FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 24, 2011
	CONTACT: Jackie Hirschhaut (336) 881-1016

AHFA Targets Smaller Importers
With New Container Shipping Discount Program

HIGH POINT, N.C. – The American Home Furnishings Alliance has launched a new ocean shipping program backed by Globe Express Services and designed to offer support to smaller importers and exporters.

"A majority of service providers focus on larger importers. Companies shipping fewer than 500 containers a year don't make it on the radar screen," explains David Purvis, AHFA vice president. "Many of the smaller importers lack the time and resources to investigate their options, so AHFA sought to create a program to help improve pricing and service levels for these smaller importers by consolidating volume under an AHFA umbrella."

The primary service offered within the new program is import container shipping from port-to-door. Additional services provided by GES include freight forwarding, overseas warehousing and consolidation, domestic drayage, customs brokerage, regulatory (C-TPAT) compliance, domestic warehousing/trans-loading and intermodal transportation (rail/over-the-road trucking).

On-line visibility (track and trace) is also available via Globe's proprietary system, iRADAR®. Bill Smith, vice president of sales and marketing for Globe Express comments, "It's a real honor for us to serve the AHFA and its membership in this capacity. GES has a long history of providing global logistics solutions to the furniture industry, and we're eager to serve shippers of all sizes."

Globe can enroll members in this turnkey import program in approximately one week. This involves submitting contact information for all vendors to GES and, conversely, providing the GES contact information to all vendors.

"Participating members will benefit from reduced bottom line expenses and enhanced supply chain visibility and control," Purvis explains.

AHFA members interested in receiving a rate quote should contact Michelle Hall at Globe Express at 678/428-1912, or michelle.hall@globeexpress.com. Members may also get more details on the program and request rates online at www.globeexpress.com/ahfa.asp.