Efficient logistics and shipping are the backbone of any successful construction project. From ensuring materials arrive on time to managing costs, the challenges of logistics can make or break a project’s timeline and budget. To shed light on this critical aspect of the industry, we sat down with Estes Express, the CFA’s trusted shipping partner, to discuss the big picture of logistics from the inside and what challenges and solutions companies can utilize to reduce problems and costs.

Q1: CAN YOU GIVE US A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF ESTES EXPRESS AND THE SERVICES YOU PROVIDE?

Estes Express: Estes is a fourth-generation, asset-based, debt-free company that started during the Great Depression with a single truck in Richmond, Virginia. Over the years, we’ve grown significantly, now operating more than 300 terminals and 7,000 next-day lanes nationwide. While we specialize in LTL (less-than-truckload) freight, we also offer a range of services through our subsidiary, Estes Forwarding Worldwide, including flatbed services for oversized construction materials.

Q2: WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST LOGISTICS CHALLENGES COMPANIES FACE IN TODAY’S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY?

Estes Express: There are a few that come to mind. Packaging is a huge challenge. Proper packaging not only protects your product, but improper packaging can cause damage to other freight during transit and lead to higher costs. Communication is another key factor, ensuring both shippers and carriers are aligned on details like delivery locations and special requirements can prevent unexpected delays that in projects that usually are on a strict timeline with little flexibility. Having confidence in communication is something that can improve your logistics a lot.

Additionally, things like fluctuating fuel costs and supply chain disruptions continue to impact pricing and availability in often unpredictable ways.

Q3: HOW HAS THE DEMAND FOR SHIPPING EVOLVED IN RECENT YEARS, ESPECIALLY WITH THE RISE OF E-COMMERCE AND SAME-DAY DELIVERY EXPECTATIONS?

Estes Express: The demand for faster shipping has definitely increased, especially with the influence of companies like Amazon. This has put pressure on LTL carriers to expand next-day lanes and improve efficiency. It isn’t just the speed that has evolved, companies are looking for consistency too, so balancing speed and consistency is what has changed the most for shipping companies. For Estes, adding more terminals has been a gamechanger, allowing us to meet these demands while maintaining our 97% on-time delivery rate.

Q4: WHAT IS LTL SHIPPING, AND WHY IS IT BENEFICIAL FOR CONTRACTORS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY?

Estes Express: LTL is ideal for shipping smaller quantities of freight, typically one to five pallets. It allows contractors to share trailer space and only pay for the portion they use, which can result in significant cost savings compared to renting an entire truck. For heavy items like tools or materials, consolidating shipments into LTL can also be more economical than using parcel services like UPS or FedEx, or even using their own trucks and transporting materials themselves.

Q5: WHAT ARE SOME COMMON MISTAKES COMPANIES MAKE THAT INCREASE THEIR SHIPPING COSTS?

Estes Express: Improper packaging is a big one. For example, if materials aren’t secured properly, they can tip over and cause damage, leading to additional costs. Another common issue is learning what freight class the material you are shipping falls under. Not knowing this or not providing accurate information about the shipment, such as whether a lift gate is needed or if the delivery or if there is limited road access to the drop-off point will often result in unexpected fees.

Q6: WHAT MADE ESTES INTERESTED IN PARTNERING WITH THE CFA?

Estes Express: We’ve worked with associations in the past and have seen the value they provide to their members, especially smaller companies that don’t ship frequently. By pooling the buying power of CFA members, we’re able to offer deeper discounts and reduce accessorial charges like lift gate fees or construction site deliveries. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

Q7: WHY SHOULD CFA MEMBERS CONSIDER USING THE ESTES PROGRAM?

Estes Express: Beyond the discounts, our service is a major benefit. With over 97% on-time deliveries and a time-critical service for urgent shipments, we ensure materials arrive when  and where they’re needed. Our program also eliminates minimum usage requirements, so members can use the service as little or as often as they need without any obligations.

Q8: HOW CAN CFA MEMBERS ENROLL IN THE ESTES PROGRAM, AND WHAT DOES THE PROCESS LOOK LIKE?

Estes Express: It’s a simple process. Members can reach out to us directly via phone or email to discuss their shipping needs. We’ll review their shipment data to determine the best program for them, and once they complete an onboarding form, they’ll gain access to our portal. From there, they can start shipping right away.

Logistics may not always be the most glamorous part of construction, but it’s undeniably one of the most important. With Estes Express as a trusted partner, CFA members can navigate the complexities of shipping with confidence, ensuring their projects stay on track and on budget.