In this edition of Apollo in the Spotlight, we feature Jared Weiss of Target Shipping Inc., headquartered in New Jersey, USA. With deep family roots in logistics and a hands-on leadership style, Jared has helped guide the company through an ever-changing global landscape. He shares his journey from the docks to the boardroom, offering insights on execution, sustainability, and the power of trusted networks.
How did you get started in the logistics industry, and what has your journey been like up to this point?
I grew up around logistics, it’s in my DNA. My father started Target Shipping in 1981, and some of my earliest memories are of watching cargo being loaded onto vessels at the ports and sitting in on client visits long before I knew what a bill of lading was — let alone what it represented in the global economy.
In 2012, I made a significant career change, leaving finance to join the family business. It was a complete 180 degree turn, but I embraced the challenge and learned the industry from the ground up — because I had to. It was the only way.
At the time, the industry was going through one of its many transformations, but I was lucky enough to learn from some of the old-school veterans who were generous with their time and experience. It was an on-the-job education you can’t find in any classroom.
The journey from then to now has been demanding and rewarding in equal measure. Like most things worth doing, it’s challenged me to grow not just as a professional, but as a leader, partner, and problem-solver.
What do you see as the biggest challenge in logistics today, and how do you think the industry is handling it?
The biggest challenge today is navigating uncertainty, ranging from geopolitical instability, shifting regulations, or fractured supply chain visibility. We’re all operating in an environment where things can change overnight, and the margin for error is razor thin.
The industry is adapting through technology, better data integration, and stronger collaboration, but the real key is execution. It’s one thing to identify risk, it’s another to build systems and relationships that can withstand it.
Sustainability is a hot topic in logistics. How is your organization approaching eco-friendly practices?
We’re approaching sustainability from both a practical and long-term standpoint. That means maximizing container efficiency, minimizing empty repositioning, and working closely with partners who share our environmental goals. Internally, we’ve made the shift to digital processes, reducing paper and manual errors.
How do you view the USA market for 2025?
The U.S. market remains strong but cautious. Infrastructure investment, nearshoring, and e-commerce growth will keep demand steady. That said, cost pressures are real, and shippers are becoming more strategic about who they work with.
Could you describe a difficult moment in your career that shaped the way you work today?
Early on, I quoted a large piece of business and spent a lot of time working through multiple scenarios with the shipper to help them meet their objectives. We had a detailed conversation over the phone, and based on that, I believed we had aligned on a clear direction.
Unfortunately, it turned out we weren’t as aligned as I thought and the assumptions that followed created confusion and strain on the relationship. It was a tough learning moment.
Since then, I’ve made it a rule to always memorialize conversations, especially when they involve anything critical to the movement of freight. I follow up in writing, clarify key decisions, and never leave room for interpretation when expectations are being set. That experience taught me the value of clear, proactive communication. Not just for protecting the business, but for preserving trust with clients and partners.
What’s one thing you enjoy most about being a member of this community?
The network of professionals who are always willing to share insight, collaborate, or step up when help is needed. It’s a rare and valuable thing to be part of a group where trust and integrity are the foundation.
How has the network helped you overcome specific challenges in your industry or field?
On several occasions, members have helped us resolve time-sensitive shipments where a local presence or in-country knowledge made the difference. Having access to a reliable network across key markets is invaluable.
How do you like to spend your free time?
With two little ones at home, most of my free time is spent with my kids. It’s the best and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Outside of that, I enjoy traveling, football (aka soccer), golf, tennis and watching YouTube videos on making live edge wood dining tables.
If you had to describe your logistics journey using a movie title, what would it be?
“The Constant Gardener.” It may not be a logistics movie, but the title fits. Logistics is about showing up every day, solving what’s in front of you, nurturing relationships, and staying steady — even when everything else is in flux.
Thank you, Jared, for sharing your story, insights, and experiences with us!