Yamaha names APL Logistics Truckload Carrier of the Year

CYPRESS, CA, MARCH 12, 2009 – After 35 years of doing business together the relationship between supply chain services leader APL Logistics and legendary motor craft maker Yamaha remains rock solid. That’s the conclusion APL Logistics officials reached this month after winning Yamaha’s Truckload Carrier of the Year award from a field of 37 suppliers who transport product for the world famous manufacturer of motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles and more.

“This honor tells us that we’re still going strong with Yamaha,” said Peter Knapp, head of Contract Logistics Services for APL Logistics. “Receiving awards is nice, but what’s gratifying is the knowledge that a key customer is pleased with the service we provide them.”

In presenting its award, Cypress-based Yamaha said APL Logistics rated “far above industry standards” in key transportation measures including service time to destination, service failures and claims. The logistics services company manages more than 1,000 truck shipments a month for Yamaha with an on-time record of better than 98%.

Beyond service excellence, Yamaha also singled out APL Logistics for improving the manufacturer’s supply chain efficiency. The companies worked together to increase Yamaha’s use of full-truck load shipments – as opposed to less-than-truck load shipments -- from 40% to 65% in 2008. That enabled Yamaha to consolidate multiple product lines in fewer shipments, thereby reducing costs.

APL Logistics began its Yamaha relationship in 1974 and a decade later developed a regional distribution center for the manufacturer in Atlanta. Today the firm supports Yamaha with warehousing, distribution and transportation services, primarily in the southeastern U.S.