Global Freight Management in the Apparel Industry

Challenge

This OHL customer is a large apparel importer with a large production staff, but only two people in its customs clearance and compliance department. The customer uses OHL as its sole customs broker to handle its day-to-day operational needs and approached OHL about providing support on an as-needed basis to help fill in gaps during heavy periods, technical expertise to classify their product line and providing training for other in-house departments.

Approach

OHL’s ability to have remote access to the customer’s on-line classification system allows OHL to answer production questions, approve classifications and classify the customer’s product line without having to travel to the customer’s location. When the customer needs other in-house departments brought up to speed on customs and supply chain related matters, OHL provides the necessary training using its pool of subject matter experts.

Value

OHL provides the necessary and unique expertise the customer requires on an as-needed basis and bills the customer only for the time it requires so the company does not have to hire additional staff. By providing its services remotely, OHL does not need to travel to the customer’s office at an additional expense. Additionally, as a value added service, OHL is able to provide training to certain departments for the compnay when necessary.

Return on Investment

By partnering with OHL the customer gains improved efficiency without having to hire additional staff, keeping their supply chain lean and efficient at a minimal cost to them. ROI is realized in terms of efficiency and reduced labor costs.