6195 Barfield Road
Atlanta GA, 30328
United States
Over the course of the past few years, JAS Chicago has been one of the fastest growing and top performing branches within the global JAS organization. Then, in March 2020, the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting disruptions threatened to derail the results and momentum: the culmination of many years of hard work. Business continuity, especially consistency in high levels of customer service, was always goal number one, but shifting an entire office staff to a virtual work environment overnight while ensuring the safety of essential warehouse personnel was an incredible challenge.
While the immediate challenge was met head on, and successfully so, by the entire JAS organization, anxiety regarding the lingering economic impacts of the pandemic was ever-present. The challenge was now how does JAS adapt to a global industry that had essentially changed overnight. Based on the feedback of customers, JAS invested immediately into an own-controlled flight network with additional adhoc charter space to inject much needed air capacity on key trade lanes. Due to its strategic geographic location, warehouse, and airport infrastructure, Chicago became the US hub for both the trans-Pacific and trans-Atlantic flight operations.
In one month’s time, the uncertainty had begun to fade and the excitement about a new direction was taking hold. By the end of April 2020, the Chicago branch had transformed from a successful large local branch into a key strategic global gateway servicing the entire JAS network. This held its own challenges and many lessons were learned from issues that arose, but every challenge was met with hard work, determination, and an eye towards the future.
Over the following months, a continual drive to find efficiencies and improve the process and structure around the flight operations was a central focus. The JAS Chicago team knew that this would ultimately bring value to their customers while offering a differentiator in the market for future growth. Efficiencies in the warehouse were implemented in order to accommodate incredible volume growth in a limited space. Warehouse efficiencies resulted in faster turn-around times from flight arrival to final-mile delivery. High performing staff were given opportunities to grow into newly created gateway leadership roles, while no less than six other promotions within the branch were executed. New high-level talent was recruited and on-boarded that will one day grow into the future leaders within the Chicago branch and beyond.
In March of 2021, the annual USA Executive/Branch Manager meeting was held virtually. As a result of their incredible performance and impact to the JAS global network over the course of a most challenging year, it was announced that Chicago was named the JAS USA Branch of the Year for 2020. In the same meeting, it was announced that JAS Chicago would be expanding its footprint with plans to acquire additional warehouse space in the Chicago area in the very near future. These two announcements illustrate what has made JAS Chicago a true success story: utilizing the success of the past to invest in the future.
In the face of all challenges, thanks to the continued dedication and innovation of team members, JAS Chicago is able meet the needs of their customers. Especially over the last year, it is more apparent than ever, at JAS, people make the difference!
In the vibrant heart of Chicago, our freighter operation orchestrated a remarkable display of efficiency and precision. Our plane touched down on the tarmac at 12:19 PM, and by 12:29 PM, our aircraft was parked and ready, with our 53-foot trailer positioned alongside. This moment, captured against the backdrop of a radiant Chicago sky, symbolized our meticulous coordination and unwavering readiness.
Just 18 minutes later, our first truck began its journey to JAS ORD, marking the swift commencement of the cargo’s journey. In collaboration with our dedicated partners, our team worked with remarkable precision to ensure every kilogram was meticulously handled. By 1:59 PM, the flight was empty, and we had successfully offloaded an impressive 95,549 kilograms in just 1 hour and 30 minutes.
In the realm of freight forwarding, where both speed and safety are crucial, this feat exemplifies our commitment to excellence. Our efficient turnaround not only highlights our core values but also underscores our promise of rapid and secure cargo handling.
As we enjoyed the beautiful Chicago day, with our trailer and plane framed in a perfect snapshot of efficiency, it became clear: we don’t just move cargo; we redefine the standards of reliability and efficiency. Our streamlined operations significantly reduce tarmac time, especially for temperature-controlled shipments, ensuring optimal conditions every step of the way.
Here’s to achieving flawless results with every shipment—where success transcends promise and becomes a stunning reality.
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October 2024 – Santiago, Chile – JAS Chile is proud to announce that it has been named a Great Place to Work for the second year in a row. This prestigious recognition highlights the company's commitment to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and empowering work environment that prioritizes employee well-being and growth.
The Great Place to Work award is based on employee feedback, recognizing organizations that promote a strong company culture, trust, and engagement. JAS Chile’s continuous efforts to enhance its workplace culture have been instrumental in achieving this honor. The company places a high value on creating an environment where employees feel respected, heard, and motivated to contribute to the company’s success.
“We are incredibly proud to be recognized again as a Great Place to Work,” said Rodrigo Bustos, Managing Director of JAS Chile. “This achievement is a testament to our team’s dedication and our ongoing commitment to creating a workplace where every employee can thrive. We believe that when our people succeed, our business succeeds.”
JAS Chile continues to invest in initiatives that promote employee development, diversity, and inclusion, as well as programs focused on mental and physical health. The company strives to maintain a culture that supports work-life balance, innovation, and open communication, making it a rewarding place to work for all team members.
By receiving this award for the second consecutive year, JAS Chile reaffirms its status as a leading logistics company not only in terms of operational excellence but also as an employer of choice. The company remains committed to nurturing its talented workforce as it continues to grow and expand its global footprint.
With job actions suspended and ports resuming operations, efforts are now focused on clearing the significant backlog caused by the three-day strike. Full recovery is expected to take most of October, as dockworkers manage the accumulated vessels and cargo.
Carrier Actions: Force Majeure and Surcharges
In response to the disruption in the past days, major carriers like COSCO, ONE, CMA CGM, and Evergreen declared force majeure, which could lead to additional fees for shippers in the coming weeks. As the strike forced many carriers to divert containers to alternative ports, delays and added complications may persist.
With port operations now resuming, shippers should remain alert to detention and demurrage fees, as the previous suspension of these charges during the strike has ended, with trucks waiting outside the gates also those charges are to be expected. The ongoing congestion is expected to exacerbate these costs. Many carriers have also announced disruption surcharges, set to take effect by mid-October. However, shippers should not be surprised if these charges do not always materialize, as carriers often announce such fees without clarifying when they will be withdrawn. Shippers are encouraged to review their contracts and force majeure clauses to better understand potential additional costs.
Global Market Disruptions Ripple On
Although the strike is over, its effects are expected to ripple across global markets. In about two weeks, there may be a temporary reduction in export capacity from Europe, further driving up freight rates. This disruption could spread to other regions with a delayed impact. Global logistics networks will take time to fully stabilize, and rate volatility is likely to continue.
Air Freight Surge as Ocean Capacity Tightens
With ocean freight constrained, shippers are turning to air freight, causing rates to rise sharply. Time-sensitive shipments, in particular, are facing higher costs as air freight capacity is stretched. Businesses relying on fast deliveries should brace for continued increases in air freight costs.
JAS Worldwide: Supporting Your Supply Chain Needs
JAS Worldwide remains committed to helping businesses navigate these challenges. Our teams are actively monitoring the situation and are ready to provide customized solutions to minimize disruptions. Whether you need alternative air freight services, rerouting assistance, or expert advice, JAS Worldwide is here to support your supply chain. Contact your JAS representative today to create a strategic plan that ensures your operations remain resilient and efficient.
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