It’s a bird…it’s a plane…it’s Note Logistics!
By: Shari Berg
Tags: Logistics, Logistics Companies, Logistics Services

Beaker Barware line from Ted Miller Innovation

Not all superheroes wear capes and soar through the sky. Some arrive by truck, plane, and ship. That is how Ted Miller describes his first interaction with Note Logistics’ CEO and Senior Business Consultant Steve Hurvitz.

Miller found himself in meltdown mode when a trucking company he normally uses for his shipments left him holding the bag in the 11th hour. “I had no idea what to do,” he said. “I was panicking.”

A mutual client introduced Miller and Hurvitz, who leaped into action to ensure Miller’s product was not late arriving at its destination. “Steve literally rescued me,” he said. “Not only did he pull my bacon out of the fire, but he also did it for four to five times less than what I normally pay for shipping. I think it is safe to say Steve and Note Logistics are an important part of my game plan moving forward.”

Building trust, one shipment at a time

Hurvitz said it is moments like these that define a logistics company. “He had an emergency need, and we were able to meet that need. We provided him with some favorable pricing and so it began.”

Once Hurvitz put out the flames of the immediate fire, he learned Miller also was an importer. He introduced Miller to Note Logistics’ Senior Director of Global Logistics, Michelle Kodrich. Miller and Kodrich discovered they once worked together before. Between that previous relationship and the quick and effective response time for the shipment debacle, Miller was amenable to learning how Note Logistics could help with his importing needs.

“He now gives us the opportunity to quote on his international shipments,” said Hurvitz. “It all comes down to trust. Ted is comfortable enough with us that he knows we will provide him with the best pricing available. He knows we will get the shipments picked up and delivered on time. Trust is the key.”

Finding his element

Miller’s business, aptly named Ted Miller Innovation, is not a new venture. It launched five years ago after he lost his job of 35 years with a small family gift company. Miller took his know-how and put it to work as an entrepreneur. His efforts have returned to him in spades.

His initial product line was a fun take on the periodic table of elements. The difference between his version and the scientifically-based table is what kind of elements they describe. Miller’s parody of the periodic table focuses on Scotch, Bourbon, Tequila, and other liquors. His designs are appropriately emblazoned across different sizes and shapes of what appear to be beakers. This exclusively made barware is Miller’s flagship line. He eventually expanded it to include beakers for beer, wine, and coffee.

He got the idea while attending a trade show in China. “I was literally just walking a trade show floor in China when I saw a shot glass beaker and the idea hit me. I just knew it was going to be big.” His assessment was spot on. “I started doing trade shows and built up my clientele. I’m still a little pea in a pod and have a way to go, but I’m off to a good start.”

Stash Jars from Ted Miller Innovation

From beakers to jars

As the popularity of his beakers grew, Miller began to field requests from prospective clients interested in a different kind of storage container — stash jars. It is not a product he would have thought to create on his own, but Miller said he was willing to meet the demand. His willingness to expand his product line was a smart move. “These stash jars are now my best-selling product,” he said.

Like his barware beakers, the stash jars come in a variety of sizes and styles. The designs are simple, yet fun. Some of the jars come with pithy sayings. He also carried over his “elements” theme from his beaker barware to some of the stash jars he designed for his new line. Much of the artwork came from Miller’s imagination. He would sketch out his idea and have an artist render it for the line. “It’s not Michael Angelo or DaVinci, but it’s caught on and it’s selling,” he said with a chuckle.

Miller said like others in the supply chain business, he is anxiously awaiting the end of the COVID-19 pandemic so he can get back to attending in-person trade shows and getting more exposure for his brand. “I know I still have a long way to go to grow my business, but I’m in a hurry to get there.”

Choosing the right logistics solution

Building and sustaining a profitable business in today’s economy is challenging. Supply chain logistics is an essential component of supply chain management for any size company. It involves more than the simple transportation of goods. It aligns the complex steps that move the product from the point of origin to the point of consumption. When international supply chain management is involved, those steps become more complex.

Poorly planned and executed logistics easily can add to your overhead costs. Do not wait to be let down by a logistics company unable to meet your needs. Note Logistics specializes in superior freight logistics solutions. Whether you are importing, exporting, or in need of reliable last-mile transportation services, Note Logistics can help.

Our partnership with ST Freight provides clients with exclusive access to manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers for a competitive edge in receiving optimal transport management. Customers can rely on our advanced strategies, implementation of the latest logistics technology, and results-oriented services to help shippers improve safety, service, and financial performance.

Ready to work with a logistics company that meets your expectations and bottom line? Reach out to Note Logistics today to schedule your no-obligation consultation.