Chicago-based EA Logistics Helps Keep the Globes Cool.

BENSENVILLE, Ill. -- EA Logistics has been selected as Official Carrier for Chicago's newest public art installation. The Chicago-based freight forwarder provides global transportation services and supply-chain solutions throughout the USA and worldwide.

The "Cool Globes - Hot Ideas for a Cooler Planet" installation consists of 120 five-foot diameter, 250 lb. fiberglass globes which have been decorated by artists from as far away as Barcelona, Spain. The message of the exhibit is focused on practical ways individuals and companies can help stop Global Warming.

Over 100 of the globes are being sculpted and painted in the Chicago metro area and are transported without protective crates. Because of the high center of gravity coupled with natural sway in a moving truck, moving the globes from location to location is an unusually difficult. Due to the sensitivity of the artwork, straps and load bars are not able to be used to secure the cargo in the trucks. EA Logistics has had to create a customized set of solutions to achieve stability in the trucks to prevent damage to the works of art.

"Some of them can get very top-heavy and become extremely tip-prone," says Jeff Kozlowski, Director of Domestic Operations. "It's a lot of extra effort to ensure safe transport." EA drivers have had to be specially trained on how to move them safely and without damage.

Another challenge was orchestrating deliveries and pickups around artists' schedules and difficult loading environments - some have no loading docks, others have stairs or other impediments to safe handling. EA Logistics procured a specially-equipped truck to accommodate alley and garage pickups in addition to utilizing it's fleet of traditional semi-trailers and straight trucks.

For overseas and nationwide transport, EA Logistics provided crating services and transported globes via airfreight, ocean freight and nationwide trucking. Globes are being shipped to and from New York, Florida, California and even Barcelona, Spain. The project has utilized all three of EA's divisions - Domestic, International and Event & Expo Services.

EA's involvement in he project has spurred the company to examine its own environmental impact. "We are committed to the cause of reducing our own carbon footprint," reports Mike Ellis, President. "This project has really been a call to action. We've started a number of programs like recycling and energy conservation. It's amazing how a few simple, low-cost things can make a difference. If we in the business community could commit to do our part, the collective impact is very powerful."

Installation is in progress. They will be on display at Chicago's museum campus in front of the Field Museum, at Navy Pier and along the lakefront east of Grant Park in June and continue through September. EA Logistics has donated transportation services to the exhibit.

For further information contact Mike Ellis, President at 847-404-4899 or [e-mail]. Video opportunities of globes being moved and trucks in action are available until late May.