COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (Feb. 25, 2013) — As the transportation industry continues to face operational challenges and financial pressures, achieving outstanding service for shippers is still the top priority. Averitt Express’s dedication to customer service, operational excellence and ability to offer creative supply chain solutions garnered recognition from Walmart as the retailer’s Regional LTL Carrier of the Year in 2012.
This marks the second straight year Averitt has earned that distinction from Walmart. Averitt also secured a Rising Star Carrier of the Year Award in 2008.
“Averitt Express exemplifies what every carrier partner should strive to provide in terms of outstanding customer service and innovative transportation solutions,” Rob Kusiciel, Walmart vice president of inbound transportation, said in a letter of commendation. “Walmart’s ultimate goal is to provide retail customers with the products they need in a timely manner so that they can save money and live better. Meeting this goal would be nearly impossible without assistance from exemplary transportation groups such as Averitt Express.”
“I’m honored that our team performed to the high standards that warranted recognition on this level from a great customer like Walmart,” said Phil Pierce, Averitt’s executive vice president of sales and marketing. “We’re always focused on meeting and exceeding our customers’ expectations, working with them as a partner to provide transportation solutions. Earning this award once was very exciting; twice in a row is extremely humbling.”
Pierce explained that Averitt is one of several regional LTL carriers that provide transportation from thousands of vendors to Walmart’s distribution centers. Often, these shipments are held to strict must arrive by date (MABD) standards, and Averitt has proven to be successful at meeting those requirements.
“When meeting MABD requirements, flexibility and creativity are key factors in hitting our goals. Our associates always aim to go beyond expectations to make sure our customers are satisfied, and it’s because of their efforts that Walmart selected us as their Regional LTL Carrier of the Year,” commented Pierce. “It’s truly a team effort, and we’re looking forward to working with Walmart for years to come.”
