New service suite offers US importers integrated solution for Asia-to-US; ocean transportation, Customs clearance, fulfillment and delivery

Horizon Logistics, LLC, the third-party logistics management subsidiary of Horizon Lines, Inc. (NYSE:HRZ), has launched an integrated import logistics solution called 3V Distribution Services, offering small to medium-sized shippers velocity, visibility and value-added distribution for Asia-U.S. supply chain management.

"Small and medium-sized retailers and manufacturers traditionally have struggled to receive the same quality of logistics services that larger shippers receive," said Brian Taylor, President of Horizon Logistics. "Our vision is to change that. We have developed the network, the services and the technology to provide these U.S. importers and exporters the competitive edge they need."

To deliver velocity, Horizon Logistics provides consolidation and ocean transportation services from Asia to ports in the United States, and inland transportation and delivery services via its rail, truckload and LTL service offerings. Swift and seamless transport is a feature that logistics companies have traditionally only afforded to large manufacturing and retail customers.

For visibility, Horizon Logistics has developed a user-friendly web portal for booking ocean transportation and monitoring international logistics operations. Customers can track shipments by P.O., SKU, part number, container number or bill of lading to view details and delivery status against proforma schedule expectations.

For value-added distribution and fulfillment services, Horizon Logistics opened a warehouse and cross-dock facility in Rancho Dominguez, CA; close to the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. From this facility, Horizon Logistics offers fulfillment services including storage, pick, pack, kitting and assembly services, plus nationwide delivery to final destination.

The company has established a network nationwide to offer similar services for companies importing through West Coast or East Coast ports. Horizon operates company-owned facilities in San Francisco and Oakland, CA, Tacoma, WA, Laredo, TX, as well as in New Jersey and North Carolina. Additional inland terminals are located throughout the United States.

Horizon Logistics initially will target e-commerce and catalogue retailers for 3V Distribution Services to meet their need for rapid fulfillment and delivery. The introduction of an integrated import solution builds on the strength of the company's non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC) and freight forwarding operation, which has experienced steady growth despite the challenging economic environment. This NVOCC group has 37 offices in Asia, including China, as well as full customs clearance and '10+2' IFS compliance services capabilities.

"The blend of international importing experience linked to our North American distribution and transportation network is a powerful one-two punch for many of the small to mid-sized retailers who are launching new products and competing with larger competitors" said Taylor. "We are seeing a real demand to service this market and the U.S. is still a hotbed for innovation and new product distribution."

Horizon Logistics, LLC, offers customized logistics solutions to shippers from a suite of transportation and distribution management services using information technology developed by Horizon Services Group and intermodal trucking and warehousing services provided by Sea-Logix. Transportation offerings include international ocean intermediary services and North American LTL and trucking networks. Horizon Logistics, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Horizon Lines, Inc. the nation's leading domestic ocean shipping and integrated logistics company based in Charlotte, NC. Horizon Lines, Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol HRZ.