As a customer, sustainability can mean multiple things for your business. When it comes to the environment, sustainability means that resources will be used responsibly. For transportation providers it can mean the difference between operating their company or closing their doors. Choosing a sustainable company isn’t just a positive thing for the environment, it is a smart business practice to ensure your freight is being handled by a sustainable carrier. A sustainable carrier is one that contributes to the economy, maintains their service to you, and conserves resources. Sustainable businesses are important to the economy because they can withstand the ups and downs of the industry. They manage their bottom lines in a way that positions the business to serve customers like you for a long time. This is especially important in today’s market cycle.
Efficiency since 1951
Since 1951, CFI has been committed to efficiency and sustainability in our business operations and our community. I began working for CFI in 1985 as a professional driver. In those days, we offered efficiency bonuses in order to encourage responsible fuel consumption. We have always been focused on efficiency inside and out. Today we have implemented a modern approach in comparison to the efficiency bonus. Our industry leading practices sustain more than our OTR transportation business, they sustain our environment. Upgrading our operations to first class standards and modernization have allowed us to earn the Environmental Protection Agency’s SmartWay Excellence Award seven times (2006, 2007, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018). 100% of our fleet meet the stringent EPA requirements. The Awardees are selected from over 3,700 companies who participate in SmartWay. This year, we claimed a position on the prestigious SmartWay High Performer list. Only 10% of carriers operate fleets that are efficient enough to make the High Performer list. As a leader in the freight industry, we have achieved significant shipping efficiencies that have allowed us to provide more efficient freight solutions for our customers.
We are always focused on sustaining our business and our environment. Efficiency in operations sets our service apart:
Equipment
We offer one of the most modern fleets in the industry. Our fuel-efficient tractors average 1.8 years of age
All over the road tractors are equipped with an automated manual 10-speed transmission, decreasing the amount of fuel burned between shifts
All tractors are governed at 65 MPH to reduce unnecessary fuel expenditure Bunk heaters are used in all tractors to reduce fuel. One tenth of a gallon of fuel is used by the bunk heater in comparison to idling the tractor for heat
Low-rolling resistance tires on all company tractors and trailers
Lower viscosity engine oil is used to increase efficiency
Upgraded fuel efficient drivetrains
Training
Best practices for driving modern tractors are covered in our Professional Driver Orientation
Driver coaching/mentoring is utilized to keep MPG top of mind for our 2,000-driver family
Videos and online resources are available that provide tips for driving more efficiently
Technology
Utilizing technology such as Fuel and Route to reduce out of route miles. Decreasing out of route miles decreases our fuel spend, and the amount of fuel we consume
Idle Air stations are available at our Laredo, TX, and West Memphis, AR, terminals to reduce idle time
Policy
California Air Resource Board compliant tractors and trailers
Three of our terminal locations have no idle zones to reduce idle and fuel waste
Sustainable business is smart business.
Businesses must be ahead of the curve in order to maintain their position in the volatile market today. Choosing a carrier that will stand the test of time will keep your freight moving and sustain your business in turn. Carriers like CFI consume less fuel for each mile that they travel, resulting in a business structure that can save thousands of dollars in fuel expense per year. These efficient business practices allow for superior service, but for businesses these come at a cost. Carriers that can provide services for your business for the long haul invest a considerable amount of their resources to ensure they are maintaining their service and their business. Superior and sustainable service comes at a higher cost, but the returns for your business are invaluable.
Is your freight provider sustainable? Join us in creating a more sustainable future for the environment and business. CFI offers OTR and dedicated solutions for your shipping needs; for the US, Canada, and Mexico: www.CFIDrive.com
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Randy Cornell is the Vice President of Maintenance & Asset Management at CFI. Cornell joined the company in 1985 as an over-the-road driver. Over the next 30 years, he has held a variety of positions throughout the organization including Claims Manager, Director of Safety, Director of Maintenance, Vice President of Safety, and Vice President of Maintenance. He served as the Vice President of Safety from January 1999 until accepting his current position in January 2011.