You knew the Roadway Regional Group as four regional LTL carriers. Now these carriers have consolidated into one national company - VIKING FREIGHT. It's our response to our customers' need for comprehensive, regional, inter-regional, and national LTL transportation services.
Why consolidate?
We're consolidating for several reasons. This move allows us to:
Why Viking Freight?
Comprehensive transportation nationwide demands common management and a common dedication to customer service. According to independent research, of the four RRG carriers, Viking has the widest and most positive customer perception. Viking has consistently been named a Distribution Magazine Quality Carrier and has been recognized in The 100 Best Companies to Work for in America in all three editions. Furthermore, internal analysis determined that Viking has the strongest organizational structure to facilitate the consolidation. Given Viking's reputation and track record, the Viking name is the logical choice for the new company.
How long has Viking been in business?
Viking was founded in 1966 in San Jose, California. It has grown and been profitable every year since. By the late 1980s, Viking covered the entire western United States. In 1995, expansion turned to the midwest. Now you will find that Viking is becoming a leader in each of its regions and in the national market. Viking's headquarters will remain in San Jose.
Will my carrier contacts change?
In most cases, your Viking contacts will be the people you currently work with. In only a few markets will there be some realignment of territories. These markets include Baltimore, Chicago, Denver, Kansas City, Memphis, Minneapolis, Pittsburgh, and St. Louis. Otherwise, you'll enjoy an uninterrupted relationship with your account managers and terminal operations personnel.
What will happen to my rates?
Nothing. The rates you now have will remain the same, subject to whatever increases took place on January, 2, 1996. If you do more business with the new, consolidated Viking, there may be opportunity for additional savings.
What about transit times?
Expect your transit times to remain the same or improve. And, don't be surprised if you experience an overall improvement in your service.
Will I call a different number for a pickup?
No. Current telephone numbers will remain the same. Additional numbers may be added for your convenience.
With so few terminals being merged, is this really a wholesale consolidation?
Organizational structure and management is being consolidated, but, for the most part, you will see the same familiar faces and work with the same people. The differences will be in improved service and greater opportunities to use one carrier - the new Viking!
Are Viking's operating territories covering the same geographical areas as the previous carriers?
Yes. But our regions are now defined by your needs. And that means you can continue to rely on people who know your market and how it functions. In addition, you can take advantage of Viking's familiarity with other markets across the United States.
What does Viking management in San Jose, California, know about my business in my area?
Your account will be managed by your current account manager, who is now a Viking. You'll also find that all Vikings are committed to a philosophy of customer service we call EZTDBW (easy to do business with). Viking's corporate account sales personnel have long been working with customers throughout the country and are accustomed to dealing with individual market requirements.
Will response from the general office to my questions and concerns be slower than before?
If anything, it should improve. If you are currently experiencing any dissatisfaction with response from the general office, please advise your account manager - and expect immediate results.
Will information technology be the same for all Viking divisions?
A single Viking system is currently in development. In the meantime, bridges have been built between systems to provide you with seamless shipment information.
Is Viking still a part of Roadway Services, Inc. (RSI)?
Yes. However, with the recent spinoff of Roadway Express, Roadway Services, Inc., changed its name to Caliber System, Inc.
Viking is one of the major components of Caliber System, fulfilling customers' needs for regional, inter-regional, and national transportation services. Other Caliber companies include RPS, a small package carrier, Roberts Express, an expedited shipment carrier, and Caliber Logistics, a full-service logistics provider.
What will become of the Roadway Regional Group (RRG)?
RRG no longer exists. The RRG management team, formed from a core of Viking senior management, has rejoined Viking Freight to bring about the consolidation. The new Viking combines the best of RRG and all the carriers.
Consolidations often fail. Why is this one going to work?
The primary reason for this consolidation is to meet customers' expressed need for comprehensive regional, inter-regional, and national LTL transportation. Failed consolidations are often driven by a desire to cut costs without careful regard to customer service. Customer research and service improvement planning were key in the decision to create the new Viking. This consolidation serves the customer, not just the bottom line.
How will I benefit from the formation of the new Viking?
A few of the elements that will add value for you now and in the future include:
Send email to: WebMaster@calibersys.com
Last Modified: December 20, 1996
Copyright 1996, Caliber System, Inc.