In the effort to go "green", Hannic has submitted the application to the EPA to become a SmartWay Logistics Partner. While filling out this application it became obvious that it will not be an easy achievement to be recognized and then to maintain the SmartWay Partnership. Since we are a freight forwarder, we rely on the carriers we work with for "green" operations. In short, we can't be "green" unless you are.

But why do we want to do all this extra effort, and why should you? The answer is easy; because in the long run it will be in all of our best interest for a cleaner place to live. However, there are also benefits in the short run:

--Reduced fuel costs

--Reduced maintenance costs

--Improved business-to-business opportunities (many shippers prefer SmartWay Transport carriers and some will ONLY work with approved carriers)

There are some upfront costs involved with becoming SmartWay Certified, whether you purchase a new certified tractor/trailer or you upgrade your existing equipment. To help with these costs SmartWay offers financing tools to help even the smallest carriers become a SmartWay Transport Partner (and many companies experience a full return on investment within just 1-3 years).

Please see the SmartWay website (www.epa.gov/smartway/) for more information and details on how to apply.