An Interview with Bruce Simpson of FedEx Custom Critical
Transportation: A Critical Element in Disaster Recovery

- by Joel Childs

This interview is with Bruce Simpson, President and CEO of FedEx Custom Critical, Inc., North America’s largest time-specific, critical-shipment carrier. Here Mr. Simpson talks about the importance of cargo transportation in a disaster recovery plan.
Childs: Why should cargo transportation be part of every disaster recovery plan?
Simpson: In virtually any disaster situation, it’s crucial to get equipment and supplies delivered quickly. This is true for every type of organization, from the relief agency providing food and medicine to the disaster site, to the financial institution activating its backup data center. A comprehensive disaster recovery plan includes options that go beyond “traditional” carriers, allowing the disaster team to quickly choose the right carrier in a time of crisis.

Childs: What do you mean by “going beyond traditional carriers”?
Simpson:For day-to-day shipping needs, many organizations use traditional package, express and freight carriers. But in a disaster, especially one that occurs at night or on a weekend, these options may not be available - or they may not be fast enough.
That’s why disaster recovery planners should look at forms of expedited transportation.

Childs: What types of expedited transportation are available?
Simpson: Expedited options range from surface transportation to air charters. Here’s a brief summary of the most common types:
-Surface expedite. An exclusive-use truck picks up the freight and carries it straight through to the destination. For distances less than 800 miles, surface expedite can be faster and less expensive than air freight. And, because the freight is driven straight through, there is very little chance of loss or damage.
-Counter-to-counter, or next flight out. Offered by commercial airlines, this service involves leaving a package at the airline counter to be flown as baggage. While it works well for small packages, counter-to-counter is dependent on airline schedules and subject to delays and cancellations. Plus, there is the chance it could get bumped from the flight.
-On-board courier. An individual picks up a package and takes it on a commercial flight as carry-on baggage. This service is ideal for small, valuable items requiring personal attention, but it is also subject to flight delays and cancellations.
-Air freight. A number of air-freight companies offer one- or two-day services. It’s important to keep in mind that these companies operate on strict pickup and delivery schedules, limiting the hours during which freight can be picked up. Plus, night and weekend service typically isn’t available. In addition, air-freight carriers use a hub-and-spoke system, which means freight is sorted and transferred several times en route from pickup to delivery, increasing the chance for loss or damage.
-Air charter. This is the fastest form of transportation available. The entire plane is dedicated to a single shipment. Many charter providers are available on short notice - even in as little as an hour. And because there is no commingling of freight, there is very little risk for loss or damage.

Childs: What should a disaster recovery planner look for in an expedited transportation provider?
Simpson:The key is to find a carrier that will respond quickly and keep the disaster recovery team informed. Specific features to look for include:
-Exclusive-use vehicles. This ensures door-to-door service and single handling, resulting in faster delivery times and very little chance for loss or damage.
-Availability. Disasters can occur at any time. Disaster recovery transportation providers should be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year - including nights, weekends and holidays.
-Precise pickup and delivery times. Planners can have personnel available in the right places at the right time when the carrier provides confirmed pickup and delivery times.
-Tracking ability. The best systems provide two-way, real-time communications, so that information can be relayed immediately. Carriers who have these systems can pinpoint the truck’s location and even reroute the vehicle immediately if plans change.
-Exception notification and response. The carrier should have a system for notifying the disaster recovery team if there is any delay. In addition, the carrier should have an alternative plan in the event of traffic problems or breakdowns.
-Special handling requirements. Disaster recovery planners who must arrange for transport of computers or other sensitive equipment should make sure the carrier has trucks with temperature control, air ride, pads and straps, plus personnel with the expertise to handle it properly.

Childs: How should cargo transportation be budgeted?
The disaster recovery planner’s first step is to identify its transportation needs. What items will need to be transported? From where to where? In what time frame? Are there any special handling requirements? Once this has been determined, disaster recovery planners can research their transportation options and then call selected carriers for quotes.
Simpson:When calling for transportation quotes, disaster recovery planners should be prepared to discuss the pickup and delivery locations, type and weight of freight, special handling considerations and deadlines. They should also ask about any additional charges involved for special equipment, holding time and more.
One final factor to consider - remember the cost of not getting the freight delivered on time. When disaster strikes, you want a carrier you can trust.

Joel Childs is a member of the DRJ Editorial Advisory Board. He has more than 30 years’ experience in the transportation industry.

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