What our clients say... Third-party logistics provider Transplace announced the winners of four key 2007 performance awards during its 2008 Carrier Symposium.    For this inaugural event, carriers of all service profiles came together to discuss industry issues as well as get an update on Transplace programs such as the Carrier Merit Program.    During the symposium, Transplace handed out four awards that recognized three carriers:    • Transplace Carrier of the Year Award, Southern Freight Inc. - Dave Collins, vice president of sales    • Best On-Time Service Award, Southern Freight Inc. - Bob Fauls, owner and president    • Best e-Business Carrier Award, USA Truck - Jay Gasaway, national sales manager    • Best Customer Service Performance, Heartland Express - Mark Baker, regional sales manager    “Transplace identified its top carriers based on statistical data, qualitative survey feedback and overall performance metrics,” said Kyle Alexander, general manager, strategic development for Transplace. “We wanted the awards to be truly reflective of the actual carrier’s performance this year.”    A new process was used to develop the specific nominees for each award category, and a formal survey was issued to the Transplace organization where nominees were voted for based on qualitative criteria such as performance at the account level, professionalism within the relationship and the ability to assist when Transplace needed capacity for its customer base.    To be eligible for receiving the Carrier of the Year Award, a carrier must have met the following requirements:    • Hauled at least 1,500 loads for Transplace,    • Provided freight services to at least five Transplace accounts,    • Maintained an on-time pick-up and delivery of 95 percent or better,    • Contracted as a truckload carrier,    • Maintained an excellent customer service relationship across all accounts,    • Used EDI capabilities extensively, and    • Provided regular feedback and communication to all levels of management.    Transplace hopes to include two additional awards next year - Best New Carrier and Best Private Fleet Carrier Awards.    Transplace is a non-asset based third-party logistics (3PL) provider offering manufacturers and retailers the optimal blend of logistics technology and transportation management services. From complete logistics management outsourcing to intelligent transportation management systems (TMS) to supply chain network planning and design to high-quality brokerage services, Transplace has proven the ability to deliver both rapid return on investment and consistent value to customers. www.symposium.transplace.com