So WHAT’S NEW AT DDS? You guessed…GOING GREEN!

 

 

I

n our last issue of the DDS Newsletter we touched on the DDS Going Green program with a couple of points outlining how we intend to make this happen. Here are some of the steps we are taking to bring this plan to fruition.  

 

As various cities around the country as well as civic groups and organizations are working to promote a more eco-friendly environment, DDS has decided that there is some contribution we can make that will provide part of the solution while improving service to our customers, and that is - Reduce our Carbon Footprint by Going Green.

 

·    DDS already has a small fleet of rickshaw-type vehicles around the city to pickup and deliver small quantities of packages/boxes which usually required a motor vehicle. We are getting ready to launch more of these in the near future.

 

·   In major cities like New York and Washington DC, we are facilitating hand-carryable but bulky deliveries by more foot carriers and bikers, thus impacting positively on the ecosystem since most companies use a vehicle to expedite such deliveries.

 

·   Mass Transit - reduced gridlock, reduced emissions. The increased use of Mass Transit in the cities we service is a huge contribution to a healthier environment. Obviously, the utilization of public transportation helps to reduce overall vehicle use.

 

·    Consolidation of deliveries destined for the same vicinity, with significant rate reduction, besides getting the jobs done more efficiently and economically also helps in reducing the volume of emissions,. 

 

·    The DDS strategy of offering steep discounts on consolidating on-demand and overnight deliveries allows customers to save a lot more while helping to protect the environment.

 

·    Currently, we are exploring the use of both hybrid and electric powered vehicles now in use in New York City. The plan is to phase out older gas guzzling vehicles to make way for the more environmentally friendly hybrid types. This also is in keeping with the Mayor’s plan to clean up New York City. 

 

·   Energy Saving. We try to use energy saving computer equipment and light bulbs in our offices. DDS is taking the initiative to turn off equipment when not in use.

 

·   Reduce paper waste through internet orders. DDS online order entry and electronic billing systems are a major factor in saving paper and conserving our forests and trees. 

 

 

Diversification and Expansion at DDS

 

 

O

ver the past few years the courier industry has been forced to diversify in order to survive. Modern technology has been putting a tremendous strain on the courier industry; with the exception of some documents needed for court cases, among other things, a large amount of deliveries are now done at lightning speed through cyberspace. The quality of such documents has also improved making them as good as original.

Deluxe Delivery Systems is foremost among those that have explored and ventured into more value added services, to the satisfaction of our customers. Some of these are:

 

o        Fulfillment & Distribution / Pick & Pack Service

o        Storage & Warehousing

o        E-Commerce / Supply Chain

o        Office Solutions – convenience center: copying, fax service, shipping, etc.

o        Provision of Technology Solutions – DDS proprietary courier software

o        Customized Transportation Solutions

 

Consolidate - DDS, FedEx and DHL shipping - Enjoy Great Cost Savings

 

Y

ou can now consolidate and save on these services and receive one invoice for all of the above without any changes or interruption of your current service.

·    DDS will have your FedEx and/or DHL shipping costs included with your regular courier charges.

·    You will receive a single invoice and have the same service with less stress, less time and even less paperwork.

·    FedEx and DHL charges will be itemized on the invoice.

 

!!Contact your sales representative to get started ASAP!!

 

Storage & Warehousing - Plus Disaster Recovery Space

 

O

ur satellite location in Long Island City offers the added advantage of being the center of Deluxe’s local fulfillment operations. Retrieval of and additions to storage boxes can be expedited at a moment’s notice. Security features include:

 

·    Recently renovated and leak-free 

·    Shrink-wrapping to protect from the elements

·    Easy loading dock access

·    Electronically monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

·    Manned by Deluxe staff 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

·    Guaranteed immediate pickup and delivery

 

 

Disaster Recovery & business continuity plan

 

T

his site can also be utilized to house a temporary office, store records, or used as a mailroom facility for mail sorting and distribution, etc. and for any contingency operations.

DDS’ emergency service/disaster recovery program includes back-up facilities equipped with hardware and Internet access in Long Island City, Queens and Washington DC. The program mirrors the capability of DDS’ main office at 777 8th Avenue, New York, NY 10036.

The fact that DDS’ dispatch system is web-based allows us to operate from any location including from home.

Backup servers and power supply have been installed in residences of key DDS personnel in case of total office shutdown.

Mass storage devices such as high capacity disc drives are kept for easy movement of data should a change of location become necessary.

This plan provides a seamless rollover of services to our customers in the event of an emergency.

All of our customers are provided an emergency Contact List. There is a single central contact as well as contingency contacts available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. There is also a toll-free 800 number (1-877-814-1722).

 

 

Overnight Services geared to bring great cost savings!

 

T

he establishment, development, implementation and growth of Deluxe Direct technology have enabled DDS to expedite Overnight Services. DDS ventured into the overnight delivery aspect of our industry approximately 2 years ago and has already added 25 major organizations to our list of overnight users. We have seen 45% growth in the last 12 months. 

Utilizing our advanced communication system and large motor fleet, DDS offers outstanding service at significant cost reduction. Imagine being able to redirect packages at a second’s notice and not having to incur a minimum of a 24-hour delay. DDS allows you to know exactly where your package is at any given time.

If you have encountered issues such as these, or you just want to save money, then this is the service for you. If you already have an account with DDS, you’re already on your way!

 

 

Technology - DeluxeDirect software

 

M

any of our major customers are now utilizing DeluxeDirect - our new proprietary state-of-the-art courier software system. DeluxeDirect is a complete Shipping & Receiving System, which incorporates an online Order Entry & Tracking module, allowing you to initiate requests and track jobs quickly and conveniently. The system primarily functions as an accounting tool providing invoices & reports online.

 

The system is web-based and password-driven

 

Deluxe Direct provides an easy-to-use graphic user interface.  It not only utilizes a desktop application but also a user- friendly web-based application.  Users of DeluxeDirect can execute the following operations right from the desktop:

 

·    Initiate job requests

·    Track packages

·    Obtain ‘Proof of Delivery’

·    Online Invoicing and Reports

 

The system utilizes existing Nextel & Symbol hardware and DDS proprietary software to effectively create and track profiles for any package being moved. The system is suited for mailroom applications, as well as messenger operations. The system even allows for real- time PODs from within your building and from the field.

 

Users of DeluxeDirect will be able to take advantage of its FedEx and DHL integration feature and be able to order, track and receive FedEx, DHL and Deluxe Delivery Systems jobs using the same application. Finally one complete system for all of your point-to-point and mailroom operational needs.

 

·    Nextel order/dispatch communication system

·    Orders are dispatched electronically to drivers via

·    Nextel 2-way radio/cell phone or e-mail

·    POD captured on Symbol handheld pad or

·    Driver transmits via Nextel POD name to host system

·    POD becomes available on-line

 

 

Supplier Diversity

 

DDS is a minority owned, controlled and operated Business Enterprise

 

D

DS always takes the initiative to work with and support other MBEs to grow in the competitive corporate world. We continue the tradition of establishing relations and forming alliances with minority business.

 

We are always working to increase contracting opportunities between corporations and minority owned businesses. Attending more minority sponsored events allows us to connect with MBEs and become more involved in helping them grow their businesses.

 

We are MBE certified by the following agencies:

 

o        The New York/New Jersey Minority Purchasing Council

o        Maryland/DC MSDC

o        Connecticut MSDC

o        PA-NJ-DE MSDC

o        Port Authority of NY & NJ

o        MTA – New York City Transit

 

Recently concluded events

 

DDS was represented by 10 attendees with a booth at the NY/NJ Annual Business Opportunity Expo held at the NY Marriot Marquise on June 2-3 2008. The expo was a great success; new contacts established, old ones renewed and follow-ups in progress.  

 

Upcoming Events

 

DDS will participate in these upcoming events:

 

ü       Golf - Annual Golf Strategy Day (Connecticut)

ü       Golf - Networking on the Green (NY/NJ)

ü       Train Ride to Success (NY/NJ)

ü       Business Opportunity Expo (Connecticut)

ü       Annual Minority Conference (National MSDC)

ü       Partnership Awards Gala (NY/NJ)

 

 

People in DDS We are a people oriented company

 

W

e take pride in attracting personnel drawn from a wide cross section of diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds. From Africa to the Caribbean, from Europe to the Americas, the faces of DDS’ of employees, independent contractors, owner/operators attest to our commitment to equal opportunity for all. Our diverse workforce is our most important asset.

Our staff is screened - background tests and drug tests are performed before hiring, followed by customer service training. Couriers are cross-trained to respond rapidly and effectively in emergencies and unusual situations.