FreightCasts

The European Union is expected to revoke duty-free status for parcel imports through the elimination of the de minimis rule for small parcel imports, which is expected to be fully implemented by 2028. This significant policy change aims to level the playing field for European businesses and limit the influx of low-cost goods, especially considering that 91% of low-value shipments last year originated from China. We also track how global trade volatility and depressed freight rates have severely impacted ocean carriers, leading to Hapag-Lloyd's nine-month profits dropping nearly 50% from $1.83 billion down to $946 million. This decline occurred despite a 9% rise in transport volumes, demonstrating how upward cost pressures and start-up expenses related to the new Gemini Alliance are squeezing carrier margins. Finally, we analyze a proposed strategic pivot for UPS to stay competitive in the high-volume e-commerce space, focusing on a retooling of last-mile delivery. This unified strategy suggests using higher-cost Teamster drivers for the middle mile delivery to UPS Stores, allowing lower-cost independent gig workers to handle the final local delivery, which could drastically lower B2C costs and end the company's reliance on the U.S. Postal Service. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JP Hampstead gives a presentation to shippers about what macroeconomic data tells us about production, employment, productivity, and the prospects for reindustrialization at FreightWaves' Future of Freight Festival in Chattanooga, TN. In this episode JP covers: - Why U.S. manufacturing output hasn't recovered since the Great Recession - The surprising role of energy production in “industrial growth” - How offshoring reshaped America's productivity curve - Why AI is now the largest driver of U.S. energy demand - Whether the big White House manufacturing announcements are real - Why nuclear power is surging back - How productivity gains reshape the workforce (100 years of data) - What the U.S. must fix to get industrial production unstuck Subscribe to the Newsletter Subscribe to the Bring It Home YouTube Channel #BringItHome #FreightWaves #Manufacturing #Reindustrialization #SupplyChain #F3 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this uncaged episode of The Long Haul, Adam sits down with Sage — CDL driver, O/O, Landstar agent, broker, and commercial auto insurance pro — to tackle the freight industry's most controversial topics. This one's not safe for the faint of heart. We dig into broker dishonesty, insurance scams, the broker-agent world, O/O pain points, and what never gets talked about in polite circles. No fluff. Real talk. If you're in the business and tired of half-truths, this is your episode. Follow The Long Haul Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We analyze why Ocean rates tested by capacity conundrum despite carriers attempting General Rate Increases and blanked sailings, indicating continued overcapacity and weak demand on the trans-Pacific trade lane. Simultaneously, we explore the quick response from air cargo providers, detailing how FedEx plugs transport hole caused by MD-11 groundings by activating spare aircraft and diverting packages to its domestic ground network. We examine the state of port traffic, noting that Container imports off 17.6% at leading US port in October 2025, although the Port of Long Beach remains on pace to surpass its all-time annual cargo record from 2024. Turning to rail, we discuss Union Pacific's strategic moves as Union Pacific guarantees more post-merger union jobs, successfully securing the support of the National Conference of Firemen and Oilers (NCFO) and SMART-TD by committing to career-long employment for hundreds of members. In the trucking sector, we analyze carrier strategy as Werner says ‘no retreat' possible in dedicated fleet size, citing base capacity needs despite the ongoing severe downturn in the industry. Finally, we delve into the dramatic collapse of a highly anticipated venture, learning the story behind why “America's Biggest Truck Stop” Falls Silent — Inside the Eviction of Trucker's Paradise in Texas after months of financial disputes, investor issues, and allegations of unpaid wages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's hump day on WHAT THE TRUCK?!? and host Malcolm Harris is bringing the heat with a jam-packed lineup covering innovation, strategy, and the latest headlines shaking up logistics. In this episode: Arthur Axelrad, CEO & Co-Founder of Dispatch Science, breaks down the launch of DataSync — the newest part of their DSX ecosystem giving carriers real-time control and visibility over operations. Discover how data is reshaping last-mile logistics and why modern architecture and APIs are key to the future. Sarah Olmstead (President, Rebel Logistics Service) and Mike Holland (Senior Director of Domestic Logistics, Five Below) join forces to dive into the ECA Marketplace — the unique “speed dating for logistics” event where shippers and carriers forge real partnerships and optimize freight strategy for 2026. Freight headlines on CDL rule reversals, Zoom Freight's bankruptcy, and U.S. port fee suspensions on Chinese vessels. Plus, Malcolm previews: ProShip's 2025 End-of-Year Parcel Roast — where shipping strategies get roasted live The Great Freight Debate featuring Craig Fuller, Ken Adamo, and Matthew “The Armchair Attorney” Leffler, live from the Traffic Club of Chicago ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While the Port of Long Beach saw container volumes drop significantly—imports declined 17.6% and total TEUs fell 14.9% in October 2025 compared to the previous year's record-setting month—the hub remains ahead of its 2024 all-time annual cargo record pace through the first 10 months of 2025. Port officials are anticipating that American consumers will likely see ⁠price escalation⁠ on goods in the coming months as shippers are expected to pass along the costs of ongoing tariffs and trade policies. In trucking, a major regulatory shift has been halted as the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ⁠temporarily stayed the FMCSA's interim final rule⁠ heavily restricting non-domiciled commercial driver's licenses. This administrative stay, ordered pending a review of a lawsuit filed by an affected driver, means state agencies can presumably resume issuing and renewing these non-domiciled CDLs. Truckload carrier Werner Enterprises stated at an investor conference that it has hit a baseline capacity and sees "no retreat" from its current dedicated fleet size, despite calling the current downcycle the worst he has seen in 35 years in the industry. Werner's CEO asserted that the duration of the downturn and rising trucking accident rates across the industry may be linked to ⁠lower standards on CDL issuance and driver schools⁠, which have contributed to excess capacity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, Michael Caney, Chief Commercial Officer at Highway joins us to talk about their recent funding, how they're fighting fraud and the new release of their Trusted Freight Exchange. ⁠Follow the Loaded and Rolling Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carrier sentiment is suppressed by a weak rate environment as the market waits for necessary fleet rationalization, highlighted by historic levels of Class 8 oversupply exceeding 90,000 units. The physical evidence of financial distress is staggering, demonstrated by the collapse in trailer prices—with 3-year-old 53-foot dry vans now trading for under $20,000—and the high volume of repossessions dominating used equipment sales, where 158 out of 162 units sold by Ritchie Bros. in Q3 2025 were repossessions. This contraction is bleeding into the tech sector, as evidenced by the Chapter 11 filing of VC-backed freight tech startup Zuum, which listed assets and liabilities between $10 million and $50 million. Importantly, 19 of Zuum's top 20 unsecured creditors are freight brokers, revealing how interconnected the ecosystem is and exposing brokers to significant financial risk from failed tech platforms. Amidst the contraction, the future driver talent pipeline is seeing massive investment, including a 4.9 million earmark secured by Senator Thom Tillis for Southeastern Community College in North Carolina to aggressively expand its truck driver training program. Furthermore, a significant bureaucratic roadblock was temporarily removed when the DC Court of Appeals issued a temporary stay on the FMCSA's non-domiciled CDL rule, halting restrictions while the court reviews a lawsuit against the regulation. We also cover major international policy shifts, including the U.S. Trade Representative suspending Section 301 port fees on China-built cargo ships for one year, a reciprocal move that temporarily eases global trade tensions. Finally, we discuss the sobering update in air cargo capacity, where the FAA temporarily grounded all MD-11 freighters for inspection following a tragic UPS crash in Louisville, impacting major carriers like UPS and FedEx globally. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The growing list of bankruptcies in trucking has caught up a significant new participant from the freight tech part of the business, as ⁠VC-backed Zuum files for chapter 11 protection⁠ with assets and liabilities listed in the range of $10 million to $50 million. The US Trade Representative officially announced the one-year suspension of ⁠port fees on Chinese ships⁠ docking at American ports. This suspension, effective until November 10, 2025, is part of a wide-ranging trade agreement where China simultaneously dropped retaliatory fees on U.S.-flagged vessels. A legislative package designed to end the 40-day government shutdown includes a major earmark: ⁠$4.9 million for trucker training in North Carolina⁠. Secured by Senator Thom Tillis, this appropriation for Southeastern Community College is seen as unusual because it is the ninth highest earmark among 360 others and dwarfs typical federal grants for truck driver training programs. Plus, check out the FreightWaves TV lineup, including ⁠Loaded and Rolling⁠ with Thomas Wasson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? features two in-depth conversations focused on how technology is reshaping trucking safety, operations, and cargo security. Host Malcolm Harris first speaks with Kiren Sakhar, Chief Product Officer at Samsara, about how AI-powered dashcams, sensors, and real-time coaching are helping fleets shift from reactive safety practices to predictive, preventative ones. They discuss improvements in driver experience, reduced accidents, and how balanced coaching and recognition can strengthen retention and culture. In the second segment, Danny Ramon, Director of Intelligence and Response at Overhaul, breaks down the rapid rise in cargo theft, especially sophisticated fraud-based schemes and strategic theft methods. He explains how criminals are using identity spoofing, double/triple brokering, and cyber tactics to target freight—and how better training, authentication, and proactive security can reduce risk during high-volume seasons. Overall, the episode highlights the increasing importance of AI, real-time data, and informed security practices across fleet operations—from protecting drivers to preventing multimillion-dollar supply chain losses. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aifleet is cutting its fleet size from approximately 180 trucks down to about half and letting go of nearly 100 personnel, triggered by the abrupt termination of a contract with a key supplier. The air cargo market is facing its own shock following a tragic crash, resulting in the temporary grounding of MD-11 freighters by both UPS (27 planes) and FedEx (28 planes) as a precautionary measure, following Boeing's recommendation. Since the MD-11 makes up about 9% of both companies' main fleets, this temporary loss of lift creates significant capacity tightness systemwide heading into peak season. Simultaneously, U.S. tariff policies are forcing real, fundamental supply chain changes, with IKEA, for example, estimating over $400 million in additional tariff-related costs this year alone. This pressure is accelerating nearshoring efforts, with Mexico emerging as the strongest beneficiary, evidenced by investments like Motherson putting $50 million into a new auto parts plant and Kuehne+Nagel expanding its cross-border infrastructure in El Paso. Looking overseas, the shift in sourcing is accelerating the decline in container import volumes, which are now projected to keep falling into early 2026, with December expected to be down almost 18% year-over-year. Meanwhile, the Suez Canal Authority, whose revenue plummeted 60% this year, is offering a 15% discount on tolls, hoping that stability returns and ships start coming back through the Red Sea in the new year. Finally, carriers must be cautious about immediate operational risks, as early blizzard conditions are severely hitting Chicago and the Midwest, causing major delays and poor visibility, especially around I-57. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aifleet is undergoing drastic cutbacks, ⁠reducing its fleet from about 180 trucks to a much smaller, undisclosed number⁠, following the abrupt termination of a contract with a key supplier. CEO Marc El Khoury described these fleet reductions as "drastic," but necessary to allow the company a chance to survive in the freight recession, enabling them to pivot almost entirely away from the spot market and focus on a contracted freight model. In air cargo news, ⁠UPS and FedEx halt MD-11 flying to conduct safety review⁠ after a fatal crash in Louisville last week, following a recommendation from manufacturer Boeing to conduct a safety review and engineering analysis. This grounding affects approximately 9% of their mainline fleets, with UPS operating 27 and FedEx operating 28 of the 70 MD-11 freighters currently in service, though both carriers are using contingency plans to mitigate disruption. The logistics sector is also feeling the impact of capacity constraints caused by the long-running government shutdown, which led the ⁠FAA to order airlines in high-volume markets to reduce schedules by up to 10%⁠. Businesses relying on passenger aircraft for domestic freight transport have the most exposure to these flight restrictions, while cargo-only airlines are collaborating with the FAA to adjust operations and minimize customer disruption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Malcolm Harris has a full house for this episode, joined by three experts to tackle the biggest stories in freight. First, FreightWaves Editor-at-Large John Kingston joins the show to break down RXO's shocking earnings tumble. He explains what triggered Wall Street's steep negative reaction and what it signals for the rest of the brokerage and 3PL sector. Then, Chief Product Officer at PCS, Danielle Villegas, dives into how AI and smart TMS tools are reshaping operations. She discusses why profit margins, not just volume, are the "new payload" for carriers and shippers. Finally, "The Fraud Girl" herself, Danielle Spinelli, joins the show. Fresh off a ride-along with the California Highway Patrol, she reveals how organized freight theft rings are evolving and shares what shippers, brokers, and even the average American can do to fight back against cargo fraud. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into some of the most common problem shippers are seeing in the cold chain. Our guest, Paul Cullmann, Director, North American Sales at Sunset Transportation, joins us to examine where shippers are leaving opportunities for growth on the table as well as where common missteps are happening. For more information, subscribe to ⁠Running on Ice the newsletter⁠ or podcast. ⁠Follow the Running on Ice Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The FAA has mandated flight reductions—ramping up toward a 10% cut at 40 of the busiest domestic hubs due to air traffic controller shortages—which severely restricts domestic "belly cargo" capacity for high-value shipments but largely spares all-cargo carriers like FedEx and UPS. The ground market is defined by a financial squeeze hitting 3PLs like RXO, who are struggling as locked-in, lower contractual sales rates are undercut by suddenly spiking buy rates for trucks, evidenced by the National Truckload Index climbing from $1.68 per mile to $1.80 more recently. RXO's CEO calls this structural capacity exit—driven by tighter regulations and spiking insurance costs forcing smaller carriers out—one of the largest structural changes since deregulation, prompting the company to execute $165 million in total cost cuts and rely heavily on technology to achieve a 19% boost in broker productivity. We pivot to the ocean sector, where Maersk upgraded its full-year EBITDA guidance ($9.0-$9.5 billion) despite facing a jaw-dropping 30.7% year-over-year decline in Q3 freight rates, a success attributed to superior operational execution, 7% container volume growth, and an integrated network that provides a "better moat" against spot volatility. Finally, we track localized labor pressure, including over 900 supply chain layoffs in Texas across diverse sectors like crude oil transport, and monitor the rigorous, impartial review promised by Surface Transportation Board nominees for the massive proposed $85 billion Union Pacific/Norfolk Southern merger. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Thomas Wasson on this special episode of Truck Tech as he travels to the Michelin Proving Ground to put the all-new Volvo VNL to the ultimate test!We explore every angle of this cutting-edge tractor, from its revolutionary aerodynamic design (including that slick, wedge-shaped nose!) to the advanced safety and driver-assist technologies.What's in the Video: Track Test Drive: Thomas takes the VNL out on two different tracks to experience the smooth ride and test the performance of the Volvo 13-speed transmission while pulling a heavy load. Adaptive Cruise Control Demo: Watch as we test the smart, Level 2 safety features, including the camera-radar fusion system and the incredible stop-and-go functionality in a simulated traffic scenario. Deep Dive on Fuel Efficiency: We interview Volvo team members about the design philosophy and the impact of features like the 6x2 configuration with a liftable axle, which can save up to 3% in fuel costs! Real-World Driver Review: Get insights from Joel Morrow of Alpha Drivers Trucking, a long-time Volvo customer who is hitting 12+ MPG in his custom "Purple Haze II" VNL. The Ultimate Sleeper Review: Thomas spends the night in the premium cab, giving a full tour of the spacious living environment, including the mini-fridge, microwave, storage nooks, and testing the quiet, battery-powered AC unit. This is a must-watch for fleet managers, owner-operators, and anyone interested in the future of trucking technology!Don't forget to like and subscribe for more Truck Tech!#VolvoVNL #TruckReview #SemiTruck #FuelEfficiency #AdaptiveCruiseControl #TruckTech #MichelinProvingGround #SleeperCab #TruckingLife Follow the Truck Tech Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Zac Rogers and Zach Strickland discuss the October LMI readings and how businesses are being impacted by the government shutdown and the looming tariff ruling. Follow the Freightonomics Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We begin with the tragic UPS cargo jet crash near Worldport in Louisville, UPS's critical global hub, which resulted in at least nine confirmed fatalities and exposed the fragility of single-point logistics assets. This immediate physical disruption led UPS to cancel initial express and deferred operations and suspend the money-back guarantee for all US packages, even as the NTSB worked quickly to recover the flight recorders. Following the accident, night sort operations at Worldport partially resumed to enable next-day air deliveries, though delivery commitments were relaxed for Thursday. Wall Street severely reacted to 3PL RXO's Q3 earnings report, sending the stock plummeting over 14% pre-market after the company reported adjusted net income of just $2 million compared to $7 million last year and missed analyst estimates on EPS. RXO's CEO cited a "deadly combination" of rising truckload capacity costs alongside persistently weak demand, forcing the company to launch aggressive new cost initiatives targeting over $30 million in savings. Broader market data confirms this complex landscape, revealing a persistent trucking paradox where Q3 national shipment volumes fell 2.9% but shipper spending paradoxically increased 2% quarter-over-quarter, suggesting that capacity is leaving the market faster than demand is declining. This divergence grants remaining carriers unexpected pricing power, while regional differences were severe, including a massive 15.7% volume drop in the Southwest amplified by stricter DOT English language proficiency rules. Further underscoring the market weakness, recent CarrierSource data shows shipper search activity for trucking capacity fell to its lowest point in over a month, driven by macroeconomic uncertainty and production slowdowns. In response to this volatility, global terminal operator DP World is focusing on resilient supply chains by leveraging its vast network across 78 countries and strategically investing in technology, particularly AI and predictive tools. DP World is offering adaptive solutions such as deploying "pop-up warehouses" for temporary surge capacity in locations like Olive Branch, Mississippi, and Miami, and strategically using alternative gateways like Prince Rupert and Vancouver for fast rail access into the US Midwest and Northeast. These strategies emphasize building options and flexibility into the network to navigate volatility, whether it stems from physical crashes or financial squeezes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Ship Happens! SONAR's Chief Marketing and Operations Officer, Julie Van de Kamp, is joined by Tim Jed, Supply Chain Leader at DPR Construction, to tackle the (frankly chaotic) world of construction logistics.They dive into the unique challenges of managing a project-by-project supply chain, navigating market volatility caused by shifting tariffs, and using data to bring order to the chaos. Tim shares his perspective on the current freight environment and explains why, in an unstable market, true collaboration with partners is the most critical tool for when... ship happens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You've signed hundreds of rate cons, but have you ever stopped to actually read the fine print? In this eye-opening episode of The Long Haul, Adam sits down with transportation attorney and Armchair Attorney podcast host Matthew Leffler to dissect a real broker-carrier agreement, section by section. If you're an owner-operator or fleet owner signing rate confirmations without understanding the liability buried inside, you cannot afford to miss this. From indemnification clauses to cargo liability to payment terms, we break it all down in plain English so you can protect your business and stay in control. ⁠Follow The Long Haul Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The episode opens with the volatile reaction on Wall Street to 3PL RXO's third-quarter earnings, which saw the ⁠stock plummet over 14.8% in pre-market trading after the 6:30 a.m⁠. The logistics provider reported performance that was largely stagnant year-over-year, including a decline in adjusted net income to $2 million and a GAAP net loss of 8 cents per share, prompting the CEO to emphasize strategic scale and cost initiatives for future profitability. We also cover the ongoing disruption at UPS Worldport in Louisville following the deadly cargo jet crash that happened on Tuesday. Although night sorting operations resumed Wednesday evening to enable next-day air deliveries for Thursday, ⁠UPS has relaxed delivery commitments⁠, extending some time-definite services by 90 minutes or 72 hours due to the continuing investigation and resulting runway closure. National Transportation Safety Board investigators have ⁠successfully recovered both the cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder from the MD-11 freighter⁠. Authorities have confirmed 12 fatalities from the incident, including the three crew members, as investigators work diligently to determine the probable cause and minimize slowdowns to the critical freight network, which moves life-saving drugs and postal products. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, we're diving deep into the evolving world of freight tech, automation, safety, and the future of transportation — featuring three powerhouse guests shaping the industry right now. Guest Lineup: 1. Chris Demetroulis — Managing Director of Transportation at Gallagher Chris breaks down the real risk and reward behind autonomous trucking, how insurers will adapt to AVs, and why reducing human error is the key to lowering claims and premiums. 2. Angie Twardawa — CEO of Angie's Transportation & Co-Founder of Road Lights Live from the AAPEX Show in Las Vegas, Angie shares her journey from growing up in trucking to leading innovation in trailer visibility, cargo security, and theft prevention technology.Road Lights' new motion-sensor + AI trailer lighting system is changing the game for safety and fleet protection. 3. Shan Ravindranath — CEO of eTruux Shan explains how eTruux is bridging efficiency and trust between shippers and carriers with transparent pricing, integrated TMS + ELD systems, and what the platform is building next as the industry heads toward autonomous fleets. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The October Logistics Managers' Index data, detailed in the article October LMI shows price increases outpacing capacity growth, shows transportation utilization (57.3) and pricing (61.7) surged, reversing the prior negative freight inversion. This tight market prediction is worsened by the immediate air cargo capacity shock stemming from the UPS MD-11 crash on November 5th, a tragedy covered in LATEST: Death toll in UPS cargo jet crash rises to 7. This incident led to seven confirmed fatalities and resulted in the indefinite closure of the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport and the complete halt of UPS Worldport operations. Regulatory pressure is further squeezing the driver pool through the FMCSA's new non-domiciled CDL rule, which prevents Ukrainian war refugees from renewing legally obtained licenses, a complex issue explored in CDL overhaul tailspins Ukrainian truckers. Meanwhile, labor friction is mounting as the Teamsters union accuses UPS of violating its contract by diverting delivery work to non-union gig drivers at subsidiaries like Roadie and Happy Returns, a conflict covered in Teamsters union to press UPS over Roadie use of gig drivers. Shifting focus to corporate performance, Uber Freight revenue flat in Q3 as company posts strong delivery gains reports the freight unit's Q3 revenue remained flat at $1.31 billion and incurred a loss, even as Uber's overall mobility and delivery divisions saw strong growth and record adjusted EBITDA. Conversely, TFI CEO Alain Bedard anticipates a weak fourth quarter, yet offers a strongly positive long-term outlook, particularly for 2026, due to operational improvements in LTL and potential infrastructure impacts, as detailed in TFI's Bedard sees a stronger 2026 after a weak 4Q. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Details emerge on the devastating UPS MD-11 freighter crash that occurred during takeoff from Louisville, Kentucky, while the widebody cargo jet was bound for Honolulu. The death toll has tragically risen to seven individuals, with 11 injuries reported, leading to the indefinite closure of the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport and the halt of package sorting operations at Worldport. The Panama Canal Authority is moving full steam ahead with an $8.5 billion, 10-year modernization plan designed to maintain the canal's competitiveness as climate pressures and global trade patterns evolve. This strategy includes constructing two new container terminals, implementing a liquefied petroleum gas pipeline, and initiating the Río Indio reservoir project, all aimed at expanding capacity and reducing dependence on water-intensive operations. Finally, we discuss the ongoing labor tensions between UPS and the Teamsters union regarding alleged contract violations, which is explored in Teamsters union to press UPS over Roadie use of gig drivers. Teamsters Local 804 claims that UPS is improperly diverting partial delivery work to its subsidiary, Roadie, which uses a technology platform to match freelance drivers to packages, thereby violating their 2023 collective bargaining agreement to avoid safety laws and overtime payments. UPS denies the accusation, maintaining that Roadie and Happy Returns operate distinct business models for specialized deliveries that do not mix with the main UPS parcel sortation network, though the Teamsters' national office is consolidating grievances for arbitration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The freight market is living a double life. On one hand, the domestic market is hitting the brakes, defined by shrinking truckload capacity and regulatory friction. On the other, global players and specialized sectors are flooring the accelerator on massive investments.In this episode, we dissect this "market schizophrenia". We look at how a 32% drop in new tractor builds and stricter enforcement of driver language rules are tightening the screws on capacity. We also explore the massive strategic investments happening in global air cargo, AI-driven safety tech, and specialized healthcare logistics.But as fleets fight for volume, they're also battling a two-front war. Michael "Mike" Precia, President and CSO of Fleetworthy, joins the show to discuss the other crisis: the compounding rise in essential costs. With truck insurance premiums up 43% in five years and toll costs doubling in the last decade, Precia argues that survival in this cycle won't come from waiting for demand. It will be won by fleets that master "fleet readiness" and gain visibility over the costs they can control.Follow the Loaded and Rolling PodcastOther FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For-hire trucking capacity is contracting significantly due to a 32% reduction in tractor builds (taking equipment below replacement levels) and stricter FMCSA English Language Proficiency enforcement, which could affect up to 10% of the driver pool. Despite shrinking capacity, freight rates are only seeing marginal spot market improvements of 1-2%, failing to keep pace with 3% inflation, due to volume volatility and broader macroeconomic risks. Regulatory friction is also widespread, as a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking the California Air Resources Board from enforcing its Clean Truck Partnership against major OEMs (like Daimler, PACCAR, and Volvo). This legal development was driven by the judge's conclusion that CARB's lawsuit was attempting to enforce potentially federally preempted standards, creating an "impossible situation" for manufacturers after federal waivers for rules like the Advanced Clean Truck rule were withdrawn. In stark contrast to regulatory tangles, technology offers surprisingly frictionless solutions: fleets using complete AI safety solutions saw a 73% reduction in crash rates over 30 months, nearly double the industry average. Within just six months of implementation, these systems also achieved a 49% drop in harsh driving events and an 84% reduction in mobile phone use behind the wheel, alongside a 57% boost in Hours of Service compliance. Serious, hyperfocused investment is flowing into specialized logistics globally, notably in air cargo where Cargojet launched a new direct weekly service connecting its Canadian hubs to Liege Airport in Belgium. Latam Cargo also boosted its Europe-South America capacity by 25% (reaching 15 weekly frequencies), adding specialized routes like São Paulo to Brussels with a stop in Recife to handle mango exports. Domestically, TRAC Intermodal is focusing on standardization and efficiency by partnering with Florida East Coast Railway to stage standardized, GPS-integrated 53-ft domestic chassis directly at FEC terminals, aiming to build a national footprint for their T-53 program. Meanwhile, UPS completed its $1.6 billion acquisition of Andlauer Healthcare Group to strengthen its specialized Canadian cold chain and accelerate its strategic goal of doubling high-margin healthcare logistics revenue to $20 billion by 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction stopping the California Air Resources Board from enforcing the Clean Truck Partnership against truck manufacturers. This block occurred because a state court lawsuit filed by CARB seeking OEM compliance was viewed by the federal court as an attempt to enforce potentially preempted zero emissions standards, particularly since Congress withdrew the EPA waivers that allowed the Advanced Clean Truck rule to go into effect. UPS has completed the acquisition of Canadian logistics provider Andlauer Healthcare Group for $1.6 billion in cash. Michael Andlauer, AHG's founder and CEO, will now lead UPS Canada Healthcare and AHG, significantly bolstering UPS's specialized cold chain network and strategic focus on the high-margin healthcare sector. Learn how AI is reshaping fleet operations with the release of Samsara's Safety Report: Benchmarking the Future of Safety. The report reveals that fleets implementing complete AI safety solutions saw a 73% reduction in crash rates over 30 months, with visibility and immediacy provided by dual-facing dash cams being identified as the biggest difference-maker. Don't miss today's FreightWaves TV lineup, including an episode of Loaded and Rolling with Thomas Wasson and Check Call with Mary O'Connell. You can always find your favorite FreightWaves shows on the FreightWaves YouTube channel if you miss the live broadcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

FreightWaves Founder and CEO Craig Fuller joins host Malcolm Harris for an unfiltered look at what he calls “the busiest news week in trucking history.” They break down why the ATA's so-called “driver shortage” is a myth, how unqualified drivers and lax regulations have shaken the industry, and why the freight brokerage world is facing its toughest market in years. Craig also dives into Secretary Duffy's crackdown on noncompliant carriers, the coming shakeout in freight, and how trucking leaders can restore integrity—and profitability—to the road ahead. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Host Malcolm Harris kicks off a spooky edition of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? live from Chattanooga, Tennessee, diving into some of the biggest stories shaping trucking and logistics. First up, OOIDA Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh joins the show to react to Secretary Duffy's fiery comments on driver qualification standards and language proficiency. Lewie breaks down the long-running myth of the “driver shortage,” calling it a cover for low pay, poor training, and unsafe working conditions. He lays out OOIDA's priorities—from codifying DOT rules into law to passing the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act—and challenges lawmakers to finally put people over profits. Next, Greg Braun, CRO and cofounder of C3 Solutions, celebrates 25 years of innovation while discussing their new C3 Hive platform. Despite a surprise fire alarm mid-interview, Greg powers through to explain how C3 Hive connects shippers, carriers, and yard operators in real time—reducing dwell time, streamlining communication, and using AI to optimize dock and yard management. Finally, Veer Junja, USC alum and cofounder of Fleetline, joins from San Francisco to share how his startup is empowering carrier planners with AI-driven optimization. Drawing from his debate background and family ties to trucking, Veer discusses how Fleetline uses algorithmic planning to boost efficiency and cut deadhead, helping carriers thrive in any market cycle. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Malcolm Harris kicks off a spooky edition of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? live from Chattanooga, Tennessee, diving into some of the biggest stories shaping trucking and logistics. First up, OOIDA Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh joins the show to react to Secretary Duffy's fiery comments on driver qualification standards and language proficiency. Lewie breaks down the long-running myth of the “driver shortage,” calling it a cover for low pay, poor training, and unsafe working conditions. He lays out OOIDA's priorities—from codifying DOT rules into law to passing the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act—and challenges lawmakers to finally put people over profits. Next, Greg Braun, CRO and cofounder of C3 Solutions, celebrates 25 years of innovation while discussing their new C3 Hive platform. Despite a surprise fire alarm mid-interview, Greg powers through to explain how C3 Hive connects shippers, carriers, and yard operators in real time—reducing dwell time, streamlining communication, and using AI to optimize dock and yard management. Finally, Veer Junja, USC alum and cofounder of Fleetline, joins from San Francisco to share how his startup is empowering carrier planners with AI-driven optimization. Drawing from his debate background and family ties to trucking, Veer discusses how Fleetline uses algorithmic planning to boost efficiency and cut deadhead, helping carriers thrive in any market cycle. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Department of Transportation is escalating its battle against "CDL mills" accused of certifying unqualified drivers, promising to eliminate unsafe operators and investigate fleets that hire them. This heightened regulatory enforcement is already leading to a significant capacity shakeout in the truckload market, which could potentially overshadow Schneider's tough Q3 earnings report. DOT Secretary Sean Duffy is expanding driver enforcement to shippers who load up rigs, warning that companies must ensure truck drivers meet federal English language proficiency rules or face substantial penalties. This focus on language compliance follows the sidelining of more than 7,000 truckers reportedly for English proficiency violations due to a revived out-of-service criterion this year. Meanwhile, UPS announced that 2,000 drivers left UPS after taking buyouts in the third quarter, part of a major streamlining campaign that has eliminated 48,000 jobs over the past 18 months. Across the industry, TFI International reported mixed signs of a turnaround at TFI's U.S. LTL operations, showing flat year-over-year operating ratios and decreased operating income across all major segments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transportation Secretary Shawn Duffy announced a major new initiative this week, ramping up efforts to crack down on fraudulent CDL mills and unsafe drivers after increased roadside inspections led to over 7,000 service violations. The Department of Transportation is now focusing on the integrity of the certification process and plans to investigate both driver training programs and trucking companies that hire drivers with questionable credentials, holding them accountable for safety standards. LTL carrier XPO continues to defy the soft market cycle, reporting significant margin improvement in its LTL segment during the third quarter. The company achieved an 82.7% operating ratio for the quarter by leveraging a variety of pricing levers and implementing AI optimization initiatives. Parcel analyst Satish Jindel estimates that approximately 2,000 unionized delivery drivers accepted a voluntary separation package offered by UPS during the third quarter. These buyouts, which cost the company $175 million and offered severance packages of $1,800 per year of service, were part of a major streamlining campaign intended to align capacity with lower volumes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SONAR's Director of Freight Market Intelligence Zach Strickland sits down in studio with JP to discuss macroeconomic data around the American manufacturing economy, industrial production, and employment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach Strickland of Freightonomics sits down with two expert guests: Henry Byers, Director of Pricing at KCH Transportation, and Jared Flinn, Co-Founder and Operating Partner at BulkLoads, to dissect the diverging paths of the freight market and the red-hot bulk market.The conversation covers critical dynamics impacting the industry, including: Dry Van/Reefer Volatility: Henry Byers discusses the choppy, frothy conditions and upward pressure on spot rates in the domestic truckload market, pointing to unexpected pockets like Indianapolis ripping and volatility in long-haul segments like Ontario, California to Chicago. The Booming Bulk Market: Jared Flinn notes that the bulk market, particularly in agriculture, is experiencing all-time highs and operating completely opposite to the dry van/reefer sector. He shares that the bulk market is insulated, more regional, and a "great place to live right now" for carriers. Trade War Impact: The experts explore how the trade war, including the lack of China buying US soybeans, has affected both domestic supply chains and the containerized freight epicenter of Southern California. 2026 Outlook & Hot Takes: The guests wrap up with their predictions for the coming year, with a bullish outlook for the bulk market and a forecast for continued volatility and upward rate pressure in the truckload sector. Don't miss this deep dive into the current freight environment and what to watch out for in 2026! Follow the Freightonomics Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Great Freight Recession continues its relentless purge in the carrier sector, claiming Illinois-based VIB Trans, a 29-truck carrier, as the ⁠latest casualty to file for Chapter 11 amid deeply depressed spot rates and relentlessly high operating costs⁠. This pain is accelerating due to an 18% drop in freight volumes coupled with immense overcapacity, driven by 310,000 new trucks and 200,000 new CDLs added to the system since 2019. Strategic experts are anticipating the ⁠Largest capacity purge in history coming⁠ as new regulations tighten enforcement around non-domiciled CDLs and ELP requirements. This regulatory squeeze could eliminate up to 600,000 active drivers from the system, potentially leading to sharp volatility spikes and market rationalization that ultimately benefits surviving carriers with higher pay and increased freight rates. While carriers fight for survival, the brokerage world is thriving, ⁠C.H. Robinson again is strong, and Wall Street throws roses⁠ after the company posted extremely strong third-quarter performance, including a 22.6% increase in income from operations. C.H. Robinson's core North American Surface Transport segment successfully grew combined truckload and LTL volume by 3%, demonstrating significant market share growth against a declining industry benchmark. In strategic updates, ⁠UPS is reversing its costly insourcing strategy for low-budget shipments⁠, tentatively agreeing to UPS, Postal Service to reunite for delivery of low-budget shipments via the USPS last-mile network. This reversal acknowledges that UPS's internal cost structure struggled to compete, especially after Ground Saver volume plummeted nearly 33% year-over-year. Internationally, the U.S. and China suspended ⁠punitive reciprocal fees on docking ships for one year amid trade talks⁠, which were originally imposed to revive U.S. shipbuilding. Plus, we cover immediate executive changes at CSX as CEO Steve Angel switches up leadership, ⁠naming Kevin Boone CFO and promoting Mary Clare Kenny to Chief Commercial Officer⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The push for fleet electrification is running into a massive roadblock: the grid. Thomas Wasson is joined by Tyler Phillipi, CEO of Optigrid, to discuss the immense challenges of infrastructure, grid strain, and the costly delays facing fleets trying to go electric. Tyler dives into the technology behind their new all-in-one charging solution, the Orange Juicer, a battery-integrated DC fast charger that avoids massive construction projects and long waits for utility upgrades. They explore how this "best in a box" approach is helping fleets get the juice they need, stay online, and make the transition to electric a reality. ⁠Follow the Truck Tech Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this follow-up episode of The Long Haul, Adam sits back down with Tyler Harden of TTN Fleet Solutions to dig deeper into one of the toughest realities in trucking — what happens when your truck breaks down and the clock's ticking against you. Adam also talks to Natasha Sanders, Senior Business Coach for the Amazon Freight Partner Program. They unpack how Amazon is building opportunities for entrepreneurs and CDL drivers alike — from launching small trucking companies under the AFP umbrella to offering stable, local driving careers with consistent pay and benefits.We'll talk about what AFP really is, how it works, and what it means for drivers looking for balance, consistency, and a long-term career inside the Amazon network. This one's not about hype — it's about clarity. If you've ever seen those blue trucks on the highway and wondered how to be part of that movement, this episode breaks it all down. ⁠Follow The Long Haul Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VIB Trans, an Illinois-based carrier with 29 trucks, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy amidst the long-running "Great Freight Recession" . Brokerage giant C.H. Robinson showed robust profitability for the third quarter, which sent its shares soaring 20% right after the earnings release . The company saw income from operations jump 22.6% and adjusted gross profit for its core North American Surface Transport segment rise 5.6% year-over-year . We examine the tentative agreement reached between UPS and the U.S. Postal Service to resume last-mile parcel delivery for UPS's low-cost Ground Saver shipping service . This strategic move is part of a multi-pronged effort at UPS to reduce costs, patching up a relationship that had previously dissolved in 2024 over rate hikes on the final mile component . Stick around for more content later today, including a new episode of The Long Haul featuring Tyler Harden of TTN Solutions and Natasha Sanders of Amazon Freight Partner. Plus, listen to Freightonomics, where Henry Byers and Jared Flinn join the conversation to discuss what's currently happening in the freight market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Malcolm Harris kicks off this midweek edition of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? with headlines shaking up the logistics and freight world. From Craig Fuller's fiery critique of the ATA's backpedal on the “driver shortage” narrative to breaking news of an Amtrak–truck collision in San Antonio, Malcolm dives deep into the week's hottest topics. He then welcomes Clayton Griffin, President of OTR Solutions, to discuss how broker-carrier relationships, payment terms, and trust shape long-term stability and growth in the trucking industry. Clayton shares new data showing OTR's carriers are 20% more likely to survive beyond their first year, and breaks down how transparency and tech-driven vetting can protect freight operations. Next up is Simon Steadman from Supermove, who spotlights innovation in the moving industry with the upcoming F50 Leadership Summit—a forum bringing top executives together to discuss AI, automation, and digital transformation. Simon explores how traditional operators can embrace modern tools without losing their human touch. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The freight market is at a "pivotal moment" as shifting industry narratives meet long-overdue regulatory action and the harsh realities of a capacity glut. Hear how the ATA executed a stunning tactical retreat on their decades-long "truck driver shortage" claim, now admitting the problem is a "shortage of quality drivers" rather than quantity. This retreat coincides with federal regulators moving to fix a self-created crisis: the DOT issued an emergency rule restricting non-domiciled CDLs that were improperly granted to at least 200,000 non-U.S. residents since March 2019. This massive influx of drivers fueled the "Great Freight Recession," yet real inflation-adjusted truck driver wages have only increased minimally since 2010. We examine the brutal financial impact of overcapacity, including Pamt Corp.'s fourth consecutive quarterly net loss and its unsustainable 106.7% adjusted operating ratio for its truckload unit. Conversely, Landstar System's mixed results showed strong flatbed trends and the first sequential increase in its exclusive carrier base since 2022, potentially signaling a slow market turn as regulatory changes threaten to remove 200,000 owner-operators from the pool. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices