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In Canada, road freight is part of the backbone of the economy — historically moving about four-fifths of all goods across the country, with demand growing. But trucking is changing, with digital freight-matching platforms reshaping how drivers find work and how goods get delivered. The BBC's Sam Gruet reports.
In Canada, road freight is part of the backbone of the economy — historically moving about four-fifths of all goods across the country, with demand growing. But trucking is changing, with digital freight-matching platforms reshaping how drivers find work and how goods get delivered. The BBC's Sam Gruet reports.
Where is the freight market heading, and how are the current economic trends shaping it? Today, let's break down the latest spot market conditions, the recent economic indicators impacting freight volumes, and some of the challenges in business development during a market downturn! Whether you're a carrier, broker, or shipper, this episode's insights can help you better navigate today's transportation industry!
Track back through last week's big trucking-issues hearing convened in Senate Commerce's Subcommittee on Transportation, Freight, Pipelines and Safety to work through some of the pressing issues ahead of the next highway bill, due in 2026. Featured trucking witnesses before the subcommittee and their full written testimonies: **Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh: https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/9B1EF7F2-DB30-4A08-9844-DC9F237282D5 **American Trucking Associations leader Chris Spear: https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/FA35E84B-5DB2-4784-AD1F-0F0BD0065EC8 **Teamsters Union president Sean O'Brien: https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/1B7508C5-A25B-4ACF-94BD-EBC2F83711FA In the podcast, featuring audio from the hearing, witnesses debate driverless or otherwise automated truck development and regulation, likewise automation's role in safety, which regular Overdrive readers may have caught also in the initial report from the hearing last week: https://overdriveonline.com/15751214 You'll hear about the huge rise in cargo theft the subcommittee also addressed in a hearing early in the year, aided and abetted by identity theft and double brokering and other forms of fraud in freight markets increasingly plied by organized rings. You'll hear about other techs like automatic emergency braking, some mention of flexibiltiies in the hours of service, about ELDs, unauthorized immigration and credentials fraud with practices like CDLs illegally procured for cash. What you won't hear is any mention of the term "non-domiciled CDL," though in response to a question from Senator Bernie Moreno (Republican of Ohio), Teamsters President O'Brien referenced carriers recruiting drivers for temporary work in the U.S. from overseas. The non-domiciled CDL is a credential that U.S. states can issue to such drivers, who don't have permanent immigration status in the U.S. but rather hold temporary work authorization. Some states don't issue these CDLs, and many others haven't been issuing non-domciled CDLs this way for very long, but the practice has certainly taken off over the last several years. Overdrive's own Alex Lockie's last-week-released research showed recent-years growth in states all around the nation with a 50-state accounting -- download the 20-page report via this link: https://overdriveonline.com/15750917 There's a whole lot more than just CDL issuance issues to chew on when it comes the next highway bill, of course. In this week's podcast, we let the tape roll on the hearing. Catch your elected representatives and the associations that represent trucking business owners and operators in action, interrogating a wide array of trucking and broader transportation issues.
In this Week 30 edition of the GMS Weekly Podcast, we cover the latest updates in global ship recycling. India takes the lead with a series of large LNG vessel deals, strong yard occupancy, and improving fundamentals. Pakistan continues to secure tonnage, while Bangladesh faces slow approvals and reduced yard activity. We explore regional shifts, currency fluctuations, delivery timelines, and the broader impact of the Hong Kong Convention on subcontinent recyclers. We cover: India's Momentum: Two Moss-type LNGs sold for over USD 640 per LDT. Alang receives over 107,000 LDT in one week, driven by non-ferrous-rich tonnage. Pakistan Holds Position: Gadani sees en bloc dry bulk acquisitions with bunkers onboard. Local steel prices remain high, and the Rupee shows modest recovery. Bangladesh Slows Down: No new arrivals reported. Delays in cutting permissions and weak domestic demand continue to affect sentiment. Turkey Remains Quiet: The Lira weakens further. No vessel arrivals, despite falling interest rates and slight economic easing. Also in this episode: Freight market outlook as the Baltic Dry Index shows further gains How currency movements are shaping buyer behavior What to expect in August as HKC compliance increases across yards Subscribe to GMS Weekly for complete demo pricing, port-by-port vessel positions, and tonnage intelligence: https://www.gmsinc.net/get-in-touch?#SubscribeToGMS GMS Mobile App & Social Links: GMS Mobile App: https://onelink.to/gms-app LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gms-leadership X (Twitter): https://x.com/GMS_Leadership Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gms__leadership Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gmsleadership/
A crucial study into how freight is moved around the country has now been given the green light.
If you're into final mile logistics, LTL freight, or operations management, listen to this episode with Andrew Rodriguez of Harvey to hear his practical insights and strategies! Andrew highlights managing high-volume freight and maintaining top-tier customer service with a small team, his journey from freight brokerage into manufacturing operations, and Harvey's structured approach to daily shipping cutoffs, rural delivery coordination, vendor management, and real-time metrics to monitor booking speed, damage rates, and customer satisfaction! About Andrew Rodriguez Andrew is the Operations Manager at Harvey Industries International, where he oversees key aspects of supply chain operations and organizational efficiency. Before joining Harvey Industries, Andrew held a territory management role at a freight brokerage firm, where he supported clients with their freight and transportation operations. This position gave him hands-on exposure to the complexities of freight logistics, allowing him to work with a diverse range of clients and freight modes. His experience provided him with a broad understanding of how transportation integrates with various business functions, including IT, accounting, customer service, and sales. Prior to his work in freight logistics, Andrew held several operations management positions across industries such as commercial property management, real estate development, marketing, sales, and startups. In these roles, he developed a strong passion for process improvement and operational efficiency, grounded in a customer-centric and results-driven mindset. Andrew joined Harvey Industries with the goal of merging his background in operations management with his experience in freight and transportation, ultimately contributing to the broader scope of supply chain operations.
This week, Joseph Towers discusses potential Class I mergers—Union Pacific with Norfolk Southern and BNSF with CSX—which could reshape U.S. rail but face steep regulatory hurdles. He also covers new U.S. trade moves with Japan and the EU.Rail traffic rose 5.4% YoY, led by gains in grain, motor vehicles, and coal. Intermodal volumes are also up, especially for CSX and Canadian carriers. Year-to-date rail traffic is up 2.9%, driven by intermodal strength.Plus, a reminder: the FTR Conference is just weeks away!The Rail Market Update is hosted by FTR's Senior Analyst, Rail, Joseph Towers. As this information is presented, you are welcome to follow along and look at the graphs and indicators yourself by downloading the PDF of the presentation.Download the PDF: https://www.ftrintel.com/rail-podcastSupport the show
In this episode of The Long Haul, Adam sits down with Mike Ernst, President of Expedite All and a 25-year freight industry veteran, to talk about one of the most slept-on opportunities in trucking: Small Truckload (STL). From cargo vans to box trucks and straight trucks, STL is on the rise—driven by tight delivery windows, high-value freight, and a shift away from one-size-fits-all shipping. Mike breaks down what STL really is, why it's not just a local play, and how smart carriers can step in now and build consistency in a volatile market. If you're running under CDL or thinking about diversifying your equipment—this episode is your blueprint. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Highlights of the Fishers Freight's 49-40 victory over San Diego on July 19, 2025. Andrew Smith, Jim Leisure and Eva Hallman on the broadcast.
In “CHAINge, AI, and the Future of Freight”, Joe Lynch and Bart De Muynck, an industry expert and thought leader with over 30 years of supply chain and logistics experience across the globe, discuss how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping the logistics landscape and what the future holds for global freight. About Bart A. De Muynck Bart De Muynck stands as an accomplished industry expert and thought leader, boasting over three decades of global supply chain and logistics experience. His distinguished career includes significant roles at major international companies such as EY, GE Capital, Penske Logistics, PepsiCo, and various tech firms. Notably, he spent eight years as a VP of Research at Gartner and recently served as Chief Industry Officer at project44. A highly sought-after speaker, Bart currently advises multiple companies and industry organizations in logistics. He chairs ASCM's CHAINge conference in Europe and North America, is the Vice Chair for Transformfest 2025, and is a member of the Forbes Technology Council, SCLA, WEF, and CSCMP's Executive Inner Circle. Born in Belgium, he now resides with his family in Texas, USA. Through Bart De Muynck LLC, he helps organizations navigate the complex technological landscape, tailoring solutions and mitigating challenges to drive operational efficiency and manage risk. His new thought leadership website, Better Supply Chains, curates high-quality content focused on leveraging technology to create more efficient, inclusive, and equitable supply chains, ultimately aiming for both better supply chains and improved individual lives. About Better Supply Chains Better Supply Chains is a new thought leadership website curated by former Gartner analyst and Industry Expert Bart De Muynck, with the primary goal of centralizing high-quality content designed to help companies significantly improve their supply chain operations. The platform is dedicated to enhancing connections by fostering networks that unite shippers, logistics service providers (LSPs), technology providers, and investors. Furthermore, it aims to empower commerce by delivering insightful information that enables businesses to refine and automate their trade processes. Crucially, Better Supply Chains also seeks to improve lives by examining the positive impacts of logistics technology (LogTech) on labor, talent development, and sustainability efforts within the industry. By actively highlighting how emerging technologies can be seamlessly integrated into supply chain organizations, processes, and people, the website strives to make supply chains more efficient, inclusive, and equitable, ultimately contributing to better operational outcomes and improved individual well-being. Key Takeaways: CHAINge, AI, and the Future of Freight In “CHAINge, AI, and the Future of Freight”, Joe Lynch and Bart De Muynck, an industry expert and thought leader with over 30 years of supply chain and logistics experience across the globe, discuss how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping the logistics landscape and what the future holds for global freight. AI as an Enabler, Not a Replacer: A central theme is that AI's true power in supply chains lies in augmenting human intelligence rather than replacing it. Bart emphasizes that AI can automate mundane tasks, freeing up human workers for higher-value activities requiring critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, leading to increased productivity and improved decision-making. Focus on Practical AI Applications: The podcast will likely highlight that the effective implementation and absorption of existing technologies, particularly AI and advanced analytics, are the next big transformation in logistics. Bart's focus through "Better Supply Chains" is on practical, high-quality content that helps companies refine and automate their trade processes using proven technological solutions, not just speculative future tech. The Interconnectedness of Supply Chain Elements: Bart's extensive background and the mission of "Better Supply Chains" underscore the importance of fostering networks that unite shippers, logistics service providers (LSPs), technology providers, and investors. The "CHAINge" conference he chairs also emphasizes collaboration and interconnectivity to build more efficient and sustainable supply chains. Addressing Key Industry Challenges through Technology: The episode will touch upon how logistics technology (LogTech) can positively impact labor, talent development, and sustainability. Bart's work aims to integrate emerging technologies into supply chain organizations, processes, and people to create more efficient, inclusive, and equitable supply chains. Data Quality is Paramount for AI Success: Bart stresses that while data is the "unsung hero" in supply chain resilience and decision-making, the quality of that data is crucial. Bad or irrelevant data can be a "bad actor," highlighting the need for high-quality, real-time, and predictive insights to get ahead of disruptions. Building Resilient and Agile Supply Chains: Given Bart's expertise and the current landscape, the discussion will likely emphasize the need for supply chains to be agile and resilient in the face of geopolitical factors, trade disputes, and market uncertainties. Technology, including AI, plays a vital role in enhancing visibility, optimizing logistics, and improving decision-making in turbulent times. Investing in Talent Development alongside Technology: Bart believes that talent is a significant constraint in supply chains. The podcast will likely highlight the importance of not only embracing technology but also investing in talent development and fostering a culture of collaboration to fully leverage the transformative potential of AI and other innovations. Learn More About CHAINge, AI, and the Future of Freight Bart | LinkedIn Better Supply Chains | Linkedin Better Supply Chains CHAINge conference The Connective Tissue of the Supply Chain with Bart A. De Muynck The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube
In this episode of Grow a Small Business host Troy Trewin interviews Kerry Boulton from Exit Strategy Group, who shares her incredible journey of buying a freight business doing $16M and growing it to $50M with the same 63 staff. Kerry reveals how she executed a strategic exit after seven years, then went on to build and sell multiple ventures. Now through The Exit Strategy Group, she mentors owners on being “always exit ready,” balancing business, financial, and personal goals. She discusses the power of systems, the Value Builder tool, and finding your “Alan Bond moment.” Kerry's story is a masterclass in scaling, cash flow, people, and creating true freedom. Other Resources: An easy way to measure if your customers love you in 21 minutes – use the Net Promoter Score (NPS). And it's FREE. Maximise Your Business Sale Price To Meet Your Expectations! How to Exit Your Business Feeling Fulfilled Personally Satisfied and Have the Biggest Pay Day of Your Life Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Kerry Boulton, the hardest thing in growing a small business is managing cash flow. Growth eats up cash faster than most owners expect, and many don't realize how easily they can run into a squeeze. She says you've got to keep a constant eye on cash, plan ahead, and understand that scaling up often means funding gaps you need to prepare for. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Kerry shares that her favorite business book is “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey, which she says gave her a rock-solid foundation for both business and life. She also loves “The Great Game of Business” by Jack Stack for teaching how to build financial literacy and an ownership mindset in your team. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? For podcasts and learning resources, Kerry highly recommends “Built to Sell Radio” by John Warrillow, which dives into making your business more valuable and sellable. She also likes “Business Lunch” with Roland Frasier & Ryan Deiss, plus the Exit Planning Institute's podcast. And of course, she's a fan of Troy's Grow Small Business Podcast, which she appeared on. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? When it comes to tools, Kerry swears by the Value Builder System, which helps owners see their business through a buyer's eyes, score it across key value drivers, and figure out exactly where to improve to maximize value and exit readiness. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? If she could give herself advice on day one of starting out in business, Kerry laughs and says she'd simply tell herself to “buckle up,” because it's going to be a hell of a ride—full of challenges, personal growth, and ultimately the chance to create freedom and live life on her own terms. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Always run your business as if you'll sell it tomorrow — that's how you build something truly valuable — Kerry Boulton Buckle up — because business is the best roller coaster ride you'll ever take — Kerry Boulton Cash is the oxygen of your business; ignore it and you'll suffocate — Kerry Boulton
In today's episode, Jerad Dennis, director of pricing and business intelligence at TA Services joins us to talk about TA's recently released Transportation Trendline report. We dive into how spot rate trends, the impact of weather and seasonality, and what watch as we approach the second half of 2025. Follow the Loaded and Rolling Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this week's episode of FTR's Trucking Market Update podcast, we dig into some key indicators of the industrial, consumer, and housing sectors, including manufacturing output, retail sales, inventories, and residential construction. Plus, we recap the latest week in diesel prices and the spot market for truck freight. The Trucking Market Update is hosted by FTR's Vice President of Trucking, Avery Vise. As this information is presented, you are welcome to follow along and look at the graphs and indicators yourself by downloading the presentation.Download the PDF: https://ftrintel.com/trucking-podcast Support the show
Cliff Campbell, managing director and industry liaison officer for the Center For Freight and Logistics Efficiency With Electrified and Automated Trucking, explains what the organization does to bridge the valley of death in innovation and how the center leverages the research dollars of its members. He also talks about the three projects that are currently underway at the center which include an EV case study, development of a new type of motor and 3D printing of EV parts. He also shares his views on autonomous trucks including why he thinks there will always need to be a human in the cab.
In this podcast, our market experts discuss the recent developments in the US biofuels industry and the impact it's having on the specialised tanker market. A look back at the previous core flows, cargoes and vessels that were involved in US imports of biofuels and renewable feedstocks With the US blenders tax credit being replaced with the 45Z tax credit scheme, get insights into what the scheme is and what impact it has on freight markets Following the tax policy change that followed President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill, find out what to expect in the specialised tanker market Other key U.S. policy changes to be aware of
Are you keeping up with the shifts in freight, from automation to AI-driven brokers and everything in between? With 95% of broker tasks potentially automated, the focus now is on leveraging technology while keeping the human touch where it matters, customer and carrier experience. Whether it's investing in automation, tightening up internal processes, or building face-to-face relationships in a crowded market, now's the time to niche down and stay visible! Tune in to learn more!
Highlights from the Fishers Freight's 57-56 victory over the Green Bay Blizzard. Andrew Smith, Jim Leisure and Eva Hallman on the call.
Show Highlights: BulkLoads' origin story and company overview. [03:31] Opportunities and challenges ag bulk freight creates. [07:39] Service innovation with factoring and TMS solutions. [21:24] Insights on broad appeal and pain points beyond load matching. [26:26] The benefits of digitization in trucking and freight. [28:47] Explore the uses and trends of AI robotics in trucking. [36:20] The future role of load boards as robo-trucks and AI evolve. [39:54] Is there added complexity in ag bulk hauling vs. general freight? [47:12] Check out The BulkLoads Podcast hosted by Jared. [48:45] Explore BulkLoads at https://www.bulkloads.com/. Find Jared Flinn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredrflinn/. To follow The BulkLoads Podcast, go to https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLakkfZXYtJjzcMxK3_QFU9ECrFE1aqnlm. If you are interested in connecting with Joe, go to LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemosher/, or schedule a call at www.moshercg.com.
In today's episode, Jerad Dennis, director of pricing and business intelligence at TA Services joins us to talk about TA's recently released Transportation Trendline report. We dive into how spot rate trends, the impact of weather and seasonality, and what watch as we approach the second half of 2025. Follow the Loaded and Rolling Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, John Kuhlmann, founder and CEO of Heartland Logistics Group, joins us to share how the implementation of new processes and technology contributed to the company's revenue growth and volume rise! John emphasizes the significance of face-to-face customer engagement, daily sales strategy, attending conferences to build long-term relationships, and the human connection in sales! About John Kuhlmann John started in logistics in 2008, where he learned the industry and what it was lacking—inspiring him to offer a better way with Heartland Logistics Group, founded in 2020. Connect with John Website: https://shiphlg.com/ / https://sunnybrooksoftware.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jkuhlmannhlgsb/ / https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunnybrook/ / https://www.linkedin.com/company/heartland-logistics-group-llc/
Drones are doing a lot more than flying packages. They're quietly transforming how warehouses operate behind the scenes. In this episode of Freight Friends, Grace Sharkey and Blythe explore how drones are being used in logistics operations both inside and outside the warehouse, what the second half of 2025 might look like for freight, and the freight businesses and marketing tactics that have their attention. The episode wraps with a few source-to-porch stories that highlight what really moves this industry. Key takeaways: Indoor drones are helping warehouses reduce injuries and boost productivity without major infrastructure changes The second half of 2025 may bring more rate instability and seasonal chaos, especially for Q4 retail Some of the most effective freight marketing right now is low-budget and high-authenticity Source-to-porch visibility is improving, but expectations and execution still pose challengesLINKS:Grace's LinktreeGrace's work at OrderfulImportYetiDexaDroneGaetano DiNardi on SEO Triumph & Loadpay's Mike Rowe commercial Screwworm in cows Mustard historyThe Dupe Economy: Why Today's Consumers Are Smarter Than EverInside the Shadowy, Lucrative Business of ‘Superfake' Luxury HandbagsWATCH THE FULL EPISODE HEREFeedback? Ideas for a future episode? Shoot us a text here to let us know. -----------------------------------------THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! Are you experienced in freight sales or already an independent freight agent? Listen to our Freight Agent Trenches interviews powered by SPI Logistics to hear from the company's agents on how they took the entrepreneurial leap. Shipium is the ML-powered shipping platform built by the executives that created Amazon's supply chain technology. They help 3PL & retail leaders like Stord, Ryder, and Saks Off 5th to reduce shipping costs by an average of 12% while improving on-time delivery. CargoRex is the logistics industry's go-to search platform—connecting you with the right tools, services, events, and creators to explore, discover, and evolve. Digital Dispatch manages and maximizes your #1 sales tool with a website that establishes trust and builds rock-solid relationships with your leads and customers.
In today's episode, Jerad Dennis, director of pricing and business intelligence at TA Services joins us to talk about TA's recently released Transportation Trendline report. We dive into how spot rate trends, the impact of weather and seasonality, and what watch as we approach the second half of 2025. Follow the Loaded and Rolling Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this week's episode of FTR's Trucking Market Update, we review another bit change in spot market rates. Also, we summarize the latest actions related to tariffs and address data on vehicle sales, wholesale inventories, and business applications. Plus, we recap the week in diesel prices. The Trucking Market Update is hosted by FTR's Vice President of Trucking, Avery Vise. As this information is presented, you are welcome to follow along and look at the graphs and indicators yourself by downloading the presentation.Download the PDF: https://ftrintel.com/trucking-podcast Support the show
We're back for the last episode of this week with our returning guest, Cameron Pechia of Valley Trucking Insurance! Cam shares his insights on the current market downturn, the rising business failures leading to significant client losses, his recommended insurance coverage for freight brokers, legal challenges for brokers, Valley's educational content expansion, the importance of standard operating procedures, and key red flags in selecting carriers! About Cameron Pechia Cameron is the founder of Valley Trucking Insurance, a leading Trucking Insurance Agency based in Spokane, Washington. With a deep passion for the trucking industry and a commitment to excellence, Cameron has become a trusted figure in the field. Cameron also is the host of Get A Load Of This Trucking Podcast and brings a ton of value to the Trucking Industry. Cameron is also a dedicated husband and father to his two beautiful girls…His daughters are his “WHY” and what makes him get up in the morning and try to win each and every day. At Valley Trucking Insurance, Cameron oversees the provision of specialized insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of trucking companies. The agency serves a diverse clientele, including local trucking companies, long-haul trucking companies, aggregate haulers, tow truck companies, hot shots, freight brokers, and other related risks. Cameron ensures that clients receive the highest level of customer service and comprehensive coverage through the agency's proven process known as the "VTI Difference." Under Cameron's leadership, Valley Trucking Insurance has achieved significant growth and expansion across the county. The agency has built strong partnerships with renowned insurance providers such as Great West Casualty Company, Lancer Insurance Company, Progressive Insurance, Berkshire, and Canal. Additionally, Cameron also focuses on placing fleet-sized trucking companies into captive insurance programs, enhancing their risk management and financial stability. Looking ahead, Cameron is focused on an ambitious goal of expanding the agency's reach by looking to help over 10,000 Trucking Companies and Freight Brokerage operations within the next seven years. Adhering to the principles outlined in the book Traction by Geno Wickman, he is dedicated to creating world-class onboarding and customer service experience for his trucking clients. This initiative aims to foster a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, ensuring Valley Trucking Insurance remains at the forefront of the industry. Connect with Cameron Website: https://www.valleytruckinginsurance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-pechia-49903072/ Email: Cameron@alllinesinsure.com
In the July 10 episode of FTR's Rail and Intermodal Update podcast with Joseph Towers:
HIT THE BRAKES: The Can't Miss Topics in the Logistics Industry
Welcome to Hit the Brakes, where the logistics experts at Fetch Freight break down the top market trends, policy changes, and industry insights you can'tafford to miss.In this episode, Mitchell and Brett unpack how federal regulators are stepping up enforcement against freight fraud. As part of these efforts, the FMCSA has introduced Motus, a new one-stop online registration platform for carriers, which includes modernized features like biometric screening and identity validation and marks a clear step toward stronger enforcement. Listen to the full 2025 Mid-Year State of the Freight discussion here.Please let us know if you have other questions to ask or topics to discuss!Visit fetchfreight.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.
In this episode of The Long Haul, Adam sits down with Dale Prax—Marine Corps veteran, 30-year freight insider, and founder of FreightValidate—to expose the freight fraud epidemic that's hitting small carriers the hardest. From ghost carriers and fake dispatchers to double brokering rings that steal freight and wreck reputations, Dale breaks down exactly how these scams work—and why the FMCSA isn't doing enough to stop them. You'll also hear how Platinum Verified and FreightClub are building a wall of trust around the good actors in this industry. If you've ever said “That would never happen to me”—you need to hear this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
After years of investment and excitement, the dawn of self-driving cars and trucks is now here. The question now is which business model among autonomous driving technology companies will win out? This week, we speak with David Liu, CEO of autonomous trucking company Plus. Plus announced a $1.3 billion combination with Churchill Capital Corp. IX (NASDAQ:CCIX) last month. David explains how both Plus' strategy and the autonomous driving landscape have changed since the company last considered a SPAC listing and why the company is betting on a software-first approach - partnering with truck manufacturers rather than building hardware in-house. He also breaks down how this model could position Plus for better scalability and higher margins in the years ahead.
AI agents aren't coming—they're already here.In this episode of Rental Roundtable, we're joined by Jesse Buckingham, former CEO of Record360 and founder of Vooma, to explore how AI is actively transforming the freight industry, and what that means for the future of rental.Jesse walks us through a live demo of a voice AI agent that can answer calls, qualify carriers, and book freight with zero human involvement. This isn't a future prediction. It's already handling thousands of calls a day.“AI is answering thousands of calls every day for brokers across America.”
In this episode, we dive into the issues surrounding CDLs in the U.S. Our guest, Thomas Wasson, Enterprise trucking analyst at FreightWaves, breaks down what the motives are behind the enforcement of the english language proficiency and why non-domiciled CDL holders are at the center of the discourse. For more information, subscribe to Check Call the newsletter or the podcast. Follow the Check Call Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Last time we spoke about the allied invasion of Balikpapan. In June 1945, the war in the Pacific escalated as American forces, spearheaded by Generals Eichelberger and Krueger, fiercely battled the entrenched Japanese on Luzon. Despite harsh conditions and fierce resistance, the Americans made crucial advances, capturing key positions that rekindled hope for the Filipino people. Concurrently, preparations for the invasion of Balikpapan intensified. The Australian 7th Division assembled for a July 1 amphibious assault against a heavily fortified Japanese defense, known for its formidable coast artillery and entrenched positions. The Australians faced fierce opposition upon landing; however, skilled maneuvering and robust artillery support allowed them to swiftly gain a foothold. As the Australians secured their beachhead, they marked the beginning of a challenging campaign against determined Japanese forces in Balikpapan, setting the stage for further confrontations in the Pacific theater. This episode is Victory at Bougainville Welcome to the Pacific War Podcast Week by Week, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about world war two? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on world war two and much more so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel you can find a few videos all the way from the Opium Wars of the 1800's until the end of the Pacific War in 1945. We last left off on Bougainville, by mid-April, Brigadier Heathcote Hammer's 15th Brigade had commenced its crucial task of relieving Brigadier Field's weary and battered 7th Brigade. This transition came at a pivotal moment when Brigadier Stevenson's 11th Brigade successfully secured the Soraken Peninsula, a strategic point on Bougainville's southern coast, while also continuing their efforts to contain enemy forces along the notorious Numa Numa Trail, a crucial supply route for Japanese troops. Supported by reinforcements in artillery and air power, Generals Savige and Bridgeford were optimistic about continuing their limited offensive toward the south. Their immediate objective was to capture the line of the Hongorai River, considered a significant tactical advantage, followed by the Hari River, which would serve as the 15th Brigade's main aim. On the opposing side, General Kanda had learned a harsh lesson about the ineffectiveness of banzai charges during the fierce fighting at the Battle of Slater's Knoll. This costly experience prompted him to alter his strategy significantly. He decided to pull his remaining troops back to a defensive perimeter focused around Buin, which is located in the southern region of Bougainville. Here, he reinforced his defenses with garrison troops from Kieta, situated on the eastern side of Bougainville, the Shortlands Islands to the northwest, and the Fauros Islands to the northeast. However, with this concentration of forces not expected to be operational until July, the troops stationed in the forward areas were tasked with executing a critical delaying action in the meantime, buying precious time for reinforcements to arrive. Meanwhile, on April 17, the Australian 24th Battalion began its advance along the Buin Road, a vital route for both supply and troop movement. Two companies made their way toward Dawe's Creek, while another company launched an assault against the enemy strongholds at Kindara. Remarkably, they broke through enemy lines the following day, pushing further to Sindou Creek and Umam Creek. Here, they faced multiple sharp counterattacks over the next week, demonstrating the fierce resistance from Japanese forces determined to hold their ground. As patrols moved deeper into the thick jungle on either side of the Buin Road, the struggle became increasingly intense. Each advance was hard-fought, marked by skirmishes that tested the resolve and endurance of the Australian soldiers. Finally, on April 26, the advance resumed in earnest, making rapid gains toward the Hongorai River. The combination of heavy air support and relentless artillery bombardment had effectively dispelled any opposition along the route, allowing the Australians to push forward with renewed vigor. By May 4, as the 24th Battalion finally approached the banks of the Hongorai River, they encountered significant resistance. However, on the 4th Lieutenant Lawn's platoon was advancing with two tanks and a bulldozer when the crew of the leading tank came to a log across the road and saw movement in the bush. A burst of machine-gun fire from the tank cut the leaves away and revealed the barrel of a field gun. The first round fired from the tank's 2-pounder disabled the enemy gun and the enemy seemed to flee. Farther ahead, however, a mine exploded at the rear of the second tank. It was discovered that it had been exploded with a wire by a Japanese concealed in the bush. Henceforward mines and concealed guns were encountered more and more frequently. They were detected chiefly by the practised eyes of the engineer teams of Major Needham's 15th Field Company who became increasingly skilful. Mechanical detectors were defeated by several sorts of mine employed wooden boxes filled with T.N.T., for example; but their presence was betrayed by protruding fuses, wires, disturbed earth, and confirmed by prodding with a bayonet. As the 24th Battalion neared the Hongorai it became evident that the Japanese intended to make the Australians pay a price for each advance, and that they were willing to trade a field gun for a tank at every opportunity. On the 4th and many later occasions leading tanks were fired on at a range of a few yards by guns cleverly concealed beside the track, but in positions from which the Japanese could not hope to extricate them. In other respects also the Japanese tactics were improving and their striking power was strengthened. Each forward Australian battalion was now under frequent artillery fire, evidently directed by Japanese observers who remained close to the Australian advance, and it was this which was now causing most of the casualties. The shells usually burst in the trees and their fragments were scattered over a wide area with lethal effects. To counter the tanks the Japanese were now establishing their positions not astride the track but about 100 yards from it in places where the tanks could not reach them until a side track had been made. The Hongorai River, a critical geographical landmark, ran through Bougainville's lush terrain, acting as both a natural barrier and tactical objective. In late April, the 9th Battalion had continued to push forward across the Huio River, a vital waterway that intersected with Japanese defenses. They faced some enemy resistance but managed to clear the Horinu-Rumiki Trail by the end of the month. This narrow, winding path had strategic importance, connecting various units and enabling supplies to move closer to the frontline. On May 3, the 9th Battalion was finally relieved by the 57th/60th Battalion, which, due to its relative inexperience, found progress challenging along the Commando Road a route named after the elite Australian commandos who often operated in this area. Their inexperience in facing seasoned Japanese troops led to slower advances in the crucial days that followed. Meanwhile, the 2/8th Commando Squadron had been conducting deep reconnaissance patrols towards the Hari River and along the Tiger Road, determined to discover the extent of Japanese defenses south of the Hongorai. The Tiger Road, notorious for its rugged conditions, was pivotal for troop movements in the region. On May 5, the 24th Battalion, now bolstered by a newly assigned tank squadron, resumed its advance with renewed determination. However, they were once again halted by fierce defenders who launched a strong yet costly counterattack the following morning. This desperate but valiant effort by the Japanese troops resulted in significant casualties and demonstrated their resolve to maintain control of the Hongorai line. Subsequently, the Japanese forces ultimately abandoned their positions along the Hongorai during the night. Finally, on May 7, the Australians reached the Hongorai River, marking a significant milestone in their campaign. At that moment, the 57th/60th Battalion was securing a crucial crossing over the Hongorai on the Commando Road, enabling further advances into enemy territory. With the next objective focused on the line stretching from the Hari River to Monoitu and Kapana, Brigadier Hammer's battalions shifted their tactics for the second and third weeks of May. They undertook deep patrols into Japanese-occupied territory, gathering vital intelligence while also seeking to harass the enemy and disrupt their operations. Additionally, the commandos maintained their patrols along the challenging Tiger Road and established a new patrol base further north at Monorei. This base would serve as a critical outpost for monitoring enemy movements and launching further operations. Meanwhile, the 58th/59th Battalion explored the rugged areas south of the Buin Road, successfully clearing the Aitara Mission. This mission played a crucial role in their broader strategies, as it prepared them to execute a wide flanking maneuver aimed at cutting the road east of the Hongorai, further encircling Japanese forces. To support the advancing Australian forces, New Zealand aircraft launched significant attacks on Japanese concentrations positioned along the Buin and Commando Roads. On May 17, the 57th/60th Battalion crossed the upper reaches of the Hongorai River, advancing across a wide front along the Commando Road to draw the enemy's attention to that area. On the eve of this move Hammer issued an order of the day in a characteristic style. He spoke of his "undying admiration" for and "extreme confidence" in his men and told them that the next few weeks might see the major defeat of the Japanese in south Bougainville. "Go to battle as you have done in the last month and no enemy can withstand you." In the subsequent days, they successfully secured territory up to the Torobiru River, creating pressure on the Japanese lines and disrupting their defensive operations. On May 20, following a powerful air and artillery bombardment, the 24th Battalion finally launched its long-anticipated assault across the Hongorai River. This marked a turning point as they occupied the strategically significant Egan's Ridge by May 22. Egan's Ridge offered an elevated position that overlooked the surrounding terrain, making it crucial for controlling movement in the vicinity. Meanwhile, the 58th/59th Battalion executed a stealthy wide flanking maneuver towards Mayberry's Crossing, positioning themselves strategically to disrupt Japanese supply lines and communication. On May 21, the Australians moved out once more to cut the Buin Road at Runai, an essential route that facilitated movement and supplies for the Japanese forces. In the following days, the remaining sections of this critical road were secured as the Japanese forces west of the Hari River were forced to retreat, effectively diminishing their operational capabilities in the region. As these operations unfolded, the 2/8th Commando Squadron established a new base on Morokaimoro, positioning themselves for further reconnaissance and engagements. They began patrolling towards Taitai and the Mivo River, both vital points of interest as the Australians sought to gather intelligence on enemy movements. In the meantime, the 57th/60th Battalion pressed on to capture the Oso Junction by May 27. However, they encountered harassment from night raiding parties and artillery fire, which highlighted the persistent threat of Japanese resistance in this area. On 2nd June the main advance was resumed, the 58th/59th moving forward without opposition through positions which had been "completely devastated by air, artillery and mortars". "Not one enemy was found alive or dead," wrote the battalion diarist, "although a strong smell of death pervaded the whole area." A prisoner taken later in the day said that the air strike had completely demoralised the defenders, and when they heard the tanks approaching they had fled. On the left the 57th/60th reached the Sunin River against slight opposition. On the 3rd and 4th the 58th/59th continued the advance, moving slowly because of the need to disarm an unprecedentedly large number of mines and booby-traps-more than 100 in three days-until they reached the Peperu River. Patrols moving stealthily forward to the Hari and across it found evidence of much confusion, many positions dug but unoccupied, and small groups of Japanese at large. It was decided to attack frontally towards the Hari next day. At the same time, the 57th/60th Battalion also reached the Sunin River, facing only slight opposition during their advance. On June 6, the 58th/59th Battalion launched an attack towards the Hari River, but despite their efforts, they only managed to gain about 500 yards against strong defensive positions held by the Japanese. The next three days proved challenging as the 58th/59th Battalion, supported by tanks, found their progress impeded by swampy terrain, a road littered with hidden mines, and intermittent shellfire threatening their advance. The combined obstacles of the natural environment and determined enemy resistance severely limited their ability to make significant gains. In light of the pressing circumstances, Brigadier Hammer made a pivotal decision to send the 58th/59th Battalion on a shallow outflanking march to the north. Their mission was clear: cut the Buin Road several miles east of the Hari River. At the same time, the 57th/60th Battalion was tasked with thrusting wide to the south, maneuvering around the Ogorata River to intercept the same road near Rusei. After four days of concentrated air and artillery bombardment designed to weaken enemy defenses, the 58th/59th Battalion commenced its operation on June 12. They sent two companies forward to secure a position along the road, located 2,000 yards east of the Hari. This forward position was critical for their strategy to disrupt Japanese supply lines. Two days later, on June 14, these forces continued their advance eastward toward the Ogorata River, while the remainder of the battalion engaged the enemy at the Hari ford, a crucial crossing point. Despite the fierce opposition, the ford was finally secured on June 15, following another extensive bombardment that significantly diminished the Japanese presence along the road west of the Ogorata. This success was instrumental in facilitating further operations in the area. Concurrently, the 57th/60th Battalion had embarked on their mission on June 11, making slow but steady progress through the challenging, trackless bush. They ultimately found a path leading from Kingori to Rusei, where they began encountering Japanese resistance. Pushing through treacherous swampy terrain and dense bamboo thickets, the Australians reached the Buin Road at Rusei by June 15, successfully coordinating with patrols from the 58th/59th Battalion the following day. In addition to securing Rusei, a robust patrol from the 57th/60th Battalion set out along the northern flank to establish a patrol base north of Musaraka. This base detected a significant enemy presence behind them, leading to a critical reassessment of their positions. Consequently, in late June, the 24th Battalion was dispatched to take over the Taitai-Kingori-Katsuwa area, reinforcing the Australian foothold and securing vital routes in the region. Meanwhile, back to the south, the 57th/60th Battalion began to push eastward toward the Mobiai River on June 16. However, their advance quickly met strong opposition just 400 yards into enemy territory. Faced with determined resistance, the battalion executed a wide outflanking maneuver, a tactical shift that successfully forced the Japanese forces to withdraw by June 19, allowing the Australians to continue their advance. In the following days, the 57th/60th Battalion pressed steadily forward, ultimately encountering increased opposition near the Mobiai River on June 24. A heavy bombardment was launched in an attempt to dislodge the entrenched Japanese forces, but it proved ineffective. However, the next day, the Japanese troops had mysteriously withdrawn, allowing the Australians to secure a vital crossing over the river. Taking advantage of this opportunity, the 58th/59th Battalion moved in to occupy the newly attained Mobiai positions. Meanwhile, the 57th/60th and 24th Battalions advanced farther north, preparing for an outflanking maneuver aimed at Shishigatero, a critical tactical point lying to the northeast. In anticipation of an Australian offensive, General Kanda dispatched the 23rd Regiment to establish a defensive base near the Mivo ford. This strategic relocation was part of his preparations for the final defenses behind the Mivo River, as Japanese troops sought to hold their ground against the advancing Australians. By June 28, the 57th/60th and 24th Battalions reached their designated assembly areas, where they successfully repelled several Japanese counterattacks. The next morning, they began their advance southeast, shrouded in the loud thunder of artillery barrages that paved the way for their push. They reached the Buin Road at the confluence of the Ivana, Koopani, and Mivo Rivers, making significant headway. At the same time, the 58th/59th Battalion aimed to open the road for the 24th Battalion, positioned about 1,000 yards away. However, they encountered sharp resistance from Japanese forces defending their positions fiercely. Following this notable success, as Hammer's units faced and repelled various Japanese counterattacks at their new positions, General Bridgeford directed Brigadier Noel Simpson's 29th Brigade to the frontline to relieve the beleaguered 15th Brigade. Each incoming battalion was met with sharp clashes as they moved up, as Japanese forces sought to maintain their hold on strategic territory. Finally, on July 10, Hammer's units were relieved, a long-awaited reprieve after weeks of grueling combat. Despite the shift in command, Simpson's battalions began sending patrols forward in preparation for a crossing of the Mivo River. Unfortunately, due to the heavy resistance encountered and the onset of relentless rains that would continue throughout the month, this final offensive was never carried out. Instead, the troops were limited to vigorous patrolling activities during July and August, maintaining a presence but unable to launch significant offensives in the harsh conditions. Many of these patrols encountered fierce opposition, signaling that the enemy intended to mount a determined defense along the Mivo line. These patrols regularly captured crucial documents from Japanese soldiers ambushed along the tracks leading to their forward positions, allowing Australian forces to construct a clearer picture of the enemy's intentions and deployments. Among these daring reconnaissance missions was one conducted by a patrol from the 42nd Battalion, led by Lieutenant Oldfield. Tasked with scouting a potential crossing at the Mivo, Oldfield and four other soldiers discovered the river was in flood. Undeterred, they stripped off their gear, swam across the turbulent waters, and advanced 500 yards beyond the riverbank, without any weapons. The weight of the Australian artillery and mortar bombardments altered the enemy's tactics. Rather than holding fixed positions, the Japanese began to dig in less and instead employed a strategy of hit-and-run raids and ambushes executed by small groups of three to ten men. Before July 10 arrived, the relentless rain compelled a second postponement of the advance; the new date for the operation was set for July 24. However, the downpour continued to intensify. By July 10, even the patrols could not cross the flooded Mivo. "Torrential rain flooded the divisional area, reducing the Buin Road to a treacherous sea of mud and creating a series of islands between the various rivers." On July 17, conditions worsened further, with a dramatic eight inches of rain falling in just 36 hours. The new challenge was no longer about advancing troops but ensuring that the men were fed where they remained. Virtually all the bridges along the lines of communication were washed away, and all the rivers were flooded; the Mivo was now surging at a speed of twelve miles an hour. As a result, the forward units could only be supplied via air transport. It would take weeks to repair the damaged roads and bridges, leading to D-day being postponed until late August. As the southern operations unfolded, General Savige made a strategic decision to bring Brigadier Arnold Potts' 23rd Brigade from Munda and its surrounding islands to Torokina. Upon arrival, Savige immediately tasked the 27th Battalion with taking over the central sector beyond Pearl Ridge. The Australians quickly began bombing and launching attacks in the Berry's Hill-Hunt's Hill area, ultimately securing this crucial location on May 16. Following the seizure of Berry's Hill, the 27th Battalion conducted patrols toward key positions at Sisivie, Tokua, Base Point 3, and Wearne's Hill throughout late May. On June 3, they initiated an attack towards Tiernan's Spur, making significant progress before being relieved by the 7th Battalion. The 7th Battalion, upon taking over, adopted an aggressive posture, and on June 11, they attacked Tiernan's Spur, successfully securing the feature this time. Soon after, a combination of reconnaissance and air bombardment set the stage for an assault on Wearne's Hill on June 16. However, they encountered strong opposition and were unable to seize its crest until June 20. In parallel operations, a company captured Sisivie without encountering resistance on June 12. Another company was dispatched to establish a forward base in the Wakunai Valley, successfully creating observation posts that overlooked Inus Point and the large Numa Numa Plantation by June 21. After conducting extensive bombardments against remaining Japanese positions, the Australians finally secured the remainder of Wearne's Hill on June 24. Starting June 26, the 7th Battalion began probing towards Centre Hill, which they ultimately found abandoned on July 6. Meanwhile, on July 3, Tokua was occupied as a base for future operations probing north toward Ibu and Buritsiotorara. Artillery and aircraft continued to harass North Hill, which was finally captured on July 13. Just five days later, Cameron's Hill was also successfully attacked and secured. The 7th Battalion then pressed forward along the main track towards Charlie Creek and McInnes Hill, achieving their objectives by August 8 as the remaining Japanese forces were forced to retire to Numa Numa. Looking north, the 55th/53rd Battalion took over from the exhausted 26th Battalion in early April, following the fall of the Soraken Peninsula. Upon assuming command, Lieutenant Colonel Stevenson immediately directed the 55th/53rd to cross the Nagam River and launch an attack towards Pora Pora, a key strategic location in the region. The battalion pressed on along the main coastal track, but on April 13, they faced an unsuccessful assault against the enemy positioned at McKinnon's Ridge. Meanwhile, a company from the battalion moved through an inland route, encountering no resistance as they advanced to a position just two miles from Pora Pora. Recognizing the resolute enemy defenses along the main track, the Australians initiated a program of heavy artillery bombardment, complemented by flanking maneuvers designed to outmaneuver the entrenched defenders. This relentless strategy began to pay off, eventually forcing the Japanese to retreat on April 21. During this critical period, the unopposed company on the inland track continued to push forward until it was only one mile from Pora Pora. In the following four days, the 55th/53rd Battalion fought its way into the Pora Pora bottleneck, engaging in fierce combat that successfully expelled the Japanese forces by April 30. With this victory, the Australians were able to continue their advance northward, making rapid gains against a retreating enemy. On May 4, they captured the Ratsua jetty, a vital logistics point that facilitated further operations. Two columns of the 55th/53rd commenced a swift march towards Ruri Bay, while a company from the 26th Battalion successfully seized Torokori Island on May 6. Three days later, as they finally approached Ruri Bay, the Australians successfully repelled an enemy ambush. However, Brigadier Stevenson's orders were now to halt their advance at the Ratsua-Ruri Bay line and focus on active patrolling extending northward to Tarbut and Tarlena. Despite this directive, the situation became increasingly precarious. The Japanese, bolstered by four small provisional battalions of naval troops under Captain Kato Ekichi, grew aggressive beyond the established line. Daily patrol clashes erupted, with Australian positions and supply lines subjected to constant ambushes. Recognizing the need for reinforcements, the weary 55th/53rd Battalion was relieved by the 26th Battalion on May 21. In response, the 26th immediately dispatched two companies to thrust forward in the area south and east of Buoi Plantation. However, these units quickly encountered strong counterattacks, while patrols faced heavy resistance around Siara and Chindawon. As Stevenson's forces found themselves facing a fortified opponent stronger than anticipated, permission was granted to send two companies from the 31st/51st Battalion to take over the western sector on June 3. Despite this reinforcements, the Australians continued to struggle to make meaningful progress northward. After the 26th Battalion had been in the line for three hard weeks its diarist wrote that the campaign had become one of "holding a superior number of enemy by the aggressive action of a tired depleted battalion-companies were no more than half strength and had been in forward areas continuously for four months". The battalion's fighting strength on 3rd June was only 23 officers and 353 other ranks. The constant patrolling, the artillery fire and the raids on jeep trains on tracks well to the rear were wearing down the men's spirits. In response to the persistent challenges, a strategic decision was made to outmaneuver the Japanese by landing a reinforced company of the 31st/51st Battalion at Porton Plantation, aiming to approach the enemy from the western flank. During the early hours of June 8, the assault force successfully landed unopposed and swiftly established a perimetric defense reaching 150 yards inland. However, the surprised defenders quickly regrouped, unleashing a barrage of machine-gun fire that effectively thwarted the unloading of heavy weapons, reserve ammunition, and essential supplies. Although supporting artillery fire was effectively directed at the Japanese positions, the Australians soon found themselves pinned down as Captain Kato reinforced the defenses surrounding their perimeter. To complicate matters further, a convoy of Australian supplies and reinforcements attempting to reach the newly established perimeter was successfully repelled by the tenacious defenders during the night. The next morning, it was decided to withdraw the force late that evening. However, as the Australians prepared for their retreat, the Japanese launched a strong counterattack from three sides. The enemy attacked in relentless waves, and although they were met with devastating Australian fire, the pressure forced the company to pull back towards the beach. In the morning they launched what was evidently intended as a final blow, thrusting from three sides. Now estimated at over 400 they attacked in waves and were mowed down by the Australian fire. To confuse their enemy they shouted English phrases such as "Watch the right flank", "Throw it in the middle", "It's only me, Jack", and so on. The Australians pulled back towards the beach and at 1 p.m. During the afternoon, three landing craft moved towards the beach under heavy enemy fire in an effort to embark the soldiers. Unfortunately, two of the crafts were overloaded and became stranded. One eventually drifted off with the tide during the evening; however, the other remained besieged by heavy fire throughout the night. On June 10, Australian forces continued their attempts to rescue the stranded men, launching efforts under the cover of a strong air attack. At dawn on June 10, there were 38 living men on board the besieged landing craft, commanded by Corporal Hall. Their meager arsenal included two Bren guns, five Owen submachine guns, and nine rifles. The remaining rations consisted of eight tins of fruit or vegetables, three or four tins of meat, and three tins of condensed milk. Corporal Hall devised a defensive plan to maximize their chances of survival. He removed the wooden shelves under the overlapping sides of the ALCA to create protective cover under the flaps for all the troops. The dismantled wireless set was discarded overboard to free up additional space. To assist with breathing during rising tides, each man was issued six-inch lengths of copper piping. A continuous watch was kept from the coxswain's enclosure to monitor Japanese movements and report any developments. The soldiers cleaned and oiled their weapons using lubricant sourced from the engines, ensuring that they were well-maintained and ready for use. A medical kit was placed in the capable hands of a member of the 19th Australian Field Ambulance, who diligently distributed morphine and dressings as needed. At 15:30 on June 10, a concerted effort to rescue the stranded survivors commenced. An intense and precise air attack targeted the enemy positions, but unfortunately, it failed to hit the pillbox from which most of the fire directed at the barge was originating. Bombers dropped inflated rubber rafts near the landing craft in an attempt to assist, but Japanese gunfire prevented any men from reaching these lifelines. Under the cover of an artillery smoke screen, a landing craft attempted to reach the shore. However, enemy fire wounded several crew members, including the coxswain, damaging the steering gear and causing the craft to circle out of control. Amidst this chaos, Corporal Hall attempted to silence the pillbox with a Bren gun, but his efforts were in vain. In a desperate bid to assist the aircraft in locating the target, he splashed bullets towards the pillbox, yet the attempt proved futile as the damaged landing craft was forced to withdraw. They successfully repelled several Japanese parties attempting to swim out to the immobilized craft during the night. Finally, in the early hours of June 11, the besieged Australians were rescued by three assault boats, managing to pull them from the critical situation. In this endeavor, the Australian forces suffered significant losses, with 23 men reported killed or missing and 106 wounded. Among these casualties, five killed and seven wounded belonged to the 42nd Landing Craft Company. Estimates suggest that the Japanese forces faced losses of approximately 147 confirmed dead, with an additional 50 likely killed. The infantry units suffered specifically dire consequences, with two officers killed and three wounded, these included both company commanders, leaving only Lieutenants Patterson and Reiter, two young veterans from the 6th Division, as the sole surviving leaders from six platoon commanders. Additionally, 14 other ranks were reported killed or missing, while 57 were wounded. Of those wounded, five were sent to the field ambulance suffering from exposure, and nine sustained cuts and bruises. The repulse of the Australian attempt to land near Porton on June 8, 9, and 10 significantly boosted Japanese morale. Observers reported that the landing occurred on a rough strip of beach, making it difficult for the enemy to negotiate the surrounding reefs. The high ground in the vicinity provided an excellent vantage point for the Japanese, allowing for optimal placement of automatic weapons. In response to the Australian advance, Captain Kato swiftly dispatched 150 troops from Chabai to reinforce the approximately 100 men already engaged in combat. These reinforcements succeeded in thwarting any further enemy landings, ultimately pushing the Australians back to the beach, from where their remaining forces were evacuated in haste. Kato estimated that around 250 Australians had landed, resulting in the loss of 60 killed and 100 wounded, alongside 26 Japanese fatalities. If the Japanese report regarding their own losses is accurate, it suggests that both sides engaged in this grim action sustained approximately equal losses. Moreover, during this battle, the reinforced 26th Battalion failed to exploit this diversionary attack, missing the opportunity to push against the stubborn resistance of Captain Kato's isolated posts. On June 20, Brigadier Potts' 23rd Brigade began taking over the northern sector, with orders to contain the Japanese forces in the Bonis Peninsula and patrol towards Buka Passage. This relief operation was completed by the end of the month. However, the 8th and 27th Battalions continued to face harassment from Kato's deep patrols throughout July. Ultimately, the overextended 27th Battalion on the right flank was withdrawn on July 22 to allow the 8th Battalion to successfully attack and capture Commo Ridge the following day. On July 24, the 8th Battalion launched an unsuccessful attack on Part Ridge. However, this heavy assault shook the defenders, paving the way for the Australians to capture the ridge against light opposition on August 5. This marked the last major action of the Bougainville Campaign. In total, Savige's 2nd Corps endured losses of 516 Australians killed and 1,572 wounded. It is estimated that approximately 8,500 Japanese soldiers were killed by Australian forces and their native allies, while an additional 9,800 succumbed to illness during the Australian period on Bougainville. By the end of the campaign, only 23,571 men remained out of about 65,000 who had been on the island when the Americans launched their attack in November 1943. Now, attention turned westward to Balikpapan, where General Milford's 7th Australian Division successfully landed on July 1. They secured an important perimeter extending through Santosa Hill, Parramatta, Mount Malang, and Stalkudo. The battle resumed the following day, with the 2/14th Battalion advancing along the Vasey Highway to seize the Sepinggang airstrip unopposed. Meanwhile, the 2/3rd Commando Squadron took over the area northeast of Stalkudo, though they made little progress toward the Lady Schofield feature due to heavy enemy fire. The 2/27th Battalion strengthened and extended its hold on the high ground northwest of Stalkudo. The 2/16th Battalion pressed northward, successfully capturing Resort, Owen, and Oxley without sustaining any losses. The 2/12th Battalion took Potts and consolidated its position on Portee. The 2/10th Battalion conducted mopping-up operations in the secured areas, patrolling vigorously forward, and also seized Mount Sepuluh. Lastly, the 2/9th Battalion, supported by a troop of tanks, cleared Kandasan town along the coast as far as Signal Hill. By the end of the day, Brigadier Eather's 25th Brigade had landed to take over the central portions of the front, tasked with pushing inland astride the Milford Highway. On July 3, one company of the 2/10th Battalion advanced through the port, while another cleared the Tank Plateau, and a third focused on the lower ground between the plateau and Parramatta. Concurrently, the 2/9th Battalion, supported by its troop of tanks, successfully took the Santosa barracks, which they had bypassed the previous day. The division now held a bridgehead approximately five miles wide and one mile deep, successfully securing one of the two airstrips. On July 3, light aircraft began operating from this newly established base. However, unloading heavy equipment and stores proved to be a challenging task, causing considerable anxiety among the troops. A swell made it difficult to transfer loads to Landing Craft Tank (LCTs) and small craft, while it was impossible to run the Landing Ship Tank (LSTs) directly onto the beach. By 06:00 on July 3, progress was evident, with 985 vehicles and 1,932 tons of various equipment and stores successfully landed, alongside 16,950 men ashore. Later that morning, an LST began unloading at a pontoon jetty constructed on Green Beach by an American naval construction battalion. The captured port was a scene of devastation, characterized by wrecked workshops and warehouses, leaving little more than twisted, rusty steel and piles of rubble where houses once stood. The seven wharves designed for ocean-going vessels had all been burned, rendering them unusable. Among the debris, one dump of scrap iron collected by the Japanese from the ruins measured 520 yards long, with another scrap pile opposite it stretching about 150 yards. As unloading operations continued on the main beaches, the 2/14th Battalion began moving towards the Manggar airstrip but found themselves halted at Batakan Kechil. The 2/27th Battalion took over the defense of the Sepinggang strip, and the 2/3rd Commando Squadron discovered the Lady Schofield feature abandoned, allowing their patrols to press on more than a mile across the high ground overlooking the Sepinggang River. Meanwhile, the 2/33rd Battalion encountered heavy opposition in the hills above Chilton Road but managed to capture Opus, Operator, and Oxygen, as well as a height to the northeast named Orange. The 2/31st Battalion advanced along Milford Highway, facing increasing opposition, but they rapidly secured the junction with Chilton Road. However, they were unable to capture the strong enemy defenses at Nobody and Nurse. The 2/12th Battalion began a march towards Pandansari but had to assault Nail to eliminate the threat of enemy harassing fire. The following day, while the 2/33rd Battalion occupied Letter and Lewis, the 2/31st found Nobody and Nurse abandoned, allowing them to easily secure these features. One company also took control of Nail and began probing towards Lodge. At the same time, the 2/14th Battalion resumed its advance towards Manggar. They successfully crossed the river and pushed 1,300 yards across the airstrip without facing any opposition. However, after midday, heavy Japanese fire unexpectedly swept across the airfield, resulting in the deaths of several officers at the control tower. Despite this setback, and aided by the fire from destroyer Eaton, the Australians pressed on and ultimately secured Manggar and its airfield. By the end of the day, General Milford had successfully pushed the enemy out of Balikpapan and further secured the Sepinggang and Manggar strips. However, it became clear that Admiral Kamada was attempting to withdraw the remnants of his force to the Batuchampar area, aiming to delay any advance along the Milford Highway for as long as possible. The 454th Independent Battalion continued to hold the commanding terrain north of Manggar, and on July 5, its defenses came under intense naval, air, and artillery bombardment, which initially failed to silence the Japanese guns. Meanwhile, Brigadier Eather pressed his advance north in the center. The 2/25th Battalion took control of the positions at Nurse and Nail, while the 2/33rd pressed on against dwindling opposition to capture Mackay, Marshall, Mutual, and Margin. The 2/31st Battalion moved forward to seize Letter and Lewis, followed by the capture of Laverton and Liverpool. Recognizing the necessity of securing the western side of Balikpapan Bay to facilitate port operations, Milford ordered Brigadier Chilton's 18th Brigade to land the reinforced 2/9th Battalion at Penadjam. Following a naval and artillery bombardment, the landing was executed unopposed during the afternoon of July 5, with patrols of the 2/9th immediately probing north and south to secure the perimeter. The following day, a patrol moved south toward Nanang village and onward to the Sesumpu River, while other units explored the area towards the Riko River and Separi. On July 6, the 2/33rd Battalion successfully attacked and captured Metal and Muffle, but they were ultimately repelled from Judge. Meanwhile, the 2/25th pressed onward, taking control of Liverpool and occupying Huon. Looking southeast, the 2/14th Battalion began to probe enemy positions on this day. A strong patrol successfully captured Waites' Knoll but had to repel a series of strong counterattacks during the night, while another patrol was forced back along Vasey Highway. Over the next few days, the Australians continued to engage, probing and bombarding the commanding enemy positions. Ultimately, the 2/14th launched an attack and captured the Frost and Brown features on July 9, effectively eliminating the enemy threat in that area. Meanwhile, the 2/16th Battalion and the 2/5th Commando Squadron attacked an enemy concentration at Gate on July 6 and secured the position two days later, further solidifying their hold on Grand by July 9. To the northwest, on July 7, the 2/25th Battalion moved to Cult and then attempted an assault on Jam but was repelled by fierce defenders. The following day, while Jam underwent probing and bombardment, the 2/33rd Battalion discovered Justice abandoned after heavy shelling and pressed on toward Joint and Judge. Concurrently, Brigadier Eather had dispatched the 2/6th Commando Squadron into the hills overlooking the Sumber River. They successfully occupied Job on July 8 and seized Freight the following day. By July 9, after a concentrated artillery barrage, Jam, Joint, and Judge finally fell as the 25th Brigade secured the first stretch of the Milford Highway to Batuchampar. The 2/31st Battalion then advanced to a road bend due north of Junior, where they encountered an ambush by Japanese raiders. Meanwhile, a company of the 2/9th Battalion landed unopposed at Djinabora on the afternoon of July 8, and on the following day, a patrol base was established at Teloktebang. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. General Hammer launched a fierce campaign across Bougainville, battling entrenched Japanese troops, they secured the strategic Soraken Peninsula and advanced toward the vital Hongorai River. By July, they had reached the Hari River, significantly weakening Japanese defenses. However, relentless rain hindered further operations.
In this week's episode of FTR's Trucking Market Update podcast, we examine the latest payroll employment and carrier population data related to for-hire trucking and discuss a big week for spot rates. Plus, we look at the broader labor market, dig more into the latest trade data, and recap the week in diesel prices as usual. The Trucking Market Update is hosted by FTR's Vice President of Trucking, Avery Vise. As this information is presented, you are welcome to follow along and look at the graphs and indicators yourself by downloading the presentation.Download the PDF: https://ftrintel.com/trucking-podcastSupport the show
In this episode of Supply Chain Connections, Brian Glick sits down with Blythe Brumleve—seasoned logistics marketer and founder of CargoRex and Digital Dispatch—to explore her unique path from executive assistant to tech founder in the logistics space. Blythe shares how early mentorship, hands-on experience, and a passion for digital media helped her carve a niche at the intersection of freight and marketing.Topics covered include: How Blythe transitioned from content creator to product founder The vision behind CargoRex and its mission to unify logistics information Lessons from launching a tech platform in the freight industry Why imperfect product launches matter—and how to iterate quickly The future of search and digital experiences in logisticsBlythe Brumleve (Milligan) is a veteran logistics marketer with over 15 years of experience in digital strategy. She's the founder of website management firm Digital Dispatch, host of the Everything is Logistics podcast, and creator of CargoRex—a search engine for logistics professionals. She also serves on the board of the Transportation Marketing and Sales Association and is cofounder of Jax Podcasters United.Connect with BlytheExplore CargoRexDiscover Digital DispatchListen to Everything is LogisticsConnect with BrianFollow Chain.io on LinkedIn
In this episode, we dive into the issues surrounding CDLs in the U.S. Our guest, Thomas Wasson, Enterprise trucking analyst at FreightWaves, breaks down what the motives are behind the enforcement of the english language proficiency and why non-domiciled CDL holders are at the center of the discourse. For more information, subscribe to Check Call the newsletter or the podcast. Follow the Check Call Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today's live show highlights some industry trends that you should be aware of, the significance of adopting a daily action-focused approach for both business and personal development, and prioritizing progress over perfection in the freight business! Listen and don't miss out on this episode! Resources / References https://www.ttnews.com/articles/atri-trucking-costs-2025 https://www.ttnews.com/articles/ups-voluntary-buyouts-union https://www.fleetowner.com/news/article/55301341/congress-passes-trumps-one-big-beautiful-bill
On this week's FreightCaviar Podcast, we sit down with Sushanth Raman, CEO and Founder of Pallet — an AI-driven logistics management system — to discuss the future of the industry, what sets Pallet apart from the competition, and why businesses that fail to embrace technology risk being left behind.
Well, folks, freight made his re-entry to the podcast this week,and it was nothing short of amazing!!!In this conversation, Vulcan and Freight explore the complexities of discussing difficult topics, such as politics, religion, and current events. They delve into the reasons why these subjects are hard to talk about, emphasizing the importance of understanding different perspectives and the role of media bias in shaping opinions. The discussion highlights the need for empathy, compassion, and humor in navigating challenging conversations, as well as the fear of offending others that often leads to conflict. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to engage in open dialogue and to be mindful of their responses in discussions.Sound Bites"We need to discuss without yelling.""What if I don't hear the music?""Everything you hear is opinion."
In this episode of The Long Haul, Adam sits down with Clay and Nick from FreshX to talk about one of the biggest shifts happening in the freight market right now—reefer LTL. They break down how food and beverage shippers are rethinking distribution, why reefer LTL is gaining momentum, and how tech is finally making it accessible to small carriers.If you've got a reefer unit and you're tired of chasing one-off loads, this episode shows you how to build smarter weeks, tap into higher-paying opportunities, and position yourself for the new direction the market is heading. Clay and Nick don't just talk theory—they've built the tech that's actually changing the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What happens when the company you helped grow suddenly shuts down? For Mia Mazel, it sparked the launch of a brand new one, Talento. Recorded live at TMSA Elevate in Austin, this conversation with Mia explores her journey from grad student to logistics leader, how she navigated the closure of Sworkz, and how Talento is redefining nearshore staffing with a tech-first mindset. She shares how adversity turned into opportunity, why supply chain pricing teams are ripe for transformation, and how blending AI with human expertise creates smarter operations, not job replacements. Key takeaways: Mia launched Talento just 72 hours after her former company shut down, retaining customers and building new processes on the fly. Talento provides talent management solutions and AI-powered tools for supply chain companies with a focus on operational simplicity. Nearshore teams can do far more than customer service, especially in pricing, sales, and data. Mia aims to act as a partner, not just a service provider, offering guidance even when clients aren't sure where to start. Building brand trust means creating a business that can thrive without being dependent on one person.LINKS:Mia's LinkedInTalento WebsiteWATCH THE FULL EPISODE HEREFeedback? Ideas for a future episode? Shoot us a text here to let us know. -----------------------------------------THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! Are you experienced in freight sales or already an independent freight agent? Listen to our Freight Agent Trenches interviews powered by SPI Logistics to hear from the company's agents on how they took the entrepreneurial leap. Shipium is the ML-powered shipping platform built by the executives that created Amazon's supply chain technology. They help 3PL & retail leaders like Stord, Ryder, and Saks Off 5th to reduce shipping costs by an average of 12% while improving on-time delivery. CargoRex is the logistics industry's go-to search platform—connecting you with the right tools, services, events, and creators to explore, discover, and evolve. Digital Dispatch manages and maximizes your #1 sales tool with a website that establishes trust and builds rock-solid relationships with your leads and customers.
In this episode of the Logistics & Leadership Podcast, Brian Hastings sits down with Jimmy Menges—National Director and freight crime investigator—to expose the hidden world of cargo theft and the organized crime rings fueling it.Jimmy pulls back the curtain on how scammers hijack legitimate operations, the loopholes they exploit, and what really happens in the first 48 hours after a load vanishes. From forged documents to fake drivers, and warehouse accomplices to massive multi-million dollar heists, this episode reveals the high-stakes reality most brokers and carriers aren't prepared for.Whether you're a freight broker, a carrier rep, or a shipper trying to protect your freight, this episode is packed with tactical insight, investigative war stories, and hard-won lessons that could save your business.The Logistics & Leadership Podcast, powered by Veritas Logistics, redefines logistics and personal growth. Hosted by industry veterans and supply chain leaders Brian Hastings and Justin Maines, it shares their journey from humble beginnings to a $50 million company. Discover invaluable lessons in logistics, mental toughness, and embracing the entrepreneurial spirit. The show delves into personal and professional development, routine, and the power of betting on oneself. From inspiring stories to practical insights, this podcast is a must for aspiring entrepreneurs, logistics professionals, and anyone seeking to push limits and achieve success.Timestamps:(00:02) – The Nature of the Job(04:33) – The Landscape of Cargo Theft in California(09:29) – Freight Brokerage Challenges & Vulnerabilities(16:20) – How Load Scams Are Investigated(19:04) – Inside the Warehouse Incident(26:46) – The Business Impact of Cargo Theft(34:15) – How to Spot & Fight Industry Scams(36:01) – Navigating Fraud as a Freight Broker(41:33) – Reducing Risk in Freight ShippingConnect with Jimmy Menges:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmy-menges-4a95a4a6Connect with us! ▶️ Website | LinkedIn | Brian's LinkedIn | Justin's LinkedIn▶️ Get our newsletter for more logistics insights▶️ Send us your questions!! ask@go-veritas.comWatch the pod on: YouTube
Today, Melanie Padron of IT ArchiTeks discusses the transportation industry's high risk for cyber attacks due to reliance on technology, with hackers exploiting urgency around high-value freight! Melanie shares how cybercriminals often target small businesses, cyber-enabled cargo theft, red flags for potential cyber threats, how users must manage their own data security, and the urgent need for regular training, a culture encouraging employees to report suspicious activities, multilayered security measures, and the importance of collaboration within the industry! About Melanie Padron Melanie Padron is a risk management expert and cybersecurity speaker who has made it her mission to protect trucking companies from cyber threats. She's been right there in the trenches when ransomware attacks hit, helping pick up the pieces after systems are encrypted and ransom demands arrive. After spending over 20 years in the insurance industry helping businesses recover from disasters, Melanie has shifted her focus to something she's even more passionate about: stopping those disasters from happening in the first place through proactive cybersecurity. Her connection to trucking is personal. Growing up working in her family's convenience stores, she watched the steady stream of trucks that kept their gas tanks filled and shelves stocked. Her uncle and aunt were owner-operators who crossed the country delivering freight, giving her firsthand insight into the dedication and sacrifice required to build a trucking business. Working with veteran-owned IT Architeks, Melanie helps trucking leaders secure their fleets and leverage AI to become more efficient and profitable. Her approach is simple: when trucking companies truly understand their risk, real protection begins. One company at a time, she's working to build cyber resilience in the trucking industry. Connect with Melanie Website: https://www.itarchiteks.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-padron/
This week, the guys have a few experiences to discuss, namely Evan's electric introduction to the Indoor Football League. For a guy who's seen most of the sports out there, it was a totally new experience for Evan to watch indoor football where the guys are closer to you than to the NFL, both literally and figuratively. The guys discuss the prospects of playing pro for such a low-level league, and how Josh should go check out the Fishers Freight. Evan also had another car-based learning experience and rekindled a classic side hustle, and the guys have plenty of other little things to discuss. And as always, there are Fact of the Week, "sticking it to the man," and This Day in Hear-story tidbits to enjoy!
This episode focuses on a flurry of pro-trucker policy actions from the Department of Transportation, including a national audit of non-domicile CDL practices, withdrawal of a speed limiter rule, and two new pilot programs that allow more flexible hours-of-service. FMCSA also committed to expanding truck parking, modernizing its complaint system, and cracking down on double brokering. On the data front, diesel prices declined after recent gains, while spot rates—especially for dry van and reefer—rose in late June. Avery Vise also analyzes housing market softness, a drop in consumer spending, mixed trade flows, and a surge in aircraft-driven durable goods orders. The Trucking Market Update is hosted by FTR's Vice President of Trucking, Avery Vise. As this information is presented, you are welcome to follow along and look at the graphs and indicators yourself by downloading the presentation.Download the PDF: https://ftrintel.com/trucking-podcastSupport the show
Welcome to FreightWaves Editorial, your deep dive into the best articles we have to offer on freightwaves.com. Today, we're unpacking the latest financial results and strategic maneuvers from shipping giant FedEx (NYSE: FDX). After a quarter marked by ongoing network transformation and a dynamic global trade environment, what do the numbers tell us about FedEx's current health, and what are their long-term plans to stay competitive and profitable? FedEx retires a dozen freighter aircraft in efficiency move FedEx navigates tariff swings to modest profit gain FedEx fills out Freight executive team ahead of spin off FedEx to close 30% of package facilities as network integration ramps up Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On episode 854 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is joined by FreightWaves' CEO and Founder, Craig Fuller. English language proficiency enforcement begins today. How will it impact carriers, shippers, brokers, and the truckload market? Fuller breaks it down. We'll also explore: -The freight market in the first half of 2025 -Global turmoil and its effects on supply chains -Key market trends and insights from SONAR's Trade War Command Center -Freight industry feuds -Updates on the Motion Museum, this year's F3, and more FreightWaves' John Paul Hampstead talks about his call that truckload markets could be in for a red hot 4th of July. Catch new shows live at noon EDT Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on FreightWaves LinkedIn, Facebook, X or YouTube, or on demand by looking up WHAT THE TRUCK?!? on your favorite podcast player and at 6 p.m. Eastern on SiriusXM's Road Dog Trucking Channel 146. Watch on YouTube Check out the WTT merch store Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nearly six decades ago, a trucker set world records by ballooning into the stratosphere. Also, Truckstop.com says that market pressure, rates, load availability and truck availability are all down. Then, low bridges can cause problems for truckers. But a pair of bridges in Iowa have developed a special reputation. And when a truck driver found himself in a jam, a local deputy and a group of inmates in Kentucky came to his aid. 0:00 – Rates are down in Week 24 of 2025 10:12 – Trucker sets world records during a ‘Magnificent Failure' 24:48 – The Truck-Eating Bridge of Davenport, Iowa 39:16 – Officer, inmates step up to help a trucker in need
FreightWaves honors the remarkable life and legacy of Fred Smith, the visionary founder who built FedEx into the world's largest cargo airline. Learn how his hands-on leadership and strategic aircraft acquisitions transformed the company into a global commerce leader, even through ventures that didn't succeed. Erez Agmoni of Interwoven Ventures, who previously led innovation at Maersk, shares insights on how combining AI computer vision with dynamic digital twins allows for significant efficiency improvements, as seen in Maersk's container unloading, which achieved 82% accuracy in prediction times, and drayage operations, which saved millions by consolidating information for optimization. Geopolitical tensions are disrupting freight flows, as demonstrated by Maersk's decision to stop Haifa service prior to Iran missile attacks, underscoring the delicate balance shipping giants must maintain for crew safety and operations. This suspension, amid escalating conflict, contributed to increased container rates from Shanghai to European ports, showing broader market uncertainties. For the trucking industry, prepare for a hot, tight July 4th freight market, where spot truckload rates are expected to rise, offering a significant opportunity for carriers to capitalize on higher rates. Freight brokers, however, face the challenge of proactively managing margins against potentially surging spot rates as tender rejection rates climb nationally and in key regional hubs. Fuel prices are also in the spotlight, with the benchmark diesel price now at its highest level in almost a year after a big jump, even as ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) futures markets recently plunged. This surge, following initial fears of supply disruptions from Middle East conflicts, means diesel consumers are still feeling the pinch at the pump. Finally, we highlight innovative strides in fleet management as Samsara introduces its 2025 North America Customer Advisory Board, bringing together industry leaders to shape the product roadmap for AI-driven tools. Discover how customers are leveraging Samsara's AI-powered platforms to achieve impressive ROI, including millions saved in maintenance costs and significant reductions in accidents and theft. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ready to launch a home-based business in 2025? Speedy Freight is the new U.K. franchise shaking up the U.S. logistics market — and it's built for entrepreneurs who want low overhead, high margins, and fast scalability.In this episode of Eye on Franchising, I interview Dana DeMarino (Franchise FastLane) and Kody Slade (President of U.S. Operations) for the official U.S. breakdown of Speedy Freight, one of the fastest-growing courier and logistics franchise brands.What you'll learn:✅ What makes Speedy Freight different from FedEx, UPS, or DHL✅ Why it's a true “people-led, tech-enabled” franchise✅ How you can run this business from home — no trucks or warehouses required✅ What it costs to get started ($72K – $160K investment)✅ How it scales, who it's right for, and how much you can make