TOC Logistics International (TOC), a globally networked logistics leader based in Indianapolis, announced today the launch of a major consolidation program in their Houston, Texas operation. The consolidation program will create direct, efficient, safe and timely shipping between numerous destinations in Mexico, Europe, and the United States.

“Our Houston operation has become a successful hub for our ocean import consolidation programs from Europe and China,” said Greg Scheevel, Director of Global Development at TOC Logistics. TOC’s ocean consolidation model is an alternative to the traditional LCL or less-than-containerload model, meaning customers only pay for the space they use. This positional model ensures that TOC’s customers are getting the most value while spending less. Through this model TOC uses engineered load-mastering to optimize the containers ensuring maximum utilization of the space. There is less handling which reduces the risk of damages.

“TOC is always looking for innovative opportunities to streamline our logistics solutions, but the end goal is always to meet or exceed our customer’s needs,” said Scheevel. “This consolidation hub in Houston will open new opportunities for exporting companies while still allowing them to benefit from our import programs, specifically in the oil industry which we haven’t yet targeted.”

Key performance indicators of the Shared Consolidation Program include:

Simplified billing; fewer line items as opposed to traditional LCL billing

Consistent and weekly scheduled pick-ups and sailings, providing reliable plant deliveries

Where possible, consolidated bills of lading offer lower regulatory costs, i.e. Customs entries and ISF filings

“The factors we base our programs on are designed to bring the most benefit to our customers in the most ways possible,” Scheevel added. “Our program supports and focuses attention on spend rather than price since that is the true measurement of success in our industry.”

TOC’s import consolidations primarily serve the automotive maquila operations along the border with Mexico.

Adding an export consolidation program to TOC’s already popular programs from Europe and China continues to help bolster the company’s credibility in its “spend less” approach to logistics.

TOC is a minority owned, global logistics management organization.