Toyota Logistics Services recently presented Crowley Maritime Corporation's liner services group with its prestigious Excellence in Quality Award for 2010 in recognition of Crowley's outstanding performance transporting thousands of Toyotas from the U.S. to Puerto Rico during the year. It was the ninth consecutive year Crowley has received the award from Toyota.

Charlie Dominguez, vice president, national accounts, accepted the award from Toyota officials on behalf of Crowley in Newport Beach, Calif.

"This award is a testament to all of the people who help Crowley deliver exceptional customer service day in and day out," Dominguez said. "It is especially gratifying because we know Toyota is committed to building and delivering only the highest quality vehicles to its customers. We are proud to be a part of this outstanding partnership."

Crowley is highly successful transporting new and used vehicles because it invests the time and resources to do the job right.

Crowley's Puerto Rico vessels are designed with specialized automobile decking, which allows up to 240 vehicles per voyage to be driven on, stowed and transported in a protected space. A team of auto checkers and traffic specialists play a large role in ensuring that load lists are correct and documentation is complete prior to sailing. Additionally, the company has dedicated fenced, lighted and secured terminal space in Jacksonville for approximately 225 Toyota vehicles near the vessel loading ramp, minimizing the need for Toyota vehicles to be driven around and through the terminal.

"It all adds up to white glove service," said Dominguez. "And our customers - Toyota in particular - appreciate that."