FreightWaves NOW

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

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

We cover the significant 90-day pause on tariff increases between the United States and China, aiming to ease the ongoing trade war and boosting global financial markets as US tariffs decrease to 30% and China's to 10%. This truce allows for negotiations towards a more comprehensive agreement, reinforcing the importance of economic ties and international cooperation in logistics. Learn more about the details of this trade agreement in this FreightWaves article. Hear about the reinstatement of English language proficiency as a requirement for commercial truck drivers by the Trump administration. This policy reversal allows drivers unable to demonstrate English skills to be placed out of service starting June 25th, sparking debate about its effectiveness for road safety despite previous studies finding no strong link between limited English skills and crash risk. Explore the data and debate surrounding this decision in this related FreightWaves article. Discover the alarming new report revealing a dramatic surge in cyberattacks targeting the US logistics and supply chain sector. These attacks, ranging from ransomware to espionage and linked to nation-state actors like APT29, are probing digital systems supporting freight visibility and warehouse management, highlighting the industry's dangerous exposure without sufficient data tech and cybersecurity training. Find more details on these evolving cyberthreats in this FreightWaves article. Plus, tune in for upcoming FreightWaves content, including The Stockout and What the Truck?!? with Dooner. Don't miss the Freight Fraud Symposium this Wednesday, May 14th, in Dallas, bringing together industry leaders to address the crisis of freight fraud and share mitigation best practices. Register now for the symposium to be part of the solution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) will now be required to present a proposal to repeal the high-priority fleets and drayage requirements of the ACF. A public hearing on this proposal needs to be held before October 31st. Regarding potential tariff changes, reports suggest the Trump administration may cut tariffs on China imports from a current broad rate of 145% to as low as 50%. While the White House has dismissed this as conjecture, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is scheduled to meet with Chinese officials for trade talks soon. Details of the UK trade deal indicate increased access for agricultural products, chemicals, machinery, and other goods from both countries. The agreement, which still requires Congressional approval, maintains a baseline 10% U.S. tariff on most goods from the UK but includes specific provisions for items like steel, aluminum, beef, and auto imports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Railroads are actively seeking the repeal of a recent safety regulation. They are asking the Trump administration to scrap a Biden-era rule that requires two-person train crews, arguing this mandate is unsubstantiated and hinders efforts towards modernization and regulatory reform. The Houthi militia has refuted claims of a Red Sea ceasefire. Contrary to statements by President Trump, the Houthis deny agreeing to halt attacks on vessels in the trading route. Their attacks on ships linked to Israel, ongoing since late 2023, have made the Red Sea-Suez Canal route largely too unstable for regular shipping services. A notable potential change is coming for the US Postal Service. Following President Trump's approval, FedEx board member David Steiner is reportedly set to be selected as the next postmaster general. This direct selection process by the White House for the board's approval is described as unprecedented and aiming to diminish the agency's independence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's episode highlights the news that Detroit-based grocery carrier SFD Transportation filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, joining a larger case with its parent company and several subsidiaries. The 300-truck carrier estimated assets between $1 billion and $10 billion but liabilities ranging from $500 million to $1 billion. We also look at the April Logistics Managers Index (LMI), which reported mixed transportation metrics. Capacity ticked higher by 1.6%, but utilization reached its lowest level since November 2023, even as prices grew sequentially. In fuel news, the benchmark diesel price fell for the fourth straight week on Monday. The price reached $3.49 a gallon, down 1.7 cents for the week and representing its lowest point since before Christmas. Looking ahead, don't miss What the Truck?!? live with Tim Dooner on FreightWaves TV and its replay on SiriusXM. Also, mark your calendars for the freight fraud symposium in Dallas, where the freight fraud fighters award winners will be announced. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We dive into the latest shifts in independent contractor classifications, with differing approaches being seen in New Jersey and at the federal level, a topic explored in the source discussing how New Jersey and the feds are taking opposite paths on these rules. The New Jersey Department of Labor is proposing rules to codify the ABC test, potentially tightening the definition there, while the acting administrator of the federal Wage and Hour Division is reconsidering the 2024 ABC rule entirely. Also making headlines is the ongoing legal battle between Omnitrax and Motive. Omnitrax has filed a motion for retrial after a jury unanimously ruled in favor of Motive in a lawsuit alleging patent infringement. The 33-page motion claims Motive's conduct during the original trial was prejudiced and relied on improper assertions, including racial and religious insinuations, as detailed in the source about Omnitracs filing a motion for retrial. In legal news, a Massachusetts State Police Sergeant is scheduled for sentencing in July after being found guilty in a CDL bribery scheme. Gary Cedarquist was convicted of accepting various bribes and faced charges including extortion and mail fraud, according to the source discussing the Massachusetts man convicted in this scam. He was acquitted of nine other related charges. Finally, tune into Freight Waves TV today for new episodes of Check Call and Loaded and Rolling. Don't miss the upcoming Freight Fraud Symposium next week in Dallas, Texas, where the winners of the fraud fighters award will be announced. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

US rail car load volumes are currently outpacing last year's figures, despite looming concerns about incoming ocean containers. Weekly railcar volumes exceeded 502,000, representing a 5.5% year-over-year increase, while year-to-date American railroad traffic is up slightly, contrasting with only a 2% gain in Canadian traffic and a 10% drop in Mexican traffic.  Forward Air is seeking shareholder approval to change its state of incorporation from Tennessee to Delaware. This strategic maneuver is described as an effort to "resteer the ship" following a challenging merger with Omni Logistics and aims to provide increased flexibility, potentially making it easier to sell the company. The Forward Air board approved this reincorporation plan, which leverages Delaware's corporate governance framework to explore strategic options like a sale. A group of West Coast politicians and port leaders are issuing a stern warning that Trump administration tariffs are triggering significant supply chain disruptions that pose serious threats to both regional and national economies. They stress that the window to minimize the economic harm is rapidly closing, noting that small businesses are already facing consequences similar to those experienced during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Tune in to "What The Truck?!?" today for a segment breaking down the realities of these tariffs, including potential adjustment strategies and whether companies are genuinely passing on costs to consumers. Also, don't forget to secure your tickets for the Freight Fraud Symposium happening next week on May 14th in Dallas, Texas by visiting live.frightwaves.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aurora Innovation has officially launched its commercialized driverless trucking operations in Texas, running autonomous trucks without a human driver along the I-45 corridor between Houston and Dallas. The company partnered with Uber Freight and Hirschbach Motor companies for this program, which received praise from Texas Governor Greg Abbott for its potential to move products efficiently, create jobs, and improve road safety. Carrier Heartland Express posted another disappointing quarterly result for 2025, reporting its seventh straight net loss on Wednesday. Revenue fell 19 percent year over year, with leadership citing tariff uncertainties, adverse weather, and prolonged industry challenges like cost inflation outpacing freight demand as reasons for the poor performance. Penske Logistics is cutting over 300 warehouse jobs from a facility in Missouri after losing a contract with a grocery in the area. A WARN notice reported the permanent closure effective July 15th, with plans to transfer the service to a different warehousing provider and offer employees transfer opportunities to BGDC Distribution. And companies across various sectors are releasing new plans to adjust services, pricing, and more in response to evolving trade policies. Staff writer Grace Sharkey gathered responses from dozens of companies, including retailers, automakers, and tech giants. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Truckload carrier Werner Enterprises experienced a historic first-quarter operating loss, attributing the result to factors like elevated insurance costs, extreme weather, a smaller fleet, and changes in customer activity stemming from tariff uncertainty. CEO Derek Leathers stated that this performance "does not represent who we are" and that the company is making near-term moves while keeping an eye on future market changes. UPS plans to eliminate approximately 20,000 front-line positions this year and undergo a significant network restructuring, including closing sortation centers, partly to manage the reduction of unprofitable business from Amazon. The company aims for over $3 billion in cost savings in 2025 as it moves to decrease outbound Amazon deliveries by 50% by 2026. Despite concerns about tariffs and expected volume declines, Gulf Coast ports, including Houston, New Orleans, and Corpus Christi, reported rising freight volumes in March. These ports saw a bump in volumes after a slow February, with Houston experiencing a 7% year-over-year increase, helped by manufacturing raw materials like steel and aluminum and increases in loaded exports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apollo Global Management has issued a severe warning for the U.S., forecasting mass layoffs in the trucking and retail sectors expected to begin in the next four to six weeks due to the ripple effects of tariffs and trade uncertainty. This outlook includes anticipated shortages across the retail space as import volumes are expected to drop substantially, with declining import volumes impacting trucking workloads and forcing carriers to cut labor costs. DHL has ended its temporary suspension on shipping medium-value business-to-consumer (B2C) goods valued between $800 and $2,500 to the United States after negotiating changes to customs rules that previously created administrative burdens and shipment backlogs. This allows these shipments to once again enter the U.S. using expedited informal declaration processes, although DHL noted customers might still experience some slight delays as they work through the backlog. President Trump has signed an executive order requiring the nation's truck drivers to be proficient in speaking and reading English. The order mandates revising out-of-service criteria to ensure drivers violating this English proficiency rule are placed out-of-service, aiming to enhance roadway safety by adding enforcement to existing federal law. Upcoming FreightWaves TV programming includes 'Check Call' and 'Loaded and Rolling'. FreightWaves is also hosting the Freight Fraud Symposium in Dallas on May 14th, and nominations for the Fraud Fighters Award close on Friday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LTL carrier Saia faced a difficult first quarter, reporting a net loss and earnings per share significantly below expectations, leading to a 30% drop in its stock price. Tariffs and other market forces impacted demand, exacerbating costs from carrying excess capacity.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) completed audits in March that identified $310 million in duties and fees owed due to undervalued or improperly declared goods. This represents a 10,590% increase in assessed fees compared to February, which experts attribute to increased scrutiny under the administration's new trade policy.  In legal news, the patent infringement lawsuit between Omnitracs and Motive concluded with a federal jury unanimously ruling that Motive was not guilty of infringing any of Omnitracs' patents related to fleet management technology.  Additionally, FreightWaves CEO Craig Fuller discussed the 'collapse' of outbound freight from China into the United States on CNBC. This situation, affecting West Coast ports with blank sailings, is driven by factors including tariffs on Chinese goods, proposed fees on Chinese carriers, and economic uncertainty impacting American consumers.  Today's upcoming FreightWaves TV programming includes 'The Stockout' and 'What the Truck?!?', and mentions upcoming events like the Freight Fraud Symposium and the Freight Fraud Fighters Awards Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

FreightWaves' Kaylee Nix, John Kingston, John Gallagher and Noi Mahoney break down the latest news on President Donald Trump's tariff proposals and share what impact they could have on the economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this spooktacular Check Call Halloween episode, Mary O'Connell joins Kaylee Nix for a freight-filled fright fest! They discuss scary broker stories, Halloween candy logistics, and the regulations that give you chills. Don't miss out on the tricks and treats (and maybe a joke or two) in the Check Call newsletter! Key points: This episode is full of Halloween fun and spooky freight stories. Mary O'Connell discusses the scariest things that can happen to a freight broker. The conversation covers Halloween candy logistics and the regulations that can make your hair stand on end. Subscribe to the Check Call newsletter for tricks, treats, and maybe even a joke! Links: Check Call newsletter: freightwaves.com/check-call

Join us as we discuss the rise of organized retail crime and its impact on the retail industry. Our guest, Grace Sharkey, co-host of the Stuck Out podcast, shares valuable insights on this pressing issue. We delve into the following topics: The evolution of organized retail crime: How has it changed in recent years? The role of freight fraud: How does it contribute to the problem? The impact on retailers and consumers: What are the consequences? Raising awareness and taking action: How can we address this issue? Don't miss this informative and engaging conversation!

Join us for a lively community update as host Mary O'Connell dives into the latest episode of "Running on Ice." Kicking off with some Halloween spirit, Mary discusses her spooky attire before introducing a special crossover episode featuring Thomas Wasson from "Loaded and Rolling." They explore the unexpected rise in reefer outbound tender rejections leading up to the holiday season, the impact of recent hurricanes, and what to expect as Thanksgiving approaches. Tune in for hot takes, festive fun, and insights that will help you navigate the end of the year in the freight market. Don't miss out—"Running on Ice" drops today at 2 PM ET on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms!

In this episode of the Loaded and Rolling community update, we're joined by Thomas Wasson, host of Loaded and Rolling, the show, newsletter, and podcast dedicated to all things trucking! Thomas dives into the latest industry trends, including: Critical issues facing truck drivers and motor carriers according to a recent report. The rise of electric vehicles in the trucking industry and the impact on concerns. The surprising omission of freight fraud from the top ten concerns, and why it might become a bigger issue soon. A new first-responder service for commercial drivers from Motive and how it can save lives. Signs of stabilization in the freight market and what to expect for the rest of the year, including Thanksgiving and the impact of recent hurricanes. Plus, Thomas gives us a sneak peek at the upcoming "Spooktacular crossover event" episode of Loaded and Rolling! You won't want to miss this fun and informative episode. Don't forget to subscribe to the Loaded and Rolling newsletter for more trucking industry insights!

Join us for this week's Truck Tech Community Update as we delve into the inspiring story of Ree automotive and their CEO, Daniel Barel. Despite the challenges of living in wartime Israel, Daniel and his team continue to innovate and push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology. Key topics covered in this episode: The groundbreaking technology behind re automotive's bi wire powertrain. How re automotive is navigating the complexities of supply chain management and manufacturing. The emotional impact of living through conflict on Daniel and his team. re automotive's plans for scaling their business and achieving profitability. The latest news on fuel cell technology and its potential applications in the trucking industry. Plus, get a sneak peek at the upcoming episode of Truck Tech, featuring an interview with a successful startup in the trucking industry. Don't miss this insightful episode! Subscribe to the Truck Tech newsletter and YouTube channel for more updates on the latest trends in trucking technology.

In this week's episode, Isaiah Buchanan and Mary O'Connell discuss the latest news in the trucking industry. They delve into a new Controlled Substance Act ruling that could have significant impacts on drivers, the current state of the freight market, and the ongoing recovery from recent natural disasters. Key Topics: New CSA ruling and its potential consequences Freight market outlook for Q4 and beyond Impact of natural disasters on the supply chain Tips for navigating the industry challenges Don't miss this informative discussion! Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel. #truckingnews #freight #CSA #supplychain #logistics

Join Grace Sharkey and Isaiah for this Stockout Community Update as they dive into the latest consumer loyalty trends. You'll discover: The power of rewards programs: Learn how brands are using financial incentives and exclusive offers to keep customers coming back for more. The rise of brand partnerships: Explore how collaborations like Taco Bell and Doritos are driving brand awareness and sales. The digital experience revolution: See how mobile apps and online communities are shaping customer loyalty for the next generation. Plus, get a sneak peek at what's coming up on today's episode of Stack Up: Mattel's strategies for success: Discover how Mattel is navigating supply chain challenges and staying ahead of the curve. Market insights with SONAR charts: Get expert analysis on where the market is headed for shippers. Don't miss out! Watch the full episode live on FreightWaves.com. Subscribe to the Stockout YouTube channel for replays and more. Sign up for the Stockout newsletter to get the latest industry updates delivered straight to your inbox. Join the FreightWaves community and connect with fellow shippers. And mark your calendars! F3 is just around the corner, featuring a performance by Stone Temple Pilots. Get your tickets today!

It's finally fall, and the cold chain is heating up! On this episode of Running on Ice, Kaylee Nix chats with Mary O'Connell about the critical role of cold chain logistics in vaccine distribution. They discuss: Prioritizing vaccines: How regions are prioritized for vaccine shipments, and the factors that go into this complex decision-making process. The "almost peak season": How the rise of seasonal vaccinations (flu, Covid, RSV) is impacting demand planning for cold chain providers. Closing the information gap: The importance of real-time data and tracking technologies to ensure the integrity of temperature-sensitive medical supplies. The "technical revolution": Exciting new technologies transforming the cold chain and improving visibility throughout the entire supply chain. Don't miss this informative episode! The full conversation is available now on FreightWaves.com and wherever you listen to podcasts. In this episode, you'll also learn about: The recent shortage of IV fluids caused by Hurricane Helene. How the medical supply chain differs from "regular" freight. Subscribe to the Running on Ice newsletter: https://www.freightwaves.com/running-on-ice #coldchain #logistics #vaccines #supplychain #freightwaves

Freightliner Cascadia Update: New features and enhancements. Nikola's Struggles: Financial difficulties and production delays. Engine Innovations: Cummins' new engine capable of running on natural gas, diesel, and hydrogen. The Future of Diesel: Predictions for its continued use in long-haul trucking. MIT Research on Tender Rejection: Insights into factors influencing carrier decisions. Market Outlook: Analysis of the impact of hurricanes and the port strike on freight rates. Join Isaiah Buchanan and Thomas Wasson as they discuss the latest developments in the trucking industry.

In this episode of FreightWaves' Truck Tech Community Update, host Isaiah Buchanan interviews Alan Adler about the latest features and maintenance strategies for two of the heavy hitters in class eight trucks: the Volvo VNL and the Freightliner Cascadia. Here's what you'll learn: Volvo's new Blue service contract and how it leverages AI for predictive maintenance Why Volvo claims a 10% fuel efficiency gain with their all-new VNL Freightliner Cascadia's "nifty enhancements" including integrated video camera mirrors and remote lock/unlock How these features address the trend of trucks becoming more "software-defined" Where to find more details on the new Volvo VNL and Freightliner Cascadia: Truck Tech episode today (10/15/2024) at 3:00 Eastern on the Freightwaves YouTube channel Truck Tech newsletter on Friday (10/18/2024) at 11:00 Eastern on freightwaves.com (sign up at freightwaves.com) Bonus: Alan also shares his thoughts on the Cleveland Guardians' chances in the American League Championship Series! Don't miss this informative episode for all truck enthusiasts and industry professionals!

In this episode of FreightWaves Now Community Spotlight, Kaylee Nix chats with Mary O'Connell about the pitfalls of vendor sprawl and how to consolidate your brokerage's tech stack for maximum efficiency.  Key Takeaways How to identify signs of "solution overload" in your current workflow Strategies for simplifying your tech stack without sacrificing functionality The importance of clear communication with both your team and your vendors Key questions to ask potential providers to ensure a strong partnership Feeling overwhelmed by a sea of logins and subscriptions? This episode will equip you with the tools to streamline your operations and free up valuable time and resources. Subscribe to the Check Call newsletter: https://www.freightwaves.com/check-call

In this episode, Isaiah Buchanan and Grace Sharkey chat about the alarming rise of freight fraud in the United States. They discuss different tactics used by fraudsters, the economic impact, and how to get involved in raising awareness. Key Points: Freight fraud costs the industry billions of dollars annually. Common tactics include double brokering, business email compromise, and cargo theft. Regulatory bodies are starting to take notice of the problem. Individuals can help by getting to know their local law enforcement and reaching out to representatives. Take Action: Visit StopFreightFraud.com to learn more and access resources. Tune in for the full interview with industry expert Brittain Ladd (coming up!). Help spread awareness! Share this video and use #StopFreightFraud

This episode of Running on Ice discusses cargo theft and how to protect your freight.  Key Takeaways Cargo theft is a major problem in the freight industry, and it's important to share information about incidents to help others prevent them. Location tracking and real-time alerts can help you identify suspicious activity with your shipments. Cargo thieves often target high-value goods that can be easily resold, such as electronics and beverages. When shipping in high-risk areas, make sure your carrier has a full tank of gas to avoid stopping and becoming vulnerable. Cold chain goods are still targets for theft, even though they require special handling. You can learn more about cargo theft prevention by listening to the full episode of Running on Ice on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube at 2:00 PM Eastern on Fridays. You can also subscribe to the Running on Ice newsletter for more industry news at https://www.freightwaves.com/running-on-ice

Join us for an insightful discussion on the trucking industry as Thomas Wasson, host and writer of the Loaded and Rolling newsletter, provides his expert analysis. In this episode, we delve into the impact of Hurricane Milton on the trucking market, analyze recent class eight order trends, and explore the upcoming third-quarter earnings reports. Key Topics: Hurricane Milton's impact on FEMA loads and the trucking market Class eight order trends and expectations for the rest of the year Analysis of third-quarter earnings for trucking companies Discussion on the future of the trucking industry, including emerging technologies and market trends Don't miss this informative episode to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the trucking industry. #FreightWaves #Trucking #HurricaneMilton #Class8Orders #EarningsReport

This episode of FreightWaves Now Community Spotlight dives into the critical issue of cybersecurity in the supply chain industry! Kaylee Nix chats with Mary O'Connell about the threats facing businesses of all sizes and the solutions offered by McCloud Software. Key takeaways: Cyberattacks are a growing concern for businesses of all sizes, not just large corporations Small businesses are particularly vulnerable due to limited IT resources and potential financial losses McCloud Software offers comprehensive cybersecurity solutions tailored to the needs of the freight industry Integrating cybersecurity into your business operations is essential for protecting your data and reputation Want to learn more? Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts at 12:30 PM Eastern on Tuesdays  Subscribe to the Check Call newsletter for the latest industry news and insights: https://www.freightwaves.com/check-call

Description: In this episode of FreightWaves Now Community Spotlight, Kaylee Nix chats with Grace Sharkey about the growing threat of cybersecurity attacks in the supply chain industry. Key takeaways: Cyber threats are on the rise and affecting a wide range of businesses, including logistics firms Phishing attacks remain a major concern, with over 35% of email threats coming through this method Investing in cybersecurity measures is crucial, including training employees and implementing strong security systems Collaboration and reporting of incidents are essential for addressing the issue Want to learn more? Subscribe to the The Stockout newsletter for the latest updates on supply chain news and trends https://www.freightwaves.com/thestockout

This episode of FreightWaves Now Community Spotlight dives into the world of solar powered trucks with Robert Kalish, CEO and co-founder of AmGreen! Kaylee Nix and Mary O'Connell discuss: Why solar power is a perfect fit for reefer trailers Overcoming hesitancy and risk associated with new technology How solar power eliminates idling concerns and fuel costs The positive impact on warehouse workers and the environment Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the Running on Ice newsletter for industry insights and a special F3 discount code: https://www.freightwaves.com/running-on-ice Find Running on Ice wherever you listen to podcasts or watch on YouTube Don't miss the Future Freight Festival (F3) in Chattanooga, Tennessee! Head over to https://live.freightwaves.com/f3-future-of-freight-festival-2024 to secure your tickets at the lowest price with the exclusive Running on Ice discount code. Join Kaylee, Mary, and the entire freight community for a weekend of celebration!

Join Kaylee and Thomas Wasson, our enterprise trucking expert, as they discuss the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene and the ongoing port strike. Hear about the challenges faced by drivers and logistics professionals in the affected regions, the potential disruptions to freight markets, and the ripple effects that could impact businesses across the country. Don't miss this in-depth analysis of the current freight landscape. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - 00:01:00: Introduction and overview of Hurricane Helene's impact 00:01:00 - 00:02:30: Challenges faced by drivers and logistics professionals 00:02:30 - 00:04:00: Potential disruptions to freight markets 00:04:00 - 00:05:30: Ripple effects on businesses across the country 00:05:30 - 00:07:00: Conclusion and outlook for the future

Join Kaylee Nix and Mary O'Connell from Check Call as they discuss the importance of strong carrier relationships in the logistics industry. In this episode, they interview Blair Blake, Vice President of Carrier Strategy at Arrive Logistics, to delve into effective carrier strategies and how to navigate the challenges of the changing market conditions. Key topics covered include: The significance of building and maintaining positive carrier relationships Overcoming common challenges and misconceptions in broker-carrier interactions The role of technology in enhancing carrier relationships Best practices for effective communication and collaboration Whether you're a shipper, carrier, or logistics professional, this episode offers valuable insights into building successful partnerships and navigating the complexities of the freight industry.

In this FreightWaves Now Community Spotlight, Kaylee Nix and Grace Sharkey dive into the latest Halloween buying habits as we kick off the 2024 holiday season. With a slight dip in consumer spending anticipated this year, the duo discusses new data from the National Retail Federation, revealing insights into candy, costumes, and decorations. They explore why shoppers might be scaling back, the popularity of discount stores, and the creative ways consumers are planning to celebrate. Join them for a lively conversation about how inflation and shifting priorities could impact your spooky season shopping!

This week on FreightWaves Community Spotlight: Appreciate your truck drivers (and maybe get them a new truck for Christmas!) It's the second-to-last day of Truck Driver Appreciation Week, and Thomas Wasson is here to share his thoughts on how to truly appreciate these vital members of the supply chain. Key topics covered: Spotlight driver Al Weber for his positive attitude and problem-solving skills Detention times: While they've improved slightly, nearly 40% of drivers still experience them, and getting paid for that downtime remains a big challenge (only 55% of carriers who invoice for detention actually get paid!) Class 8 truck orders: Data suggests there may be a lull in orders for new trucks in Q4 2024, due to a combination of factors including worked-through backlogs and a flooded used truck market. How to really appreciate your truck drivers: Forget the free dinner and platitudes! Drivers value home time, higher wages, and perks that make their lives on the road easier. Thomas also emphasizes the importance of remembering the people behind the wheel. Every week should be Driver Appreciation Week! Watch this video to learn more about driver detention, the state of the class 8 truck market, and most importantly, how to show your truck drivers you care. Don't forget to like and subscribe for more Freightwaves content!

Join us for a Monday morning deep dive into automation and its impact on the shipping industry. In this FreightWaves Community Spotlight, Kaylee Nix sits down with Grace Sharkey to discuss the ongoing debate surrounding automation in ports. We explore the concerns about job displacement, the benefits of automation, and the role of labor unions in negotiating these changes. Key topics covered: The recent halt in contract negotiations due to concerns over automation at APM terminals in Mobile, Alabama The history of automation implementation in ports The potential impact of automation on jobs and the need for retraining The role of unions in protecting workers' rights The benefits of automation, including increased productivity and safety The future of automation in the shipping industry Don't miss this insightful discussion on a crucial topic shaping the future of the shipping industry.

This episode of Running on Ice dives into cold chain logistics and Beam Global's battery storage solutions. Host Mary O'Connell discusses: The challenges of maintaining cold chain storage temperatures, especially in ultra-cold warehouses. Beam Global's new Beam AllCell battery designed for extreme temperatures. How Beam AllCell batteries can improve efficiency and safety in cold chain operations. Beam Global's commitment to sustainability and battery recycling. Other innovative solutions from Beam Global to extend battery life in cold environments. Tune in to learn more about how Beam Global is helping to keep cold chain logistics running smoothly. Watch the full episode today at 2 p.m. central on FreightWaves TV and subscribe to the Running on Ice newsletter for more cold chain insights!

This episode of FreightWaves NOW: Community Spotlight dives into the latest data on driver pay. Host Kaylee sits down with Thomas Wasson of Loaded & Rolling to discuss: How driver pay has increased significantly over the past two years, with median pay up 10% for over-the-road drivers. The shift in focus for carriers towards retaining experienced drivers rather than attracting new ones. The impact of inflation on driver pay and how it might affect future increases. The difference between gross and net pay for independent contractors. What the future holds for driver pay as we head into 2025, including potential changes in carrier strategies. Thomas Wasson also shares his thoughts on the current state of the freight market and what he expects to see in Q3. Stay tuned to Loaded & Rolling for more industry insights! Subscribe to the FreightWaves NOW channel for more trucking news and content. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:30 Driver Pay Data & Trends 00:03:11 The Impact of Inflation 00:04:25 The Future of Driver Pay 00:05:05 Independent Contractor Pay (Net vs. Gross) 00:06:33 Predatory Lease Purchases 00:08:28 Retention Strategies for Carriers 00:08:55 The State of the Freight Market in Q3 00:09:11 Where to Find Loaded & Rolling Links: Loaded & Rolling: https://www.freightwaves.com/loaded-and-rolling FreightWaves NOW: https://www.freightwaves.com/

This episode of FreightWaves Now Community Spotlight explores the often-overlooked yet crucial world of pallets! Kaylee Nix chats with Mary O'Connell about the essential role Pallet Trader plays in the supply chain by facilitating pallet sourcing, recycling, and reducing waste. Here's what you'll learn: Why pallets are a vital, but often unnoticed, part of the supply chain How Pallet Trader helps companies source new and used pallets The recycling process for pallets and how it reduces waste How to manage pallet responsibility between shippers, carriers, and warehouses What to do with leftover pallets after peak season Want to learn more? Catch the full episode today at 12:30 PM Eastern on YouTube or your favorite podcast app (Apple Podcasts, Spotify). Subscribe to the FreightWaves newsletter for more industry insights: https://www.freightwaves.com/check-call Don't miss out on this informative episode - subscribe to the FreightWaves Now channel for more!

In this episode of FreightWaves Now Community Spotlight, Kaylee and Grace discuss the rise of snacking in America and how it has changed the way we eat. They also talk about the impact of social media on snacking trends and the challenges that snack companies face in a world where people are increasingly concerned about their health. Here are some key points from the discussion: 00:00:16 Snacking has become a hallmark of the American way of eating. 00:00:37 There has been a cultural shift towards snacking in recent decades. 00:01:12 CPG companies are capitalizing on this trend by developing new and innovative snack products. 00:05:32 Social media is playing a major role in shaping snacking trends. 00:06:55 Snack companies are facing challenges from the health and wellness movement. Want to learn more about the snacking industry? Check out our previous episodes and subscribe to The Stockout for more insights and updates.

Join us for an insightful discussion on the complexities of cross-border logistics, specifically focusing on the transportation of temperature-sensitive produce between the United States and Mexico. Our expert guest, Mary O'Connell, dives into the challenges posed by border congestion, exchange rate fluctuations, and increased inspections. Discover how companies are adapting their strategies to overcome these hurdles, including the establishment of co-located warehouses and customs brokerage facilities on both sides of the border. Learn about the importance of prioritizing produce shipments and the creative solutions implemented to ensure the timely and safe delivery of perishable goods. Key topics covered: The impact of near-shoring on cross-border produce transportation   Challenges faced at border crossings due to increased traffic Strategies for mitigating congestion and ensuring efficient customs clearance The role of exchange rates in influencing cross-border freight costs The impact of increased inspections on border crossings and cold chain logistics Don't miss this informative episode as we explore the intricacies of cross-border logistics and the innovative solutions being adopted by industry leaders.