When logistics prof
essionals Chris Columbus, George Barlow, Drew Beckerdite and Larry Taylor decided in 2006 to launch CBT Integrated Logistics LLC, they shared a commitment to customer service, reliability and professionalism.
Since opening their doors, the full-service transportation management and inbound logistics solutions provider in Chesapeake, Virginia, has grown to include 20 power units from a trucking terminal with a secure warehouse facility specializing in drayage serving the Port of Virginia. Their growth has come by creating programs customized to their customer’s expectations for improved efficiencies and cost controls.
So in late 2014, when the economy improved and it was time to grow their fleet to meet customers’ growing demands, the owners sought a partner that shared their customer-first commitment – and had a program to serve CBT’s specific needs.
Market research revealed Ryder Used Vehicle Sales could be the answer. CBT discovered that the company had the reliable equipment competitively priced to meet their budget. CBT soon was in conversations with sales representative, Michael Berger, who quickly became CBT’s trusted partner in the process.
Berger searched Ryder national inventory and secured three used Freightliner Columbia day cabs. He then expedited the sale to meet their end-of-year deadline.
“He really made the whole process very smooth for us and was always responsive,” Taylor says.
Securing the right vehicles within CBT’s budget was only part of the equation. CBT needed vehicles it could rely on. Each of the three trucks came with extensive service records, plus an optional warranty. Soon after CBT purchased 12 months of coverage for each of the trucks, one vehicle experienced a minor issue that was quickly resolved.
“Ryder responded,” Taylor says. “They’ve treated us well.”
In the end, Ryder, Berger and the three vehicles surpassed CBT’s expectations for an ally that would help bolster its own reputation as a professional organization operating modern, safe equipment. Where others have fallen short in the past, Ryder excelled.
“That’s something our customers expect from us. It’s a big part of the positive, professional image we believe is reflected in our choice of equipment,” he said. “It’s all about servicing the customer effectively, efficiently and at a fair price.”
“We saw that same corporate mission in our dealings with Ryder,” Columbus adds. “I think that’s what gave us the comfort level we had working with them.”
