Modular Spotlight on MODBLT: Modular Construction Logistics and Technology Experts

Modular Construction Logistics and Technology Experts MODBLT Are Paving the Way for the Wide-Scale Adoption of Modular Construction. 

Offsite construction might still be in its infancy, but champions of the construction method are going to help take modular buildings into the mainstream. Take, for instance, MODBLT, which provides modular construction logistics and technology expertise to developers, general contractors, and modular manufacturers. 

“There’s a real learning curve and learning process when it comes to modular construction,” co-founder and Chief Construction Officer Scott Urban tells us. “We help those who want to be part of this movement with everything from the delineation of scope and construction and manufacturing to the design of the project and the site build portion to the manufacturer.”

What is modular construction logistics? 

Modular construction logistics is the term we use to describe the careful planning and execution of transporting mods, pods, and/or panels from the manufacturers to the build site. Moving these heavy, over-dimensional units to their final destination — be it a tight, urban area or remote location — requires detailed project management, excellent communication, and thoughtful decision-making. 

Focusing solely on modular construction, MODBLT fills the void in their client’s experience, helping with anything and everything from design to factory selection and management or site construction setting. 

“We basically work with two types of developers: developers who are just entering the market and don’t know much but know it’s the future, and those who have tried it but failed,” Urban explains. “They’ll tell us they tried this or that, had overages on cost because of scope, and they really just need some expert insight and help.”

Bringing on the Stream Logistics team

While MODBLT has coordinated transportation and logistics for their clients’ modular construction projects before, they don’t offer these services themselves. Not only was it important for them to have a partner that they could trust, but to work with a team that is like theirs, filling a void and adding value. That’s where Stream Logistics fits in. 

Working first on a small test project, Urban explained that he was not only immediately impressed with Stream’s knowledge and expertise in modular construction logistics, but the technology used by the company. 

“Stream goes above and beyond what you’d expect with communication, especially in terms of what other providers are doing, which is typically more archaic,” Urban explains. “With Stream, you get real-time tracking from when your carrier is first leaving to when your carrier is offloaded and heading back. And that’s good for me because sometimes when you’re talking to brokers, they aren’t always sure where anything is at a given time. You really have to depend on your industry partners to commit and actually execute their commitments. So, besides the flawless delivery, that level of communication stood out to me.” 

Upwards, together

What also brings our two companies together is the fact that both Stream and MODBLT see the modular construction industry as something that will only work if we’re all willing to help one another succeed. 

“I feel like Stream and MODBLT both saw that void in our little niche in the industry. And, we’ve found ways to stand out from our competitors by bringing more value to our clients and the project at hand,” Urban explains. “And we’re progressing, you know, going upwards together.”

And for a company that thrives at handling different pieces of the modular construction puzzle, Urban tells us working with Stream does give him peace of mind. “During these chaotic times when you’re getting trailers to the factory, getting the site prepped, safety meetings, setting up the crane, to know even one part of that equation is autonomous just makes my job so much easier.”

Keeping up with MODBLT

As for what’s next, Urban tells Stream that 2023 is going to be a very big year. “We’ve done a lot over the last year on the front end of developing and progressing these projects. In 2023 we’re going to have about five or six projects that go into construction, and we’re really excited.”

The company has also expanded its offerings with MODSET, a B-1 Licensed general contracting and modular setting division that allows them to offer a turnkey solution in conjunction with MODBLT’s consulting and pre-construction efforts. 

“Because of the projects that we’re involved in, we’ve started our own set crew to help alleviate the bottleneck,” Urban explains. “Industry leaders like ProSet and ASEC can be booked out six to twelve months. But in development, there are also all these snags like a code change and you have to redesign or a funding issue. And, then maybe there’s a heavy rain period, and you can’t start construction. If it’s pushed back a couple of months, you miss your window. So with MODSET, we’re trying to alleviate some of that in California.”

We’re continually impressed with the work that MODBLT is doing to add value to their client’s projects through modular construction logistics. And, we love partnering with them to ensure the smooth project management of the transportation piece of the puzzle. Together, we hope to show the industry the benefits of modular construction — and how expert logistics are the key to a successful project!

Stream Modular is a transportation logistics company specializing exclusively in modular construction. We help modular manufacturers and builders transport mods, pods and panels so they arrive on time and safely to the build site.

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