FreightCasts

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

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

Truckload carrier ⁠Pamt Corp. books another loss in Q3⁠, reporting a net loss of $5.6 million for the third quarter, marking its fourth consecutive net loss in a market that continues to hammer the freight industry. The company's consolidated revenue dropped 18% year-over-year, and its truckload unit reported a tough 106.7% operating ratio, exacerbated by its high reliance on the tariff-hampered auto industry. In contrast, ⁠Flatbed trends buttress Landstar amid dry van slump⁠, as the company reported strong flatbed volumes even though dry van freight demand remains soft. Landstar reported adjusted earnings per share of $1.22, just one cent shy of consensus estimates, and management noted that potential regulation-induced capacity crunch on the owner-operator population may signal a future market flip. Also covered today, ⁠Port Houston completes ship channel dredging amid environmental scrutiny⁠, finalizing its share of the $1 billion Houston Ship Channel Expansion (Project 11) to widen the waterway to 700 feet through Galveston Bay. Port CEO Charlie Jenkins confirmed the project is already delivering measurable gains, improving safety and reducing vessel emissions by allowing ships to move more efficiently through one of the nation's busiest waterways. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, FreightWaves' Thomas Wasson sits down with Tio Tom, VP of Safety at Performance Food Group, to explore how one of America's largest food distributors is transforming fleet safety. From combating distracted driving to detecting fatigue through AI, PFG's data-driven approach has cut collision risks by more than 50%. Learn how technology, coaching, and compassion are reshaping safety across the industry. ⁠Follow the Loaded and Rolling Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into the world of loardboards. Our guest, Brent Hutto, Senior Advisor for ⁠Truckstop.com⁠, breaks down the evolution of load boards and how they became synonymous with fraud in the industry but they aren't that bad when used properly. For more information, subscribe to ⁠Check Call the newsletter⁠ or the podcast.  ⁠Follow the Check Call Podcast⁠ ⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DAT, a subsidiary of Roper Technologies, is evolving into an automated, AI-powered freight marketplace, a transformation discussed by executives at the FreightWaves F3 and on the Roper earnings call. This strategic shift is predicated on a series of key acquisitions, including the Convoy tech stack, Trucker Tools, and Outgo, which aim to build capabilities across the entire freight automation workflow, promising savings of $100–$200 per load.  We dive into the immediate crisis caused by federal attempts to restrict non-domiciled CDLs, a pool that has added over 200,000 licenses since 2019, contributing to the "Great Freight Recession". The U.S. Postal Service's sudden ban on these drivers led to immediate, severe service disruptions and a rapid reversal, highlighting the supply chain's critical reliance on this driver segment.  The program features an update on Union Pacific's aggressive campaign to secure approval for its $85 billion acquisition of Norfolk Southern, a merger that would create the first U.S. transcontinental freight railroad. This campaign includes strategic political maneuvering, such as a donation to President Trump's White House ballroom project and securing job guarantee backing from its largest labor union. In air cargo news, we cover Kalitta Air's deployment of the first-ever Boeing 777 converted freighters, dubbed the "Big Twin," for dedicated customers like DHL Express and Challenge Group, leveraging their increased volume and fuel efficiency. Finally, we examine Marten Transport's third-quarter earnings, which saw overall profitability maintained despite a loss in the Truckload segment, and discuss how the U.S. reached a trade framework with China even while tensions flared with Canada over a new 10% tariff increase.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The US and China have reached a framework for a new trade agreement, potentially averting the threatened 100% tariff on Chinese imports, even as the U.S. has raised tariffs on Canada by 10%. Accucold has launched a new dual compressor combination refrigerator and freezer designed specifically for the life science, healthcare, and pharmaceutical sectors. These new models, available in two widths, feature independent temperature control across multiple compartments and include user-focused safety features like audible and visual alarms that alert users to temperature excursions, power loss, or door openings. The freight industry is closely monitoring the potential for a severe capacity crunch following increased enforcement of non-domiciled CDL issuance nationwide. FreightWaves founder and CEO Craig Fuller suggests that the emergency rule addressing the improper granting of at least 200,000 non-domiciled CDLs will lead to a significant tightening of truckload capacity across the United States. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jack Kennedy is the co-founder and CEO of Platform Science. Previously, Jack was the President of Qualcomm Enterprise Services. Prior to Qualcomm, Jack served at News Corp where he held roles as the Executive Vice President of News Corp Digital Media, Executive Vice President of Fox Interactive Media, and Senior Vice President of Fox Network Group. During this period, Jack oversaw activities leading the digital transition of News Corp from a traditional media company into a “digital first” organization. During his tenure, he was part of the joint Fox/NBC Universal team that created the joint venture now known as “Hulu,” and the launch of one of the digital advertising technology companies, The Rubicon Product (RUBI:NASDAQ). He was responsible for a $2B+ portfolio of over two dozen digital assets. Jack retired as a commander in the U.S. Navy Reserves in 2016, after serving as a founding team member of DiUX, the Department of Defense's recently established Silicon Valley presence. His career included multiple combat deployments, tours in Washington D.C. which included serving on the staff of U.S. Senator John McCain, and as the Aide de Camp to the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Jack holds a BS in Economics and Engineering from the United States Naval Academy and an MBA from the Harvard Business School and was a Legis Fellow of the Brookings Institution. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for ATN International, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don has over 20 years of experience in the transportation and logistics sector, with proven success in advancing digital transformation, forging key industry collaborations, and leading growth strategies. Before joining Transflo, he held senior leadership roles at Knight-Swift Transportation and FreightVana, where he drove innovative solutions and cultivated lasting partnerships. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on What The Truck?!?, Malcolm Harris kicks off a loaded four-piece Monday special with powerhouse guests and big industry takes. FreightWaves' own Craig Fuller returns fresh off an epic F3 and unloads on the ATA's “driver shortage” myth, calling for accountability and smarter policy to protect veteran drivers and restore safety across the roads. Next up, Craig Leinauer of Travelers digs into the rising broker liability crisis — from contract traps to AI-enhanced cargo theft and cluster scams — and shares critical steps brokers can take to protect their business. Then, Dan Cicerchi, GM and VP of Transportation Management Solutions at Descartes MacroPoint, breaks down the future of visibility, automation, and AI-driven fraud prevention, and how trust and data accuracy continue to power smarter supply chains. Finally, Mike Beckwith of Odyssey Logistics joins the show to talk 3PL automation, capacity pain points, and market inflection, with a no-BS look at tech adoption, regulation, and how carriers are staying agile in a tightening economy. Packed with insight, candor, and a few mic-drop moments — this is one What The Truck?!? you don't want to miss. ⁠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

Salvage experts successfully concluded operations at Hong Kong International Airport after an AirACT Boeing 747-400 cargo jet skidded off the North Runway and into the sea. The team recovered key components, including the tail section, an engine, landing gear, and the flight data recorder, following the accident that tragically killed the two occupants of a security car struck by the plane. This episode conducts a deep dive into two critical market dynamics: the immediate, costly friction building at the U.S.-Mexico border due to the MVE compliance rules, and the paradoxical deepening capacity crunch within the domestic U.S. truckload market. We analyze how, despite the national Outbound Tender Volume Index hitting an all-time October low, capacity is quietly tightening up because it is exiting the market faster than demand is falling off, compounded by systemic safety risks linked to the proliferation of substandard CDL training facilities. The trucking sector is experiencing a significant capacity washout driven by a 30% collapse in long-haul freight, which is shifting market share to the resurgent intermodal sector. This capacity erosion, exacerbated by fears of deportation among non-domiciled and immigrant drivers in key markets like Southern California, is creating localized tightness and spot rate increases, which industry experts believe is laying the necessary groundwork for a potential trucking "super cycle" recovery around mid-2025. The U.S. highway system is facing a critical safety crisis, evidenced by a shocking 40% increase in fatal truck crashes since 2014, stemming largely from systemic flaws in commercial driver training and licensing. This deterioration is linked directly to a February 2022 regulatory change that allowed the proliferation of "CDL mills"—substandard facilities that exploit the self-certification database to issue licenses after minimal instruction, demanding stronger federal oversight and enforcement. A comprehensive reform proposal calls for centralizing the Commercial Driver's License system under the USDOT to establish a single, standardized Federal CDL with unified training and testing across the nation. To combat fraud and enhance security, the plan mandates the integration of the Federal CDL with the Transportation Worker Identification Credential card for biometric verification and comprehensive background checks, alongside stringent new rules aimed at eliminating fraudulent “chameleon companies” through address restrictions and federalizing apportioned license plate issuance. Despite the severe downturn in truckload demand, with the OTVI down 19% year-over-year, tender rejection rates are trending higher, underscoring the severe speed at which capacity is being removed from the market. The long-haul segment, specifically, has experienced a 30% decline as intermodal offers near-record savings, forcing trucking networks to regionalize and increasing volatility in long-haul tender rejection rates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yannik Thomas is Vice President, Network Design & Optimization at Norfolk Southern. Norfolk Southern is one of the nation's premier transportation companies, moving approximately 7 million rail shipments each year across 19,300 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia. NS serves every major container port in the eastern US and operates the most extensive Intermodal network in the East. Yannik is responsible for designing NS' network and service products to provide reliable and efficient service to rail shippers. He also leads technology investment and product management across Transportation and Intermodal Operations. He previously held leadership roles in Intermodal Operations and in Finance. Prior to joining NS, he spent 12 years with management consulting firm, Oliver Wyman, advising Fortune-500 Transportation and Industrial clients on strategy, finance, operations, and technology topics. Yannik holds a Bachelor of Science in Systems Design Engineering from the University of Waterloo in Canada and a Master of Business Administration from the Institut Européen d'Administration des Affaires (INSEAD) in France. He serves on the boards of The Belt Railway of Chicago, The Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad, Pan AM Southern, and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A leading authority on China's economy and financial system, Leland is the co-founder and CEO of China Beige Book International.Leland is a frequent commentator on media outlets such as CNBC, Bloomberg TV & Radio, CNN, BNN, BBC, and FOX Business, and he has served as a guest host of two of the financial world's top morning news shows, CNBC Squawk Box and Bloomberg Surveillance. His work is featured regularly in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Washington Post, TIME, New Yorker, The Atlantic, Forbes, Foreign Policy, The Hill, and South China Morning Post.Before co-founding China Beige Book in 2010, Leland was a capital markets attorney based out of New York and Hong Kong and worked on the deal team at a major investment bank. He holds a law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law, where he was Hardy C. Dillard fellow and editor-in-chief of the International Law Journal; a master's degree in Chinese History from Oxford University; a BA in European History from Washington & Lee University; and a graduate Chinese language fellowship from Tunghai University (Taiwan).Leland is an elected member of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and Economic Club of New York, an elected life member of the Council on Foreign Relations, a board member of the Global Interdependence Center, and a non-resident Senior Fellow at the Brent Scowcroft Center on International Security at the Atlantic Council. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Malcolm Harris talks with Alfonso Quijano, CTO of Lean Solutions Group; Richard Bubb, Principal Program Manager at Amazon Relay; and Todd Waldron, Vice President of Carrier Experience at Truckstop. ⁠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