Dustin Nelson

Experienced Logistics Professional | Expert in Optimizing End-to-End Operations, Transportation, and Inventory Control | Skilled Leader Driving Efficiency, Compliance, and Cost-Effective Solutions

Des Moines Metropolitan Area

About

I am a Logistics Manager with extensive experience in end-to-end transportation, warehouse coordination, and supply chain optimization across fast-paced distribution environments. In my current role with Excell Marketing and Bulls I Toy, I manage all inbound and outbound logistics operations, including LTL, FTL, ocean container, and small parcel shipments. My focus is on building efficient, cost-effective freight networks while ensuring high service levels and on-time delivery performance across both domestic and international channels. I work closely with carriers, freight brokers, vendors, and internal teams to negotiate competitive rates, maintain strong partnerships, and ensure alignment with customer routing requirements. I also coordinate closely with warehouse and distribution teams to align labor planning, inventory flow, and shipping priorities with business demand and product launch timelines. A key part of my role is problem-solving in real time—resolving shipment disruptions, improving documentation accuracy, and ensuring compliance with transportation regulations and customer-specific requirements. I also partner with stakeholders across merchandising, distribution, and operations to ensure visibility, accountability, and smooth product flow from origin to final destination. Across my career, I’ve consistently focused on driving efficiency, reducing transportation costs, improving process discipline, and building strong, reliable logistics networks that support business growth. I’m passionate about continuous improvement in supply chain operations and always looking for better, smarter ways to move freight, serve customers, and strengthen operational execution.

Experience

  • Logistics Manager at Excell Brands
    May 2026 - Present · 2 mos

    Responsible for managing end-to-end transportation operations across LTL, FTL, ocean container, and small-parcel shipments for both inbound and outbound freight. Coordinate daily logistics activities between carriers, freight brokers, vendors, and internal warehouse and distribution teams to ensure timely, cost-effective, and accurate product movement. Negotiate freight rates and service terms, maintain strong carrier relationships, and ensure compliance with customer routing guides to minimize chargebacks and improve service performance. Oversee shipping documentation accuracy, shipment tracking, and resolution of transportation issues including delays, discrepancies, and service failures. Partner closely with merchandising, warehouse operations, and distribution teams to align shipment timing with inventory availability, labor planning, and product launch schedules. Also support international imports and ocean freight coordination to ensure smooth global supply chain flow. Focus on continuous improvement, cost optimization, and strengthening transportation networks to support overall business efficiency and customer satisfaction.

  • Operations Manager at S.J. Louis Logistics
    Jun 2024 - May 2026 · 2 yrs

  • Logistics Manager at S.J. Louis Construction, Inc.
    Aug 2022 - Jun 2024 · 1 yr 11 mos

    As Logistics Manager at SJ Louis Construction, I serve as the driving force behind end-to-end logistics and transportation operations, ensuring seamless coordination and optimal efficiency. My responsibilities include direct supervision of load planning for internal drivers, optimizing routes, resource allocation, and coordinating the daily dispatch of freight, equipment, and materials to multiple job locations across the lower 48 states. This meticulous approach guarantees on-time delivery and aligns with my commitment to operational excellence. In addition to overseeing all logistics aspects, I am dedicated to ensuring compliance with DOT regulations. This involves meticulous supervision of driver logs, inspections, and IFTA reporting to uphold safety and regulatory standards. My collaborative nature ensures I work cross-functionally to implement innovative process enhancements, streamlining logistics operations across four divisions. I take pride in successfully managing and, implementing cost-effective strategies that resulted in a significant reduction in transportation expenses. Building and sustaining strong relationships is a cornerstone to maintain robust partnerships with external carriers, negotiating favorable terms to control costs without compromising on-time delivery.

  • Parts Manager at GATR Truck Center
    Oct 2019 - Apr 2022 · 2 yrs 7 mos

    As the Parts Manager at GATR Truck Center, I held a pivotal role overseeing the day-to-day operations of the parts department. Managing a team of 10 in-store members and 2 outside sales reps, I successfully navigated the dynamic landscape of a bustling parts inventory exceeding $1 million. My leadership extended beyond mere supervision; I orchestrated inter-departmental efforts to exceed customer expectations, resulting in notable improvements in the department's P&L. Through strategic operational processes, I achieved consistent month-to-month revenue growth, peaking at an impressive 12% increase, accompanied by a 2% rise in gross profit. Recognizing the importance of team morale, I initiated and executed morale-boosting initiatives that fostered enhanced communication and increased team involvement. In this role, I not only managed the intricacies of parts inventory and departmental operations but also contributed significantly to the overall growth and cohesion of the business.

  • Regional Manager at Long Haul Trucking
    Jul 2016 - Oct 2019 · 3 yrs 4 mos

    During my tenure at Long Haul Trucking , serving as Regional Manager, I assumed a pivotal role in directing the operations of a multi-state region. My responsibilities encompassed overseeing account activities and managing inbound drivers to consistently meet revenue and utilization targets. I led impactful initiatives that resulted in continuous revenue growth and successfully maintained or increased monthly load counts. My strategic approach involved minimizing deadheads and optimizing resource allocation and fleet efficiency to enhance overall performance. Recognizing the importance of compliance and safety, I conducted comprehensive hours-of-service training sessions. This not only ensured enhanced trip planning but also guaranteed strict adherence to DOT compliance standards across the entire region. Acting as a mentor for new hires, I provided guidance and support to facilitate seamless onboarding. This effort aimed to foster a culture of continuous learning and development within the team, contributing to a dynamic and well-equipped workforce. My role as Regional Manager at Long Haul Trucking highlighted my dedication to operational excellence, strategic leadership, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the transportation and logistics industry.