ShipRelyEx: Reliable Shipping Solutions for Your Business Needs
Today, more than 80% of global shipping involves containers. They're packed with everything from personal storage items in dry containers to heavy machinery on flat rack containers. For business owners shipping products, getting a container from point A to point B requires precise planning and high-level tracking. But that's easier said than done when global supply chains become over-congested, leading to loading time issues and delays.
That's bad news for business owners who are already under a massive amount of stress. The truth is that container storage delays can cripple a business, but there's a viable solution: drayage brokers in Chicago, IL like RelyEx. Drayage companies provide unique solutions to minimize demurrage and help ensure the successful delivery of your freight.
With more than 30 combined years of experience and a solutions-oriented team, RelyEx has quickly become the first choice for streamlined, efficient drayage services. To understand the true value of RelyEx's offerings in the global logistics industry, it helps to understand first what drayage is and why it's used.
If you're a seasoned business owner who uses port drayage to transport your products, you know exactly how important the service can be. But if you were to poll a group of random people, you may get five different definitions of the term "drayage." That begs the question, how is one of the most crucial steps in the supply chain and most vital components of global trade such a confusing concept? When you break it down, it's not too difficult to grasp.
Drayage, by definition, means the transportation of freight from an ocean port to another destination. Today, drayage is also used to describe the process of transporting products and goods over short distances or over "the first mile."
While drayage often means short-distance movements during the supply chain process, it's primarily used in the container shipping space. Drayage loads usually have arrival and departure points in the same city and don't include long-haul, national transportation.
Because a drayage load can mean a few different things, confusion among carriers is common. Many carriers link drayage with going into a port, but that isn't always true. While all drayage loads typically originate from a port of entry, there are often several legs of a drayage journey before a container turns up at its final stop. Legs of a drayage load may include:
You may be thinking, what's so important about drayage? It's such a small step in the container storage transport process. In reality, it's an integral piece needed in the logistics industry and a crucial part of U.S. supply chain management.
To truly understand the importance of drayage, let's use flowers as an example. Most cut flower shipments enter the market from areas in South America until they end up at Dutch auction houses. Once there, wholesalers purchase flowers in bulk and send those products to retail outlets worldwide. Because flowers are perishable, they typically need to be refrigerated and are often shipped in reefer containers. These refrigerated vessels must maintain a certain temp to prevent loss.
Drayage companies like RelyEx allow flower shippers to send their products from Argentinian ports to airports in the Netherlands with peace of mind because their products are protected. The only way to accomplish this feat is with the help of swift, meticulous port drayage services. Drayage companies allow flower shippers to send their products from Argentinian ports to airports in the Netherlands with peace of mind, because their products are protected. The only way to accomplish this feat is with the help of swift, meticulous port drayage services.
If port drayage is compromised, it can cause delays and even fines. You know the packages you get delivered to your front door from apps like Amazon? Without drayage and drayage brokers, one or two-day shipping times wouldn't even be possible.
As a multi-billion-dollar industry in the U.S. alone, it seems like drayage shipping issues shouldn't exist. But the fact is inefficiencies and congestion are still major problems at ports. Whether it's a lack of carriers, absent chassis, or overburdened terminals, delays lead to missed deadlines, lost revenue, and worse.
But anytime challenges exist, so too do innovative solutions.
QUOTE REQUESTRelyEx was created because our founders saw a need in the logistics space for more reliability and efficiency. The reality of the shipping and logistics industry is that it has become very transactional. It's an odd evolution, because most businesses seek a third-party logistics partner that is accessible, transparent, and committed to providing solutions.
As the logistics space continues to grow, it creates newfound expenses and complexities. Clients like ours know that and need a supply chain partner who is genuinely interested in their business. By understanding the needs of our customers and carriers, we can provide the most reliable, effective drayage services possible.
Unlike some drayage companies in Chicago, IL, we begin managing your containers before they ever hit the ports by mapping out the most efficient pathways of delivery. That way, our team can discover the best drayage pathways to expedite delivery time and reduce fees that cut into profits.
Our valued drayage customers choose RelyEx because:
At RelyEx, we like to consider ourselves problem solvers. The nature of the container drayage industry presents new challenges every day, but we're firm believers that there's a solution to every hurdle we encounter. And while some drayage businesses implement a reactive approach, RelyEx customers choose us for our proactive mindset. We take pride in solving your company's drayage challenges to help you avoid frustrating fees, missed expectations, and delayed shipments. We strive to make every transaction successful and streamlined by partnering with shippers who prioritize transparent, prompt, and accurate communication.
RelyEx approaches your business from the customer's perspective - a unique approach that helps us provide high-quality, effective drayage services. We've been in the customers' shoes, know their pain points, and because of that, provide first-hand solutions to stressful supply chain issues. With over 30 years of collective knowledge, our team excels in:
Our varied, high-level drayage shipping experience helps us achieve our overarching goal: expertly managing your freight movement needs. That way, you can direct your time and focus on growing the core aspects of your business while we handle the heavy lifting. Throw in proactive planning to avoid bottleneck situations and strong communication for transparent customer relations, and you can see why so many companies trust RelyEx.
When it comes to shipping logistics, it only takes one mistake by a mediocre worker to disrupt your business. That's why, at RelyEx, we pride ourselves on forming and nurturing relationships with carriers who match our standards of care. Our founding partner started his career transporting freight for companies as an on-demand carrier. He uses that knowledge to maximize the resources of our carriers so that our customer's expectations aren't just met - they're exceeded.
Based in the port city of Chicago, RelyEx has a keen understanding of the challenges of managing the inbound and outbound flow of containers. Our team of container drayage experts provides your business with unique solutions to nuanced shipping problems, minimizing demurrage and ensuring the successful delivery of your freight.
Customers choose RelyEx because:
Some drayage brokers don't care how customers feel about their service as long as they sign a contract and get paid. As a solutions-oriented team, RelyEx takes the opposite approach. We're motivated by the opportunity to overachieve for our customers and to provide them with the best logistics experience possible. With professional experience as carriers and shippers ourselves, we know the roadblocks and challenges you're facing. We excel at mapping out the best plans of action to solve those problems. But that's just the start.
Our tracking experts monitor and manage every aspect of your drayage shipment from booking to delivery, 24/7. Once booked, we look for the availability of your containers hourly once they're at port. When they arrive, our team acts quickly to access your storage containers when they're available.
Plus, RelyEx ensures your company's requirements are met by the carrier during loading and delivery and provide necessary documentation as fast as possible. With real-time tracking updates and access to our customer service professionals, your team has complete visibility throughout the shipping process.
Over the years, RelyEx has built a strong network of drayage carriers, transloading locations, and container storage spaces to provide you with the best possible options to match your drayage service needs. We know that searching for quality service presents an added layer of complexity and stress to our customers. That's why we work hard to take that off your plate by connecting you with our reliable shipping partners.
With a background moving freight as an on-demand carrier, our founding partner understands how to maximize the resources and equipment of our carriers to match your needs.
Like other industries, the global logistics space is complex. Mistakes will be made, and problems will happen. With those truths in mind, RelyEx has built its reputation as problem solvers. Unlike other drayage companies, we don't shy away from this industry's complexities because we take pride in solving problems. Even better, we aim to do what's needed to avoid those problems altogether.
As your logistics partner, we will provide your company with accurate, transparent, and prompt communication. If there are unexpected issues, we'll notify you immediately and will provide several options to remedy the problem. We even offer custom reporting for large clients who need at-the-moment updates and quick access to shipment documentation.
Why let the unpredictability of your industry dictate your success? With a background working in manufacturing, our founders are familiar with the demands of managing production schedules and sales orders. That experience makes it abundantly clear to us that every business and industry is different. If you struggle with seasonal surges or other factors, our team supports your business with a mapped-out plan and schedule, so you stay ahead of the game.
QUOTE REQUESTBased in the port city of Chicago, RelyEx has a keen understanding of the challenges of managing the inbound and outbound flow of containers. Our team of container drayage experts provides your business with unique solutions to nuanced shipping problems, minimizing demurrage and ensuring the successful delivery of your freight.
Demurrage is a charge issued by a port, carrier, or railroad company for storing containers that do not load and unload their cargo promptly. Once the daily limit of free time is exceeded, shippers are charged daily demurrage fees until their cargo is shipped. Though different ports have different policies, charges can range from $75 to $150 per container, per day, for a set number of days. Additional demurrage fees are incurred if a shipper exceeds the port's parameters.
Even when shippers maintain a tight schedule for unloading freight, external factors can play an uncontrollable part. Typically, shipping mistakes caused by human error trigger the most demurrage charges. Some of the most common causes of demurrage include:
Typically, shippers need four specific documents to clear shipments through customs: A Bill of Lading (or BOL), a commercial invoice, a packing list, and an arrival notice. Seasoned drayage brokers like RelyEx are used to preparing these documents, but new shippers tend to miss this step due to inexperience.
If a shipper only pays for part of their shipment, a vessel operator may refuse to release their freight until their bill is fully paid. Payment delays lead to cargo detention at the port of entry, which triggers demurrage charges.
QUOTE REQUESTPaperwork is needed when you're shipping goods with a drayage company. When documents like the Certificate of Origin or Bill of Lading arrive at their destination late, you can expect demurrage fees. RelyEx avoids this situation entirely by being proactive when submitting paperwork.
Additional causes for demurrage fees can include:
At RelyEx, we know first-hand how stressful supply chain problems can be for business owners. Though drayage shipping might seem minor on the surface, it affects every stage of your shipping process. And when inevitable hurdles manifest, RelyEx propels you over the proverbial roadblocks with a proactive mindset and a passion for challenging projects. We believe that all problems have a solution, and our unique vantage point allows us to provide first-hand solutions to customers in a wide array of industries.
When it comes to your business, don't settle for anything less than RelyEx. Contact our office today to learn more about how we make your shipping experience streamlined and stress-free.
843-885-3082Election Day for 2024 in Illinois is sooner than you think -- but before you had to your polling place, do you know what to bring? And are you registered to vote?Here are the rules in Illinois about what you need to b...
Election Day for 2024 in Illinois is sooner than you think -- but before you had to your polling place, do you know what to bring? And are you registered to vote?
Here are the rules in Illinois about what you need to bring with you to the ballot box while voting in the 2024 Election (friendly reminder that Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5).
If a voter is already registered at their current home address, they will not need to bring identification. A photo ID can be helpful if any questions arise, however.
A voter will need a form of identification if election judges have reason to challenge their right to vote at a polling place, or if their voter registration form did not contain a driver’s license or state ID number, or a Social Security Number, according to the Board of Elections.
Voters can bring notes into the voting booth to help them fill out their ballots, according to state officials.
Voters registering on the day of the election, or who need to make changes to their voter registration, can do so at select polling places, but they'll need to bring two forms of identification in order to do so. A full list of acceptable forms of identification can be found here.
Same-day voter registration is indeed available in Illinois, as are opportunities to legally change addresses on a voter registration form or to update a person’s name on the voter rolls.
It is important to note that not all polling places will have same-day registration available, as election judges have to be properly trained in the process, but voters can find information on the Board of Elections’ website.
County clerk’s offices also can register voters on the day of the election.
Voters seeking to do so must bring two forms of identification, and their vote will be counted on a provisional basis until their right to register at the address they submit is verified.
Taking photos with a ballot is prohibited by state law, according to experts. That prohibition stems from a law that prohibits marking ballots so that another individual can see how a voter voted.
However, state officials have told NBC Chicago in the past that it’s “unlikely” anyone would be prosecuted, but still recommend taking photos of an “I Voted” sticker in lieu of the ballot itself.
Chicago’s harsh weather – from heavy snowfall in winter to high winds and rainfall in spring and fall – presents unique challenges for homeowners. These conditions can lead to common roofing issues, many of which, if left untreated, can result in costly repairs. Here are some of the most frequent roofing issues faced by Chicago residents and how residential roofing services in Chicago can help address them.1. Ice Dams and Sn...
Chicago’s harsh weather – from heavy snowfall in winter to high winds and rainfall in spring and fall – presents unique challenges for homeowners. These conditions can lead to common roofing issues, many of which, if left untreated, can result in costly repairs. Here are some of the most frequent roofing issues faced by Chicago residents and how residential roofing services in Chicago can help address them.
Chicago winters often bring heavy snow, which can lead to ice dams on roofs. When snow melts and refreezes near the roof's edges, it forms ice dams, trapping water behind them. This water can then seep under shingles, causing leaks and potential structural damage.
Solution: To prevent ice dams, proper attic insulation and ventilation are crucial. A professional roofing service can ensure that your attic maintains an even temperature, which reduces the chances of snow melting unevenly. Additionally, regular snow removal from your roof can prevent ice dams from forming in the first place.
Chicago’s windy conditions can cause shingles to loosen, curl, or blow off entirely, compromising the roof’s integrity. Missing shingles expose the underlying layers to moisture, potentially leading to leaks and water damage.
Solution: Inspect your roof regularly for missing or damaged shingles, particularly after strong winds. Replacing or repairing shingles promptly can save you from more extensive repairs down the line. Hiring residential roofing services in Chicago will ensure that any shingle replacements are done correctly, maintaining the roof’s durability and appearance.
Heavy rain and snow melt can seep through vulnerable spots on the roof, leading to leaks. Over time, trapped moisture can result in mold and mildew growth, damaging not just the roof but also the home’s internal structure.
Flashing, the material that seals roof joints, chimneys, and skylights, can deteriorate over time, especially with Chicago’s freeze-thaw cycles. Damaged flashing can lead to leaks and water damage around these critical areas.
Solution: Check flashing annually to ensure it’s in good condition. Damaged flashing can often be replaced or reinforced by a roofing professional. Hiring an experienced service to handle flashing repairs ensures that the repairs are watertight and long-lasting, preventing potential leaks and extending the roof’s lifespan.
Homes with flat or low-slope roofs often encounter standing water after heavy rainfall. Over time, pooled water can cause the roofing material to weaken and deteriorate, potentially leading to leaks.
Solution: If your roof has a flat section, consider installing proper drainage systems to prevent water from pooling. A roofing professional may recommend additional solutions, like tapered insulation, to help direct water flow.
Tree branches can cause significant damage when they come into contact with a roof during high winds or storms. Overhanging limbs can scrape shingles, while fallen branches may puncture the roof surface.
Over time, Chicago’s extreme temperatures and weather patterns can cause roofing materials to degrade, leading to cracks, splits, and general wear. Aging roofs are more vulnerable to leaks and other issues, so it’s essential to monitor their condition.
Solution: Most roofs last between 15 and 30 years, depending on the materials used. If your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, consider consulting a roofing professional about a replacement. Regular maintenance and minor repairs can extend the life of an aging roof, delaying the need for a full replacement.
Addressing roofing issues promptly can save Chicago homeowners from costly repairs down the road. By scheduling regular inspections and maintenance with a professional in residential roofing services in Chicago, you can ensure your roof remains resilient against the city’s challenging weather conditions. Whether it’s repairing shingles, improving attic ventilation, or replacing flashing, proactive steps will help extend your roof’s life and protect your home for years to come.
The 2025 Hooters Calendar is now available at all Chicagoland Hooters locations. Ten Chicagoland area employees featured throughout the calendar including Miss November Alyssa Watts who works at O’Hare Hooters and December 2024 feature Lissette Miranda who works at Joliet Hooters. There are also five additional Chicagoland area Hooters Girls in the pull-out poster that comes with each calendar.The 2025 Hooters Calendar is now available for purchase for $16.99 and includes over $100 in coupons. $1 of every calendar sold supports ...
The 2025 Hooters Calendar is now available at all Chicagoland Hooters locations. Ten Chicagoland area employees featured throughout the calendar including Miss November Alyssa Watts who works at O’Hare Hooters and December 2024 feature Lissette Miranda who works at Joliet Hooters. There are also five additional Chicagoland area Hooters Girls in the pull-out poster that comes with each calendar.
The 2025 Hooters Calendar is now available for purchase for $16.99 and includes over $100 in coupons. $1 of every calendar sold supports Hooters Give a Hoot campaign for breast cancer research. Locally the money raised benefits Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, FL.
All the 200 ladies in the calendar work at Hooters restaurants across the country and were selected from thousands of candidates.
“Being a 2025 feature girl means a lot to me because this company has introduced me to so many extraordinary people and lifelong friends, shaping me into the person I am today. I am so grateful to be a part of such an amazing company with a great community of kind and supportive individuals,” said Alyssa Watts who has worked at O’Hare Hooters for two and a half years.
“I have worked at Hooters for three years and being in the calendar for a second year has been an even better experience than last year. Seeing everyone and celebrating with my fellow calendar girls is always a blast. This company has provided me with new friends, opportunities and skills that I will carry with me for a long time. I couldn’t be more grateful for it all,” said Lisette Miranada who works at O’Hare Hooters.
Ways the community can help and join their local Hooters restaurant in the fight against breast cancer include:
Since 2002, Original Hooters has donated over $1,814,311 to Moffitt Cancer Center through “Give a Hoot” and other charitable commitments. The program is held annually in honor of Original Hooters own Kelly Jo Dowd, who was a Hooters Girl, 1995 Hooters Calendar Cover Girl and ultimately the Palm Harbor restaurant General Manager. Dowd succumbed to breast cancer in 2007. Hooters has raised more than $10 million over time to support the fight against breast cancer, much of it through the Kelly Jo Dowd Breast Cancer Research Fund benefiting the V Foundation for Cancer Research.
Chicagoland Hooters locations:
Hooters of Countryside (5925 S. LaGrange Road, Countryside)
Hooters of Downers Grove (1303 Butterfield Road, Downers Grove)
Hooters of Fox Valley (4395 Fox Valley Center Drive, Aurora)
Hooters of Joliet (3301 Hennepin Drive, Joliet)
Hooters of Lansing (17060 S. Torrence Avenue, Lansing)
Hooters of Melrose Park (2503 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park)
Hooters of Oak Lawn (9159 S. Cicero Avenue, Oak Lawn)
Hooters of Orland Park (15300 S. LaGrange Road, Orland Park)
Hooters of O’Hare (8225 W. Higgins Road, Chicago)
Hooters of Schaumburg (1110 N. Perimeter Drive, Schaumburg)
Hooters on Wells Street (660 N. Wells Street, Chicago)
HMC Hospitality Group, founders of the Hooters concept, own and operate 22 Hooters Restaurants in Tampa Bay and Chicagoland and three Hoots locations in Chicagoland. For over 40 years, the Original Hooters group has been known for its World Famous Chicken Wings, fun atmosphere, and legendary service from the iconic Hooters Girl. For more information about HMC Hospitality Group please visit www.originalhooters.com or follow them at Twitter @originalhooters, Instagram @originalhooters and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/originalhooters.