TCB Group opens new office in Indianapolis to service the North American market

In order to meet the needs of an expanding client portfolio and to offer a shipping service to businesses operating in the materials processing sector, we are proud to announce the addition of TCB (US) Inc. to our global shipping network.

 

TCB (US) Inc. is a warehouse and office facility strategically located in Indianapolis with close distribution links to key business areas in the US and quick access to both Chicago inland port and the Eastern seaboard ports.

“Our work within the materials processing sector has grown at a significant pace over the last 18 months,” said Darren green TCB Group MD.

“Demand from our existing clients and market trends have suggested that we consider expanding our operation into North America. This is something that we have been thinking about for some time and feel that the timing is right.”

With the addition of TCB (US), TCB Group is now able to provide new inventory management services specifically designed for European and Asian companies exporting to the US.

“Exporting to the US can be challenging and I believe that we have designed a solution that removes certain obstacles and levels the playing field with US manufacturers – an ideal solution for those UK and Irish companies seeking to do business with the North American market,” added Darren.

“Our remote inventory management services are designed to put our clients products where they need to be, maximise their supply chain flexibility and ensure their clients receive deliveries quickly and efficiently. Additionally the new service enables UK and Irish exporters to retain ownership of their goods while they are warehoused in free circulation with TCB (US).”

Indianapolis: America’s Crossroads for Logistics

Indianapolis has earned its reputation as one of North America’s premier logistics hubs. Located within a day’s drive of over half the US population, the city sits at the intersection of major interstate highways I-65, I-69, I-70, and I-74. This strategic positioning provides unparalleled access to both coastal ports and inland markets.

For UK and Irish businesses entering the North American market, Indianapolis offers several advantages:

  • Central timezone facilitating communication with both coasts
  • Lower operational costs compared to coastal cities
  • Excellent rail connections to Chicago, Detroit, and Eastern seaboard
  • Growing international airport with cargo capabilities
  • Access to the massive Midwest manufacturing and agricultural sectors

Understanding US Market Entry Challenges

Entering the US market presents unique challenges for European businesses, particularly in the current global trade environment:

Tariff Complexities The evolving landscape of international trade agreements and tariff structures requires careful navigation. Product classification, country of origin documentation, and staying current with changing regulations all demand expertise.

Regulatory Compliance Beyond customs, businesses must navigate federal and state-level regulations, product standards, and certification requirements that vary significantly from European norms.

Distance and Time Zones Managing inventory and customer relationships across the Atlantic requires strategic planning and local presence to maintain service levels expected by US customers.

Competition with Domestic Suppliers US customers often prefer domestic suppliers for faster delivery and simplified transactions. A US-based inventory solution helps level this playing field.

Remote Inventory Management: Bridging the Atlantic

Remote inventory management transforms how European companies serve the US market. Rather than shipping individual orders across the Atlantic, businesses can:

  • Maintain stock in the US whilst retaining ownership
  • Respond to customer orders with domestic delivery speeds
  • Reduce international shipping costs per unit
  • Minimise customs processing delays
  • Provide US customers with familiar, domestic transactions

This model particularly benefits companies in the materials processing sector, where equipment downtime costs can be substantial and rapid parts delivery is essential.

The Materials Processing Sector Opportunity

The US materials processing industry—encompassing mining, quarrying, recycling, and construction—represents a significant opportunity for European manufacturers. American operations increasingly seek innovative equipment and technologies developed in Europe, but have traditionally been deterred by:

  • Long lead times for spare parts
  • High shipping costs for individual orders
  • Complexity of international purchasing
  • Concerns about after-sales support

By maintaining inventory in Indianapolis, European materials processing equipment manufacturers can address these concerns directly, competing effectively with domestic suppliers.

Customs and Trade Considerations

The landscape of US-international trade continues to evolve, with various factors affecting import strategies:

Documentation Requirements

  • Commercial invoices and packing lists
  • Certificates of origin for duty preference programmes
  • FDA, EPA, or other agency requirements depending on products
  • State-specific requirements for certain goods

Duty Mitigation Strategies

  • Foreign Trade Zone considerations
  • Duty drawback programmes
  • Section 301 tariff exemption processes where applicable
  • USMCA benefits for qualifying goods

Inventory Positioning Benefits

  • Avoiding future tariff uncertainties by importing in advance
  • Taking advantage of favourable exchange rates
  • Bulk shipping economies versus individual order costs

Supporting Transatlantic Trade Growth

Our Indianapolis facility supports various business models:

Consignment Stock Programmes Maintaining inventory for key customers without requiring their capital investment

Hub and Spoke Distribution Using Indianapolis as a central point for nationwide distribution

Just-in-Time Supply Rapid response to customer requirements from US-based stock

E-commerce Fulfilment Direct-to-consumer shipping for European brands entering the US market

Sustainable Transatlantic Logistics

Consolidating shipments to Indianapolis rather than sending individual orders offers environmental benefits:

  • Reduced carbon emissions per unit through bulk shipping
  • Fewer international air freight shipments
  • Optimised domestic distribution routes
  • Potential for rail transport from ports to Indianapolis

Complete US Market Entry Solutions

TCB Group’s Indianapolis operations, combined with our European facilities, provide comprehensive support for transatlantic trade.

International Shipping Services
Connect your European operations to the North American market through our integrated network. From consolidated ocean freight to express air services, we manage the complete transatlantic supply chain, ensuring your products reach Indianapolis efficiently for onward distribution.

Warehousing & Distribution
Our warehousing services extend across four strategic locations—Belfast, Liverpool, Singapore, and Indianapolis. This global footprint enables seamless inventory management, whether you’re shipping from Europe to the US or managing complex international supply chains.

Freight Consolidation
Maximise efficiency when shipping to the US market. Our consolidation services combine multiple European suppliers’ goods into cost-effective shipments to Indianapolis, reducing per-unit shipping costs and simplifying customs processing.

Freight Forwarding Services
Our freight forwarding expertise ensures smooth transatlantic logistics. From collection at your European facilities to delivery across North America, we manage documentation, customs clearance, and distribution, making international trade straightforward.

Freight Consultancy
Navigating US market entry requires expertise. Our consultancy team helps European businesses understand US import regulations, optimise supply chain strategies, and develop cost-effective approaches to serving American customers.

Dangerous Goods Management
Many materials processing sector products involve hazardous materials. Our certified dangerous goods team ensures full compliance with both international shipping regulations and US Department of Transportation requirements.

Ready to Expand into North America?

With facilities in Indianapolis and extensive experience supporting European businesses in the US market, TCB Group provides the infrastructure and expertise you need for successful transatlantic trade.

TCB Group now operate through 4 strategic locations globally – Belfast, Liverpool, Singapore and Indianapolis. For more information on how we can add value to your business contact us here.