Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Transportation & Logistics Partner in New York
Compass Forwarding has been a leader in transportation logistics for over 50 years, built on a foundation of innovation and family ownership. Our third-generation company combines agility with deep industry expertise to deliver tailored solutions for global supply chain challenges. With a focus on sectors like aerospace, healthcare, and government services, we leverage decades of experience to create customized transportation plans that optimize efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Our team of seasoned professionals collaborates closely with clients to transform logistical complexities into strategic advantages. As pioneers in military aircraft transport and top 20 IATA agents, we maintain long-standing relationships with major airlines and ocean freight partners.Our commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through solar-powered operations, paperless systems, and carbon footprint reduction initiatives. Compass Nexus, our proprietary shipping portal, provides real-time visibility and transparency while maintaining exceptional customer service. From Brooklyn beginnings to a 25,000 sq ft JFK facility, we've preserved our founder's creative spirit while embracing technological advancements. Our dedication to personalized service ensures prompt resolution of client needs through dedicated account representatives. By integrating eco-friendly practices with cutting-edge technology, we deliver logistics solutions that benefit both business outcomes and environmental stewardship.
Services
Transportation
Supply Chain Optimization
Customs Compliance
Air Freight
Sea Freight
Cargo Insurance
Temperature-Controlled Transport
Aerospace Logistics
Government Contracts
Sustainable Shipping
Details
- Year established: 1947
Highlights and features
- We offer 75+ years of specialized logistics experience across 8 industries
- Our family-owned structure enables agile decision-making and personalized service
- We maintain top 20 IATA agent status with major airline partnerships
- Our Compass Nexus platform provides real-time shipment visibility and tracking
- We combine solar-powered operations with paperless logistics management systems
Associations and certifications
- IATA
What people say
On-time delivery
Custom solutions
Expert team
Reliable partners
Sustainable practices
Services
Air Freight
Our air freight solutions deliver time-sensitive cargo worldwide through exclusive airline partnerships. Specializing in critical aircraft components and temperature-controlled shipments, we ensure 99.8% on-time delivery for aerospace, healthcare, and government clients. Real-time tracking through Compass Nexus guarantees complete shipment visibility.
Sea Freight
We manage full-container and LCL ocean freight solutions with preferential rates at major ports. Our high-volume contracts enable cost-effective shipping for bulk commodities and project cargo. Customs compliance experts handle documentation for seamless international deliveries across all major trade lanes.
Supply Chain Optimization
Our consultants analyze your complete supply chain to identify efficiency opportunities. Using proprietary analytics, we develop customized transportation strategies that reduce costs by 15-25% while improving delivery reliability through integrated air/sea/land solutions.
Customs Compliance
Our certified specialists navigate complex international trade requirements for seamless cross-border shipments. We handle USPPI/FPPI authorizations, tariff classifications, and documentation to ensure compliance with 100% accuracy across all import/export markets.
Temperature-Controlled Transport
We guarantee product integrity for perishables and pharmaceuticals using certified refrigerated containers. Our monitored transport solutions maintain precise temperature ranges from origin to destination, meeting FDA and IATA standards for food service and health sciences industries.
People
Joe Shelala
Founder
Founder of Compass Forwarding in 1947 after Army Air Corps service. Pioneered civilian aircraft transport and established key airline partnerships that position us as top 20 IATA agents today.
Joseph Shelala II
President
Second-generation leader who expanded operations to JFK International Airport. Maintained family commitment to innovation while developing Compass Nexus digital tracking system and sustainable logistics initiatives.
Questions
What industries does Compass Forwarding specialize in?
We serve eight key sectors: aerospace, defense, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, government services, food service, textiles, and chemicals with specialized logistics solutions.
How does Compass Forwarding ensure shipment security?
We provide cargo insurance options and implement real-time tracking through Compass Nexus, with ISO-certified security protocols for all transportation modes.
Can Compass handle temperature-sensitive shipments?
Yes, our certified cold chain logistics maintain precise temperature control for pharmaceuticals and perishables, meeting FDA and IATA standards.
What sustainability initiatives are in place?
Our JFK facility operates on solar power, we maintain paperless systems, and optimize routes to minimize carbon emissions while maintaining service quality.
How does Compass Forwarding handle customs compliance?
Our certified specialists manage all documentation and regulatory requirements, ensuring 100% compliance with international trade laws for seamless cross-border deliveries.
