
In the fiercely competitive logistics industry, time is money. For businesses, faster shipping translates to shorter lead times, higher customer satisfaction, and stronger market competitiveness. Pittsburgh-based less-than-truckload (LTL), warehousing, and logistics provider PITT OHIO recently announced the expansion of its next-day delivery service from three company terminals in New England, aiming to significantly improve regional logistics efficiency and meet growing demand for rapid deliveries.
Strategic Partnership: The Ross Express Connection
PITT OHIO's expansion builds upon its strategic partnership with Auburn, Maine-based Ross Express. The companies first established a business relationship in 2016, with PITT OHIO acquiring majority ownership of Ross Express in 2018. This latest service enhancement represents the culmination of their long-term collaboration and PITT OHIO's continued investment in regional logistics infrastructure.
Addressing Market Demands
Prior to this expansion, shipments from PITT OHIO terminals in Cumberland, Maryland; Baltimore, Maryland; and the greater Philadelphia area to New England destinations typically required up to three days. This timeline created challenges for customers requiring expedited deliveries. With e-commerce growth and rising consumer expectations for faster shipping, market demand for next-day service has grown substantially.
Implementation Strategy
The companies implemented the service expansion through a phased approach beginning in January 2020. Initial phases established next-day routes between the Mid-Atlantic states and New England, including connections between New Jersey/Pennsylvania and Connecticut/Massachusetts/Rhode Island in 2020, followed by New York to New England routes in August 2021. The final phase, completed January 8, 2024, connected eastern Pennsylvania/Maryland with Connecticut/Rhode Island/Massachusetts.
Service Network and Capabilities
The expanded network now includes next-day service from multiple terminals across Pennsylvania (Harrisburg, Hazleton, Allentown), New Jersey (East Windsor, Cherry Hill), and New York (Albany, Buffalo, Watertown, Utica). Key features include:
- Guaranteed 24-hour delivery windows
- Real-time shipment tracking
- Electronic data interchange (EDI) integration
- Dedicated customer support
Market Response and Future Outlook
Early results have exceeded expectations, with both companies reporting shipment volumes growing significantly beyond projections. As e-commerce continues driving demand for faster deliveries, PITT OHIO plans further network optimizations and potential service area expansions while deepening its collaboration with Ross Express.