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Top Shelf Logistics: Specializing in Spirits Transportation with Rich Baduini

Top Shelf Logistics, founded in 2007, is a third-party logistics provider (3PL) specializing in the spirits industry. We offer transportation solutions for distilleries, spirits producers, distributors, and their vendors across 48 states and Canada. Our expertise spans truckload, intermodal, and LTL modes, and we handle everything from finished case goods to empty barrels and alcohol in barrels or totes.

How many employees does your company have? How many and what type of assets? 

We have a team of eight employees, and all of our freight is brokered. While we don’t own any assets, we proudly partner with CRST and other long-standing, reliable carriers to meet our clients’ needs. 

  

What is one tip you would share with a new agent to help them get up and running? 

Building strong relationships and your personal brand is key. Focus on what you’re good at and enjoy doing, and work within your industry verticals. Networking is essential, and don’t hesitate to meet customers in person. 

  “Building strong relationships and your personal brand is key.”

What’s one area you need help with to drive growth for your business? 

We’re looking for more asset truck backhauls originating in Kentucky and Indiana. 

 

What makes your business special? What’s an interesting fact about your business most people don’t know? 

Before launching Top Shelf Logistics, Rich worked as an agent at Pacer. When running his own agency, Sazerac was his first client. The alcohol industry, known for its strict regulations, is evolving with trends like direct-to-consumer shipments and third-party producers. Staying ahead of these changes is crucial in our business.
  

Why did you choose to partner with CRST? 

Relationships and reputation brought me to CRST. I had previously worked with a great CRST salesperson and heard Mr. Smith speak at an ATA conference. CRST’s financial strength, infrastructure and professional team have been key reasons we continue working with them. Their strong support perfectly complements our entrepreneurial approach, helping us deliver value to our clients. 

“Their strong support perfectly complements our entrepreneurial approach, helping us deliver value to our clients.”

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