History

Since 1929, Evans Distribution Systems has operated as a leading third-party logistics provider in Southeast Michigan. Our customers and services have evolved but our dedication to developing innovative supply chain management solutions remains the same.

More Than 90 Years of
3PL Excellence

Since 1929, Evans Distribution Systems has operated as a leading third-party logistics provider in Southeast Michigan. The Central Detroit Warehouse opened on Fort Street in Detroit, Michigan during the height of the Great Depression. In the earliest years, all labor was manual—workers used push carts and dollies to move goods around. By 1930, Evans expanded its service offerings by opening a trucking company known as Merchants Forwarding Terminal Co., which still operates today. In 1932, Evans was recognized by local papers for our innovation in simplifying the distribution process. Our customers and services have evolved but our dedication to developing innovative supply chain management solutions remains the same.

Today, Evans Distribution Systems operates 3.5 million square feet of warehousing space in eight facilities under fourth-generation leadership. The warehousing division has diversified dramatically to provide fulfillment and order processing, value-added services, foreign trade zone storage, bonded storage, and quality control and testing services.

Our asset-based trucking division known as Alden Logistics Inc., has 125 owner-operator drivers and 400 trailers covering greater Detroit and Midwest area. Our international freight brokerage known as Evans Logistics Inc., provides flexible transportation management for businesses of any size or vertical. Finally, Evans Resource Solutions provides temporary staffing solutions specializing in warehouse labor, forklift driving, truck driving and light assembly.

In 2003, Evans commissioned a customer audit via in-depth interviews to gain deeper insights and perspectives on our customer service. The conversations revealed a theme of how we simplify the supply chain and make the process easy for customers. Ever since we received this feedback, we have embodied this philosophy and it transformed into our tagline: It’s easier with Evans.

The Early Years at Evans

What Our Customers SaY

"The Evans team has been on top of everything we have sent even with last minute changes. The communication and service are unrivaled and very much appreciated."

"We’re very happy with Evans – it’s simple, clear, easy to do business with. Docs are clear and timely, communication is perfect, inventory is meticulous. Service is flexible, consistent and always cheerful. Everything we could possibly want in a partner."

"It's Easier with Evans" -- So True!!! Time and time again over the years, our customers have thrown very difficult-seemingly impossible requests at us. The Evans team listens to the challenge and creates solutions for us that work.