8
pg December 2017 1 4 issue Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc. 25TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! ® Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! Advance planning for peak-season distribution yields dividends By Wes Stone and Gail Jones Seasonal demand for specific materials can create a significant disruption in the market, a situation oſten aggravated by capacity constraints. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Planning ahead for seasonal material distribution is one proactive strategy customers can use to optimize supply chain success. With continued capacity shortages, Superior Bulk Logistics’ diverse service footprint -- rolling stock, rail transfer, Transportation Management System (TMS), and brokerage -- can ensure compliance and reduce risk, even in times of peak demand. It’s yet another way we’re expanding our core services to help customers meet everyday challenges driven by market pressures, including their need for reliable distribution networks year round. Pre-deploy Material at SBL Rail Transfer Sites One effective approach to “flattening out” the demand pattern is for customers to systematically locate seasonal material at our nationwide SuperFlo rail transfer sites, and ship all year from those sites. Coatings, deicers, agricultural materials, and some food grade products are ideally suited to this process, which creates velocity at plant locations and provides seamless distribution to end users. With so many market forces beyond our control, customers are well advised to explore this highly manageable opportunity to achieve competitive advantage. Your Partner in Advance Planning Superior can do far more than handle the right transfers at the right times. We work in partnership with customers nationwide to schedule and receive material in SAP, oſten utilizing our robust VisiShip TMS inventory management soſtware to boost optimization and visibility. Brokerage, third party logistics, and other supply chain services from Supernus Global Solutions, Inc. can add further capacity, cost efficiency and value when managing spikes in market demand. Ensure Quality & Reliability -- Even in Peak Periods Lack of planning can lead to emergency “Plan B” carrier options with untried reliability scenarios and potential performance pitfalls. Bringing SBL into seasonal planning upfront ensures “Plan A” deliveries, even during capacity crunches. We encourage customers to contact their account representatives for more information!

TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! · 2018-05-01 · By Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing Representative Early in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we

  • Upload
    others

  • View
    0

  • Download
    0

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! · 2018-05-01 · By Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing Representative Early in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we

pg December 2017 1

4issueSuperior Bulk Logistics, Inc.

2 5 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y I S S U E !

®

Take the Spike Out of Seasonality!Advance planning for peak-season distribution yields dividendsBy Wes Stone and Gail Jones Seasonal demand for specific materials can create a significant disruption in the market, a situation often aggravated by capacity constraints. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Planning ahead for seasonal material distribution is one proactive strategy customers can use to optimize supply chain success. With continued capacity shortages, Superior Bulk Logistics’ diverse service footprint -- rolling stock, rail transfer, Transportation Management System (TMS), and brokerage -- can ensure compliance and reduce risk, even in times of peak demand. It’s yet another way we’re expanding our core services to help customers meet everyday challenges driven by market pressures, including their need for reliable distribution networks year round.

Pre-deploy Material at SBL Rail Transfer Sites

One effective approach to “flattening out” the demand pattern is for customers to systematically locate seasonal material at our nationwide SuperFlo rail transfer sites, and ship all year from those sites. Coatings, deicers, agricultural materials, and some food grade products are ideally suited to this process, which creates velocity at plant locations and provides seamless distribution to end users. With so many market forces beyond our control, customers are well advised to explore this highly manageable opportunity to achieve competitive advantage.

Your Partner in Advance Planning

Superior can do far more than handle the right transfers at the right times. We work in partnership with customers nationwide to schedule and receive material in SAP, often utilizing our robust VisiShip TMS inventory management software to boost optimization and visibility. Brokerage, third party logistics, and other supply chain services from Supernus Global Solutions, Inc. can add further capacity, cost efficiency and value when managing spikes in market demand.

Ensure Quality & Reliability -- Even in Peak Periods

Lack of planning can lead to emergency “Plan B” carrier options with untried reliability scenarios and potential performance pitfalls. Bringing SBL into seasonal planning upfront ensures “Plan A” deliveries, even during capacity crunches.

We encourage customers to contact their account representatives for more information!

Page 2: TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! · 2018-05-01 · By Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing Representative Early in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we

pg December 2017 2

UPERIOR CARRIERS NEWSSuperior Wins Stepan's Carrier Performance Award By Gail Jones

Winning a customer’s performance award is always a singular honor, but capturing the very first one conferred by that customer calls for an extra round of applause. Stepan Chemical Company’s inaugural Carrier Performance Award has gone to Superior Carriers, reflecting a sound relationship between the two companies refined by many years of honing communications and operations processes. As Pedricktown, New Jersey Terminal Manager Scott Hourigan put it: “The quality partnership between Superior and Stepan goes back decades. It’s characterized by frequent and clear communication and a recognition among all parties that these are important, sensitive accounts involving large volumes of product.”

Superior Carriers provides service to Stepan at three of the chemical company’s plant locations: Fieldsboro, New Jersey (served by our Pedricktown terminal); Millsdale, Illinois (Kankakee and Markham terminals), and Winder, Georgia (Atlanta terminal.) Mike Kulaga, VP-National Accounts, credits the award to Superior’s ability to achieve highly innovative customer solutions. “For example, several years ago we were shipping huge volumes of product by truck from Stepan’s Fieldsboro plant to Kentucky, where the loads tended to back up. So we came up with the idea of ‘reverse’ transloading,” he said. “That entails first trucking the product the relatively short distance from Fieldsboro to Superior’s

Sparta, New Jersey SuperFlo site, where we then put it into rail cars that make the much longer haul south. This unusual process has resulted in considerable cost savings for the customer.”

Superior’s seasoned team in Sparta is well acquainted with this customer and its products. Nick Clayton, Sparta’s Operations Manager, stated: “Longevity of service has definitely played a role in our winning this award. Our relationship with Stepan has only gotten more favorable over the years. The avenues of communication are open and involve numerous contacts daily at both ends, so problems can be quickly identified and addressed.”

Atlanta Terminal Manager Lance Hunter agrees. “The 24/7 accessibility of key people, from top executives to site personnel, is huge. If issues come up over the weekend, we can resolve them on the spot regardless of the hour or day. Stepan is a highly valued customer for us here in Atlanta. I’d say that every single one of our 34 drivers has at some point interacted with the company.”

Terminal Manager Jim Carl oversees Superior’s Markham and Kankakee, Illinois terminals, the latter location managing a consistent flow of business from Stepan. “Handling our work load from Stepan’s plant in Elwood, Illinois is only possible through the efforts of a committed and professional driving force, coupled with a strong partnership between shipper and carrier,” he observed. “We work with short notice, order changes, and other diversions, all on a routine basis, knowing this is the shipping environment that exists with a major chemical manufacturer. In Kankakee, Jeff O’Dell, Dustin Duncan, and Zach Snodsmith shore up the dispatch on a daily basis, along with Tony Anderson who steers the maintenance and wash rack responsibilities from the Markham location.”

SBL’s Sr. VP-Operations Steve Lowman extended his congratulations to the many people systemwide who contributed to the award. “All of the credit goes to our teams that work directly with Stepan to ensure the highest level of service,” he said. “This accomplishment is even more commendable when taking into consideration the tight capacity and level of demand our industry is facing today.”

SBL’s VP-National Accounts Mike Kulaga (left) with Sr. VP-Operations Steve Lowman

WE WANT YOUR INPUT! Have comments about the Driving Force?Suggestions for improvement? Ideas for articles? Please email our editor: Gail S. Jones at [email protected]

Page 3: TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! · 2018-05-01 · By Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing Representative Early in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we

pg December 2017 3

Superior Named “Bulk Carrier of the Year” at Transplace

In what is turning out to be a banner year for performance honors at Superior Carriers, this autumn we were pleased to accept the Bulk Carrier of the Year Award from Transplace, a leading supply chain management company. Tony Moberly, VP-National Accounts, represented Superior at the trophy presentation, part of the Transplace-hosted Carrier Symposium held in Fayetteville, Arkansas on September 13.

“We received the excellence award for serving the Acme-Hardesty account, managed by Transplace,” stated Moberly. “The two-day conference featuring the award ceremony recognized carriers in all groups including LTL (less than truckload), bulk chemical, and flatbed. We also benefited from hearing about Transplace’s managed transportation services, as well as presentations on the economy and driver health.”

VP-National Accounts Dan Sommers commented: “It is noteworthy that Superior just started this business with Acme-Hardesty in July 2016, so this is only our first full year working directly with them. We extend our congratulations to all who service this account, especially Jackie Sandlin, our Terminal Manager in Wilmington, North Carolina.”

#TheSocialStopDriver Testimonials Tell It Like It IsBy Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing RepresentativeEarly in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we could tape them saying in their own words what it’s like to work for Superior Bulk Logistics. Frankly, we were not sure if they’d be willing, or what they might say. But so far, thirty of them have said yes.

To report that these interviews have been a success on social media is an understatement. To date, driver testimonial videos from Superior Carriers and Carry Transit combined have reached over 83,000 people, with over 32,000 views and nearly 1,500 reactions.

Why are they so popular? I think it’s because there’s an honesty and frankness about the videos that have really struck a chord with people. Our drivers seem to want to share their personal stories and experiences. “Family” is a common theme that voluntarily surfaces in most interviews. Generally, our drivers see this company as a family, in which they are valued and treated like family, not just a number or employee. This close-knit company culture is a big reason why they stay with us.

The development and preservation of this family culture, reflecting a deep faith in the quality of our people, demonstrate the foresight and wisdom of the late John J. Burns, Jr., who purchased our Company more than fifty years ago. That culture has been continued by our Chairman and former CEO R. T. Lewis, as well as current CEO Len Fletcher, who have fostered a company in which everyone matters.

During my travels to terminals this year, it was gratifying to hear people say that they had seen the videos and liked them. When asked, most were eager to share their unscripted stories. As the year went on, our social media team has noticed other trucking carriers copying our idea -- truly, the sincerest form of flattery.

So far, most of our videos have interviewed those driver trainers who visited our corporate office for training. Our future plans are to try to reach as many drivers and driver trainers as possible across both operating companies. Next year’s video interviews will focus on our number one priority -- safety -- and the drivers in our Circle of Honor Safety Award Programs.

We thank those drivers who have helped us put a real-life “face” to SBL during the past year . . . and are grateful to all future driver interviewees who are willing to share their unique and revealing stories.

VP-National Accounts Tony Moberly (center) accepts the Transplace Bulk Carrier of the Year Award on behalf of Superior Carriers. He is joined by Transplace Carrier Relations managers (from left) Cory Allen, Barbara Jackson, and Charles Lamb.

Page 4: TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! · 2018-05-01 · By Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing Representative Early in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we

pg December 2017 44

CARRY TRANSIT NEWS

Carry Transit continues to expand its national rail-to-truck transloading brand with the development of the Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad (IHB)/Franklin Park, Illinois facility. Our long-standing partnership with the IHB makes this 35-car spot facility our third in the Chicagoland area. Operationally and geographically, the Franklin Park site complements Carry’s existing Bridgeview and Summit, Illinois locations, with a combined total of 120 railcar spots, thirty of which have steam/heating capability.

The Franklin Park site is part of the Bridgeview, Illinois terminal network overseen by Terminal Manager Angela Moses, and has full administrative, loader support plus comprehensive data and lab back up.

The Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad is a major short line that connects to all the Class 1 railroads, giving our shippers multiple inbound or outbound rail solutions. For questions or service inquiries, please contact Angela Moses or Diana Castaneda at 708-594-2200.

It is with mixed emotions that I announce the December 1, 2017 retirement of Tom Paulson, Director of Pricing at Carry Transit. Tom began his career with us 39 years ago when he joined Central Transport, Inc.

Tom has been instrumental in the success of Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc. With a knowledge of pricing methodology second to none, Tom helped train sales members in the complexities of costing, and was key to achieving positive outcomes for many significant projects. In addition, Tom has played a primary role in creating and maintaining productive relations with Carry Transit customers.

Please join me in wishing Tom the very best in his new endeavors, which I understand will include photography, learning to play the piano, and returning to his former hobby of making pottery. He will be greatly missed!

Pricing Director Paulson Retires By Wes Stone, Sr. VP & CMO, Superior Bulk Logistics

Wes Stone (left) congratulates Tom Paulson at his retirement dinner on November 27, 2017.

By Jim Blackmon, President, Carry Transit

New Transload Facility Opens in Franklin Park, IllinoisCarry’s Third SuperFlo Site in Chicagoland

Carry’s “Circle of Honor” Winners AnnouncedWe’re pleased to report two new Carry Transit “Circle of Honor” Driver Safety Award recipients, who have each driven past the 1,000,000 safe mile mark!

The winners are Cloyd Cook from our Keokuk, Iowa terminal, and Oliver Boylan from our Lafayette, Indiana terminal. Both will receive a personalized Carry Transit jacket, a die cast model of a Carry Transit tractor/trailer, and a magnetic name plate for their driver’s door indicating their award level.

Cook and Boylan are the latest winners out of a total of ten Carry drivers who have attained the million safe mile mark. Carry also is proud to have six drivers with ten years of safe driving, and three drivers with fifteen years of safe driving.

Congratulations to all of these safe drivers for sustained excellence behind the wheel!Circle of Honor Winner Cloyd Cook, driver for Carry

Transit’s Keokuk, Iowa terminal.

Page 5: TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! · 2018-05-01 · By Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing Representative Early in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we

pg December 2017 5

AFETY ZONE

It was a terrific third quarter for clean DOT inspections! Congratulations to all our drivers for racking up 141 of them. The four winners for the random clean inspection drawing are: James Fahlor (Karns City), Juanita McClanahan (N. Charleston), Matthew Turner (Kingsport), and Walter Jackson (Atlanta). Each winner will receive a $50 gift card. In addition, Augusta terminal driver Greg Buntting will be awarded a computer tablet, compliments of S&E Productions, as the top prize in our random DOT clean inspection drawing. We thank all of our outstanding drivers who help keep Superior’s CSA scores in the green.

It’s that time of year when less daylight and tricky road conditions present even more challenges to safety. We all know that cars like to speed up and go around trucks from all angles! So during a lane change or merge situation, please make sure you “lean and look,” checking your mirrors every few seconds to ensure your safety and that of the driving public. To avoid accidents and hazards, always drive defensively, staying aware of the space around your equipment, and keeping a safe following distance. Space and visibility give you time to make the best possible driving decisions.

Finally, deer season is upon us. We have had numerous deer collision incidents this fall, and drivers need to be on the lookout for this hazard both day and night. For your safety, don’t swerve sharply if a deer appears to the front or side of your vehicle, as this can cause a much more serious rollover. Our friends at the Humane Society of the United States offer these tips for driving during deer season:

• Follow speed limits.• Watch for wildlife in and near the road at dawn, dusk and the first few hours after darkness.• Be especially cautious on two-lane roads bordered by woods or fields, or where streams cross under roads. • Scan the road as you drive, watching the edges for wildlife about to cross.• Use your high beams when it is safe to do so.• Lower your dashboard lights slightly.• If you hit a deer, keep your distance, and contact the authorities.

We extend our best wishes of the season to our great drivers . . . and encourage one and all to get home for the holidays safely!

Enjoy a Safe Holiday Season! By Tom Gorman, Director-EHS&S

Million Accident-Free Miles Program UpdateBy Tom Gorman, Director - EHS&S

We started the month of October with notable safety achievements: the Kingsport, Tennessee terminal had logged over two million accident-free miles, and three other terminals -- Pasadena, Texas; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Greer, South Carolina -- boasted over one million accident-free miles. Unfortunately, by the end of the month, all four terminals had experienced a preventable accident. No new terminals reached the one million safe mile mark. Accident frequency for the month was a disappointing 5.31 per million miles driven. The preventable frequency per million miles was 3.47, and our non-preventable frequency was 1.84.

On the positive side, the Wilmington, North Carolina terminal surpassed the 750,000 safe mile mark for the first time this year! All the terminal employees will receive a charging kit and carrying case with the Superior Carriers logo, and the terminal will receive a certificate of achievement for display. We also had three new 500,000 mile award winners: N. Charleston, South Carolina; Axis (Mobile), Alabama; and St. Gabriel (Baton Rouge), Louisiana. Employees will receive a Superior Carriers flashlight with logo, and the terminal a certificate of achievement. In addition, our Memphis, Tennessee and Augusta, Georgia terminals reached the 500,000 accident-free milestone for the second time this year.

We encourage all terminal managers and drivers to stay up to speed on how your individual terminals are performing in terms of accident frequency and preventable and non-preventable accidents. Have a wonderful holiday - and stay safe out there!

Page 6: TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! · 2018-05-01 · By Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing Representative Early in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we

pg December 2017 6

BL SCOOPIn the spirit of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, held annually in mid-September, we give a standing ovation for the consistently impressive performance of SBL’s company drivers and independent contractors. As our customer ARG (American Refining Group) recently commented: “We couldn’t run our business without all who spend their days on the road making it happen!” Here are just a few of the many Superior Carriers drivers who were singled out for exemplary service over the past three months:

Kelly Mustard, who literally went the extra mile for an Oregon customer after road closures forced a 120-mile detour, but still made the delivery within 45 minutes of the scheduled window (the customer said they “would have been happy IF they saw the load that day”) . . . Baltimore driver Rowdy Bartchlett, whose professionalism got high marks from a customer who commented: “If Rowdy could deliver the bulk loads every time, that would be more than great” . . . Good Samaritan IC Marlo Johnson, who helped company driver Larry James make temporary repairs to his truck to get him home for the weekend after he broke down in Illinois . . . Pedricktown driver Jonathan Green, who when delivering a load of peroxide alertly noticed a leak in the customer’s storage tank connection and notified the proper personnel. According to Green’s Terminal Manager Scott Hourigan, the customer was “very thankful and appreciative.”

We bid a fond farewell to several drivers who retired this fall, including N. Charleston, South Carolina driver Francis “Frank” Reinbold, 77, who had been with Superior for fourteen years. “He was a true professional, top shelf material, steady and strong to the last day,” stated his Terminal Manager Linda Berger. “How lucky I was to have a driver and friend like Frank work for me.”

We also extend our best wishes to retiring Terminal Manager Lester Richard, who had been Superior’s Sulphur, Louisiana Terminal Manager for 21 years. VP - National Accounts Tony Moberly stated: “Lester had 47 years in the business, and was very dedicated and well known in the industry with drivers and customers. I knew he was special the first time we met.” Lester’s longtime friend and colleague, Regional VP-Gulf Region Larry Bezet, had mixed feelings about Lester’s leave taking: “Lester has been a huge resource and wealth of knowledge for Superior Carriers. His leadership, expertise, positive attitude, infectious laugh and good humor will be greatly missed as he enters these next steps of his journey. But no one is more deserving of retirement and all the joy that comes along with it!”

Bezet also is happy to announce that in late September, Tammy Poe was promoted to Terminal Manager in Sulphur, Louisiana, and that Philip Green joined that hardworking team as a dispatcher. “Philip is an Army veteran, and has worked in the Lake Charles area as a dispatcher in the concrete business for nearly 23 years,” Bezet stated. “Please take a moment to welcome him as part of the Superior family!”

Inbound Logistics, an information resource for transportation industry executives, has named Superior Bulk Logistics a Top 100 Trucker for 2017. The announcement was made in their September 2017 print edition, as well as through multimedia channels. Available online and in print since 2006, Inbound Logistics provides articles, podcasts, and newsletters covering industry trends and logistics management tools.

In October, Logistics Operations Director Kelli Potter announced a restructuring of her Oak Brook-based department to provide better assistance to the field. Kevin Knott will now manage dispatch for the Atlantic Region; Fernando Ramirez will continue to run all Mexico operations; Gerardo Arroyo and Tina Roberts will be working with the Southern Region. Al Slagle will take over the Midwest and Gulf Regions, while Ray Kitching will continue to be on weekends and serve as night shift backup.

We’re also excited to announce that after a five-year absence, Joe Iacullo is returning to the Log Ops family! He will work on nights together with fellow Coordinator Paul Jones. Finally, we extend our best wishes to Brad Voltz, who is transferring from Log Ops to Superior’s Markham, Illinois terminal to serve as dispatcher.

North Charleston driver trainer Tony Glover (left) with retiree driver Frank Reinbold.

Retiring Sulphur, Louisiana Terminal Manager

Lester Richard

Visit our blogs soon! www.carrytransit.com/blog/ and www.superior-carriers.com/blog/

Page 7: TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! · 2018-05-01 · By Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing Representative Early in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we

pg December 2017 7

YOUR BENEFIT4Wrap Up the Holidays with an Employee Benefits Checkup!Recently you received information on a new Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc. health insurance plan that will go into effect January 1, 2018. While there will be increases in the deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, deductibles will not apply to physician visits or prescriptions. The plan will now include affordable copays for office visits and prescriptions to allow for a lower out-of-pocket cost on the more frequent services. Additionally, the prescription drug copays will be included in the out-of-pocket maximum (there is currently no limit on what you can spend on prescription copays.)

We are proud to say that when comparing SBL plan benefits and costs to others in our industry, we offer a much better plan than our peers/competitors, while asking employees to pay significantly lower amounts toward the total cost. For a chart comparing our plan to “trucking company average” plans, please refer to the Employee Benefit Program Announcement you have already received.

One key change in the new plan is the Working Spouse Provision. As of January 1, 2018, spouses with health insurance coverage available through their own employers will no longer be eligible to be covered by the Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc. plan. These spouses should enroll for coverage with their own employers by 1/1/2018. SBL’s “Summary of Benefits and Coverage” (SBC) may be used as a convenient basis for comparison when evaluating other benefit plans provided by a spouse’s employer.

If you have ineligible spouses covered today, please remove them during Open Enrollment (with no questions asked). Spouses that remain on the plan after January 1st will be audited by a third party to ensure that they are eligible. If your spouse is found to have other coverage available through an employer, immediately after the audit, his or her coverage with Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc. will no longer be provided.

What Is NOT Changing?• PPO Network – The Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc. plan will continue to utilize the National Blue Cross & Blue Shield PPO network, the

largest network in the United States that includes more than 92% of care providers nationwide.• Opt Out Program – Those employees with more than 5 years of service are able to “opt-out” of the Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc. health

plan and receive a monthly cash benefit (equal to $3,000 per year). Employees with 10 or more years of service are able to receive up to $6,000 per year.

Length of Full Time Service Monthly Opt-Out Benefit Potential Financial Impact

5 to 10 Years $250 $57.70 per paycheck / $3,000 annually

10 Years or More $500 $115.39 per paycheck / $6,000 annually

• Condition Management Program – Employees and/or spouses with either diabetes or high blood pressure will continue to be encouraged and supported by registered nurses to ensure they receive the recommended care they need and deserve. Individuals who do not follow through with all of their recommended care throughout the year for their specific condition will pay an additional $25 per individual per week for health insurance in 2018.

• Miscellaneous – The following will continue in your new health plan: 1) In-Network Annual Wellcare with no annual dollar limits; 2) In-Network Immunizations; and 3) Prescription Contraceptives Coverage (most brands are covered.)

Please Note Open Enrollment Deadline!During Open Enrollment from December 4 through December 15, 2017, you may add or delete coverage for yourself or your dependents without having a “special event” in your life. Marriage and/or birth certificates of your dependents will be required. Please send to Human Resources any changes to your health insurance. Don’t forget to review the “Summary of Benefits and Coverage” (SBC) when comparing different coverages. During Open Enrollment, the SBC is delivered to your employee mailbox and posted on the intranet.

Plan Limits for Retirement-Related ItemsThe Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced the following cost-of-living adjustments for 2018:• The elective deferral (contribution) limit for employees who participate in the 401(k) has been changed to $18,500, up from $18,000.• The catch-up contribution limit for employees age 50 and older who participate in the 401(k) is the same as last year: $6,000.

You can change your deferral contribution percentage:• By calling Mass Mutual directly at 1-800-743-5274, or by• Making your change directly on the Mass Mutual website at www.retiresmart.com.

Remember that your deferral percentage is effective every quarter: January 1st, April 1st, July 1st, and October 1st. With the RetireSmart app, you’ll be able to keep tabs on your retirement account no matter where you are. To find the app, search for “RetireSmart” or “Mass Mutual” in your Apple or Android app store.Have a New Address?Did you forget to notify HR that you moved, or that you have a new email address or cell phone number? Please let us know these changes before the end of the year to make sure you receive the W-2 and 1095-c Forms in a timely manner.

Page 8: TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE! Take the Spike Out of Seasonality! · 2018-05-01 · By Chris Halvachs, Digital Marketing Representative Early in 2016, we began asking driver trainers if we

pg December 2017 8

FROM THE TOOL BOXBy Ken Shafer, Director, Maintenance & Tank Cleaning, Superior Carriers

Seminars & Networking Fill NTTC’s Tank Truck WeekFor three days in mid-October, the National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC) brought together all segments of our industry at that most entertaining of cities -- the Big Easy -- for its annual Tank Truck Week. Attendees filled the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and the New Orleans Marriott to catch up on industry trends, check out new products from vendors, and in my case, hobnob with other folks in the maintenance field. Superior’s “optics” were outstanding, as we had a shiny new tank front and center on display.

From a maintenance perspective, highlights included a cargo tank update from the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA) covering the importance of knowing which outside vendors you use for cargo tank inspections, and the need to assess the quality of their inspections. The Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association (TTMA) provided an informative update on Phase Two Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Fuel Efficiency Standards. And the NTTC’s Cargo Tank Risk Management Committee held an annual meeting and update on how to keep workers safer, with recommendations for keeping them off the tops of tanks. Many other general sessions, keynotes and exhibits made for a lively and informative week.

Is Your Memory Failing?It may just be your computer! SBL shop personnel will be glad to know that all of their “Tough Book” laptops are being sent to corporate headquarters in Oak Brook to have a larger hard drive and more memory installed. To be completed by the end of 2017, this upgrade will enable them to run the latest Mack software without functionality issues.

SBL was well represented at NTTC’s Tank Truck Week by (left to right) John Cole, Regional Manager-EHS&S; Tom Gorman, Director-EHS&S; Ed DeVinney, Regional Manager-EHS&S; Ray Elliott, Regional Manager-EHS&S; Len Fletcher, SBL President & CEO; Sean Roach, Regional Manager- EHS&S; Ken Shafer, Director-Maintenance & Tank Cleaning; and Randy Vaughn, Sr. VP-Administration/Risk Management.

Happy Holidays to All!The holiday season has always been a special time for family. Some of us are blessed with large families, while others have watched theirs grow smaller. There are also those who feel they are alone in this world. However, as an employee of Superior Bulk Logistics, you will always be a part of this larger family.Family means taking care of one another. That is what I have witnessed this past year. We took care of one another by doing what each of us needed to do in order to maintain our Company’s reputation as a reliable, top-notch, well-respected organization. I feel so fortunate to be a part of this very special family.At this reflective time of year when we gratefully consider the blessings in our lives, I would like to personally acknowledge the important contribution each one of you make every day to our Superior family. Thank you all for a job done tremendously well.Here’s wishing all of you a very safe and happy holiday season. May God continue to bestow His blessings upon you, your loved ones, and Superior Bulk Logistics.

Len F. Fletcher, President & CEO, Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc.

711 Jorie Boulevard, Suite 101 NorthOak Brook, IL 60523630-573-2555

Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc.®

© 2017 Superior Bulk Logistics, Inc.