Logistics Matters with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Ian Williams, Technical Services Manager at Orkin. He helps us to understand a subject that few people want to talk about –  the pests that often overrun facilities. We are talking mice, rats, bugs, and other critters that get in and destroy products, contaminate areas, and just cause a general nuisance. Williams has some great ideas on how to keep them out of our buildings – and if they get in – to deal with them for good. Often it involves thinking like a mouse.Globally, nearly 60% of companies expect a negative impact from the Trump administration's “Liberation Day” tariff rollout, which happened back on April 2. That's according to a survey of 4,500 companies from around the world, including the United States, conducted in March and April by international credit insurer Allianz Trade. We got some clarity this week about one important aspect of logistics, which is forklifts. This ended a long debate about whether propane-fueled forklifts could operate in warehouses in the state of California, and it had been caught up in a lawsuit. To cut to the chase, propane forklifts will be allowed. We share the details of the new agreement and what it means for California's attempts to have zero-emission vehicles operating in many parts of our supply chains.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Orkin CommercialUnpredictability dampens exporters outlookCalifornia drops proposed ban on propane forkliftsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Storage SolutionsOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is John Lash, group vice president of strategy at e2open. We now have a pause in tariffs with China – or at least a sizable reduction in the amount of those tariffs compared to what was in place two weeks ago in the ongoing tariff wars. How are supply chains reacting and where do we go from here? Will we see another surge in imports during the 90 day pause and how do companies prepare for back-to-school and holiday seasons? Our guest share his insights.Shippers and importers need to be able to plan their shipments over the busy summer months, but there is little certainty to help them plan. We look at how companies are making adjustments during the Chinese tariff pause and how that may affect their planning for the rest of the year.Today, many workers in general are facing “return to office” mandates, but frontline workers in some industries, including logistics, are seeing an increase in opportunities to work from home. This information comes from a survey by resume-building platform Resume Now and frontline workforce hiring company Talroo. We look at what jobs in logistics are seeing increases in remote work opportunities.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:e2openU.S. importers await expiration of 90-day tariff pauseRemote job opportunities in logistics are on the riseVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: KardexOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Hamilton Galloway, head of U.S. consultancy at Oxford Economics. Many of our listeners use forklifts in their supply chain operations every day. They really are the workhorses for moving products within facilities. But you might be surprised at the impact that the forklift industry makes on the overall U.S. economy. Recently the Industrial Truck Association, the industry organization that represents the forklift industry, partnered with Oxford Economics to evaluate those economic impacts. We share the remarkable numbers of the industry's contributions to GDP, jobs, taxes, and more.Logistics companies are taking a hard look at how artificial intelligence can help their operations. This week you saw how AI is having an effect on overworked logistics employees. Are those effects good or bad? A new survey of more than 300 supply chain decision makers found that companies are prioritizing technology investments, compliance, and outsourced services to optimize their supply chains and adapt to changing regulations—specifically as they navigate today's evolving trade and tariffs landscape. We share some of the interesting findings.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Oxford EconomicsIndustrial Truck AssociationLogistics workers have highest burnout riskReport: supply chain optimization takes center stageVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: KardexOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Keith Peterson, director of operations at The National Motor Freight Traffic Association. For many years, less-than-truckload motor freight has been classified by a complex and rather outdated system. That is about to change – starting in July the industry will begin listing freight commodities in a system that is more condensed and modernized. But, what will this new freight classification system mean for both carriers and shippers? Our guest explains.Many companies have been stockpiling extra inventory ahead of the implementation of new tariffs, but a new report this week shows that there can be possible downsides to that strategy. We share what they are and who is affected.Despite the economic uncertainty, a new report from DHL Express shows that small and mid-sized companies seem to be beating the odds. DHL Express surveyed more than 400 customers—all small or mid-sized businesses in the United States—and found that despite the prevailing economic turmoil, most are confident in their business outlook.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:National Motor Freight Traffic Association U.S. firms stockpile goods ahead of tariffsReport: small businesses buck the oddsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: KardexOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Ram Ben Tzion, the founder and CEO of Publican. Today marks the end of the De Minimus tax exemption for many imported goods. If you are not familiar with that exemption, it was designed to reduce the import paper work and tax duty collecting for low-value goods. But as a result, there were claims of abuse, unfair competition, and that the exemption allowed drug traffickers to easily import illegal drugs. So, starting today, there are new rules. Our guest shares the details and how supply chains will be affected. This week, the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) released a report  showing that freight brokers nationwide are facing some pretty staggering losses due to cargo theft and what they say are “increasingly complex fraud schemes.” We examine the most common scheme and what can be done to reduce fraud and cargo theft.This week the administration ordered that all truck drivers be proficient in understanding the English language in order to drive a truck in the United States. The new order rescinds the previous guidance issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which back in 2016 had relaxed the enforcement of existing English proficiency standards. Drivers found not to be in compliance will automatically declared "out of service." Exactly how it will be enforced and what the specifics are remain to be seen.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:PublicanFreight brokers battle rising fraud schemesTrump requires English language proficiency for truckersVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: KardexOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Matthew Haber, the CEO and co-founder of Cofactr. Recent surveys show that both consumers and business leaders don't think tariffs are a good thing. In both cases they feel this economic policy is leading us to higher prices and a recession. Manufacturers in particular are trying to figure out what to do next. And our guest today looks at the impacts of the changing U.S. trade policies on manufacturing. A study out this week confirms that some of the actions supply chain professionals have taken in recent years to build up their companies' resilience have worked – most companies say they are confident in their ability to manage disruptions these days. However, a good portion of those supply chain pros also point to some lingering problems – particularly when it comes to supply chain visibility. This week we heard about another type of fee being applied by the Trump Administration on global trade, which is a new set of fees starting in October that will affect cargo vessels and container ships that are built, owned, or operated by Chinese companies. The White House says this has to do with unfair foreign practices affecting U.S. commerce. We dig into what the supply chain industry says about these new fees. Will they help or hurt U.S. businesses?Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:CofactrSupply chain pros bullish on managing disruptionPort groups and ocean carriers oppose Trump fees on Chinese shipsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: ID LabelOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Ken Ramoutar, Chief Marketing Officer at Lucas Systems.  As supply chains adjust to changing conditions, they will continue to need tools to increase flexibility, speed, and productivity. That's where technology can come to the rescue. Our guest offers insights into how new technologies can help operators address the many challenges they face today.Most economists are predicting that an uncertain market like this one means individual shoppers will cut back on discretionary spending - things like luxury goods and travel. Instead, they'll save up their money because most models predict the tariffs will cause higher prices on goods. And that may already be happening, but this week we saw two measures that showed that many consumers are actually buying more goods in certain sectors. We explain why.Despite the economic uncertainty we've been experiencing, wages for truck drivers and warehouse staff surged in the first quarter amid strong demand for frontline workers nationwide. This is according to a report from two employment industry companies – resume-building platform Resume Now and talent-matching platform Talroo. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Lucas SystemsThe grocery sector holds strong as consumers cut discretionary spendingCensus data shows that retail sales grew in MarchReport: trucking and warehousing pay up in Q1Visit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: ID LabelOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Will Eadie, chief strategy officer at WorkJam. As the United States works to ramp up its manufacturing base, one area remains a problem – and that is finding good workers to provide the needed manufacturing labor. What are the challenges in hiring for manufacturing and how do companies retain good workers? Our guest offers his insight and potential strategies.Warehouses can often be dangerous places to work. People and machines are constantly moving around. Products are being lifted overhead in an environment where speed it essential. Sadly, all of this movement can occasionally lead to accidents. We share some new research into what causes accidents in warehouses and how good training and awareness are needed to prevent them.We write a lot in DC Velocity about how artificial intelligence is making slow but steady inroads in supply chains. Most of the focus has been on the technology itself and not so much the people working with it. However, CMA CGM, the big French ocean container carrier and logistics provider, is taking a different approach to AI implementation.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:WorkJamNew report highlights the importance of forklift safetyCMA CGM to spend $110 million on bespoke AIVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: ID LabelOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Dr. Robert Sroufe, professor of sustainability at the Falk School of Sustainability & Environment at Chatham University in Pittsburgh. Supply chains are among the largest users of our world's energy. Yet our industry is one of the most advanced in advocating for sustainability. But as political winds shift dramatically in Washington, many environmental policies may be on the chopping block. Where do our industry's efforts lie going forward? Our guest has some insights and suggestions to better our supply chains while reducing their negative impacts on the environment.The White House termed Wednesday as Liberation Day – the day the administration announced all of the new tariffs. But it seems that supply chain leaders are feeling more shackled than liberated by the tariffs. We report on what leading supply chain groups, researchers, and economists are saying about how the tariffs will affect supply chain operations and world trade.This week the March Logistics Managers' Index report emphasized all the volatility we've been observing in the economy. Economic activity in logistics expanded in March, but at a much slower rate compared to the first two months of the year. We look at the numbers and what trends they may reveal about the health of our supply chain industry.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Falk School of Sustainability & Environment, Chatham University in PittsburghMarket analysts say Trump tariffs spark economic risksLogistics industry growth slowed in MarchVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: ID LabelOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Danny Ramon, director of intelligence and response at Overhaul Risk Advisory Services. Cargo theft continues to be a problem for transportation companies. Sophisticated organized thieves target goods in transit – from high valued electronics to even a recent shipment of eggs. How can shipping companies prevent and discourage theft of their goods? Our guest discusses the growing incidents of cargo theft and what can be done to prevent them.We've seen increasing use of technology inside truck cabs in recent years, with the rise of tools like electronic logging devices (ELDs), GPS locators, and lots of smartphone apps. But one of the technologies that's been more challenging to adapt has been dash-cams. Laws vary from state to state on what is permissible to capture and record on camera devices. However, there are now some new technologies that can help to overcome the patchwork of state laws and still provide valuable information that these dash cameras can provide.A report from supply chain software company Cleo found that supply chain resilience is rising in stature among business leaders, ranking right up there with cybersecurity concerns. The company's 2025 Global Supply Chain Executive Report shows that 83% of executives surveyed said that supply chain resilience is as critical to their companies as cybersecurity is, with many saying they are turning to technology to boost resilience.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Overhaul Risk Advisory ServicesTool lets fleets switch off driver video tools by geographyReport: business leaders are prioritizing supply chain resilienceVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Andrei Quinn-Barabanov, Supply Chain Industry Practice Lead and Senior Director with Moody's. It was five years ago this month that our world was rocked with the Covid-19 virus. That is when businesses and schools closed and we were all stuck at home waiting for things to get better. All the while, supply chains kept us fed and happy at home, for the most part. Our supply chains had to adjust and they are still feeling the effects of the pandemic five years later. Our guest reflects on how supply chains reacted then and how they now will never be the same.Most of our editorial staff was at ProMat 2025 this past week in Chicago – a huge supply chain show and the largest material handling exhibition in North America.  And everywhere we looked, there were robotics and automation systems to be seen. Most distribution facilities and factories will eventually end up with a number of different types of automation and robotics within their facilities. So, the big challenge is to integrate all of these disparate systems to play nice with one another. We look at a couple of "orchestration" solutions on display at ProMat.All of the automation solutions exhibited at ProMat take power. In this episode, we look at some innovative energy solutions that keep those automation systems operating at peak performance. We also discuss an energy management solution that can potentially lower the utility bills of facilities.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Moody'sEnersys previews latest battery energy storage system and next generation chargerPowerHive video on YouTubeOcado debuts Porter AMRVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Erin Mittlestaedt, the CEO of the FruitGuys. The world continues to react to the trade disruptions caused by the Trump administration's new tariffs. Of course, tariffs don't only mean that we pay more for imports, it also affects exports because of the retaliatory tariffs imposed by other countries that we trade with. Farmers will be among those hit the hardest by retaliatory tariffs. They may limit export markets and if other farmers are not exporting as much also that means the market will flood with more domestic products, reducing the income. Our guest shares what the new trade policies will mean for these farmers.  Despite anticipating geopolitical shifts, Chief Supply Chain Officers (CSCOs) remain largely unprepared for their impact. That's according to a recent report from British management consulting firm Egon Zehnder. The company's latest CSCO report surveying supply chain business leaders found that their jobs have many competing priorities demanding their attention. As a result, just 15% of CSCOs surveyed reported feeling prepared for the impact of trade policy changes such as tariffs.Increasing tariffs essentially means adding a tax on U.S. companies that import goods. As a result, these companies either source less of their products internationally or consumers will buy less of them because of higher prices on the shelves. Either way, freight carriers won't be happy because they'll be hauling less cargo. A new report shows the possible impacts of the tariff war on the carrier community and it also speaks of the probability that growth in international trade will slow this year.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. All episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:The FruitGuysSupply chain leaders are unprepared for tariff impacts according to a new studyAfter Trump tariffs, global trade cold grow at a much slower paceVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Rosemary Coates, executive director of the Reshoring Institute. We've seen a roller coaster week involving tariffs. First they are on, then exceptions, then some reprieve. It makes one dizzy. But one of the stated aims of the new administration for establishing all of these tariffs is to force more manufacturing to return to domestic shores. Is that a workable strategy? Our guest offers some insights into reshoring initiatives and what industries are best suited to returning their manufacturing to America.Adding to the theme of this week's episode, we look back at the tariff directives this week for international trade. What actually happened and how did the week end? We also discuss how this appears to be more of a negotiating strategy based on the president's past history of negotiating deals. Yet in the middle of all of it, how can supply chain managers properly plan and not add the costs often associated with uncertainty?Despite the chaos, supply chains seem to be holding their own, as reflected in the monthly numbers reported this week in the Logistics Managers' Index. Rising inventory levels boosted activity across the transportation and warehousing industries. This occurred because companies were replenishing inventory following the holiday peak season, but also because they were rushing to import products ahead of tariffs. We break down the numbers and what they may predict for future supply chain health.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:The Reshoring InstituteAs tariff policy sows uncertainty, supply chain professionals look for mitigation strategiesNavigating the tariff wave: 7 strategies for global supply chain optimizationLogistics activity expanded in FebruaryVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Brian Lynch, EY Americas Transportation Sector Leader and an Executive Director in the Transaction Strategy and Execution practice at EY-Parthenon. With the ratification earlier this week of the new 6-year agreement between dock workers and ports on the East and Gulf Coasts, it seems like we will have some labor peace that will last a while. Our guest discusses what that bit of certainty means to both shippers and carriers. Mobile robots in the warehouse—such as autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), goods-to-person systems, and automated storage and retrieval systems—have now been accepted as mature technologies. Susan Lacefield, executive editor of Supply Chain Xchange, joins us to talk about the industry acceptance of these technologies and to preview the latest issue of SCX that focuses on robotics and automation.Supply chains are among those industries where workers face a higher level of risk of injury, according to new research released by manufacturer Kuru. The study analyzed data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to identify where supply chain jobs rank among jobs from other industries for the potential for on-the-job injuries.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:EY AmericasSupply Chain XchangeReport: Transportation and warehousing top list of most injury-prone industriesVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Matt Wicks, senior director of robotics automation at Zebra Technologies. Robotics are rapidly gaining acceptance in distribution operations. They can work 24/7 with a high degree of uptime and accuracy. Our guest shares in which areas of warehouse operations robotics are proving to be the most useful, trends that are leading to their adoption, and what might be hindering robotic deployments in some cases.During this first month of the new administration in Washington, we have seen a shift away from support of electric vehicles, including electric trucks that serve our supply chain operations. As a result, California has responded with adjustments to its electric vehicle mandates. In this segment, we discuss other trends and hindrances towards electric vehicle adoption, as well as an innovative technology that is being piloted for long-haul trucks in Europe.Supply chains continue to deal with a growing volume of returns following holiday peak, and 2024 was no exception. Recent survey data from technology company Akeneo showed that 65% of shoppers made holiday returns this year, with most reporting that their online experience played a large role in their reason for doing so. We look at how the returns season went this year and what practices retailers can implement to decrease the number of product returns.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Zebra TechnologiesDHL tests electric truck with on-board generatorJD Power says that EV growth will stagnate in 2025 due to federal policiesReport reveals that 65% of consumers made holiday returns this yearVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is John (Jay) Rogers, CEO and co-founder of Haddy. There has been a push in the past few years to do more manufacturing here at home. One of the key technologies that is enabling more domestic production is digital manufacturing. That's where Haddy comes in. Haddy is the world's first 3D printing furniture manufacturer powered by AI and advanced robotic technology. Jay Rogers talks with us about this unique approach to manufacturing. A new report from Colliers, the industrial real estate firm, reveals data on fourth quarter warehouse construction. The report shows that renters of warehouse space should begin to see some relief after the seriously steep rent hikes they're seen in recent years. The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) released its annual list of the nation's top truck bottlenecks. This is the group's 14th annual report on this issue. Its goal is not only to identify the top congested freight markets, but also to help local, state, and federal governments target funding to areas most in need of relief. The full report shares ways to reduce chokepoints, lower emissions, and drive economic growth. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:HaddyColliers reports that warehouse construction rates return to pre-pandemic levelsATRI releases the annual list of the nation's top truck bottlenecksVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Maggie Barnett, CEO of third party logistics company LVK. It has been a whirlwind week in Washington. First the administration announced shocking new tariffs. Then within hours those new tariffs for Canada and Mexico were called off and postponed for a month. New Chinese tariffs remain. With all of the back and forth and uncertainty, how are supply chains to plan for their future? Our guest offers some advice and also discusses the changing de minimis rules for importing small-value items that had formerly been exempt from tariffs.Economic activity in logistics expanded in January, growing at its fastest clip in more than two years; that's according to the latest Logistics Managers' Index (LMI) report, released this week. We look at the solid numbers and what they mean for the near-term future of supply chains.Artificial intelligence is one of the biggest buzzwords of the year, but a new study shows that although most supply chain organizations are testing it out, a lot of them are running into challenges. This news comes in a new survey from the analyst group Gartner that found that generative AI (GenAI) is being deployed by 72% of supply chain organizations, but most are experiencing just middling results for productivity and ROI. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:LVKLogistics Managers' IndexThe logistics economy picked up speed in JanuaryGartner says GenAI tools create anxiety among employeesVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Kathy Fulton, the executive director of the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN). We have all seen the unprecedented damage caused by the wildfires near Los Angeles. It is at times like this that the supply chain industry can mobilize resources to make sure supplies get to those who need help. Kathy Fulton shares what the emergency needs are, what is being done, and what more can be done. She also gives her take on the role of FEMA in disaster response.We saw some encouraging signs this week of manufacturing projects here in the U.S. Of course, manufacturing brings the promise of new jobs, and also of material handling, warehousing, trucking, and all the logistics that's needed to make a factory work. We discuss two new projects - the construction of a $1.2 billion plant in Oklahoma for producing materials for batteries and GE Vernova plans to invest $600 million in its U.S. factories over the next two years to support its energy businesses.  The National Motor Freight Traffic Association, or NMFTA, published proposed changes to its National Motor Freight Classification system this week. The NMFC is a freight classification tool that businesses throughout the less-than-truckload industry use to classify and establish prices for moving freight. When they take effect later this year, shippers may see changes in the LTL prices they pay to move freight.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) GE Vernova to invest $600 million in U.S. manufacturing sitesLithium Refinery to build $1.2 billion factory in Oklahoma NMFTA to release proposed freight classification changes this weekInformation on NMFC changes at NMFC websiteVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: CSCMP EDGE 2025Other linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Kristen Purvis, product manager at ePost Global. Retailers have just completed a very successful holiday shopping season. But now those same retailers are dealing with many unwanted gifts in the form of returns. Are there ways they can successfully managing them? Our guest has some insights into ways to cut costs, be more sustainable in reverse logistics operations, and incorporate artificial intelligence into returns processes.Technology is vital to any business operation, but a recent study shows that logistics leaders view it as fundamental to managing growth in an increasingly complex global trade environment. The study, which was released this week by logistics technology vendor Descartes Systems Group, found that 74% of supply chain and logistics leaders view technology as fundamental or highly important to their organization's growth strategy in the face of rising global trade challenges. It's been a busy week in Washington DC as the new administration has officially started the process of appointing directors to top posts, including those that oversee and regulate our supply chains. We talk about the new nomination for Secretary of Transportation, Sean Duffy, as well as important appointments to head the Surface Transportation Board and the Federal Maritime Commission. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:ePost GlobalSupply chain leaders say technology is key to business growth as global trade complexities riseDuffy wins Senate committee approval as Transportation nomineeTrump names new heads of federal transportation panelsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: CSCMP EDGE 2025Other linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Zac Rogers, associate professor of operations and supply chain management, Colorado State University. 2025 is just two weeks old and most of us have barely settled into the new year.  Considering the unknown economic outlook, politics, possible tariffs, and ongoing turmoil around the world, it could be another interesting and a possibly volatile year for supply chains. Our guest shares his insights based data from on his role in helping to produce the monthly Logistics Managers' Index.We're in the middle of the transition season for a new administration in Washington DC. There are a lot of unknowns in this time of change, but one thing that's definitely happening is that business interests are busy lobbying politicians to protect their interests. And this week we saw some details that show what policies supply chain interest groups might want to happen in coming years. This was news from the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), which released an eight-point wish-list for its recommended policy agenda to support the nation's seaports.Manufacturing and logistics workers are raising a red flag over workplace quality issues according to industry research released this week. And it's all related to internal and external pressures that are causing workers to cut corners, risking both safety and compliance demands.  Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Colorado State University Supply Chain Management ProgramAAPA lobbies incoming administration on seaport policiesStudy shows industrial workers bypass essential process amid mounting stressVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: CSCMP EDGE 2025Other linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Ian Wilson, Senior Analyst with Intelligence Solutions at Everstream Analytics. At what seems like the 11th hour, dockworkers and ports on the East and Gulf Coasts agreed to a new contract. What will labor peace mean for shippers using those ports? Our guest has some insights. He also talks about whether there will be possible impacts for shippers on the West Coast due to the out-of-control wildfires raging around Los Angeles.In a report in the MIT Sloan Management Review, researchers Tom Davenport and Randy Bean wrote about five trends in AI and data science that all businesses should be paying attention to this year. AI has become a very hot topic in logistics circles in the past couple of years, so any research that sheds light on how this technology is affecting business and commerce is something we want to pay attention to. The five trends range from the promise of agentic AI to the struggle over which C-suite role should oversee data and AI responsibilities.We're in a part of the business cycle where it can be pretty difficult to find enough warehouse space to rent or lease, whether you're a manufacturer, retailer, or a 3PL. This information comes from a quarterly measurement from the commercial real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield. The report said the overall national industrial real estate vacancy rate edged higher in the fourth quarter. More vacancy means it's easier to find a place to rent—although vacancy still remains well below pre-pandemic levels. We discuss the report's outlook for available space in the new year. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Everstream AnalyticsFive trends in AI and data science for 2025Demand for warehouse space cooled off slightly in fourth quarterVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: CSCMP EDGE 2025Other linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Jason Schenker, president of Prestige Economics. Schenker is one of the world's leading economists and he shares his insights into what happened in 2024 with the U.S. economy as well as predictions for 2025. Our discussion includes the economic outlook for supply chains and the material handling industry in particular, inflation, consumer prices, interest rates, employment, and looming tariffs One of the top themes we covered in the past year was the labor pool, and specifically how employers in the logistics sector have struggled to find either qualified employees for increasingly technical positions, or simple enough at all for even entry level positions for things like warehouse work and truck driving. This week a report was released that identified five workplace trends that are coming up in the new year, and methods for how employers can best adapt.With peak shipping season behind us, it's time to move on to peak returns season. We are now in the thick of it when it comes to reverse logistics, as retailers and e-commerce fulfillment companies deal with all those post-holiday gifts coming back. We preview a January story in DC Velocity that reveals that many retailers are rethinking their approaches when it comes to managing their returns processes. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Prestige EconomicsWorkplace report finds 5 trends sweeping global labor poolVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Werner Premium ServicesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Lee Ambrose, vice president at Remote Security Solutions. We hear regularly about securing our supply chains from threats, such as products being stolen while they are in transit. But security is more than just theft - it is also securing and protecting facilities and the people who work in them. Our guest discusses the possible threats that face our supply chains and how to keep both workers and products safe from harm. California this week got federal approval to move ahead to the final stages of approval for its 2022 plan to gradually scale back the sale of gas-powered cars within the state. They needed federal approval to have a standard different from broader U.S. rules, and the EPA has now allowed what's called the Advanced Clean Cars II rule. This means that by 2035, all new cars sold in California will have to be zero-emissions models, which includes battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and plug-in hybrid cars. Congestion on U.S. highways is costing the trucking industry big, according to research from the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI), which was released this week. The group found that traffic congestion on U.S. roadways added $108.8 billion in costs to the trucking industry in 2022—the latest data available. This is a record high. We look at states with the highest amount of traffic congestion. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Remote Security SolutionsCalifornia moves a step closer to requiring EV sales only by 2035Trucking industry experiences record high congestion costsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Werner Premium ServicesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Dwight Klappich, research vice president and Gartner Fellow at consultancy Gartner, Inc. There is tremendous interest in the growth of robotics and drone applications now being deployed in distribution operations. Is the hype and attention they have received warranted?  Klappich defines the "hype cycle" and how it can be a useful tool for determining when is the right time to adopt new automation technologies.A new report out this week reveals that global forklift sales are sputtering. Lift truck sales are even falling short of their initial forecasts for 2024, according to Interact Analysis, a British consulting firm. That group has now revised their forecast for global forklift sales growth for 2024 down to just 0.3%, which is basically flat. We explain why sales have not met expectations, which sectors are most affected, and prospects for the future.Many logistics and supply chain leaders are focused on reorganizing their supply chains these days—but as they do so, they should be careful to avoid common pitfalls that can derail their efforts. That's according to recent research from Gartner that identifies critical organizational design mistakes that will prevent supply chain leaders from delivering on business goals. The research revealed that the most successful projects radically redesign supply chain structure based on distinct organizational needs, while prioritizing balance, strength, and speed as key business objectives. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:GartnerGlobal forklift sales sputter as European economy strugglesReport: Supply chain redesigns should focus on balance, speed, and strengthVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Werner Premium ServicesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Paul Caron, a cyber Intelligence expert whose title is Head of Cyber Security, Americas at global intelligence and cybersecurity consultancy S-RM. Last week we learned of a major ransomware attack at Blue Yonder that put many supply chains in a somewhat perilous situation just as we went into Black Friday. So, how secure are our supply chains and should this latest attack be something of a wake-up call? Our guest offers some insights into such attacks and how supply chain companies can build security and resilience into their systems.Economic activity in the logistics industry expanded in November, continuing a steady growth pattern that began earlier this year and signaling a return to seasonality after several years of fluctuating conditions. That's according to the latest Logistics Managers' Index report (LMI), which was released this week. We look at the numbers behind the index and what they mean for the health of the logistics industry.We are smack in between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and knee-deep in the middle of the winter-peak shopping season. And that means we're also in the middle of the peak-shipping season, when e-commerce retailers are handling a huge surge of orders for holiday gifts. Most shoppers are demanding to receive their goods in two days or less. We share a report card on how they are doing at getting these shipments to their destinations on time.  Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:S-RMThe logistics economy continues on solid footingRetailers produce fastest delivery times since Covid-19Get episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Werner Premium ServicesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Chris Jamroz, CEO at Roadrunner. It is no secret that the trucking industry has had a challenging couple of years. In addition to economic factors, like higher interest rates and inflation, truckers have also had to face too much capacity in the market and disruptions from several natural disasters. How has the less-than-truckload market weathered these storms and what are prospects for 2025? Our guest shares his insights.Businesses are cautiously optimistic as peak holiday shipping season draws near, with many anticipating year-over-year sales increases despite continuing to battle challenging supply chain conditions. That's according a report from DHL Express U.S. released this week; it's DHL's 2024 Peak Season Shipping Survey. The company surveyed small and medium-sized businesses to gauge their holiday business outlook compared to last year and found that a mix of optimism and “strategic caution” prevail ahead of this year's peak.It seems like there's always a new supply chain disruption right around the corner.  This week a new report from trucking and logistics provider Averitt predicted the first month of 2025 could have more turmoil than usual. The Averitt report tracked three potential supply chain hurdles as we head into 2025: the disruptions caused by Chinese New Year (CNY), the looming threat of potential tariffs on foreign-made products that could be imposed by the incoming Trump Administration, and the unresolved contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX).Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Roadrunner FreightReport shows SMEs are hopeful ahead of holiday peakAveritt tracks three hurdles for international trade in 2025Get episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Werner Premium ServicesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Judah Levine , head of research at Freightos Group. We are now past the elections here in the United States and supply chains are already planning for life under a second Trump administration. The president-elect has promised sweeping tariffs on imports that will have huge impacts to our supply chains. Our guest shares his insights into how importers are trying to bring goods into the country before higher tariffs are enacted and what impacts proposed tariffs may have in the future for our nation's international trade.A new report this week from commercial real estate firm CBRE shares trends in industrial real estate. The report explains that the businesses leasing the most warehouse space are 3PLs, third-party logistics providers. The amount of space that 3PLs are leasing rose significantly over the past year and reveals some interesting themes about the economy overall.We saw more information this week pointing to the growing use of robotics in logistics and supply chain operations. Technology research and consulting firm Gartner came out with its Hype Cycle for Mobile Robots and Drones. The report shows that supply chains are poised for accelerated adoption of mobile robots and drones as those technologies mature and companies focus on implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and automation across their logistics operations. The report explains that several mobile robotics technologies will mature over the next two to five years, and it also identifies breakthrough and rising technologies set to have an impact in the future.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Freightos3PLs claim growing share of large industrial leases, CBRE saysMobile robots and drones move beyond the hypeGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Werner Premium ServicesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Jeff Rogers, director of field maintenance operations at Ryder, Inc. Veterans' Day is Monday. The supply chain industry, like many fields, has a large number of veterans who have brought the skills they acquired in the military and now apply them to civilian work. Our guest today shares about his own military experience and how it has helped him carve out a long and successful career at Ryder.You can hardly turn anywhere in our industry without hearing something about artificial intelligence and how it is bound to impact supply chains. However, actual and successful use cases are still being worked on. This week we learned about some actual examples of how AI is being deployed, working a bit behind the scenes to complete some common supply chain tasks.The return to steadier growth across logistics markets continued in October, as industry conditions moderated from the ups and downs of the last few years. That's according to the latest Logistics Managers' Index, or LMI, which was published on Tuesday. We share the latest statistics from the report and discuss what the numbers mean in reflecting trends in the industry.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:RyderC.H. Robinson automates 10,000 email tasks per day with AIInvestor Brad Jacobs hires chief artificial intelligence officerLogistics economy grew in OctoberGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Werner Premium ServicesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Ashray Lavsi, a principal at the global procurement and supply chain consultancy Efficio. It's no secret that China has ambitions to bring Taiwan into its fold. Chinese rhetoric and military operations in the region have already threatened Taiwan, which has acted as a sovereign nation since the end of the Second World War. But such a move against Taiwan would cause major chaos to our supply chains, including the 50% of world container shipments that currently pass through the Taiwan Strait. While we hope this will not turn into a worst-case scenario, what should shippers and manufacturers do now to prepare for a potential attack or blockage of Taiwan from China?A new report from Gartner outlines the supply chain investments in digital technology that companies are currently prioritizing. And it should be no surprise as to which digital technology tops the list for investment dollars. We reveal the tech and discuss the impact that it is making on supply chains.We have turned the calendar to November and that means the holidays are right around the corner, so it is not too early to talk about the upcoming holiday shopping season. Are consumers expected to fill their stockings to the brim this year? We offer insights from two new reports that show that consumer spending may be somewhat flat this peak shopping season.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:EfficioAI tops digital supply chain investment prioritiesRakuten report says shoppers do not plan to increase their 2024 holiday spendRetailers face a highly challenging holiday seasonGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Werner Premium ServicesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Dennis Moon, COO of Roadie, a crowd-sourcing delivery company. Halloween is just a few days away. It has grown in popularity over the years to now be among America's favorite holidays - right up there with Christmas and Thanksgiving. Making sure that the deliveries of all of the costumes, decorations, and treats get to their destinations on time is a big task. Our guest shares some insights into how companies are delivering the goods for Halloween.It certainly has been an interesting year in logistics. Many natural disasters and man-made problems have caused supply chain disruptions on a global scale. As we begin to wind down 2024, it leaves us to ponder what is in store for 2025? Will we see more of the same or will technology help to create a better environment for logistics companies? We look at some predictions for supply chain technology trends that will drive the market forward in the coming year.As robots continue to make inroads into our distribution centers, there is one area that is just now getting some love from the robots. That area is bulk handling - specifically handling heavy items moved and stored on pallets. Bulk handling is getting this new attention from robotics companies, as they see this as an area where automation can help deal with the labor challenges of lifting and moving heavy loads.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:RoadieForrester forecasts technology trends for 2025How to handle a palletGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Bindiya Vakil, CEO and co-founder at Resilinc. As the Southeast is continuing to recover from the double whammy of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, supply chains have recovered to bring goods to the affected areas and the people who need help. But what can we do to strengthen those supply chains and reduce future risk from the disruptions that widespread natural disasters like hurricanes can cause? Companies are collecting lots of data about their operations and their supply chains. However, most are not using that data effectively. What can companies do to capture and take advantage of their own big data?New research shows that regulatory compliance, tech advances, and consumer demand will spur 8% growth in eco-friendly warehousing and transportation services over the next 10 years. These trends continue to impact supply chain operations, as companies look to integrate electric vehicles into their fleets, use alternative fuels to power vehicles and facilities, and use more energy-efficient equipment and automation systems. We explore what is behind the numbers in the new research.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:ResilincBusinesses thrive with real-time data flowsDeloitte clean energy transition offers opportunitiesLogistics services continue to go greenGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Kathy Fulton, executive director at the American Logistics Aid Network, or better known in the logistics industry as ALAN. All of us have witnessed the devastation that Hurricane Helene brought to the Southeast and the Carolinas in particular. And then right on the heels of that we had Hurricane Milton tearing across Florida earlier this week. It is during disasters like these that we see the best that the logistics industry has to offer, and of course that is the work of ALAN. Kathy shares what her team is doing to match logistics services with those who need help in those recovering areas.Florida and the Southeast region have been hit hard by storms and disruptions this Fall.  Hurricane Milton moved across central Florida just this week. So the damage reports are obviously not in yet. But we have learned a lot about the longterm effects of recent events and disruptions on supply chains, including Hurricane Helene, the East and Gulf Coast dockworkers strike, and Hurricane Milton. We discuss a new technology that may impact warehouse inventory operations.Inventory drone provider Corvus Robotics made news this week with a product update and the announcement of a new $18 million funding round. The update includes new cameras that allow the drones to work in a lights-out environment—essentially, they deliver a fully autonomous experience.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes is now available on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) Hurricane Milton takes aim at weary FloridaFlorida measures the damage of Hurricane MiltonCorvus Robotics launches drones for lights-out warehousesGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Elizabeth Gallenagh, general counsel and senior VP, Supply Chain Integrity, for the Healthcare Distribution Alliance. Pharmaceutical supply chains have been ramping up for a number of years to meet the requirements of the Drug Supply Chain Security Act, also known as DSCSA.  The DSCSA requires the tracking and serializing of all pharmaceutical products. The deadline is set for November, but is the industry ready for it? Our guest shares some insights. It has been six months since the Francis Scott Key highway bridge over Baltimore harbor collapsed when a containership lost power and drifted into the bridge abutment. And now a team of researchers from Johns Hopkins University has completed a study that identifies which bridges across the U.S. may be most vulnerable to another such collapse. They did the work because they believe that chances are high for another such incident, and that risk to the Key Bridge amid modern shipping traffic had been underestimated.Two European companies are among the most recent firms to put autonomous last-mile delivery to the test with a project in Bern, Switzerland. Swiss transportation and logistics company Planzer has teamed up with fellow Swiss firm Loxo, which develops autonomous driving software solutions. They will run a two-year pilot project in which a Loxo-equipped, Planzer parcel delivery van will handle last-mile logistics in Bern's city center.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A series of ten episodes just dropped on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Healthcare Distribution AllianceStudy shows which bridges may need more protection from ship collisionsDriverless parcel delivery debuts in SwitzerlandGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Zebra Robotics AutomationOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Judah Levine, head of research at Freightos. The deadline is Monday to avert a dockworkers strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. That is when the current labor contract is expiring. A strike of even short duration could wreck a lot of supply chains. Our guest gives us the latest update on the negotiations and what effects a strike might have.Wreaths Across America is seeking carriers and drivers to join the nonprofit's Honor Fleet, delivering wreaths this holiday season to cemeteries across the country in honor of U.S. military veterans. We share about the organization's mission and how volunteer drivers can help.One of the biggest impacts of pollution is from airplanes that pump out their emissions right into the upper atmosphere. We heard this week about a plan from Honeywell, the big industrial technology provider, to create a special kind of fuel mix called sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for both passengers and freight planes.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A  new series of ten episodes just dropped on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:FreightosTruckers honor vets as part of Wreaths Across America DayWreaths Across Americatrucking@wreathsacrossamerica.org Honeywell technology will support sustainable aviation fuel plantGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: WernerOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Dana Stiffler, distinguished VP analyst at Gartner, an industry research and consulting firm. Women continue to be leaders in our industry throughout the world and their impacts are immeasurable. Recently Gartner teamed with the women's supply chain organization AWESOME to complete the ninth annual Women in Supply Chain survey that looks at the work of the female gender in supply chains. Our guest shares the results of the survey and offers insights into growing the number of women in leadership positions.Many supply chain managers are keeping a careful eye on the ongoing negotiations with dock workers at the East Coast and Gulf Coast ports – and we are getting much closer now to the September 30th deadline. We have the latest on the negotiations and what supply chain executives are doing to prepare for potential shutdowns at those key ports.Truck drivers nationwide have a mixed outlook on the future of the trucking industry, according to a survey by freight marketplace Truckstop. The study was released this week in conjunction with National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, which runs through this Saturday, September 21. Truckstop surveyed 850 of its carrier customers to learn more about their lives and experiences on the road. We share highlights of their findings.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A new series of ten episodes has dropped on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:GartnerGartner webinar on Women in Supply Chain surveyPorts see import rush as dockworker strike loomsSurvey reveals mixed outlook on future of truckingNational Truck Driver Appreciation Week informationGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: CSCMP EDGE 2024Other linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Andrew Billings, vice president and supply chain capability lead at North Highland. The retail world has already survived this year's Prime Day and now we are heading into the peak holiday shopping season. Are retailers prepared and are there any clues as to what consumers will be snapping up this year? Our guests has some insights.With an eye on assuring it has the raw materials it needs, lift truck manufacturing company Raymond Corp. has opened a new production plant in Binghamton, New York to manufacture batteries to power its line of electric forklifts. The new facility expands on and replaces a former operation by its assembly plant.While electric vehicles are gaining popularity, the transition to EVs is not happening as fast as earlier market predictions. J.D. Power, the automotive industry analyst firm, says it is cutting back on earlier forecasts for EV market share as sales of battery-powered cars cool off. They cited drivers' concerns about finding enough public charging ports and also the rising popularity of hybrid cars such as plug-in hybrids (PHEVs)—which combine battery power with gasoline engines.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A brand new series of ten episodes has dropped on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:North HighlandRaymond Corp. boosts energy solutions with new battery plantSales of battery-powered EVs sputtered in first half of 2024Get episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: CSCMP EDGE 2024Other linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY

Our guest on this week's episode is Michael Sadowski, a researcher and author who just completed a study on sustainability in the apparel industry.  Released by the Apparel Impact Institute, the study looks at the apparel industry's use of  available resources. Of course, there are the fabrics that are grown and harvested or man-made materials that consume water and power. Most of our clothing is also made overseas, so the industry also needs to be aware of its carbon footprint to deliver all of those new goods to our closets and dresser drawers.This week we saw a report about truck driver salaries. This came from a survey done every other year by the American Trucking Associations (ATA), and they found that truckload drivers in the U.S. earned a median annual amount of $76,420 in 2023, posting an increase of 10% over the survey done two years ago. We break down which modes of trucking earn the best salaries.Data from the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) show that a quarter of all industrial accidents happen at loading docks. That makes this vital, high-activity area within a distribution center a place for vigilant attention to detail. We look at how technologies and better awareness are making a difference to reduce injuries around the docks.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A brand new series of ten episodes has dropped on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Apparel Impact InstituteTaking Stock of Progress Against the Roadmap to Net Zero - 2024 reportATA Survey: Truckload drivers earn median salary of $74,420Get episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: CSCMP EDGE 2024Other linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Dawn Andre, chief product officer at Jaggaer. New supply chain talent is on the way, as college programs continue to mold new entrants for the industry. But what are some of the best ways to make use of these new recruits? Our guest has some ideas.Victoria Kickham is off this week, so filling her seat is Susan Lacefield, the executive editor of Supply Chain Xchange. Susan shares about the newly released issue of Supply Chain Xchange that features articles on the latest in supply chain technologies. We also preview the upcoming CSCMP EDGE conference starting at the end of September in Nashville.We cover a lot about self-driving vehicles in the magazine, but now autonomous transport is taking to the skies. We report on testing by the U.S. Air Force earlier this month of new autonomous cargo planes. The planes use smaller commercially-available Cessna planes equipped with tech that will allow them to take off, fly, and land without a pilot. These airplanes are much cheaper to operate than traditional military cargo planes.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A brand new series of ten episodes has dropped on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:JaggaerHow digital twins can transform trucking operationsHow 3D prototyping can compress new product developmentBuilding trust in touchless planningWhy AI will transform procurement and how it is already doing soAir Force runs military exercise with autonomous cargo planesGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Hyster CompanyOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Jim Bunsey, director of commercial business development at the Propane Education & Research Council, better known in the industry as PERC. With the goal of reducing carbon footprints and clearing the air, supply chain managers are seeking cleaner technologies to power their operations. Our guest shares that the full energy cycle should be considered when choosing power for material handling equipment and transportation vehicles, including the carbon footprint of the energy creation, such as power produced by fossil-burning power plants.The big news in North American supply chains this week  has been the Canadian rail stoppage. This has been a real whirlwind of huge potential damage to retail and manufacturing operations at a time when supply chains were already in somewhat vulnerable positions. Yesterday, the railroads were locked down over a labor dispute. But last night, the Canadian government stepped in to order workers to report and to resolve their labor issues with binding arbitration. How fast can the railroads get back on track and what does this mean for supply chains?Companies running large warehouses are looking for ways to improve performance and increase efficiency, all while dealing with persistent market pressures like labor shortages and space constraints. For many companies, warehouse automation is the answer to those problems. We look at two examples where automation is making a difference in warehouse operations. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A brand new series of ten episodes just dropped on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Propane Education and Research Council Canadian rail strike sends tremors through supply chainsDesigned for efficiencyGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Hyster CompanyOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Scott Walker, vice president of Supply Chain Product Management for Powerfleet. Last month the U.S. Department of Labor  issued a proposed rule to regulate how employers manage and protect workers in extreme heat conditions – both for indoor work, such as in factories and warehouses, and outdoor work, like in trucking, docks and in yards. The proposals would require each employer with more than 10 workers to have a program in place to address heat-related issues with measures to reduce the chance of heat-related stress and illnesses in the workplace. Our guest explains some of the details of the proposed rules and how employers can prepare now to promote safer workplaces.The total cost of ownership for battery-electric versions of cargo-handling equipment used in our world's maritime ports is about 1.3 times higher than that of diesel-powered equipment, according to industry estimates, Until those costs come down, battery-electric container handling equipment is likely to remain a small portion of the equipment operating at ports around the world. However, research and testing are underway. We look at two examples of where electric systems are being piloted for port operations.The adoption of electric vehicles in the United States has been slowed by the lack of a sufficient public charging infrastructure, but that shortcoming is showing small signs of improvement.  A survey of almost 10,000 EV drivers found that satisfaction in the nation's EV charging network increased for a second consecutive quarter. We discuss what is hindering more EV adoptions and the difficulty in finding suitable places to charge them.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A brand new series of ten episodes just dropped on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:PowerfleetIn pursuit of sustainable portsSurvey shows small rise in satisfaction with EV charging networksGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Hyster CompanyOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Kathy Fulton, executive director of the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN). This week Hurricane Debby made landfall on the East Coast, bringing with it lots of rain, flooding, and damage to Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. It is now making its way up the coast. What are the effects on supply chains and how is the industry responding to help those in need? It is always good for us to track the health of the supply chain industry. This week the latest data show that economic activity in the logistics industry expanded in July, marking the eighth straight month of moderate growth across warehousing and transportation markets; that's according to the latest monthly Logistics Managers Index (LMI) report, which was released this week.The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) is  calling on the Biden administration to engage the International Longshoreman's Association (ILA) which represents dock workers, and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents port operators to come to a new labor agreement to avoid a possible strike at East Coast and Gulf Coasts ports. The two sides are far apart on a new agreement as the current pact is set to expire on September 30. A strike could have widespread impacts on the flow of goods during peak season.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A brand new series of ten episodes just dropped on the "State of Logistics." The episodes provide in-depth looks into the current states of key transportation modes, such as trucking, rail, air, and ocean. It also looks at inventory management, 3PLs and more.  All ten episodes are available to stream now. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) Report: Logistics industry expanded in JulyRetailers grow nervous about East and Gulf Coast port strikeGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Hyster CompanyOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply

Our guest on this week's episode is Tom Behnke, vice president of sales and marketing at distribution 3PL Boxzooka. With the turning of the calendar pages to August, it's back-to-school season for most American families. While stores have been stocked for some time with the latest in shoes, clothing, and school supplies, parents are now shopping in earnest to prepare their young learners for a good school year. What does it take for distributors and retailers to succeed in this second-biggest peak shopping season of the year, and will they experience any hiccups?Lineage Logistics, a cold storage warehouse and transportation company, has now gone public on the NASDAQ stock exchange. They raised $4.4 billion in shares sold in their initial public offer, which translates to an overall valuation of the company at $18 billion. So, what do you do with $4.4 billion? When the IPO happened last week, they shared some pretty typical plans: mostly paying down debt from all the borrowing they had done to grow so large. But this week, we learned about some new plans, which involve sharing some of that windfall profit with employees. The global outlook for investments in warehouse automation was revised down this week, mainly due to challenging economic conditions in some other parts of the world. That's according to research from British consulting firm Interact Analysis, which released a mid-year report Tuesday updating its global warehouse automation forecast from last fall. Conditions look better in the Americas. Warehouse-automation revenue forecast projections for the United States have increased compared the fall forecast, mainly as a result of higher consumer spending, improved sentiment toward the economy, and Amazon starting to invest again, according to the report.  Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:BoxzookaLineage shares IPO windfall with its workersReport calls for slower growth in warehouse automationGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Storage SolutionsOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply 

Our guest on this week's episode is Kevin Ledversis, vice president of sales at Newcastle Systems. Labor continues to be in short supply, which means that it is important for distributors and warehouse operators to hold on to the labor that they do have by keeping warehouse employees engaged and happy. Our guest shares ways to foster an environment of employee contentment.Mexico recently passed China to become the U.S.'s largest trading partner. We've seen Mexico rise very quickly in the business landscape due to tariffs on imports from China to the U.S. as well as global disruptions, such as the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. As a result, there has been a swift shift toward Mexico as a new manufacturing hub. To move all the freight now being generated south of the border, there has been a rush from leading logistics  companies to build supply chain links between the U.S. and Mexico. The adoption of generative artificial intelligence—or GenAI—for sourcing and procurement is gaining steam, and recent research from Gartner shows that its mainstream application may be just two years away. Gartner said this week that GenAI for procurement is at the “peak of inflated expectations.” Essentially, the data show that use cases are growing and AI capabilities are improving, making GenAI for sourcing and procurement a fast-moving technology within supply chains.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Newcastle SystemsUPS to buy Mexican express delivery firmTCA names for-hire carrier as its first Mexican memberSchneider says intermodal deal with CPKC eases US-Mexico freight surgeGenerative AI for procurement moves beyond hypeGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Storage SolutionsOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply Chain Management Podcasts

Our guest on this week's episode is Dennis Mullahy. He is the former chief supply chain officer for Macy's and he has also worked in the supply chain operations for several other large retailers, including Ulta, Michaels, and Meijer. These days, Mullahy is an independent consultant working with a number of supply chain startups. He is also a senior advisor to Fortna. He talks to us about supply chains post-pandemic, facility designs, and maintaining supply chain continuity. This week we learned some new details about how Walmart, the nation's largest grocery retailer, is rolling out a “supply chain transformation” that relies on new investments in data, intelligent software, and automation.  Walmart week opened a 730,000 square-foot perishable distribution center (PDC) in Texas, which is designed to keep its more than 4,600 stores stocked with fresh and frozen merchandise. The new facility receives and processes fresh produce, eggs, dairy, flowers, and frozen goods for delivery to Walmart stores. It does that by leveraging technology to process more than double the volume of a traditional DC, getting items onto store shelves faster than ever before.Some recent research shows that by 2027, half of companies with warehouse operations will leverage artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled vision systems to replace traditional scanning-based cycle-counting processes. This information comes from Gartner, and was presented at their Supply Chain Symposium/Xpo in Barcelona in June. AI-enabled vision systems are novel, hyper-automation solutions that combine industrial 3D cameras, computer vision software, and advanced AI pattern recognition technologies, as well as machine learning. Gartner says the technology can “radically change” the way many manually dependent processes are performed.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:FortnaWalmart opens perishable foods DC in TexasSeeing is believingReport: AI-enabled vision systems making headway in the warehouseGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Storage SolutionsOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply Chain Management Podcasts

Our guest on this week's episode is Dr. Alex Scott, an associate professor of supply chain management at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Many of our regular listeners are familiar with CARB, the California Air Resources Board, and their attempts to reduce air pollution in the Golden State. However, recently, new regulations have hit supply chain companies hard in California. We reported a few weeks ago on new regulations for phasing out internal combustion engines in forklifts. And now CARB is going after train locomotives by proposing regulations that will require technology that currently does not really exist. Is this too far too soon? Dr. Scott has extensively studied this issue and offers some interesting perspectives.One of the biggest logistics stories this week was Hurricane Beryl, which made landfall in Texas on Monday, battering the Gulf Coast and leaving millions of homes and business in the region without power and disrupting supply chains. We share the latest on how logistics companies are helping with the cleanup, partly through the efforts of the American Logistics Aid Network. ALAN is hard at work coordinating logistics and supply chain services for humanitarian organizations that are trying to get support to the affected areas. Over at DC Velocity's sister publication, Supply Chain Xchange, we have been working on a series of podcasts on the current State of Logistics. The podcast uses the Annual State of Logistics Report from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals or CSCMP as a jumping off point while also incorporating in some other voices that share in detail what is currently happening in the logistics sector with specific episodes focused on trucking, rail, ocean, inventory, and more.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:University of Tennessee's Haslam School of Business – Supply Chain Management programCalifornia Air Resources Board (CARB)Texas deals with impact of Hurricane BerylAmerican Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) CSCMP's State of Logistics ReportGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Storage SolutionsOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply Chain Management Podcasts

Our guest on this week's episode is John Lash, group vice president of product strategy at e2open. Good supply chains allow companies to remain competitive. But sometimes they need a bit of government help, especially when their competitors receive assistance from their own governments. That's one reason why the Biden Administration has launched the White House Council on Supply Chain Resilience. Our guest shares why this latest task force was created and what it is intended to address.Government regulations are always a big topic at trucking-industry events, and that was certainly the case this week at the SMC3 Connections conference in Colorado Springs. Connections is an annual educational event sponsored by SMC3. We share some of the highlights from the conference, including proposed government regulations that freight companies see as concerns due to their their implementation timelines.This week UPS sold its Coyote Logistics division to RXO. UPS had acquired Coyote for $1.8 billion in 2015, when it was a hot startup in the freight brokerage sector. Since that time, conditions have gotten really tough in the truckload freight business, which has been in a freight recession for about two years now. The sale reflects that downturn, as Coyote was sold for just over $1 billion. We look at the deal and discuss how both RXO and UPS will benefit from it moving forward.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:e2openLegislation and the environment top trucking industry concernsUPS sells off Coyote brokerage arm to RXO for $1.025 billionGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Equipment DepotOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply Chain Management Podcasts

Our guest on this week's episode is Arun Rajan, chief strategy and innovation officer at transportation provider C.H. Robinson. Artificial intelligence is beginning to make inroads into logistics operations. But beyond all the hype, are there ways that generative AI can benefit transportation companies now?  We've all heard about the decline of imports from China and how other countries are benefiting from that decline. Today we learn about one exporting country that is on the rise. It's India.Norwegian warehouse automation company AutoStore opened its new U.S. headquarters this week with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Located in Salem, New Hampshire, the building replaces the company's previous U.S. headquarters, which officials said they had outgrown. The new facility is twice the size of the old building and is just about 10 miles away.  It features a complete AutoStore automated storage system in-house as a way to demonstrate the technology.Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:C.H. RobinsonPort of Savannah adds ocean freight connections with IndiaGEP report shows manufacturing activity jumped in MayUPS executive identifies three supply chain megatrendsAutoStore opens U.S. headquarters in Southern New HampshireGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Equipment DepotOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply Chain Management Podcasts

Our guest on this week's episode is Don Hicks, CEO of Optilogic. We saw during the pandemic how badly our ports were jammed with all of the many imported goods we needed and wanted to keep us happy while stuck in our homes. The congestion had eased a bit in the past year or so, but now things are beginning to jam up again. What's causing that congestion? Our guest has some answers as well as advice on how to deal with these new problems.  Software giant Microsoft Corp. and the German supply chain management and e-commerce solution provider Arvato  plan to team up to develop plans for what they call a “self-managing warehouse of the future.” They call this the “Moonshot” research project, and say it will be powered by generative artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and cloud computing.Shipments of autonomous industrial lift trucks are expected to double from 2024 to 2025 in North America and Europe, driven by a declining industrial workforce and related demand for automated and tech-connected equipment. That's according to data from global technology research firm ABI Research, which was released earlier this month. We discuss their projections and what's behind trend. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:OptilogicDemand for automated forklifts to grow as warehouse labor issues persistMicrosoft and Arvato to design self-managing warehouse of the futureGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Equipment DepotOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply Chain Management Podcasts

Our guest on this week's episode is Brett Wood, president and CEO of Toyota Material Handing North America. He also serves as the current chair of the Industrial Truck Association. Each year, the forklift industry sets apart a special day, known as National Forklift Safety Day, to recognize the importance of driver training and safe practices when operating industrial trucks. It's sponsored by the Industrial Truck Association. This year, National Forklift Safety Day will be held this coming Tuesday in Washington D.C. We talk with Wood about the event that is planned and how listeners can participate. The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) held  its 47thAnnual Conference in Dallas this week. The event drew about 500 attendees and was chock full of educational sessions  covering technology, labor issues, and case studies about facility and operations improvement projects. There was also update on the major trends and issues shaping the industry, including the release of the annual DC Metrics study.In 2023, Flexport bought the digital technology of bankrupt Convoy, a digital freight matching company. Now we learn how Flexport intends to market that technology to help small carriers in managing their businesses. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:Industrial Truck Association - National Forklift Safety DayWERC releases 21st annual DC Measures reportFlexport continues to invest in Convoy freight-matching technologyToyota Material Handling to build $100 million factory for electric forkliftsGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Equipment DepotOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply Chain Management Podcasts

Our guest on this week's episode is Alex DaSilva, Lead Hurricane Forecaster at AccuWeather. Last year the Atlantic hurricane season was the fourth-most active hurricane season on record. There with 20 named storms. And the forecasts for this year's hurricane season are even worse. How will that affect our supply chains and what can we do to prepare for possible disruptions?  Our guest shares what this year's storm season may be like and why we may see such a surge in major hurricanes this summer.Priorities may be shifting when it comes to supply chain preparedness. A recent study from Deloitte – released this past week -- examines the factors causing companies to expand and enhance their supply chains following several years of focus on resilience. The report is titled “Restructuring the Supply Base: Prioritizing a Resilient, Yet Efficient Supply Chain.” And it found that companies are trying to strike a better balance between performance and cost by reevaluating and restructuring their supply base. There is ongoing debate over California's controversial regulations that will eventually phase out most non-electric forklifts . Why is this such a hot button issue in the Golden State? Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:AccuWeatherReport shows manufacturers prioritize a resilient yet efficient supply chainPropane group criticizes California plan to ban internal combustion forkliftsToyota Material Handling to build $100 million factory for electric forkliftsGet episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Yale Lift Truck TechnologiesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply Chain Management Podcasts

Our guest on this week's episode is Omar Troncoso. He is a partner at consulting firm Kearney and heads their Mexico City office. In the wake of pandemic disruptions, we all learned that our complex supply chains were just too complex. On top of that, we have seen more tariffs for Chinese goods and other world events that have encouraged companies to bring their manufacturing much closer to U.S. soil. Each year, Kearney  has researched reshoring trends. They just recently published those results in a study called Made in America for America. Our guest is the co-author of the report and shares what trends they uncovered.One of the stories that our readers look forward to every year is the list from consulting firm Gartner of its “Global Supply Chain Top 25.” This year was actually the 20th year the firm has released that ranking. Schneider Electric is tops again this year. We find out other high-ranking firms and the criteria that makes their supply chains successful.We often hear about how tough warehouse work can be and how that can be a contributing factor to the industry's labor problems. Even in good times it can be hard to find workers for warehouse and distribution center jobs. It's physically demanding work that can lead to injuries. As a result, more and more managers and company leaders are focused on introducing ergonomic solutions designed to ease the stress and strain of warehouse jobs. We preview a story in our June issue highlighting new ergonomic technologies, including exosuits. Supply Chain Xchange  also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane.  It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.  Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:KearneyGartner unveils 20th annual global supply chain Top 25Get episode transcriptsVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comPodcast is sponsored by: Yale Lift Truck TechnologiesOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITYTop 10 Supply Chain Management Podcasts