Frequently Asked Questions

InterLines USA provides end-to-end logistics and technology solutions including: international freight forwarding (ocean, air, ground, rail), supply chain management and optimization, custom logistics software development (TMS, WMS), warehouse automation, data analytics and business intelligence, customs brokerage and trade compliance, and strategic consulting services. We specialize in combining traditional logistics expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver smarter, more efficient operations.

We serve a wide range of industries including retail and e-commerce, manufacturing, automotive, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, consumer goods, and industrial equipment. Our solutions are tailored to meet the specific regulatory requirements, handling needs, and operational challenges of each industry.

We operate globally with a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. Our headquarters is in Chicago, IL, and we maintain partnerships with vetted carriers and agents in over 50 countries. This network enables us to provide seamless door-to-door logistics solutions for international shipments while maintaining local expertise and compliance knowledge.

Getting started is simple. Contact us via phone at +1 (872) 266-1599, email at office@interlines.us, or through our website contact form. We'll schedule a free consultation to understand your current operations, challenges, and goals. From there, our team will develop a customized proposal outlining recommended solutions, implementation timeline, and pricing. There's no obligation, and we're happy to answer any questions before you commit.

Unlike traditional freight forwarders, we combine logistics operations with in-house technology development. This means we don't just move your freight—we help you optimize your entire supply chain through custom software, automation, and data analytics. Our technology-first approach delivers measurable improvements in efficiency, visibility, and cost reduction that traditional providers simply can't match.

We develop custom logistics software tailored to your specific needs, including: Transportation Management Systems (TMS) for shipment planning and execution, Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) for inventory control and fulfillment, real-time tracking and visibility platforms, automated documentation and customs filing systems, reporting dashboards and business intelligence tools, mobile applications for drivers and field operations, and API integrations connecting your existing systems. We also implement and customize leading platforms like SAP, Oracle, Blue Yonder, and CargoWise.

Absolutely. Integration is a core strength of our solutions. We have experience integrating with all major ERP systems including SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, NetSuite, and others. We use modern APIs, EDI, and custom connectors to ensure seamless data flow between your logistics operations and business systems. Our team handles the technical complexity so you get a unified view of your operations without manual data entry or reconciliation.

Yes, real-time visibility is fundamental to our service. Our tracking platform aggregates data from multiple sources—carrier systems, GPS devices, ELDs, and IoT sensors—to provide accurate, up-to-the-minute location and status information. You'll receive proactive alerts for exceptions, predictive ETAs based on current conditions, and comprehensive reporting. Access is available through our web portal, mobile app, or integrated directly into your systems via API.

We leverage AI and automation across multiple areas: predictive analytics for demand forecasting and disruption anticipation, intelligent route optimization to reduce costs and transit times, automated document processing using OCR and NLP to extract data from bills of lading, invoices, and customs documents, robotic process automation (RPA) for repetitive tasks, and machine learning models for carrier selection and pricing optimization. These technologies reduce manual work, minimize errors, and enable faster, smarter decision-making.

Implementation timelines vary based on scope and complexity. A basic TMS or visibility platform can be deployed in 4-8 weeks. More comprehensive solutions involving custom development, multiple integrations, or enterprise-wide rollouts typically take 3-6 months. We use agile methodology with phased deployments, so you start seeing value quickly while we continue building out additional capabilities. We'll provide a detailed timeline during the proposal phase.

We provide comprehensive multi-modal transportation services including: ocean freight (FCL and LCL), air freight (standard, express, and charter), ground transportation (FTL, LTL, and expedited), rail freight and intermodal solutions, and project cargo for oversized or heavy equipment. We'll recommend the optimal mode or combination based on your timeline, budget, and cargo requirements.

Yes, we provide full customs brokerage services through our licensed customs brokers. This includes tariff classification, duty calculation, ISF filing, customs entry preparation, and clearance coordination. We also handle all required documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and any special permits or licenses. Our compliance team stays current on regulations to ensure your shipments clear customs smoothly.

We have extensive experience with specialized cargo including temperature-controlled shipments (cold chain), hazardous materials (DG/hazmat certified), high-value goods requiring enhanced security, oversized and heavy lift cargo, and time-critical shipments. We work with specialized carriers and use appropriate equipment, monitoring, and handling procedures to ensure your cargo arrives safely and in compliance with all regulations.

Pricing is customized based on your specific requirements including shipment volume, lanes and destinations, service levels, cargo characteristics, and technology needs. For transportation, we provide competitive rates leveraging our carrier relationships and volume. For software and consulting, we offer both project-based and subscription pricing models. All quotes are transparent with no hidden fees—you'll know exactly what you're paying for before you commit.

We offer flexible engagement models to match your needs. For transportation services, we can work on a transactional basis or establish contract rates for committed volumes. Software solutions typically involve an implementation phase followed by ongoing subscription or maintenance agreements. Consulting engagements can be project-based or retainer arrangements. We're confident in our service quality and don't rely on lock-in contracts to retain clients.

Yes, we offer competitive pricing for higher volumes. As your shipment volume increases, we can negotiate better rates with carriers and pass those savings to you. We also offer bundled pricing when you use multiple services—for example, combining transportation with our technology platform. Contact us to discuss your volume and we'll provide a customized quote.

We provide comprehensive support including: 24/7 operations support for active shipments and critical issues, dedicated account managers for ongoing relationship management, technical support for software platforms and integrations, and proactive communication on shipment status and exceptions. Enterprise clients receive priority support with guaranteed response times and access to a dedicated support portal.

You can reach our support team through multiple channels: phone at +1 (872) 266-1599 (24/7 for urgent shipment issues), email at office@interlines.us (response within 4 business hours), through our website contact form, or via the support portal for existing clients. For software-related issues, we also offer screen-sharing support sessions to resolve technical problems quickly.

Yes, every client is assigned a dedicated account manager who serves as your primary point of contact. Your account manager understands your business, coordinates across our teams, and ensures your needs are met. For larger accounts, we assemble a dedicated team including operations specialists and technical resources. You'll always know who to call and can expect personalized service.

Cargo security is a top priority. We work only with vetted, reputable carriers and maintain C-TPAT certification for enhanced supply chain security. Our measures include GPS tracking on all shipments, tamper-evident seals, secure warehousing with access controls and surveillance, cargo insurance options, and thorough carrier vetting and monitoring. For high-value shipments, we offer enhanced security protocols including armed escorts and dedicated vehicles.

We take data security seriously. Our systems use encryption for data in transit and at rest, secure cloud infrastructure with SOC 2 compliance, role-based access controls, regular security audits and penetration testing, and comprehensive backup and disaster recovery procedures. We comply with applicable data privacy regulations and can sign NDAs and data processing agreements as required.

We maintain relevant industry certifications including C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism), licensed customs broker status, IATA membership for air freight, NVOCC license for ocean freight, and hazmat handling certifications. Our compliance team continuously monitors regulatory changes and ensures our operations meet all applicable requirements for the markets we serve.