"Together Talks" feature # 3: APEX Manufacturing, presented by KLS, freight company
Some Background on AAPEX Manufacturing
AAPEX Manufacturing is a contract manufacturer providing services in multiple industries. From Tactical Gear and Armor to Agriculture and Aerospace, AAPEX will consistently live up to its name and deliver the very best results. Their mission is to continually develop quality products at a competitive price point while fostering an environment where advancements in manufacturing technologies can thrive. They strive for excellence in the industry and continual growth.
The business was founded by Ann Ensenbach about 5 years ago. The company operates in Georgia and Colorado. AAPEX offers services including CNC Machining, Fabrication, Post Processing, and Turnkey Design.
In addition to AAPEX Manufacturing, there is also AAPEX Armor, which focuses on making lightweight armor for both males and females. Their tactical gear is thinner, smaller, and even more lightweight than the traditional plates.
Innovation above the rest
Quality was a word that was echoed again and again by both Ann and Andrew Ensenbach, Chief Sales Officer. AAPEX is committed to providing products that are built to last. They double down on this by, GUARANTEEING every product they produce. Their versatility is another component that sets them apart from their competition. The ability to offer additive and subtractive manufacturing enhances their goal to bring back American manufacturing. AAPEX also has an R&D program to continue to evolve and advance resins and technology within the industry.
QMS (quality management systems) was another area of strength that was conveyed during our chat. AAPEX uses proprietary resin and Processes that offer another element to its customers. Utilizing their solutions removes the concern of competitors attempting to steal or create "knockoff versions".
In addition to the manufacturing side, AAPEX Armor also has developed improved armor for both males and females. Here is a great video breakdown from their LinkedIn, of the added benefits of their product for female users.
Partner with KLS
KLS offers LTL and FTL for both dry and reefer transportation.
Our nationwide coverage provides companies a reliable, consistent, and dependable logistics partner to handle your trucking needs.
For more information on how we can help call our office today 708-980-0920 or reach us via our email quote request here!
Disruptors: Bringing manufacturing back to America
Being a female-owned business has created challenges for AAPEX Manufacturing, but it also presents opportunities in the eyes of the owner. Ann mentioned that they embrace being "disruptors". "Why do we have to do things the way it has always been done? We want to bring back American manufacturing, we want to push forward advancements in the industry. Why can't we do it this way? Why can't it be us to create this change?"
The culture of AAPEX was defined as blended. It was a mix of corporate and thinkers. But Ann was clear to state that both sides are brilliant. And it doesn't work without both sides pulling together in the same direction.
They have endured rejection, being passed over, and not even being given a seat at the table for possible collaborations. But they refuse to let them define their company or deter their goals of making a difference. One instance of this was when AAPEX visited SOF (Special Operations Forces) week last year. "We had this little tiny booth in the back corner. We had to go and introduce ourselves." It turned out to be incredibly beneficial for AAPEX.
Making and LEAVING an impact
AAPEX believes in leading by example. They are working on air filtration systems to improve air quality. They also are working on improving water quality for their locations. In addition to improving their facilities, they also are working with companies within their network to offer the same improvements and advancements. Another example of AAPEX giving back and better situations and lives. Both measures are part of their Eco-positive and going-green initiatives.
AAPEX also drives innovation while bringing International opportunities to US shores. Chiron Global in partnership with AAPEX Armor Co. is releasing a truly disruptive Armor Suit, utilizing AAPEX materials and technologies to achieve a revolutionary level of Ballistic Protection and Coverage. The Armor Suit represents a significant shift in Armor technology with Chiron and AAPEX at the helm. Another example of AAPEX and its partners committing to the overall mission of saving lives.
Another big project in the works is creating a satellite campus that will not only bring fresh and safe water to the community but also up to 1400 jobs. AAPEX is also working with educational institutions within the area to offer additional opportunities for the workers to enhance their skills. AAPEX is very excited and eager to launch this campus in the future.
We ended the call by asking Ann and Andy if there was one moment in their 5 years that stood out to them. That brought them the most joy and pride to be a part of AAPEX. Without hesitation, they said, "IFAK. You'd think it would be our armor or signing on a new vendor with an exciting project, but it is IFAK. Because it goes back to saving lives."
IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit) is part of a co-brand between AAPEX Armor and Silverback Safety & Training Solutions, Inc., owned and run by Troy Lowe. AAPEX spoke volumes of Troy and echoed the importance of the work he is doing. It was easy for them to partner with his company and support this product. Check it out here from a LinkedIn post. Once again, just another example of this company's character and values. It is never about AAPEX, but what AAPEX can contribute to society and the community.
Interested in being featured with "Together Talks"?
KLS is booking our October schedule now!
Contact us as we would love to learn your story and share it amongst our audience.
Weekly we provide 2 companies our platform to expand their reach courtesy of our campaign. Let's collaborate!!!
In Conclusion
AAPEX Manufacturing, its leadership, and its entire workforce demonstrate character. Everything they touch has one focus: how can we make an impact, on others? AAPEX's main objective is to help either save lives or provide better lives. The character of this company shines through with every project they partake in. Ann said it best, “We have a big heart, and we are trying to do big things to make the largest impact.” KLS wants to thank Ann and Andrew for their insight into AAPEX Manufacturing and AAPEX Armor. We enjoyed learning about both of these companies. We are thrilled to feature them in our latest "Together Talks" campaign.
Phone Number: 912-250-6500
AAPEX Manufacturing - Ann Ensenbach & Andrew Ensenbach feature # 3 of Together Talks
*Klimson Logistics Solutions is an Industry Leading Customer Service 3PL. Our focus and commitment to our clients has us striving to be the BEST customer service 3PL for LTL, FTL, Reefer, and Drayage in the country. KLS, a freight company is a 3PL providing nationwide logistics solutions. KLS shipping services include: LTL freight, FTL freight, Reefer LTL freight, Reefer FTL freight, and Drayage. Klimson Logistics Solutions thanks you for viewing our marketing campaign "Together Talks" if you have any interest in being featured or questions regarding your freight operations please contact us today!
Why KLS?
Our precise and reliable effort.
We handle every shipment with the exact same process. It does not matter if you move one shipment a year or ten per day, you will receive the same level of customer service from us. When we started this company, we had one goal in mind, treat every shipment like it was our own. With our vast knowledge of the industry, we understood what a customer would want from a communication standpoint. We applied that process to be the standard here at KLS. Our reliability and being able to depend on our consistency is why we have such long-standing relationships with our clients.
Our Process?
Every shipment in our industry starts with a quote. We are firm believers that time is money, thus we strive to have quotes back in a 5-10 minute reply time for LTL and FTL, any FCL quotes are at the mercy of the carriers getting back to us. For LTL we have the flexibility to quote both off of NMFC and also Density depending on the carrier. Utilizing our services, you’re allowing us to use our expertise to class your freight accordingly to ensure we are providing the best rate we possibly can.
Once a quote has been submitted and a client chooses to proceed with KLS handling the arrangement of the shipment our full process begins. We create the BOL that will be used for the shipment. If it is a new location for our system, we will obtain all the important/special details (reference numbers, contact details, shipping hours, closed for lunch, dock/doors, etc.). We meticulously build every detail into our software for all future shipments involving that location. After we have both locations built and necessary reference numbers have been applied we will tender the shipment to the carrier. We use this method because it provides us a real time pickup number from the carrier to obtain updates prior to pickup. Our staff will either email the BOL directly to you or to the shipper (at your request) the minute after the tender has been accepted by the carrier. LTL carriers require a 2 hour window prior to close time in order to schedule it for a same-day pickup attempt.
The following morning you’ll receive an email from us. It will either provide the reason the pickup was missed (driver’s trailer filled up, driver missed the close time, truck broke down, shipper said no freight, etc.) or if the pickup was successful you will receive the PRO (tracking) number from us, along with the eta for delivery. Our staff will track it throughout the duration of transit and advise if anything happens that will alter the estimated delivery date. The day the shipment delivers we will email you with confirmation and the POD (Proof of Delivery), should you require it.
Your shipment has been quoted, scheduled, picked up, and delivered. The next step is waiting for the carrier to invoice us and make sure the rate matches up. If it does, we close out the invoice from the carrier in our system and automatically your invoice is created and sent to the requested party at your company. In the event the carrier has an additional charge on their invoice “Variance”, we will never send you an invoice with an additional charge without first identifying you of the charge.
Let us repeat, NEVER WILL WE JUST BILL OUT AN EXTRA CHARGE WITHOUT YOU BEING NOTIFIED.
You are our customer, we represent you. Should the carrier provide an extra charge on an invoice, “Lift gate, additional weight, reclass, detention, etc.) We notify you of the charge via email first. Second, within that email we identify what is required should you choose to dispute the charge. Again our goal is to honor your request, if you want to dispute, we will dispute. During a dispute we will provide you updates every step along the way. Once a dispute is closed out, whether it is approved or rejected, then we will invoice you as the invoice has been resolved.
For reference, our company only had 6.2% of all shipments go to dispute in 2022 and we successfully won 91% of those disputes on behalf of our customers.
This is our process for every single shipment you move with us. We don’t cut corners, we don’t hide from difficult situations. We believe in being available, honest, and transparent. We don’t ever want to tell you that a shipment is lost, damaged, misrouted, but it is our duty to notify you the second we find out something has gone wrong. We hate to present bad news, but it is part of the job. What you can guarantee is that we will work a shipment all the way through and turn over every stone until we get a resolution for our clients.
Services offered?
Our core business is LTL and FTL. Within these options we have options for both dry and refrigerated/frozen. We also offer FCL/Drayage options. Our company as a 3PL has nationwide options and services clients across the US.
Let’s breakdown our services more in-depth
LTL:
Standard and Guaranteed
CFS (Imports & Exports)
Tradeshows
Hazmat
Anything that is on a pallet can be moved LTL. Typically LTL is up to 10 pallets, but the sweet spot for a carrier is 6-8 pallets at most for an individual shipment. LTL quotes are good between 5-30 days depending on the carrier. LTL can be quoted either via NMFC or density to determine the class (we do this for you).
Volume:
Anything over 10-12’ of space in the truck is the technical rule for a volume shipment. When we run a quote for you we will determine if it qualifies for volume and provide you a rate if available. Volume moves allow you to get a reduced rate for larger shipments. The caveat to volume shipments it the quotes are only valid for 3-7 days and they move on capacity between terminals. If a terminal is backed up they will move their LTL freight first before the volume freight, which can lead to longer transit times for volume moves.
FTL/Dedicated/Expedited: 53’ Dry and Reefer 26’ Box trucks with lift gate Sprinter Van The main difference for FTL vs LTL is space and transit time. For standard pallets you can fit either 26 or 30 pallets in a 53’ dry van. The other main difference is transit time, for FTL each day counts in the transit time, whereas LTL does not count the day of pickup, weekends, or holidays in their transit time.
Reefer/Frozen:
LTL and FTL
We specialize working in the CPG space with food manufacturers. We regularly deliver to
the following locations:
Kehe
UNFI
Core Mark
DPI
Wegmans
Cugini
H.T. Hackney
Netrition
HEB
ALDI
Chambers and Owens
EBY Brown
Nassau Candy
Harris Teeter
Wakefern
NU INC
Long Distribution
What makes KLS different?
There are thousands for freight brokers and 3PL in our industry. Barrier to entry is rather easy and agents or owners will often hire sales people without any intention of properly training them. It results in high turnover for many freight companies and a forgettable experience for the client. We choose to operate differently through our consistency. We truly care about doing right by our clients and prospects too. While we would love to help provide our services to every company we speak with, that just isn’t realistic. We won’t always be the right fit for every company that moves freight and that is ok. Our authenticity as a shipping company sets us apart from the competition and that is backed up by our testimonials. We also run a marketing campaign bi-weekly called “Together Talks”. We interview, highlight, and promote two businesses every week. Our goal is to grow our network, make new connections, and learn something new with each collaboration. Check it out on our website and if you’re interested in being featured reach out.
Our company also runs a year long charity promotion. Book your first shipment through KLS and we donate to the charity of your choice in your name. Our way of thanking you for giving us an opportunity to show you the KLS way and what makes us one of a kind. This entire package is what we offer to every prospect and every client. Our goal is to help provide answers that customers may have when it comes to shipping. We want to always be available as a resource and will always offer a lending hand whenever we can.
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