TLC is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to serving the interests of the shipping community through education and representation in issues relating to the transportation of goods. Virtually anyone that is directly or indirectly involved in transportation, distribution, logistics, purchasing, shipping, risk management, insurance, cargo inspection and surveying, loss prevention, packaging, customer service, consulting and legal services can benefit from membership. Since its formation in 1974, the Council has published numerous texts and educational materials, and has conducted seminars for thousands of students. The Council, as a representative of the interests of shippers large and small, has been directly involved in the formative processes of legislation and government regulation of the transportation industry. The Council is also a co-sponsor of Transportation Arbitration Board, Inc. (TAB) and the Certified Claims Professional Accreditation Council, Inc. (CCPAC). Each spring and fall, the Council conducts educational seminars on topics such as "Freight Claims in Plain English" and "Contracting for Transportation & Logistics Services". The Council's Annual Conference, "Education for Transportation Professionals" is held in the spring at different cities throughout the nation. These seminars and educational conferences are acclaimed as the best in the industry, as well as offering opportunities for networking with other transportation professionals. All members receive a monthly TransDigest containing a wealth of current, practical information on developments in all modes of transportation - truck, rail, air and ocean. Members have access to the Council's "Q&A" forum via the Internet and a telephone "Hot Line" for answers and advice on their day-to-day questions. Members also receive discounts on books, educational materials, workshops & seminars. New members receive a complimentary copy of Shipping & Receiving in Plain English, A Best Practices Guide!