implementing the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) measures marks a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry. While they offer environmental benefits, they also present challenges, including compliance costs and potential disruptions to shipping schedules. Collaboration among stakeholders, technological advancements, and regulatory support are crucial to navigating these challenges.

JAS Reference Sheet: IMO 2023 Regulation Reduction of GHG Emissions from Vessels JAS Reference Sheet: Inclusion of Maritime Emissions in EU Emissions Trading System (ETS)
Electrifying Collaboration: Transporting over 60 Tons of Lithium-Ion Batteries for Electric Vehicle Production

By
JAS Staff
August 16, 2023
Electric vehicle charging.
Electric vehicle charging.

In a display of cross-functional teamwork, several internal teams at JAS worked closely to execute a seamless transportation operation. The collaborative effort aimed to transport a large number of Lithium-Ion Batteries (UN 3480, Class 9) from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Frankfurt Airport (FRA), supporting a leading European Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) producing electric vehicles (EV).

Challenge:

The automotive landscape is transitioning towards sustainable solutions, with electric vehicles leading the way. However, sourcing the necessary components, such as Lithium-Ion Batteries, often poses significant logistical challenges due to their hazardous nature, requiring compliance with stringent regulations and safety protocols. A leading OEM in Europe required a substantial shipment of batteries from the US to support its EV production. Blue World Atlantic charter flight operations presented an opportunity to avoid relying on a market yielding minimal results with minimum quantities per flight.


JAS's Response: 

Recognizing the urgency and importance of the situation, the JAS teams quickly created a plan. The batteries were carefully packed, labeled, and documented in accordance with local and global regulations. Additionally, a plan using JAS' existing Blue World Atlantic weekly charter was organized, allowing for direct transportation and minimizing the risk associated with intermediate stops. 


Results and Impact: 

After taking over the project as airlines simultaneously announced embargoes on cargo containing Lithium-Ion Batteries, the team successfully transported the Lithium-Ion Batteries on JAS Blue World Atlantic weekly charter, allowing the customer's supply chain to remain uninterrupted.

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The JAS team gathers for the grand opening of the Memphis Super Hub.
JAS Worldwide Unveils New Contract Logistics Super Hub to Further Accelerate Growth in Omnichannel Distribution

JAS Worldwide is excited to announce the opening of its Contract Logistics Super Hub facility located in Olive Branch, Mississippi, United States. Strategically positioned just outside of Memphis, Tennessee, United States, this state-of-the-art facility adds value to customers' supply chains by further enabling them to grow and enhance their e-Commerce services.


Spanning 300,000 square feet, the Contract Logistics Super Hub is designed to accommodate the evolving needs of the industry and provide a comprehensive solution for businesses seeking to optimize their operations. The facility is strategically located to ensure efficient and timely delivery while being within reach of over 75% of the US population via ground service.


The Memphis Super Hub is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including autonomous robots, automated conveyor systems, and seamless integration with JAS SmartHub technology. This allows customers to experience seamless integration, visibility, and control enabling them to manage their supply chains with ease and efficiency.


Beyond technological advancements, JAS' commitment to delivering excellence encompasses a wide range of end-to-end supply chain services. From inventory management and value-added services to omni-channel fulfillment, the Contract Logistics Super Hub allows the JAS team to offer a comprehensive range of end-to-end supply chain services. Additionally, they offer freight consolidation/deconsolidation, container stripping, temporary storage, container loading/blocking, bracing and lashing, and pallet swap services that adhere to international standards..

Sebastian Tschackert, Executive Vice President of Contract Logistics, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to be opening our newest Contract Logistics Super Hub, in line with our customer-centric strategy, in this very desirable location. Our investment in this facility is a testament to JAS' commitment to providing our clients with the highest level of service and support. By continuously investing in our Contract Logistics product and delivering a true end-to-end service across the entire supply chain, we connect freight and logistics services seamlessly. With our advanced technology and excellent team, we are well-positioned to help our clients streamline their operations while achieving their business goals. We are open for business, and here to serve local or global customers with their US supply chain needs."

Celine Lachevre, National Account Director; Sueli Oliveira, Customs Broker Manager; and Roberto Araujo Pint, Partner at JAS Agent
JAS Brazil Energy Solutions Team Moves Photovoltaic Modules

JAS takes pride in making a difference for our customers. Therefore, when a customer reached out to our team needing to move photovoltaic modules for aircraft the JAS Energy Solutions team in Brazil created a customized solution for this unique shipment.

Photovoltaic modules provide a sustainable energy source for powering aircraft. The team, with the support of the JAS Logistics Agent in Fortaleza, began moving the modules in November 2022 and has since cleared over half of the shipment.

In total, there will be 57 shipments (615 containers), totaling 10,421 pallets of solar panels destined for new solar plants in the state of Ceará.  

Brazil added more than 9 GW of solar power in 2022, which is the best year in the history of the sector, with a growth of more than 80% compared to 2021. Today, Ceará is the second largest energy producer in Brazil.

Cargo ship at night
JAS Expands LCL Services

In response to increased demand for Less than Container Load (LCL) services, JAS Worldwide is pleased to announce that it is launching a new weekly LCL service from the Port of Gothenburg (GOT) to Charleston, South Carolina, USA (CHS).  

The global maritime market is continuing to experience high levels of demand while facing a lack of capacity, increased port congestion, and a shortage of empty containers. This environment is driving the need for companies to find ways to optimize opportunities in their supply chains, and one way they are doing so is through LCL services.  

JAS is uniquely positioned to handle these and other ongoing marketplace stressors. Our LCL services are designed to provide the flexibility need in today’s environment helping customers keep their supply chains moving, while offering cost savings when compared to airfreight.  

“Customers taking advantage of our LCL services to Charleston benefit from fixed weekly sailing schedules with secure and flexible service from origin to destination.” said Brandon Miller, CHS Station Manager, JAS USA.  

Additional weekly LCL import services to CHS include:

  • LON (London, England)
  • HAM (Hamburg, Germany)
  • NHV (Nhava Sheva, India)
  • MAA (Madras, India)
  • SHA (Shanghai) and TW (Taiwan) via BUS (Busan)
Henrique Sampaio – Branch Manager / Indianara Ramos- Business Analyst / Gislaine Catro – Operations Specialist / Mariana Probst – Inside Sales / Kathlyn Setragni – Export Specialist.
JAS is Ready to Serve Southern Brazil

Customer satisfaction is a top priority for the team at JAS Brazil's Itajai Branch. Following key trends in the freight-forwarding industry directly correlates with customer satisfaction. The Itajai team at JAS Brazil commits to serving the entire southern region of Brazil, shaping its services around concepts like:

  • Customized logistics solutions that align with specific industries.
  • Delivery efficiency with end-to-end logistics tracking.  
  • Transparency throughout the process with real-time updates.  

The State of Santa Catarina has one of the best socioeconomic indicators in Brazil. It enjoys a solid logistical structure, coupled with an excellent strategical position. It connects to main ports and airports in Brazil and across the world, making it a convenient option for customers throughout the southern region.  

As part of its commitment to customers in Santa Catarina and the entire southern region, The Itajai team at JAS Brazil boasts some of the most capable logistics team members and modern systems designed to serve international logistics needs. JAS' worldwide TMS tracks every step of the process, delivering in time and online visibility to customers.  

Our team possesses in-depth knowledge in the automotive, furniture, metal-mechanical, pharmaceutical and health, technology, wines and spirits, and wood industries. JAS' continued investment in infrastructure serves as a testament to our dedication to customer satisfaction. Contact JAS Brazil (Itajai) to learn how we can help with your logistics needs in the southern region of Brazil and beyond.

Cleber Oliveira, JAS LATAM Director of Ocean Consolidation Services
Four Reasons to Consider LCL Ocean Freight

With ocean freight space at a premium, less-than-container-load (LCL) cargo makes sense now more than ever. We continue to experience never before seen levels of demand while facing a reduced availability of space onboard ships, severe congestion in ports, and a shortage of empty containers. This unprecedented environment demands the effectiveness of LCL to keep your supply chain moving. 

LCL shipping, with its numerous moving parts and complex processes, can seem overwhelming and not worthwhile. However, JAS has a global network of dedicated LCL specialists who can provide you with a complete understanding of the process and peace of mind throughout.

Choosing JAS means choosing: 

  • Sailing Integrity: With our less than container load (LCL) services, we offer weekly departures to over 40,000 CFS (Consolidated Freight Stations) pairings around the world, ensuring schedule integrity and some of the fastest transit times in the market to help you keep your supply chain moving. 
  •  Reliability & Allocation Management: At this time, market demand exceeds supply, and the ocean market is suffering from blank sailings, rolled cargo, and a lack of available containers and equipment. However, our global and regional teams are taking proactive actions such as pre-bookings and contract agreements with a guarantee of space, equipment, and loading.
  •  Security & Compliance: Security and confidentiality are ensured. Our experienced consolidation and deconsolidation teams, working from 100% security compliant facilities at both origin and destination. This ensures secure loading, bracing, and blocking, all occur under JAS supervision.
  • Visibility: Visibility is key to your just-in-time supply chain, and through JASTrack you can have visibility and control of your shipments from the time you place your order with the supplier to the final destination. 

JAS LCL experts across the globe bring all these pieces together to provide best-of-class service combined with local knowledge and personal service. Your LCL cargo will travel as safely and reliably as your full-container load (FCL) cargo while still providing economies of scale, and the cost benefits of FCL shipments. 

For more information about our LCL services, reach out to your local JAS office or visit our global LCL schedules.

Strategic Laredo Branch Provides Cross-Border Advantage

JAS Laredo opened in 2015 as a sales office dedicated to increasing the JAS cross-border traffic. Laredo offers JAS Worldwide a solid strategic location where the company can grow and increase its presence on both sides of the U.S. - Mexican border. This branch also creates solutions and acts as additional support for the JAS Worldwide network.  

JAS Laredo started as part of the JAS Houston Branch before becoming a satellite office. The move was made in conjunction with JAS McAllen, where their significant efforts contributed to JAS McAllen receiving a nomination for branch of the year in 2019. JAS Laredo focuses on selling cross-border business. Their specialties include transportation and US-Mexico customs brokerage, with a strong footprint in distribution and warehousing services.  

With much operational growth in 2017, Customs Entry Specialist Laura “Rocio” Enriquez joined the team.  She brings with her more than 10 years of experience in US/MX customs brokerage. With the support of JAS Compliance and Enriquez’s natural drive, the team has excelled in this area, building valuable and trusting relationships.  

In February 2021, the Laredo team moved into a state-of-the-art facility with direct access to third-party warehouses. JAS Laredo has two warehouses at its disposal, each one with about 60,000 square feet with 1,000 pallet positions. Under the leadership of Antonio Pastrana, Branch Manager, the Laredo team adopted an admirable understanding of the market and the intricacies of dealing with the United States and Mexican governments. The boutique concept to selling along the southern border and the consultancy approach with JAS Laredo’s customers has brought on new business and a newfound demand for the products and services offered.  

The Laredo team has proven expertise and true skill in establishing cross-border solutions, which has enabled JAS to stand out against its competitors, particularly in this volatile market. The Laredo team currently operates a distribution model for two of its key global customers, utilizing the customers’ systems and acting as an extension of their operations.  

Monica Ortiz, the Operational Supervisor, brings more than 20 years of experience in freight forwarding to the team. She specializes in 4-wall distribution and logistics, which supports JAS Laredo’s efforts in providing these additional services in Laredo while maintaining an impressive 98.5 percent inventory accuracy.  

Tracy Garcia, Transportation Supervisor, was JAS Laredo’s first hire, with years of experience in trucking and ground transportation from the carrier and broker/forwarder side of the business. Tracy’s impact on the JAS Laredo operation became clear immediately. Her level of dedication and enthusiasm is commendable. Regularly going the extra mile to ensure that our internal and external customers are satisfied, she provides a level of contagious positivity. Garcia is a team member who makes a difference.  

The JAS Laredo team is incredibly pleased with the developments taking place within the branch. JAS Laredo handles a vast customer portfolio of locally controlled and developed businesses. JAS Laredo provides trucking services, together with US and MX customs brokerage via multiple border crossings.  Similarly, JAS Laredo provides ground transportation services from multiple pick-up points in Mexico.

Like JAS Miami, the Laredo team has access to an FTZ (Foreign-Trade Zone, Inc.). This activation also allows JAS Laredo to provide specialized services related to FTZ operations. For legal purposes, this space is outside the customs territory of the United States, which provides the opportunity to offer weekly entry services, duty deferral for import goods, and duty eliminations for some export goods while also providing cost-saving measures. These are major benefits when operating along the border.

The Laredo team has gained a unique perspective from our Mexican brokerage side, truly operating in a cohesive manner, which has certainly allowed for the development of detailed and targeted solutions for our clients. The Laredo team is expanding by exceeding the industry standard. I am grateful to the team for their efforts in continuously remaining innovative and committed to our customers.
Congratulations JAS Laredo, what an inspiring branch! At JAS People Make the Difference!" Eugenio Fumo, CEO JAS USA

JAS and LATAM Cargo
JAS Charters Go Beyond the Usual Trade-Lanes

On May 13th, 2021 JAS Uruguay organized three air charters from Montevideo to Guatemala.  JAS offers routine flight operations to many key trade-lanes utilizing the extensive JAS network of air gateways. These gateways along with the teams’ expertise in the air market, enabled JAS Uruguay to find and create the best possible combination of locations for the freight to travel through to reach its destination.

The project had to be coordinated very quickly, as the customer required the cargo to be delivered within 7 days of placing the request with JAS to find a solution. JAS immediately began working and coordinating with LATAM Cargo, the carrier of JAS’ choosing to handle this delivery. The LATAM Cargo operational team has worked with JAS in the past and has always provided the best accommodations possible. Strong relationships with carriers such as LATAM Cargo are a part of what gives the JAS team the ability to achieve seemingly impossible tasks, with accuracy and efficiency.

The charter was organized using a B767-300 freighter, which is the more fuel-efficient of the medium-widebody freighters available currently on the market. The aircraft departed the MVD airport in Uruguay at 22:30 HRS after having the loading operation supervised by the JAS Uruguay team. The JAS team coordinated the cargo drop off, documentation, receipt at the terminal, labeling & repacking, compliance checks, and loading procedures, all while providing the customer with real-time updates and tracking of the departures and arrivals via satellite follow-ups once the cargo was in the air. The air charter then arrived at the La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala on Friday the 14th at 06:02 HRS local time.

The last 2 charters included an average of 48 tons per flight. Each flight containing both hazardous and non-hazardous materials that required IATA DEG regulation labeling and repack work for the extra protection of the cargo. JAS can evaluate and handle all different types of HAZMAT materials in compliance with IATA regulations. JAS is also not limited to dangerous goods or general cargo and regularly handles perishable goods and pharma products that require temperature control.

With JAS' expertise in both air charters and hazardous goods transport, the customer knew they could turn to JAS to accomplish their goals. JAS’ team of experts can ensure the safe, efficient, and successful arrival of a variety of goods through the extensive JAS network. JAS knows that people make the difference, and JAS Uruguay's success is another testament to that slogan.

JAS Chicago Warehouse
JAS USA Spotlights Chicago Branch

Over the course of the past few years, JAS Chicago has been one of the fastest growing and top performing branches within the global JAS organization. Then, in March 2020, the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting disruptions threatened to derail the results and momentum: the culmination of many years of hard work.  Business continuity, especially consistency in high levels of customer service, was always goal number one, but shifting an entire office staff to a virtual work environment overnight while ensuring the safety of essential warehouse personnel was an incredible challenge.

While the immediate challenge was met head on, and successfully so, by the entire JAS organization, anxiety regarding the lingering economic impacts of the pandemic was ever-present. The challenge was now how does JAS adapt to a global industry that had essentially changed overnight.  Based on the feedback of customers, JAS invested immediately into an own-controlled flight network with additional adhoc charter space to inject much needed air capacity on key trade lanes.  Due to its strategic geographic location, warehouse, and airport infrastructure, Chicago became the US hub for both the trans-Pacific and trans-Atlantic flight operations.

In one month’s time, the uncertainty had begun to fade and the excitement about a new direction was taking hold.  By the end of April 2020, the Chicago branch had transformed from a successful large local branch into a key strategic global gateway servicing the entire JAS network.  This held its own challenges and many lessons were learned from issues that arose, but every challenge was met with hard work, determination, and an eye towards the future.  

Over the following months, a continual drive to find efficiencies and improve the process and structure around the flight operations was a central focus.  The JAS Chicago team knew that this would ultimately bring value to their customers while offering a differentiator in the market for future growth.  Efficiencies in the warehouse were implemented in order to accommodate incredible volume growth in a limited space.  Warehouse efficiencies resulted in faster turn-around times from flight arrival to final-mile delivery. High performing staff were given opportunities to grow into newly created gateway leadership roles, while no less than six other promotions within the branch were executed.  New high-level talent was recruited and on-boarded that will one day grow into the future leaders within the Chicago branch and beyond.

In March of 2021, the annual USA Executive/Branch Manager meeting was held virtually.  As a result of their incredible performance and impact to the JAS global network over the course of a most challenging year, it was announced that Chicago was named the JAS USA Branch of the Year for 2020.  In the same meeting, it was announced that JAS Chicago would be expanding its footprint with plans to acquire additional warehouse space in the Chicago area in the very near future.  These two announcements illustrate what has made JAS Chicago a true success story: utilizing the success of the past to invest in the future.    

In the face of all challenges, thanks to the continued dedication and innovation of team members, JAS Chicago is able meet the needs of their customers.  Especially over the last year, it is more apparent than ever, at JAS, people make the difference!

Nose Knows Best

Air cargo security is constantly evolving. The latest regulations from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) require that, by June 30 2021, all air cargo on international all-cargo flights be screened at the same level of scrutiny given to cargo flying on passenger planes.

Therefore, freight forwarders such as JAS must adapt to find ways to screen air cargo safely and efficiently. While X-Ray technology, Explosive Trace Detection (ETD), and physical screenings can be used to help ensure the safety and security of air cargo, these processes can be inefficient as the cargo must be screened at an individual piece level. This requires palletized cargo be taken apart, screened, and put back together, which can slow down a Certified Cargo Screening Facility (CCSF) and add unnecessary labor and time to the screening process. While technology still serves a purpose, one of the most effective and efficient ways to screen cargo has a fur coat, four paws, and a powerful nose.

For years canines have been used as a part of the passenger-cargo screening process due to their natural ability to identify individual odors and their source. With over 300 million sensory receptors in their nose, the canines can use their powerful sense of smell to serve as bio-sensors to detect the presence of explosives.  If a threat is detected, the dog alerts its dedicated handler to assess the cargo further.  

Due to this powerful sense of smell, the canine teams can add efficiency to the cargo screening process by screening cargo that is too big for machine screening. Furthermore, the canine teams can screen palletized cargo without the cargo having been taken apart to screen, therefore cutting the cargo screening process from hours to minutes. This minimizes the potential for backlogs and delays, all while maintaining freight integrity from start to finish.

Behind these amazing dogs is the company Global K9 Protection Group. They ensure each canine and handler team is well trained and able to pass the TSA certification each year which allows them to provide screening in a variety of environments. Sommer Sampson, JAS USA Corporate TSA PSC (Primary Security Coordinator), notes “We have been extremely pleased with Global K9‘s unparalleled customer service.  We are a happy client and look forward to our continued working relationship with their team as the ICAO mandate approaches!”

As we move towards meeting the requirement of screening 100% of international all air-cargo flights, we are thankful for our canine friends who help us ensure that air cargo is screened efficiently without sacrificing security.

JAS Brazil Porto Alegre Team Expands Expertise

The team at the Porto Alegre branch of JAS Brazil is continuing to grow its position in the southern market. Every day the team expands their expertise in air, overland, and sea transport. JAS' dedicated team has the know-how to serve customers from all industries and assist with any demand. The JAS team at Porto Alegre has the necessary resources, knowledge, and technology to help you navigate the highly complex logistics and supply chain processes.

The JAS office is located in the center of Porto Alegre, the state capital, which is considered the fifth economic hub in Brazil with various industries, including auto companies and footwear manufacturers.

The difference in the JAS ability to meet the expectations of the Rio Grande do Sul market is the customized service and our teams’ dedication to meeting the needs of the current market while ensuring excellent results as well as cost reduction, and optimization of deadlines.

JAS understands all stages of the process are critical in achieving the best outcomes.

Count on JAS, where people make the difference!


A equipe JAS da filial de Porto Alegre vem aumentando a cada dia o seu posicionamento no mercado sulista e ampliando sua expertise no transporte aéreo, rodoviário e marítimo. Temos um time dedicado com know-how para atender clientes de todos os seguimentos. Nosso time atualmente está posicionado como consultor para ajudá-los em qualquer demanda com total capacidade de executar processos de alta complexidade em todos os modais da cadeia logística.

O escritório da JAS é localizado no centro de Porto Alegre, capital do estado, considerada o quinto polo econômico do Brasil com a presença de grandes empresas automobilísticas, calçadistas e diversas indústrias. Um território atrativo e com grandes oportunidades de negócio.

Nosso diferencial para atender as expectativas do mercado do Rio Grande do Sul está no atendimento customizado, a dedicação do nosso time garante resultados excelentes com redução dos custos e otimização dos prazos diante do atual momento desafiador do mercado.

A JAS entende que todas as etapas do processo são importantes para atingir os melhores resultados.

Conte com a JAS, aqui as pessoas fazem a diferença!

Navigating Port Congestion After the Suez Canal

Even before the Suez Canal blockage the shipping industry was facing extreme congestion levels in many ports across the globe, including those in the USA, Canada, South Korea, China, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. With demand remaining high, port congestion challenges will continue for months to come with increased volumes, restrictions due to COVID-19 requirements, and missed berthing windows.

Even if the Suez Canal is now open, the operational impact of a week blockage will have a ripple effect lasting for weeks:

  • A further deterioration of schedule reliability and additional equipment unbalance is to be anticipated even on Trade-Lanes not directly related to the Suez Canal.
  • Some steamship lines have stopped accepting new bookings from Europe to USA until end of April.

Marine terminals at the U.S. ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are experiencing some of the worst congestion, with anchorage times often exceeding a week. In March, the United States passed another stimulus bill, while at the same time, COVID-19 infection rates are decreasing, multiple states are relaxing COVID-19 restrictions, and the number of people vaccinated continues to grow. Consumer spending and retail imports are predicted to remain high, and even increase, throughout the spring and summer months, providing the ports with no relief when it comes to congestion.

While it can be challenging to avoid port congestion, there are some ways to minimize the impact of port congestion and plan for success.

  1. Explore alternative gateway ports that face less congestion. With the congestion on the U.S West Coast, many are exploring other port options such as the Port of Seattle. Alternatively, some are choosing to bypass the U.S. West Coast altogether in favor of going through the Panama Canal and up the East Coast.
  2. Plan ahead. At this time, planning ahead is key and booking shipments as soon as possible can help keep your supply chain moving. With the current equipment shortages and severe congestion at ports, some levels of delays are almost unavoidable. Therefore, it is important to build extra time into your schedule to account for the current conditions.
  3. Consider utilizing other shipping methods. As in non-pandemic times, ocean freight affords the opportunity for cost reductions when compared to airfreight. However, the lead time is much longer than airfreight. When facing time constraints, air freight may be a more viable option. Another option to consider is LCL Ocean freight, smaller but more frequent shipments can keep your supply chain moving. While LCL also faces congestion issues it is much easier to be flexible and by splitting product on more vessels, better chance that cargo gets moved using multiple vessel/ports to get product through. Talk to your JAS representative for options on alternative shipping methods that fits your needs.
  4. Stay in contact with your JAS representative. With the increased port congestion, it is more important than ever to stay in contact with your local representative so that you are aware of arrival times, equipment availability, and market conditions.

For more information on how to navigate the current port congestion, contact a JAS representative.

For more information about current ocean market conditions, read our most recent ocean market update: https://www.jas.com/market.

JAS Miami warehouse December 2020
JAS USA Puts the Spotlight on Miami

March 2020, Miami, and many of the surrounding counties in Florida (USA) faced new mandates and government regulations due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which posed a difficult challenge for JAS Miami. Like many JAS branches the work environment changed suddenly- as did the needs of customers. With some adjustments, endless enthusiasm and positive karma, JAS Miami was able to grow considerably in 2020, gaining more business through some major existing clients, as well as launching new projects and strengthening the JAS network into Latin America (LATAM). That network is important for JAS overall because JAS Miami is the main access point into LATAM and through this JAS USA Gateway almost 4.5 million kilos of cargo are moved from APAC (Asia Pacific) and Europe to LATAM and the Caribbean.

In October 2020, JAS announced additional weekly Flight Operations, Chicago – Atlanta & Miami. This new service is provided to further support customers in the Americas Region, which also includes mid-week departures to LATAM. JAS Miami operates diligently with JAS Chicago, as they are both official HUBS for JAS, receiving weekly trucks of consolidated freight destined for many LATAM locations. This process is rather complex and requires some of the finest positioning between all areas, requiring the customer service team to closely monitor freight through C1, where shipments are processed from origin. The warehouse team then receives, segregates, and repacks as needed in preparation for the destination country.

A long time JAS Miami customer approached JAS to handle the deployment & retrieval of all voting machines in Los Angeles County, this task was completed thanks to the support of JAS LAX; additionally, JAS Miami coordinated the logistics for two overseas elections in 2020. These projects were of great significance and importance for JAS USA, and JAS is proud to be a part of this process.

JAS Miami also coordinated the logistics of a major mobile phone launch for LATAM, supporting one of the largest distribution groups in the region. These are the same visionaries who made the Colon Free Zone a reality, the world’s second largest free trade zone.

JAS Miami’s dedication to our customers and capability to meet their growing needs, while operating meticulously to aggressively expand our network is remarkable and receives my utmost appreciation." Eugenio Fumo, CEO, JAS USA

The JAS Miami Branch has recently been activated as an FTZ (Foreign-Trade Zone, Inc.). This activation gives JAS Miami the opportunity to provide specialized services related to FTZ operations.  As an active FTZ, the JAS Miami facility has a section of floor space which is for legal purposes outside the customs territory of the United States, this allows JAS Miami to offer weekly entry services, duty deferral opportunities for import goods and duty eliminations for some export goods.  Weekly entry services may provide significant opportunities for clients to reduce costs and streamline their supply chain. FTZs offer the broadest flexibility for all bonded type facilities in the US.

During the last 3 years, under the guidance and leadership of Maria Emilia Davila (aka MED) JAS Miami continues to advance and evolve, often recognized, and valued by other JAS offices in LATAM as instrumental leaders they can rely on daily. JAS Miami’s collaboration and efforts within the region are exceptional, JAS envisions much success in 2021 from the Miami team!  

At JAS People Make the Difference! #JASTRONG

Alfonzo Ortiz Left. Customer Right
JAS Team Hand Delivers Package to Avoid Shutdown

JAS takes pride in going the extra mile and making a difference for our customers. This time, the JAS team was able to make a critical difference for an Automotive Tier1 customer by helping them prevent a plant shutdown and saving them thousands of dollars.

On Tuesday, December 8, at 10:54 AM the customer contacted JAS telling the team that it had moved some parts which were, unfortunately, misrouted by another Air Integrator, and the imminently needed part had end up in Honolulu. The customer needed to expedite another box from Florida to Texas and deliver it across the border to Tamaulipas, Mexico the same day in order to prevent a plant shut down for two of their original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customer's production lines.

Within hours, the JAS team had proposed a solution, on-board courier service, with two routing options to pick-up and deliver the box within the required timeline. The customer approved and at 10:02 PM on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 the package was delivered to the customer and they were ready to take the parts to Mexico.

Having the right team of experts who can communicate and create solutions in time constrained situations is one of the many qualities that keeps customers coming back to JAS, because JAS people truly do make the difference.

Job well done and congratulations to the JAS team! We are proud to continue to make the difference for our customers!

Luis Chavez, JAS Mexico Head of Perishables
JAS Mexico Announces Expansion into Perishables

JAS Mexico is excited to announce the appointment of Luis Chavez as the JAS Mexico Head of Perishables.  

With rapid growth occurring in the Perishables sector in Mexico, JAS has decided to retake and pursue this industry by offering more diverse options for our customers with new destinations available around the world.

Starting in September Luis Chavez joined JAS Mexico in the new role as Country Head of Perishables, reporting to Hugo Cardenas, Head of Airfreight for the organization, both being located at JAS Mexico Headquarters in Guadalajara.

Luis brings over 30 years of experience to the company with a degree in International Commerce. He started very early on in the forwarding industry with his career and now has 32 years of experience, specializing in Air Operations. Luis has experience with the operation & administration of charter flights and ACMI (27 years of experience/aircrafts:  727/DC-8, 747-4F and 747-8F). He has managed country operations for global accounts, including air, ocean, cross dock, and logistics. He specifically has 11 years of experience with Air Perishables, handling a diversified product portfolio; berries, avocados, limes, mangos, asparagus, etc to Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Luis also has 15 years of experience with the overland local and USA, to build up business demands, as well as 7 years of ocean experience.

With Luis's background and other related business strengths, JAS is very excited to have Luis joining the team.

Please join us in welcoming Luis to the JAS family!

In Times of Crisis, Customers Turn to the Agile and Responsive Expertise of JAS

Reduced global air cargo capacity, blank sailings, carrier solvency, increasing port congestion, and last-mile delivery delays are adding to an ever-growing riskier global environment that threatens supply chains.

Uncertain times often require creative measures. As shippers look to replenish inventory levels as well as budget logistics costs in such an unpredictable environment, partnering with a freight forwarder such as JAS helps to reduce such risks and cost concerns.

JAS has always worked closely with shippers to offer solutions that balance planning with responsiveness and agility. The COVID-19 pandemic highlights this need as shippers continue to benefit from the expertise of JAS during this crisis.

For several years, JAS Italy has worked with several Italian Government institutions by serving their logistics requirements. The relationship has become even closer during the pandemic as JAS took charge of a certain Italian Government institution’s import/export distribution process to obtain and distribute Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) commodities.

JAS initially arranged shipments from China, Brazil, and South Africa mainly through general cargo urgent flights. However, as demand dramatically increased, JAS recognized that the available market capacity was not meeting the needs of its customers. As a result, JAS ramped up the use of charter flights to better meet customer requirements.  

Since February, JAS has moved millions of masks along with protective suits, visors, gloves, respirators, pulmonary ventilators, test tubes, and swabs.

By chartering flights, JAS was able to help other customers as well. For example, a German-based provider of medical and hygiene products turned to JAS to supply N95 masks to the governments of Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. JAS utilized multiple chartered flights from Shanghai to Frankfurt to distribute not only to the governments involved but also to pharmacies for wider distribution to non-governmental organizations and the public at large.

JAS was able to support customers in Peru, Colombia, and Mexico building southbound connections with the charter flights arriving to the USA from Asia.

The ability to rapidly charter flights between countries could not have been accomplished in such a quick and efficient manner without the expertise of the JAS World Air Freight Team (WAT) whose close relationship with a number of aircraft owners allowed JAS to find the right equipment, mostly 747-8 and 747-4 cargo planes, at the right time and in the right location for its customers.

Collaboration with JAS China was crucial as requirements for moving Personal Protection Equipment changed almost on a daily basis. Communication was a key success factor with JAS China establishing a daily communication channel to keep the whole JAS network up to date with the latest information.

JAS has now implemented full scheduled flight operations in the transatlantic corridor. Offering weekend flights from Chicago to Frankfurt and back.

JAS is also continuing special charter flights both with cargo aircraft or ghost flights from Shanghai to Chicago and from Hong Kong to Los Angeles.

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