Talking Transports

Ever-changing US tariff policies are creating uncertainty in supply chains and prolonging a tepid tone in freight demand. Leveraging technology will be critical for third-party logistics providers to remain nimble in this challenging environment. In this episode of the Talking Transports podcast, David Bozeman president and CEO of C.H. Robinson, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence’s senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about the state of the freight brokerage and forwarding industry and how efficiency initiatives and technology investments are driving the company’s transformation. Bozeman also discusses winning market share, its drop-trailer fleet and how the company is leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to reduce tasks that will allow its employees to better serve customers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regulatory, tariff and economic uncertainty continues to paralyze the North American heavy-truck market as a collapse in orders has reduced build rate expectations this year. Visibility should begin to improve in the coming months as we get better clarity on a 2026 recovery. In this episode of the Talking Transports podcast, Tim Denoyer, vice president and senior analyst at ACT Research, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, and Chris Ciolino, senior US machinery analyst, to share his insights about navigating the North American truck market during this pivotal time. Denoyer also discusses the freight outlook, order trends, pricing expectations, energy transition, autonomy, the used market and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The more protectionist policies out of Washington are creating a more uncertain backdrop for North American railroads and the broader freight markets. Yet the industry should be agile and resilient enough to navigate the volume volatility that has come with the ever-changing US tariff policies. In this Talking Transports podcast, Tony Hatch, founder and president of ABH Consulting, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share insights about the state of the industry and what might be ahead for railroads. Hatch also discusses regulations, growth opportunities, service levels, consolidations, labor relations, nearshoring among other topics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finding a safe place to park is just one of the many challenges facing truck drivers. There’s just one space for every 11 trucks, according to the American Trucking Associations, which estimates drivers spend 56 minutes looking for available parking, amounting to about $5,500 in lost compensation. In this episode of Talking Transports, Evan Shelley, co-founder and CEO of Truck Parking Club, joins Bloomberg Intelligence’s senior transportation and logistics analyst, Lee Klaskow, to share how his company is tackling the problem, which also poses a safety risk to the driving public. Shelley discusses building scale and explains how his real estate experience led him to the trucking industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intermodal demand will likely remain volatile from the start-and-stop trade policy coming out of Washington. International demand may get a boost following the US and China lowering their tariffs on one another as part of the announced 90-day truce. Shippers may start to rush to fill warehouses at lower duties. This will help mitigate the drag on domestic intermodal demand created by lower diesel prices. In this Talking Transports podcast, Anne Reinke, president and CEO of the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share her insights about the state of the industry against this uncertain backdrop. Reinke also discusses legislative priorities, combating fraud, market-share opportunities and how her career in transports was sparked by boredom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tensions between the US and its trading partners are weighing on dry-bulk demand as economic-growth expectations recede. The global economy could expand 2.6%, based on consensus, down 40 bps from the start of the year and 70 bps below 2024. The US accounts for about 10% of the dry-bulk market, making the sector less tied to protectionist policies out of Washington. Agriculture and metallurgical coal comprise the majority of exports. In this Talking Transports podcast, Hamish Norton, president of Star Bulk Carriers, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence’s senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about the state of the global dry-bulk industry. Norton also discusses tariffs, USTR fees, dry-bulk economics, fuel prices, shipbuilding, asset values and rates.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Geopolitical tensions, shifting trade routes and evolving carrier alliances are redefining the global containerliner landscape. Though demand remains uncertain, a level setting of tariffs could create a surge in demand and lead to renewed congestion and rate volatility. In this Talking Transports podcast, Steve Ferreira, founder and CEO of Ocean Audit, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about the state of the global container industry, which he describes as fragmented, fragile and fine-tuning. Ferreira also discusses tariffs, USTR fees, emissions, rates and how a better offer lead him to a long career in shipping. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The uncertainty created by more protectionist policies out of Washington make supply-chain professional jobs increasingly more stressful and unpredictable. Shippers need to be nimble, patient and not overly reactive to headlines out of the White House. In this episode of the Talking Transports podcast, John Janson, vice president of global logistics at SanMar, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence’s senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about navigating today’s environment. Janson talks about SanMar’s ocean, parcel, less-than-truckload, intermodal and truckload strategies, rates and how its playbook during the pandemic may help it come out of current headwinds in a better position with its customers and transportation providers. The company has been proactively diversifying its exposure to China for some time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Machine learning, generative AI and other technology innovations have the ability to drive safer and more efficient supply chains. Freight-transportation markets are in the early stages of leveraging AI’s capabilities which will be transformational in the years to come. In this Talking Transports podcast, Dr. Yossi Sheffi, director of the MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about the opportunities these new technologies can bring and what it takes for wider adoption. Dr. Sheffi also talks tariffs, autonomous vehicles, warehouse robots, value-added tax (VAT) and how his real-world experience as an entrepreneur helps him to be better in the classroom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fraud in the trucking industry has become a major issue for carriers, brokers and shippers alike. The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) estimates that freight fraud costs supply chains over $1 billion annually in the US. The pandemic, market-participant anonymity and ease have helped spark a new wave of cargo theft. In this Talking Transports podcast, Michael Caney, chief commercial officer of Highway, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about how the company’s technology-based platform is fighting abuse in the industry. Caney also talks about types of fraud, the importance of knowing your customer, double brokering, dispatch services, rising costs for truckers and how stumbling into the freight-brokerage industry led him to Highway.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The global container-liner industry is facing increased uncertainty stemming from the protectionist measures coming out of Washington. Trade between Asia and North America accounts for about 13% of global container trade, with the majority from China to the US. In this Talking Transports podcast, Thomas Lister, CEO of Global Ship Lease, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about its fleet of small-to-midsize containerships could provide some insulation from the growing trade war between the US and China. Lister also talks tariffs, the potential for fees places on Chinese-built ships, the orderbook, remaining disciplined through the cycle, capital allocation and how he talked his way into the marine-shipping industry following graduation from university.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fighting fraud and improving visibility is paramount for freight brokers, carriers and shippers. GenLogs’ nationwide network of sensors collects 50,000 images of trucks every five minutes. This data and its artificial intelligence-powered platform can help brokers better vet carriers by visibly inspecting them and their equipment. In this Talking Transports podcast, GenLogs’ co-founder and CEO Ryan Joyce joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence’s senior transportation & logistics analyst, to discuss how technology can help create more efficient and safer supply chains. Royce also talks about expanding outside of the US, battling fraud and theft as well as his journey as an entrepreneur tracking terrorists to now tracking trucks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Railroads and trucking companies are facing headwinds to 1Q earnings from the impact of severe weather on volume and costs, coupled with higher fuel prices. In this Talking Transports podcast, Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, previews what could be in store for the truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL) and railroad industries during 1Q earnings season. Railroads are poised for adjusted EPS growth, while truckload carriers may face flattish growth. Mid-single digit revenue per hundredweight growth, excluding fuel surcharges, won’t be enough to offset the deleveraging impact of lower tonnage on margins. The demand outlook isn’t encouraging, given the ISM Manufacturing Index, a good proxy for LTL demand, went back into contraction territory in March, where it has been in 27 of the last 29 months. The impact from tariffs on inflation and demand will drive the earnings picture for truckers and railroads moving forward. Find this and other Bloomberg Intelligence podcasts at BI PODCASTS .See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chassis market is a critical part of supply chains and many times can be overlooked. Freight markets could come to a halt without access to safe, reliable chassis, for which prices have almost doubled since tariffs were implemented in 2021. In this Talking Transports podcast, Daniel Walsh, president and CEO of TRAC Intermodal, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence’s senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights on how the company is benefiting from technology investments. The ability to leverage artificial intelligence to ensure its fleet is properly maintained can lead to better customer experiences and prolong the life of these assets. Walsh also talks tariffs, demand drivers, regulations, inflationary pressures and how following his heart led him to a career in transportation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North American heavy-truck and engine producers face an increasingly uncertain regulatory, trade and economic backdrop in 2025. With the EPA planning to reconsider several heavy-truck regulations, there are growing risks to expectations of higher build rates in 2H and 2026. In this Talking Transports podcast, Brett Merritt, president of Cummins’ Engine Business, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence’s senior transportation and logistics analyst, and Chris Ciolino, senior US machinery analyst, to share his insights about navigating the North American truck market during this pivotal time. Merritt also discusses alternative powertrain technologies, tariffs, order trends and how a native Hoosier ascended to lead Cummins’ Engine business.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saia’s expansion plans are helping it mitigate weak less-than-truckload (LTL) demand, but that also comes with higher costs and margin pressures as new facilities build density. The company added 21 new facilities with plans to open up to six in 2025. Tonnage has increased 12-13% during the first two months of the year, while its competitors are experiencing mid- to high-single-digit declines. In this episode of the Talking Transports podcast, Saia’s President and CEO Fritz Holzgrefe joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence’s senior transportation and logistics analyst, to discuss the outlook for the LTL market and the company’s network build-out. Capital spending will remain elevated this year even after declining 28% from 2024, as Saia continues to expand. Holzgrefe also talks about the driver market, the competitive landscape and how he went from peanuts to trucking.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dry-bulk rates are well below their pandemic peaks and are now hovering around operating costs for many fleets. The outlook will be challenging this year as supply growth is expected to outpace demand by 230 bps, based on a forecast by Clarksons. In this Talking Transports episode, Jan Dieleman, president of Cargill Ocean Transportation, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about what’s on the horizon for its fleet of about 700 chartered vessels. Cargill is on the long path to reach the IMO’s goal of zero emissions by 2050 through innovations and testing biofuels and wind, as well as taking delivery of five dual-fuel methanol ships this year. Dieleman also talks tariffs, regulations, discusses Red Sea voyages and his long career moving dry- and wet-bulk cargos around the world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Port of Los Angeles is a major gateway for freight moving in and out of the US, which is key to the regional and national economies. The pull-forward benefits from anticipated new US implemented tariffs, and a potential strike at US East Coast and Gulf ports, helped drive 19% volume growth in 2024. This year, comparisons will become more difficult and may result in low-double-digit declines in 2H. In this Talking Transports podcast, Gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about what’s over the horizon for North America’s busiest container port. Seroka also discusses the company’s emission goals, technology-driven productivity gains and how his career in shipping started with a plane ticket from his dad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Geopolitical-fueled supply-chain dislocations have provided a constructive supply-demand backdrop for product and chemical-tanker fleets in 2025. The crisis in the Red Sea, sanctions on Russian energy exports and potential US tariffs have increased ton-miles and absorbed capacity. Time charter rates remain above historical averages despite coming off their robust levels over the past three years, which will weigh on earnings this year. In this Talking Transports podcast, Gernot Ruppelt, CEO of Ardmore Shipping, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights into the state of the product tanker market. Ruppelt also discusses the company’s integrated trading strategy, focus on innovation to drive operating costs lower and capital-allocation priorities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Supply-chain executives are more optimistic about freight markets and the pace of mergers and acquisitions in 2025. Deals can be a win-win for buyers and sellers as seen by RXO’s recent acquisition of Coyote, UPS’ brokerage business. The transaction lets UPS focus on its parcel business while provides RXO with significantly increased market penetration. Some deals are motivated by companies expanding their specialties in a service or geography. In this Talking Transports podcast, Ben Gordon, founder of BGSA Holdings and Cambridge Capital, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about the state of the M&A and private equity markets for transportation, logistics and tangential technology companies. Gordon also discusses what can motivate a seller, and valuations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The growth in machine learning and artificial intelligence can drive significant productivity gains for trucking carriers and shippers. Those leaning into these new technologies will be able to make better decisions and drive improved economic outcomes. Transports appear to be in the early innings of this new technology revolution. In this Talking Transports podcast, Rob Painter, CEO and president of Trimble, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights into what AI has meant for the company and its customers. Painter also discusses internet of things (IoT), the importance of compounding and how Trimble is connecting supply chains through the life cycle continuum of sourcing, planning, executing and settling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tariff risk has forced many companies to take a long hard look at their supply chains. In this Talking Transports podcast, Didi Caldwell, CEO and president of Global Location Strategies and America’s factory whisper, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share her insights into what it takes for an industrial-development project, which are key for long-term railroad carload growth, to get off the ground. Caldwell also discusses how she spent the first half of her career moving companies out of the US and the second half helping them move back.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FedEx and UPS are trying to navigate an ever-changing parcel industry as volume mix shifts toward more-expensive home deliveries and increased competition from the likes of Amazon.com, which have weighed on margins. These legacy players are focused on productivity improvements, expense controls and restructuring networks in the hopes of thriving in this complex environment. In this Talking Transports podcast, Satish Jindel, president of SJ Consulting and ShipMatrix, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about what’s shaping the parcel and less-than-truckload landscapes. Jindel also discusses many aspects of the LTL market, including, consolidation, FedEx Freight’s spinoff and carriers’ pricing power.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The trucking industry could transition to a more robust environment after the freight recession of the past two years. A more probusiness Trump administration may spur domestic freight growth and be more sympathetic to the issues facing the trucking industry, according to Chris Spear, president and chief executive officer of the American Trucking Associations. In this Talking Transports podcast, Spear joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence’s senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights how a more common-sense approach to lower emissions could be better for the industry, environment and economy. Spear also discusses the driver shortage, legal reforms, autonomous trucking and hopes for a return to finding common ground in Washington.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Technology will be a driving force in shaping the transportation and logistics industry for years to come given the productivity improvements afforded by artificial intelligence and machine learning. It may also spur a new era of consolidation within the freight brokerage industry, as those companies without the scale and capital will find it increasingly difficult to compete. In this Talking Transports podcast, Ken Beyer, CEO of Transportation Insights (TI) and Nolan Transportation Group (NTG), joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about where the freight markets are heading and how the company has leveraged technology to increase productivity by three-fold. Beyer also discusses where he sees trucking in 2025 and the importance of building a people-first organization. Find this and other Bloomberg Intelligence podcasts at BI PODCASTS .See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fourth-quarter earnings could provide some signs that 2025 will be a brighter year for freight-transportation companies. In this Talking Transports podcast, Ravi Shanker, Morgan Stanley’s managing director and lead North American freight transportation and airlines analyst, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about what could be in store this earnings season and how freight demand could shape up in 2025. Restocking inventories ahead of any potential tariffs might be a tailwind for 1H demand and then become a challenge into next year if inventories remain elevated. Shanker also discusses where he sees the freight cycle, “premiumization” of the airline industry, Canadian vs. US railroads and what he loves most about being a research analyst on Wall Street.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The freight market outlook is set to improve next year following two challenging years for surface-transportation providers. In this Talking Transports podcast, Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, shares his 2025 outlook for the truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL) and railroads industries. Mid-single digit contractual rate growth, low-single-digit volume gains and improving utilization rates, could fuel a 67% jump in EPS for BI’s truckload peer group. LTL earnings growth may rebound as well, on the heels of continued pricing power and improved demand. Volume, revenue and earnings growth are poised to accelerate for North American railroads in 2025. Despite the more optimistic outlook, risks abound, especially from the incoming Trump administration’s tariff and immigration threats. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Refocusing Roadrunner into an asset-light less-than-truckload (LTL) provider over the past four years may have been key to turning the company around. In this Talking Transports podcast, Chris Jamroz, Roadrunner’s executive chairman and chief executive officer, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about the strategic steps the company took to bring it back from the brink. A focus on expedited LTL movements in the largest freight markets has helped it improved operations, which has elevated service and could drive share gains. Jamroz also discusses how autonomous trucks may be a perfect fit for Roadrunner, looking at M&A for growth, technology as a tool and his dream to return to kite surfingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ability to optimize logistics networks that can react to weather or human disruptions can be the differentiator between success and failure for many organizations. In this Talking Transports podcast, retired General Paul Selva, DEFCON AI's co-founder and chief strategy officer, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about how technology and artificial intelligence are creating more resilient supply chains. The retired vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff also provided his insights into the challenges and complexities facing the military in moving people, equipment and supplies around the world. Selva discusses some of his experiences leading the US Transportation Command and how his retirement from the military lead to a 3,000 mile long stroll.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The health-care logistics market is growing at a faster pace than the general freight market and has become an attractive vertical for providers of freight transportation services. The inherently complex nature of these supply chains due to cargo temperature requirements and safety concerns can warrant higher margins relative to other end markets. In this Talking Transports podcast, Joel Wayment, vice president of 3PL services at Cardinal Health, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about the challenges and opportunities facing health-care supply chains. Wayment also provided his insights into technology innovations, regulations, fraud prevention and how the winner of the Super Bowl could affect the flow of critical goods.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uber Freight is leveraging generative AI to take out supply-chain inefficiencies, lower costs, reduce fraud and drive better customer experiences. The company cut empty miles in half for carriers on its network, and last year saved customers $1.5 billion. Technology has been the cornerstone. In this Talking Transports podcast, Lior Ron, Uber Freight's founder and CEO, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about how technology will be transforming supply chains. Technology advances will also play a big part in the pace of autonomous-trucking development and commercialization. Ron also discusses growth in Mexico, fighting fraud, rate expectations, reinvesting in the business and how he found he way to transportation from big tech.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Norfolk Southern is entering a new chapter in its history as it moves past a devastating derailment, activist activity and leadership changes. The railroad is focused on attracting volume onto its network by providing a more consistent service centered around safety. In this Talking Transports podcast, Ed Elkins, Norfolk Southern's chief marketing officer, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about how the company is making progress toward its long-term goals of generating a sub-60 operating ratio. Norfolk has made inroads to this target this year. Elkins also discusses growth opportunities, peak season, precision scheduled railroading, coal demand and how his father nudged him into a career in transportation over three decades ago. Find this and other Bloomberg Intelligence podcasts at BI PODCASTS on the terminal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A hybrid approach might be a winning strategy for logistics providers in the current challenging freight backdrop. In this Talking Transports podcast, Scott Pruneau, ITS Logistics' CEO, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about how the company's hybrid approach has helped it organically gain market share. While the company leans into technology, it never loses sight of how relationships are key to expanding a freight-brokerage business. The company's fleet of 3,000 trailers as well as its warehousing and delivering capabilities provides ITS with value-added offerings that go beyond non-asset players. Pruneau also discusses peak season and rate expectations, the freight cycle, fraud, and how a career in transportation found him over 30 years ago.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The recovery of the truckload market may be around the corner, but the pace will likely be slow and steady in the months ahead as slack capacity gradually exits. This should help drive a better freight-rate environment next year. In this Talking Transports podcast, Harman Cheema, Cheema Freightlines' CEO, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share insights about the state of trucking market from his perspective as a midsize carrier operating in the western US. Cheema Freightlines is the 38th-largest truckload carrier, according to Transport Topics, and has both asset-based and non-asset operations. Cheema also discusses fraud, the additional costs that come with greener equipment and his early beginning in the trucking industry as a teenager working for his father.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FreightVana's trailers and technological approach differentiate it from other emerging freight brokers, providing shippers with more flexibility and carriers with access to previously out-of-reach markets. The company seeks to increase its fleet of trailing equipment to 10,000 from 700 in the long term. In this Talking Transports episode, Shannon Breen, co-CEO and founder of FreightVana, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence's senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insight into how drop trailers can be a game changer for the truckload broker. Breen also offers his thoughts on peak season, 2025 rates, the pros and cons of entrepreneurship and how football led him to the industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The brokerage industry continues to leverage technology to improve processes, productivity and profitability. It will also help drive costs per load down, which can help brokers win share on price without sacrificing margins, and that could help consolidate the top end of the market. In this Talking Transports podcast, Matt Pyatt, CEO and founder of Arrive Logistics, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights into how technology coupled with the company's sales culture has helped fueled its explosive organic growth over the past decade. Pyatt expects a similar brokerage market next year to one seen this year, but with slightly better margins. He also discusses his entrepreneurial spirit, leading a data-centric company, fighting fraud and how a date at a BBQ joint landed the woman of his dreams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lackluster trucking conditions and a slow recovery in spot truckload rates may limit carriers' ability to deliver upside surprises when reporting 3Q earnings, and could put 4Q expectations at risk, according to Chris Wetherbee, Wells Fargo managing director and lead analyst on airfreight, surface and marine transportation. In this episode of Bloomberg Intelligence's Talking Transports podcast, Wetherbee joins Lee Klaskow, BI senior transportation and logistics analyst, to discuss what investors should be thinking about ahead of 3Q results for the truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL) and railroad companies. J.B. Hunt is the first to report results on Oct. 15. Wetherbee also discusses his Canadian National upgrade, how mix has weighed on parcel carriers' margins and a potential FedEx LTL spinoff. Wetherbee also provides some insight about the day in the life of a sell-side analyst. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Operating a privately held debt-free less-than-truckload (LTL) operator provides Estes Express Lines the flexibility to make growth investments and keep its commitments to customers and employees through the freight cycle, Webb Estes, president and chief operating officer, tells Bloomberg Intelligence. This approach has allowed the company to opportunistically acquire facilities and equipment against a challenging freight environment as well as keeping workers' morale high, he says. In this Talking Transports podcast, Estes joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about LTL rates and demand, which saw a pick up in growth in September. Estes also discusses sustainability, maintaining high service levels, technology investments and doing most jobs working his way up the organizations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trucking and railroad demand appears hard pressed to come out of its malaise anytime soon. Trucking markets have been slowly improving, while pockets of weakness are mitigating some stronger end-markets. This backdrop may drive low-single digit volume growth for these freight modes next year. In this Talking Transports podcast, Jonathan Starks, FTR's chief executive officer and chief intelligence officer joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation & logistics analyst, to share his insights about the state of the freight railroad and trucking markets and what the demand outlook may have in store for these freight markets. Starks also talks about peak-season expectations, regulatory pressures on trucking equipment, need for better visibility for rail shipments and how burning CDs lead to a fulfilling career. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The current trucking market appears to have the trappings of a more normal cycle, similar to the one in 2013-2017. This would mean that spot rates should continue to slowly move higher from here and could fuel contract rates to inflect positively for most of next year. In this Talking Transports podcast, Ken Adamo, vice president of strategy and business development and chief of analytics at DAT Freight & Analytics, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights about the state of the trucking market and what might be around the bend for the industry. Adamo also talks about the use cases for electric and autonomous trucks, challenges created by pending regulations and his love for being at the crossroads of transportation and data.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dislocations created by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, low water levels in the Panama Canal and the crisis in the Red Sea have increased the demand for LNG tankers and has been a boost for time-charter rates and earnings for ship owners. Earning power will remain strong, even as they normalize lower from 2021's peaks as rates remain well above breakeven levels for LNG tanker fleets. In this Talking Transports podcast, Oystein Kalleklev, CEO of Flex LNG and Avance Gas joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation & logistics analyst, to share his insights into the LNG tanker industry. Kelleklev also talks about the orderbook of these $260 million assets, demand trends, lowering emissions and the LNG tanker market becoming more dynamic following the 2011 Fukushima disaster.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The next catalyst for truck dealers might be a rush to order vehicles late next year ahead of the US EPA's 2027 emissions rules, which could increase the costs of trucks by about $30,000 over traditional diesel engines. Buyers are already facing higher costs from inflationary pressure that pushed up prices for new over-the-road trucks by 20-25% over pre-pandemic levels. In this Talking Transports podcast, Brian Fyda, vice president of Fyda Freightliner, joins Lee Klaskow, Bloomberg Intelligence senior transportation and logistics analyst, to share his insights into how truck dealers are navigating these challenges. Fyda also talks about inventories, the used-equipment market, the CDA cyberattack, electric truck demand and what it's like to work in a family business.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.