HAWAII LOGISTICS
warehousing, and logistics services—all at competitive rates.” Lynden: Expanding Services to Hawaii Innovation is a key value of the Lynden family of companies, and shippers to and from Hawaii rely on Lynden’s barge company, Aloha Marine Lines (AML), to offer up-to-date and problem-solving solutions for oceangoing cargo. Bret Harper, vice president of sales for Aloha Marine Lines, reports that the preparation of freight for shipment to and from Hawaii has evolved over the years. “With the addition of our Makani Class walled barges, fewer preparations are required to protect cargo from the ocean elements,” says Harper. “Most cargo can be handled the same as it is on the mainland.” While some specific types of cargo may require additional packaging to cover the rigors of ocean transportation, typically such packaging is necessary for truck shipments as well. “That has been an evolution over time so less and less is required now,” Harper says. “That’s largely due to equipment types, container types, and the walled barges. Ensuring we meet our customers’ needs with reliable, efficient, and secure equipment is our top priority.” Lynden’s innovative equipment includes a fleet of 102-inch-wide equipment that start at 20 feet and go as long as 53 feet. “That’s something we
offer both in Hawaii and Alaska,” he says. “That is unique to Lynden.” Regardless of any special requirements, their freight specialists work with customers “every step of the way,” Harper says, to ensure all contingencies are handled. “We work through the booking process to make sure all requirements are being met from the start,” he adds.
for the short and the long term by developing strategies that meet social and environmental needs. “DHX is always looking for ways to evolve, with sustainability at the forefront,” McEwen adds. “We remain committed to our long-term strategies and continue to examine the ever- changing state regulations. We have purchased carbon offsets in sufficient quantity to power our warehouses, including our corporate headquarters. “Our facilities in Honolulu, Maui, and Guam, as well as our corporate headquarters in Southern California, are entirely sufficient, drawing no or minimal additional energy from the electric grids,” he notes. “For us, sustainability needs to be about ‘greening’ because businesses and communities depend on healthy, productive ecosystems. We have and will continue to make it our mission to be the leader in our industry by walking the talk.” DHX has grown to become one of the most respected ocean and air freight forwarders serving Hawaii, Guam, and the mainland United States. “Our success and growth are due to our customers’ constant demand for a commitment to quality services and providing value,” McEwen says. “Our Ohana (‘family’) is committed to meeting and exceeding our customers’ expectations by creating customized solutions, on-time delivery, on-island, and inter-island trucking,
MEETING ALL CHALLENGES Asked about any misconceptions
shippers may have about cargo bound to and from Hawaii, Harper explains that lead time is often misunderstood. “That’s the biggest differential,” he says, adding that the remoteness of the Hawaiian Islands dictates that lead times are considerably longer. “It’s not just transit time, it’s the whole supply chain process,” Harper says, adding that shippers needing quicker service can turn to other Lynden companies for air freight or ship service. Lynden’s myriad offerings come prominently into play in recovery efforts related to the series of wildfires that plagued Hawaii, predominantly on the island of Maui, in August 2023. The wind-driven fires caused widespread damage and more than 100 deaths. “They’ve got to do a sizable cleanup before they can begin rebuilding,” Harper says, adding that building materials are a major part of AML’s and Lynden’s business. Following the fires, Lynden employees quickly mobilized to raise funds for the impacted communities through the Hawaii Red Cross. In addition, Lynden Air Cargo supported the relief efforts from the air, flying six priority missions in response. Using two Hercules aircraft, two flights originated on the mainland and four shuttles were completed between Oahu and Maui. The planes carried satellite and command center equipment, search and rescue supplies, and mobile cell towers. “Maui has a weight restriction of 500,000 pounds for the airport, which limits the larger widebody aircraft from operating there,” explains Dan Marshall,
Aloha Marine Lines, part of the Lynden family of companies, recently launched the Makani Loa, a new barge for its Hawaii service.
60 Inbound Logistics • June 2024
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