Craters & Freighters Nashville

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m a manager at a freight forwarding company. We move cargo worldwide for our customers, including air and ocean freight and warehousing.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Craters & Freighters Nashville?

We hired them to provide crating and packing services for different commodities that our customers ship.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We outsource additional packing needs to Craters & Freighters Nashville. For example, they provide crating for pieces of machinery, box items, or paper wrap items. Any time there’s a crating project we need them to take care of, we send them the details to get a quote from them.

What is the team composition?

We’ve worked with project leads from Craters & Freighters Nashville during on-site projects. We also have contact with the owner. 

How did you come to work with Craters & Freighters Nashville?

We’ve been doing business with Craters & Freighters Nashville for over 20 years, and the partnership started before I joined the company. Our company likely found them through word of mouth. We vet any subcontractors we hire, so I’m sure the company also vetted them. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with Craters & Freighters Nashville around 1998, and the engagement is ongoing. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement? 

We have quality standards and keep track of Craters & Freighters Nashville, checking their work to ensure our end customers are satisfied. If there are issues, such as a crate not holding together, we let Craters & Freighters Nashville know and give them a chance to fix the problem. However, they do very good work, so we’ve had very few issues with them. 

How did Craters & Freighters Nashville perform from a project management standpoint?

Sometimes, we dictate the timeline; other times, Craters & Freighters Nashville determines it based on their business demand. Then, either they meet our deadline, or we accommodate their capabilities and explain that to our customers, who can choose whether to proceed. Craters & Freighters Nashville is usually very flexible in meeting our timeline demands.

We primarily communicate via email, where they send us quotes and project updates. If we have an on-site project, the project lead will let us know what they’re doing and how long it’ll take. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

We have a long-term relationship with Craters & Freighters Nashville because they provide quality work and understand our needs and our end customers’ needs. Moreover, they’re very in tune with the automotive industry and understand how things need to be packed. 

In our business, we try to use smaller firms with less overhead that are nimble and responsive, and Craters & Freighters Nashville meets all that criteria. We even know the owner personally, which doesn’t happen with every subcontractor we work with.

Are there any areas they could improve?

Their location used to be closer to us than it is now. Although that’s not a huge burden, and they’re still within the area we cover, they’re now a bit farther away. Additionally, the prices of wood and other materials have gotten very expensive, affecting the price of crating. However, we understand that this isn’t in Craters & Freighters Nashville’s control, and the quality of their work supersedes the price. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I recommend you visit Craters & Freighters Nashville’s facilities and speak with the folks there. This way, you can see all their capabilities; they do far more things than we utilize them for, which is great. Craters & Freighters Nashville is a good company that anyone who needs crating services can benefit from. 

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the senior director of Duke Divinity School, an educational institution.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenges were you trying to address with Craters & Freighters Nashville?

We were moving and needed some help transporting some sensitive and fragile items.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

Craters & Freighters Nashville helped us pack and transport some of our items. They came to my site and put together a custom-made box for two marble tables and a large curio glass cabinet.

What was the team composition? 

We worked directly with 2–3 members of their team, but there were other people involved behind the scenes.

How did you come to work with Craters & Freighters Nashville?

I knew of their business through local contacts that gave good references for their work.

What is the status of this engagement?

We worked together throughout January 2019.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

Craters & Freighters Nashville’s team was respectful, courteous, and careful with our fragile items, so this was a very positive experience. Most importantly, the items arrived in the same condition we shipped them. 

How did Craters & Freighters Nashville perform from a project management standpoint?

Project management was excellent; Craters & Freighters Nashville stayed within budget, delivered on time, and were communicative. In terms of tools, we used emails and phone calls.

What did you find most impressive about them?

The quality of their work and their personable approach were their best attributes.

Are there any areas they could improve?

I didn’t think there was anything they could improve on — I was excited about our partnership.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I advise people to work with Craters & Freighters Nashville.

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the manager of the ocean department at Nippon Express USA, a global forwarder and third-party logistics provider.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenge were you trying to address with Craters & Freighters Nashville?

We hired them to help us crate items for shipping overseas.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

We use Craters & Freighters for a wide array of crating projects both at their facility and remotely, where they go on-site to various companies and our own facility to crate items. They've crated steel sheets, machinery, furniture, auto parts, and more. 

For each project, we send them a CAD drawing or the items' dimensions if it's something like a pallet of steel sheets. From there, they quote the job. If it's a small project, we send the product over to them, and for larger projects, we make more elaborate plans and pre-planning meetings to determine the crew. 

For example, we once worked on a crating project inside an assembly plant for finished vehicles. For that job, we had to get approval for the Craters & Freighters team to drive on-site and get them security training. We also procured all appropriate personal protective equipment. We've also run a large parts project where they made 80 crates within a week for shipment to Japan. Occasionally, I've given them the opportunity to quote the removal of cargo, which consists of sending their own trucks in to pick up products. 

Additionally, we've used Craters & Freighters to create hazardous material documents. We need to package hazardous materials shipments in a way that's compliant with international shipping regulations. However, we have an internal policy against handling the packaging of dangerous goods. In those cases, I send the products to Craters & Freighters instead of our facilities. They do the packaging and create the dangerous goods declaration, then we pick the items up and ship them.

What is the team composition?

I've interacted with teammates from every level of Craters & Freighters' operation, including the owner, sales representatives, the crating crew, supervisors, and engineers who design the crates.

How did you come to work with Craters & Freighters Nashville?

They've been the number one crating company in Nashville for as long as I've been in this industry for 20 years. Additionally, I had previously worked with Craters & Freighters around 2004 when I worked at another company. 

How much have you invested with them?

We've spent around $1.5 million. In the past year, we've spent over $350,000. 

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working with them in 2014, and the engagement is ongoing.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement? 

I can’t speak highly enough of Craters & Freighters — they’re the best crew around. These projects tend to repeat themselves, especially with auto parts, which we send to Japan. When the shipment arrives, the recipients send us back their findings, and we take those into a meeting with the Craters & Freighters team to discuss improvements. The team always comes to the table with ways to fix any issues we might have had. 

On-site, the supervisors make adjustments and improvements to what they’re using and how they’re packaging each auto part in real time. We’ve almost never gotten complaints about Craters & Freighters’ work and have never had to take corrective action with them in all our time working together. 

How did Craters & Freighters Nashville perform from a project management standpoint?

They perform very well from a project management standpoint — I give them top marks. In that order, we communicate via email, telephone, and in person. Occasionally, we’ve had online meetings via Microsoft Teams. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

The level of professionalism from Craters & Freighters’ crews is above average for their industry. They’re extremely flexible with us and help us find ways to make projects run better. They do an all-around great job. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

The only thing they could improve would be to have a hair better communication on the front end of projects, such as having their supervisors get in touch with the person in charge of an offsite project.  

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

I 100% recommend Craters & Freighters to everybody — if you need something crated, they’re the team to talk to. 

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am in business development/account services for American Solutions for Business, a print distributor with about $400 Million in sales and 1200 employees.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Craters & Freighters Nashville, and what were your goals?

Our team managed a refresh of over 150 retail stores nationwide, where we printed and shipped signage to the stores, with specific sizes and copy on the signs. We then managed the installation of the signs within each store.

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor?

We vetted Craters and Freighters and found them to have the resources and reputation to handle the project. I'm a "people" guy, and I felt like Craters has great people. And, I was right!

Describe the scope of their work in detail, including any steps and the final deliverables.

Craters was tasked with packing fragile signs and installation materials - some were rigid and heavy (conduit) and others were lightweight and fragile (ultraboard signage). One of the keys to this project was having the correct items in the kits and having them deliver to the stores before the installers arrived.

How many people from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

I worked with four individuals primarily, from Russ (owner) to Luis and Stephanie and Zach. Each of these individuals was very responsive to us!

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

I do not recall an instance of a sign being damaged in transit. These guys know how to pack and ship! In addition, their team tracked each and every shipment, and in the event of a rare delay, they notified us timely.

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

They are well organized and worked with us a via a shared excel spreadsheet. And they worked it, updating it multiple times daily.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

I found their committment to customer service superb. They do not fret. They get it done.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

I look forward to working with them on the next project!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I'm the gallery coordinator of an art gallery, Galerie Tangerine, located in Nashville, TN

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Craters & Freighters Nashville?

Our company hired Craters & Freighters Nashville to handle the process of packaging and shipping fine artwork internationally to Sydney, Australia

SOLUTION

How did you select this firm and what were the deciding factors?

We have used Craters & Freighters Nashville before, and trust their knowledge and expertise in the entire process, from beginning to end.

Describe the project in detail and walk through their service package.

We had never shipped artwork internationally before, so we hired Craters & Freighters to help guide us through the process.

They provided estimates for various means of transportation, filed all paperwork needed for international shipping, picked up all of the artwork and took it back to their warehouse where they securely packaged & crated everything, and then coordinated the shipping and provided us with all tracking information, etc.

They also continued to check in along the way, and ensured that everything arrived safely once they received notice that the shipment had arrived at it's final destination.

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

Our main point of contact was Paul, who serves as a sales representative. He led us through the entire process, and I couldn't have done it without him!

He coordinated with their operations team to schedule the pick up the artwork, and coordinated with Stephanie (operation manager), who sent us all of the necessary paperwork to successfully ship all of the artwork internationally. Everyone we dealt with was absolutely amazing!

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the engagement that demonstrate progress or success?

We have never shipped artwork internationally before, and I couldn't have done it without the Craters & Freighters Nashville team -- They walked through every step of the process with me, and handled the whole situation effortlessly.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

The workflow and communication with Craters & Freighters was a 10/10. We mainly worked with sales representative, Paul Froeter, who was beyond amazing! He went above and beyond to make sure that all details were taken care of, and was incredibly enjoyable to work with!

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Everything was impressive, and their knowledge, expertise, and professionalism were unmatched. I really appreciated their communication and ability to make my job a million times easier!

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

None - The entire process was amazing, and I can't recommend Craters & Freighters Nashville enough. We will without a doubt use them for any and all future packaging/shipping needs!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

I am an international air import specialist for a logistics company.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Craters & Freighters Nashville?

Our project was to deliver a shipment inside a mall. The team had to deliver it to the mall while helping move the crate inside and disposing of the old material.

SOLUTION

How did you select this firm and what were the deciding factors?

I was referred to them by a local company that can handle large projects. When I got in contact with Paul, he was extremely personable and easy to work with. He made the process easy for me to work with them as well as answering in a timely manner.

Describe the project in detail and walk through their service package.

The team was responsible for having the shipment be delivered to their facility. We had a specific date and time that the shipment had to be at the mall as well has enough man power to handle this large shipment. The project actually went south very quickly the day off and the team was quick to adjust to the changes. Even with all the bumps on the road, the team still managed to make this a successful project.

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

My main point of contact was Paul and he made sure all was in order for this deliver.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any outcomes from the engagement that demonstrate progress or success?

The project was a success and only because this team made sure it got done even with the issues that arose.

How effective was the workflow between your team and theirs?

I feel like workflow was pretty good. There was a lot of great communication going on at all times.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

What I found most impressive was the fact the attention of this project made me feel like we were a very important customer. Even with it not being the highest dollar project out there, that never stopped them from giving great service.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

I think at this time I can say no. I had a great experience with them and will use them again.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Branch Manager of Nissin International Transport

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Logistic provider(reight forwarder)

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Craters & Freighters Nashville to accomplish?

• Packaging for export goods

SOLUTION

How did you find Craters & Freighters Nashville?

I knew this company and used to order in Alabama

Why did you select Craters & Freighters Nashville over others?

• Close to my geographic location
• Pricing fit our budget

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

FULLY ENCLOSED CRATES
5 STEEL PLATES
ISPM-15 CERTIFIED MATERIAL
4X4 SKIDS, 2X10 DECK, 2X4 CLEATS, 3/8 PLYWOOD PANELS
FOUR WAY FORKLIFT ACCESS
VCI LINED FOR MOISTURE PROTECTION
DESICCANT

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Our customer(Importer)'s feed-back.They answered "no damage" for this project after their receiving

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Yes.I heard their T/T days and they have done within their date.

What was your primary form of communication with Craters & Freighters Nashville?

Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

I sometimes visited them between this pakcaging project.

Also, I made several requests and changes when their working but they were very flexible.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Craters & Freighters Nashville could have done differently?

No. I was completely satisfied with their work.

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Sister of a religious nonprofit

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

nonprofit

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Craters & Freighters Nashville to accomplish?

• Build a box to fly a musical instrument (harp) to Ireland

SOLUTION

How did you find Craters & Freighters Nashville?

Online Search

Why did you select Craters & Freighters Nashville over others?

• Close to my geographic location
• service offered matched my specific need

How many teammates from Craters & Freighters Nashville were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

• Built and revised box for fragile equipment using custom measurements.
• Added hard foam lining and protective packaging to interior.
• Replied to emails promptly and provided generous service and strong quality product with excellent customer service on a short timeline and at feasible cost.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

My equipment was packaged well, met Delta's "special item" oversize and weight requirements, and so was able to fly as luggage (low cost) and arrive safely, without damage.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Items were delivered on time despite a short turnaround (sometimes overnight). Needs were responded to promptly, professionally, and cheerfully.

What was your primary form of communication with Craters & Freighters Nashville?

Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

Craters & Freighters Nashville provided excellent customer service and a strong-quality product for a customized request.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Craters & Freighters Nashville could have done differently?

n/a

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and position.

I am the Logistcs Strategy Analyst of Nissan North America

Describe what your company does in a single sentence.

Automotive Manufacturing and Part Sales

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What specific goals or objectives did you hire Craters & Freighters Nashville to accomplish?

• Shipping Trial Parts
• Shipping on Time
• Material Integrity

SOLUTION

How did you find Craters & Freighters Nashville?

Referral

Why did you select Craters & Freighters Nashville over others?

• Close to my geographic location
• Great culture fit
• Referred to me
• Company values aligned

How many teammates from Craters & Freighters Nashville were assigned to this project?

2-5 Employees

Describe the scope of work in detail. Please include a summary of key deliverables.

Trial parts shipment for a testing milestone overseas. Parts had to arrive in perfect condition and corrosion free. Odd shaped materials required foam and creative wood crate solutions.

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What were the measurable outcomes from the project that demonstrate progress or success?

Zero defects of materials upon arrival. On time arrival of material. Within budget allocated to the project. Established a trusted source for these services in the future.

Describe their project management. Did they deliver items on time? How did they respond to your needs?

Excellent communications and status updates. Positive attitudes despite difficult requests. They worked alongside and not just for me.

What was your primary form of communication with Craters & Freighters Nashville?

• In-Person Meeting
• Email or Messaging App

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

The people and their integrity and the services they could offer. They had some impressive projects they could share for past experience and referrals.

Are there any areas for improvement or something Craters & Freighters Nashville could have done differently?

I really could not have expected a better experience. They adapted as needed and kept the project goals in mind. Great outcome and solid team!

BACKGROUND

Please describe your company and your position there.

General Manager - Manufacturing

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

For what projects/services did your company hire Craters & Freighters Nashville, and what were your goals?

Electronics move

SOLUTION

How did you select this vendor and what were the deciding factors?

Internet search

Describe the engagement and overall scope of work in detail, including the stages of the partnership.

Spoke with by phone

What were the terms and the value of the lease, and what percentage did Craters & Freighters Nashville take in commission?

NA

How many resources from the vendor's team worked with you, and what were their positions?

NA

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

Can you share any measurable outcomes of the engagement or general feedback about the services?

The entire team was extremely professional

Describe their project management style, including communication tools and timeliness.

We communicated consistently throughout the entire project.

What did you find most impressive or unique about this company?

How professional each person I dealt with was.

Are there any areas for improvement or something they could have done differently?

Nothing