Transportation. Getting commodities from point A to B with safety, service, and execution. This is why we are in business. But what brokerages often lack is the hands-on experience of the drivers they are working with. At PGT Services, we believe every employee should learn the basics of loading and securing the commodities we transport every day.

Enter PGT Trucking’s Blairsville, PA training facility. This immersive opportunity enables our employees to learn side-by-side with drivers how to properly load, secure, and protect commodities like steel coils on the back of a flatbed.

This required training for every employee provides them first-hand experience, a crash course in industry terminology, and an expanded view of what it takes to deliver a product successfully. We sat down with four of our employees who recently completed the Blairsville training to see what they took from this experience.

How did this training push you out of your comfort zone?

“Although I report to my cozy office in Sewickley, PA Monday–Friday, I had the opportunity to learn what proper flatbed securement looks like with first-hand experience,” said Gracie Voigt, Marketing Manager. “Not only was this day full of first-hand training, but also learning about the terminology of the transportation industry, equipment that is discussed every single day, and meeting some amazing PGT drivers.”

What was your biggest takeaway?

“I left with a much greater appreciation for truck drivers,” said Vianca Corpuz, Carrier Solutions Rep. “I did not realize the time, energy, and technique it takes to safely secure these flatbed loads. I understood the big picture, but the details of loading, securing, and delivering a load was so eye opening.”

What was your experience meeting and training with the drivers?

“It was so cool to meet all different types of people, drivers, all trying to accomplish the same goal from all across the US,” said Joe Peduzzi, Carrier Solutions Rep. “It feels awesome to truly be a part of a close-knit family!”

Did this change your perception of the transportation industry?

“Coming from someone completely new to the industry, I was a little nervous for this training, but I had the absolute best day full of learning,” said Amber Baker, Account Manager. “I walked out of that training so confident about my ability to communicate on the phone, understanding verbiage better, but also holding myself to a higher standard while selecting a reliable carrier that will live up to our PGT standards!”

How would you say this experience impacts the PGT Services culture?

“PGT Services is always striving to ensure excellent training inside the office setting, but the company has truly gone above and beyond by providing this hands-on learning experience for ALL employees,” said Gracie. “I am truly so happy to be a part of this amazing team and culture.”

PGT Services, headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, is a nationally recognized transportation brand with over 40 years of history. Flatbed is and always will be their cornerstone of expertise, but over time PGT Services has evolved into a multi-modal transportation services provider. Their growth and expertise in the metals and building products industry have made them a reliable transportation expert to many high-profile customers across various industry verticals.

“As a flatbed specializing transportation partner with 40 years of steel hauling imbedded in our roots, we look forward to the opportunity to serve and grow with the partners of the North American Steel Alliance,” said Justin Burgh, PGT Services Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Pricing.

Introducing the two faces that represent PGT Services’ Managed Transportation, these experienced professionals have a combined 27 years of working with Flatbed, Dry Van, LTL, Container, Air and Expedited freight management. Together they bring a wealth of connections and knowledge for Managed Services.

PGT Services has been recognized for third place overall for the 2022 Pittsburgh Business Times’ Fast 50 List for fastest-growing companies in the Western Pennsylvania region. This program recognizes privately held companies reporting the strongest revenue acceleration from 2019 to 2021. PGT Services placed first in the revenue category of $20-50 million. All spots 2 through 10 saw triple digit revenue growth.

Making the Fast 50 has been no small feat. A firm needed to manage significant growth in revenue, despite being challenged in unimaginable ways by the pandemic. Employees of PGT Services attended the Westin Convention Center Hotel on August 25 for the awards ceremony and celebration.

Established in 2020, PGT Services has grown into one of the top transportation providers for numerous companies around the US. PGT Services thrived in a fluctuating market where premier customer service, competitive pricing and strong partnerships were critical.

Vice President Justin Burgh reflected on the first two years of PGT Services: “It was a battle for our employees to find their place in the competitive market. I believe that the changes in the way customers conducted business during the economic slowdown are now the norm and that allowed us to find a spot. Moving forward I believe those changes are here to stay, which will create more opportunities for our company as we continue our journey.”

This is the first year the PGT Services has received this honor.

We hear you, and we are taking action! Recruiters are often seen as the middle man between the company and the candidate. The hiring process becomes unfavorable for the candidate when the recruiter no longer has their best interest in mind. The hiring process often leads to distrust between the candidate and the employer. Whether you believe recruiters or not, it is in their best interest to help you make the right decision for your career. Your impression of PGT Services throughout the whole interview process is a reflection of our organization. The experience you have interviewing with us is designed to give you the freedom, support and guidance you need to find your next opportunity with PGT Services or elsewhere. Of course, as a recruiter representing PGT Services, we want what’s best for our organization, and part of that is the happiness of the people we hire. Here is why PGT Services’ hiring process is different:

1. For that first round of interviews we meet at your availability. We are able to work around your schedule — going through multiple interviews with multiple companies is not very feasible for a person that is still employed. The stress of whether the Wi-Fi will work from the parking lot, or if a coworker will overhear you in a conference room is avoidable by flexible meeting times.
2. We won’t require a cover letter. More than likely the cover letter you are about to submit is Google generated and not personalized. Many of you would prefer to pick up the phone and explain why you are qualified for the position. We would love to hear that passion in your voice. If you take pride in your cover letter, it doesn’t hurt to share it!
3. Entry level is entry level. Entry level is for anyone that can use an introduction to the logistics industry. Our entry-level position will not require 3-5 years of experience. Career growth will happen at PGT Services. There is no corporate ladder — if you work hard there will be a reward! Sometimes seeing how it’s done from the bottom up will lead to success as you get promoted.
4. Let’s have a conversation. We will ask you a few questions, but don’t be afraid to have some character. No reason to have a script, we want to get to know the authentic you.
5. A quick thank you or no thank you is better than a no response. We try not to overextend our hiring process. We ask that you do the same.

  As recruiters, we have the opportunity to focus on your personal and professional goals. With an incredible team and growing business, we want a person who will help us succeed. A good recruiter will take into consideration personal responsibilities, financial needs and career plan to see if our organization would be a good fit. But, what standards do we expect in an interview?

1. A well-tailored resume. Don’t forget to bring multiple copies. No need for fancy paper or even for it to be printed in color. But, at the bare minimum, we need a resume.
2. Dress to impress! You perform better when you are confident in your clothes. Your suit doesn’t have to be expensive, but if you look the part you very well might get the part. How good does that sound?
3. Be on time. Life happens and, if that is the case, there are plenty of ways to communicate. Do your best to be on time. Be 5 minutes early, or even 10 minutes early if you have to. Expect traffic, prepare for weather and give yourself extra time in case there is a coffee spill.

First impression matters. Personality will carry the rest.

Staying up to date with news and current events is the top platform activity amongst 28.8% of LinkedIn users. Trending Google searches as of June 2022 were recession, stock market and housing market. No matter if the intention of people is to stay informed or to stay protected, the lurking threat of a recession seems to be the headline. What sparks more concern is the “economic hurricane” that Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, termed. While we are unable to define economic hurricane, we can guide through the events of 2022, which might have caused such a thing. Through the good and the bad, here’s what has happened the last six months:

At the start of the year, truck capacity was tight as the Omicron variant and vaccine requirements flamed the Freedom Convoy protest around the US and Canada. The market volatility at that time caused a number of shippers to eliminate 12-month contract rates. Fuel prices in January were at $3.28 which, even at that time, was expensive. If you can remember, for months around 2020 we became comfortable paying less than $2 per gallon. Consider this the beginning of cost increases brought on by higher demand and lower production.

In February, Ukraine was invaded by Russia. This was a conflict that had been going on for years, but low on the radar of many. The public announcement by Putin of “military assault against Ukraine to aim demilitarization” quickly erupted into news headlines. Many western world leaders responded with unprecedented sanctions and condemning Putin’s and Russian Oligarch’s actions.
A week later in the US, President Joe Biden had the opportunity to speak of his steps to aid Ukraine in the State of Union Address. Hope was flying for some Americans after the speech supporting the Biden-Harris Administration’s plan highlighting “Buy American”, Ukraine, Economic Progress Report, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Inflation, Insulin, Energy Efficiency and more.

Since the beginning of 2022, every supply chain was battling to maintain affordable prices and delivery for customers. After over 100 days of the Ukraine-Russian war, the Ukrainian President Zelensky continues to meet with world leaders to push a plan that would economically force Putin and other Russian oligarchy to end the war on Ukraine. This pressure on Ukraine and Russia drastically effected steel, oil and food around the world — more cost increases. In China, the Shanghai Port had a local COVID outbreak, causing strict testing requirements and lockdown. The decrease in any operations in the city created a backlog of over 300% in trucking and port production creating an even larger backlog of orders — even MORE cost increases.

Conversation in April led to “What’s Next for Summer 2022?” It seemed every industry and/or product had a root problem that was affecting business to a detriment. For the following months, shelves were empty with no baby formula or beef, gas prices continue to rise and both used cars and new cars seem out of the possibility.

Could these last six months of events cause an economic hurricane? The optimists believe that it will be okay and the pessimists, not so much. The realists are working with logistics professionals to lead discussions around change and prevention. Company leaders are seeking advice from supply chain experts to learn how their businesses can make a difference. This article is our thanks to the experts that have the knowledge to guide a struggling organization to regain its ability to manage customer expectations, environmental footprint and cost optimization.

Critical shipments deserve some VIP treatment. With careful coordination our project team will prepare all aspects that are required when shipping over dimension, heavy haul and specialized trucks. Our professionals understand the unique needs — legal dimensions, permit, escort, governmental costs and equipment requirement — when shipping specialized.

The legal requirements for oversize, overweight and super loads is crucial to having a successful shipment. We understand that, when meeting timelines, there is a personalized service of planning permits, routing and execution of over dimensional cargo. Because of this PGT Services will communicate how permits stipulate the route followed as well as specific dates and times for travel.

Committed to total satisfaction and the highest in safety standards, we continue to work together alongside other valued carriers, consistently getting your product from point A to point B. Our most valued assets come from our customers, carriers and valued partners. Our long-term partnership with our sister company, Southern Pines, has offered us guidance and support in our venture into specialized trucking.

Special Services:

• Stretch RGN / double drop
• Lowboys
• Double drop
• Removable Gooseneck
• Multi-axle
• Tankers

Special Requirements:

• Permits
• Escorts / police escorts
• Legal dimensions vs over dimensions
• Bucket trucks

Special Challenges:

• Finding safe and reliable capacity
• Managing transportation providers
• Obtaining correct permits, route planning and escort availability
• Controlling transportation costs
• Visibility to shipment events

Learn More About PGT Services Specialized and Heavy Haul Services

FreightWaves — The outlook remains positive for both the housing and general construction markets. This market strength — paired with the relatively small number of flatbed carriers — means flatbed capacity is in high demand and difficult to secure. As shippers navigate this strained environment, they should consider whether their current 3PL partners are best suited for their needs. 

“Flatbed shipping is specialized. There are many more variables in terms of types of trailers and the required securement equipment than other modes,” PGT Services President Barret Rea said. “A specialized flatbed broker like PGT Services will understand this and provide a much better experience for both shippers and carriers.”

By using a flatbed-specialized broker, shippers virtually eliminate the risk of their freight being matched with the wrong truck, causing unnecessary delays and damages. They also increase their chances of finding capacity quickly because, while generalized brokers may work with more carriers overall, a specialized broker will be able to offer access to a larger number of flatbed carriers.

Partnering with 3PLs that understand the nuances of flatbed — and the differences between the flatbed and dry van markets — can make all the difference when it comes to securing capacity and locking down competitive rates. 

“Flatbed and dry van are similar only in that they both tend to be naturally affected by the economic freight environment as a whole. Otherwise they are driven by very different factors,” PGT Services Vice President Justin Burgh said. “Where dry van tends to be heavily driven by consumer spending, flatbed is heavily driven by infrastructure spending, the housing market, construction and the oil and gas market.”

Flatbed peak season tends to start early in the spring and last through the warm weather months, with a typical slowing during the peak dry van seasons. This is playing out now, as flatbed capacity continues to decrease and spot rates keep climbing despite recent dry van slowdowns. 

Current conditions in the flatbed space reflect the sector’s typical peak season, but capacity constraints and rate hikes remain affected by the heavy impact the coronavirus pandemic had on the already-small existence of quality flatbed carriers, according to Burgh. Like other carriers across the industry, flatbed companies are also reeling from a lack of qualified drivers. This tends to be exaggerated in flatbed, as new drivers tend to prefer the simpler dry van operations and existing flatbed drivers often make the switch to dry van when the market is strong. 

Navigating these conditions is difficult under the best of circumstances. It can be nearly impossible without the right 3PL partners. 

Even the most proactive shippers find themselves needing to move a large quantity of freight on a time crunch occasionally. This is the nature of working in a changeable, reactionary industry. Shippers will want to make sure they are working with the best broker partner possible when the pressure is on. 

“Aggregate flatbed data can be difficult to source so working with a trusted partner who understands the market and is buying large amounts of capacity is important,” Rea said. “We often see situations where shippers need to move large volumes in a short period of time. A specialized broker can spin up capacity quickly by aggregating the smaller carriers in our network.”  

Shippers will likely need to rely on partners with specialized knowledge even more in the future, especially as they continue to move away from yearlong RFPs that have proven to be costly in light of recent freight market volatility. 

Additionally, consolidation among flatbed carriers is expected to continue as larger companies work to expand their scale and smaller companies take advantage of the current seller’s market. This means shippers’ existing carrier relationships could be shaken up in the coming months.

Greater reliance on the spot market — coupled with changing carrier dynamics — will create a stronger need for deep industry insights. Specialized brokers are naturally more prepared to meet this need than their more generalized peers. 

“PGT Services doesn’t look to be all things to all people,” Rea said. “With the tightness in supply chains and fast-moving developments in technology, the market needs specialization and real expertise.”

PGT Services has been named the Flatbed Broker of the Year by The Home Depot, the world’s largest home improvement retailer. This recognition reflects PGT Services’ performance as a flatbed transportation provider and partner in The Home Depot’s mission to build the fastest, most efficient and reliable supply chain in home improvement. 

Earning this recognition was a significant accomplishment for the PGT Services team. PGT Services continues to focus on providing the best freight experience to our partners and this recognition from The Home Depot team aligns with PGT Services mission of ‘Safety, Service and Execution’ for our valued customers.

Three unique areas make up PGT Services: People, Culture, Services. Without each of these driving forces, we wouldn’t be the company we are today. 

At PGT Services, we are committed to creating quality relationships which means forming long-term connections and building a trusting, family-like environment. Our culture is built upon family, safety and partnership. Whether supporting an employee in career expansion, handling client shipments in the safest manner or offering excellent customer service, we aim to be the safest, most reliable transportation partner in the industry. 

Finally, through our services, we provide the expertise and creativity to solve any of your hauling problems. We have the resources and knowledge to manage your transportation needs.