Port Lansing

The Capital Region Airport Authority recently expanded services to importers and exporters interested in utilizing the Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) program at the Capital Region International Airport. The official operator for FTZ No. 275, Materials Management Solutions, LLC (MMS), can now provide multiple options for international businesses to access the advantages of the federal FTZ. 

"Having an experienced FTZ operator provides more options and simplifies the process for businesses interested in reducing international logistics expenses," said Robert Selig, executive director of the Capital Region Airport Authority.  "Now businesses can choose to have MMS perform a variety of activities for them here at the Port Lansing Global Logistics Centre."

"MMS is pleased to be selected as the operator for the airport and we are eager to help businesses tap into this valuable program," said Barry Griesinger, president of Materials Management Solutions, LLC.  "We can evaluate each businesses situation and calculate the amount of real dollar savings a company can realize by utilizing FTZ No. 275. There are several other non-monetary benefits and efficiencies that can also be gained through a Foreign Trade Zone," Griesinger said. 

MMS is an experienced Foreign Trade Zone operator and has been providing supply chain management solutions to manufacturers since 1999.  Foreign Trade Zones are designated geographic areas that provide customs privileges to companies that help them compete globally.  Participating companies can avoid duties completely, or reduce duties and other logistics related expenses. 

Port Lansing and FTZ No. 275 are centered at Capital Region International Airport and are authorized by the Foreign Trade Zone Board in Washington, DC and US Customs & Border Protection to serve businesses involved in global commerce throughout an eight county region including Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Jackson, Shiawassee, Livingston, Gratiot and Isabella Counties.

FTZ No. 275 is one of seven in Michigan and one of 253 active FTZ's nationwide. Port Lansing and the FTZ was established by the Capital Region Airport Authority as part of the Authority's overall strategy to increase the region's capacity for global commerce.

"Having a knowledgeable private-sector operator available is a key step in the development of the FTZ program," said Brent Case with the Lansing Chamber of Commerce.  "Businesses are often hesitant to take on the risk of engaging an unknown program.  MMS can quantify potential savings and help reduce the risk by managing FTZ operations.  Once a company increases its level of confidence with FTZ procedures, they can continue to using MMS services or possibly become their own FTZ operator."

Port Lansing and MMS staff will be providing informational seminars regarding the Foreign Trade Zone throughout the region in the next couple of months.  The first seminar is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on March 18th at Daryl's Downtown in Jackson. 

To learn more about the upcoming seminars, the FTZ program, and Port Lansing call 517.886.3716.