NEWS - Ports & Transportation

SBJ Staff Report

Jan 23, 2012 - International freight forwarder and customs broker John S. James Company of Savannah has selected IES Technology’s new logistics and compliance software Forwarder Suite to enhance its customer service capabilities.

The software provides the company with one central point of connectivity, will streamline operations and will help the company realize productivity improvements.

"The successful implementation is a milestone for John S. James Co. as it moves into 2012. John S. James Co. has significantly grown in our market niche over our 70 year history," according to Len James, CFO of the Savannah-based company, "Our growth is based on leveraging the best technology to deliver more customized services. We were essentially looking for technology that is future proof— that can grow with us as we expand into new markets.

"The move to IES was a logical step for us," continues  James. "IES solutions are flexible and cover all aspects of our business. The software helps close the information gap that exists between what's happening in the real world and the information systems world. In particular, the integrated accounting product has helped us to examine key metrics within our organization and streamline controls."

The company describes how previous technology providers required them to act in more of an IT capacity which detracted from their overall directive. The new technology “frees us to do what we do best— moving freight. The technology is an enormous resource for our company and a springboard for our business."

The John S. James Co. was founded in 1941 in Savannah, with a mission to offer personalized service to the international transportation community.  Over the years, the company has become a leader in the international freight forwarding and customs brokerage industries. Their founder's initial vision to "provide unparalleled service to our customers," which still resonates in their culture today, according to James.

In the years since its founding, operations have expanded to offices in six major cities in the United States.  The company also maintains partnership agreements with a multitude of companies both in the United States and around the globe, allowing shipments to be handled from all international ports.

The organization now employs over 150 international customs and forwarding specialists, serving the needs of the transportation community.