AIT capacity access, custom logistics solution saves Tier 1 automotive supplier from production shut down

Published on: Jun 10, 2021

AIT capacity access, custom logistics solution saves Tier 1 supplier

Summary

In late 2020, a Tier 1 automotive supplier faced a big challenge: either find a way to quickly move more than 40 tons of parts from China, or their production line in Mexico would shut down. In the midst of a pandemic, they struggled to secure air cargo space—until they turned to the automotive logistics experts at AIT.
 

CHALLENGE: Capacity crunch stalls urgent parts shipment

Due to a quality issue, the automotive supplier needed to ship 45 tons of axles from Shanghai to their manufacturing facility in Mexico. If the shipment didn’t arrive within 72 hours, the production line would be forced to initiate an extremely costly shut down. But, due in part to the ongoing pandemic’s impact on air freight capacity, the supplier was unable to find last-minute space on either commercial or charter flights.
 

SOLUTION: An end-to-end, multi-mode logistics plan

AIT’s on-the-ground teams in Asia and North America collaborated to quickly design a customized air and road logistics plan to meet the supplier’s needs, beginning with the procurement of a charter flight from Shanghai to Dallas. In addition to local cartage pickup in China, AIT teammates arranged for transborder linehaul from Dallas to the final destination in Mexico while also handling all customs brokerage requirements.
  • Air charter management
  • Cargo pickup via exclusive-use vehicles
  • Customs clearance administration
  • Bonded, hot-shot trucking from Texas to Mexico manufacturing plant
  • 24/7, comprehensive customer support
 

The AIT Difference Makers

  • Faster, flexible, cost-effective freight solutions
  • Robust carrier relationships deliver transpacific air capacity—even in tight pandemic conditions
  • Expert customs management via in-house, licensed brokerage
  • Real-time communication with partners and AIT locations in China, Mexico and the United States for 24/7 operational support
  • Deep automotive manufacturing logistics knowledge
 

RESULT: Auto logistics expertise averts shutdown

Thanks to the coordinated, quick work of AIT’s global team of experts and their seamless air and ground freight solution, the Tier 1 automotive supplier achieved their tight production timeline and avoided a costly line-down situation. 

Benefit from deep automotive logistics experience.

LEARN MORE

Get the PDF Version.

Download now

Connect with an AIT Worldwide Logistics expert at one of our more than 100 offices worldwide to get started on your custom solution today.

Contact Us