Trucking Industry Seeks US Safety Rating System Reform Over Bias Data Issues

Trucking Industry Seeks US Safety Rating System Reform Over Bias Data Issues

The US freight safety rating system faces criticism regarding geographical bias, data quality, and evaluation methodologies. Industry associations like ATA are urging the FMCSA to reform the system, aiming for a more equitable and reliable safety rating mechanism. This reform seeks to avoid the shortcomings of CSA/SMS and enhance overall road safety. The current system's flaws potentially lead to inaccurate assessments and unfair consequences for carriers, highlighting the need for a modernized approach that accurately reflects safety performance and promotes proactive safety improvements throughout the industry.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Midwest Winter Storm Disrupts Supply Chains Sparks Logistics Delays

Midwest Winter Storm Disrupts Supply Chains Sparks Logistics Delays

A severe winter storm in the US Midwest is causing widespread logistics delays. Flight cancellations and road closures have led UPS, FedEx, and other carriers to suspend deliveries in affected areas. With continued blizzard conditions and an impending cold wave, warehousing and transportation are significantly impacted. Cross-border e-commerce sellers should monitor weather updates, adjust shipping schedules, communicate with customers, optimize inventory management, and mitigate potential risks. The disruptions are expected to continue until the storm subsides, affecting the entire supply chain and delivery timelines.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Chinaeurope Sea Freight Faces Rising Congestion Route Challenges

Chinaeurope Sea Freight Faces Rising Congestion Route Challenges

China-Europe shipping time is influenced by various factors including routes, vessel types, and port congestion. The Arctic route, Suez Canal route, and Cape of Good Hope route each have distinct characteristics. Container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers have different speeds. Port congestion can significantly extend transportation time. Businesses should plan ahead, flexibly choose routes, strengthen communication, and diversify risks to cope with uncertainties and ensure timely delivery of goods. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for optimizing shipping efficiency and minimizing potential delays.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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FMCSA Proposes Safety System Overhaul to Reduce Trucking Accidents

FMCSA Proposes Safety System Overhaul to Reduce Trucking Accidents

The US FMCSA has released a proposed rule to revise the SMS (Safety Measurement System). The aim is to more accurately identify high-risk carriers, reduce accident rates, and improve road safety by adjusting safety categories, violation groupings, simplifying severity weights, modifying intervention thresholds, and optimizing carrier comparisons. A 90-day public comment period has been initiated, allowing stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed changes. This revision seeks to enhance the effectiveness of the SMS in identifying and addressing safety concerns within the trucking industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Smart Pet Products Transform Pet Care Industry

Smart Pet Products Transform Pet Care Industry

This article delves into the pet smart product market, reviewing various products from smart cat carriers and drying boxes to treat dispensers and toys. It analyzes their functions and key considerations for purchase, while also looking ahead to future trends. By attending the TOPS Pet Fair, consumers can gain a one-stop understanding of the latest smart products, creating a more comfortable and convenient life for their beloved pets. The fair offers a comprehensive overview of available technologies and allows for informed purchasing decisions.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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HMM Sued Over Rising Crossborder Ecommerce Logistics Risks

HMM Sued Over Rising Crossborder Ecommerce Logistics Risks

Former Bed Bath & Beyond sued HMM for $16 million, alleging unreasonable detention fees and breach of capacity commitments. While the Port of New York and New Jersey operates smoothly, new USPS regulations will eliminate package size exemptions, increasing costs for cross-border e-commerce sellers. Sellers need to proactively implement standardized measurement processes to ensure compliance and optimize logistics strategies to navigate the increasingly complex international trade environment. This includes understanding and adhering to new regulations and potentially renegotiating contracts with carriers to mitigate potential cost increases.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Truck Driver Shortage Strains Supply Chain Amid High Turnover

US Truck Driver Shortage Strains Supply Chain Amid High Turnover

American Trucking Associations data reveals driver turnover rates at large truckload carriers surged to a three-year high, while smaller fleets remained relatively stable. LTL transportation maintained its strength. The growing driver shortage is potentially caused by industry growth, driver retirements, and regulatory pressures. Addressing the crisis requires a multi-pronged approach, including improving driver compensation and benefits, optimizing work schedules, and enhancing technological applications. This comprehensive strategy is crucial to mitigate the impact of the driver shortage on the logistics and transportation sector.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Trade Relies on Switch Bills of Lading for Flexibility

Global Trade Relies on Switch Bills of Lading for Flexibility

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the concept, application scenarios, and risks associated with "Switch Bill of Lading" in international trade. As a flexible trade tool, switch bills of lading play a significant role in circumventing trade restrictions, complying with contractual requirements, protecting commercial secrets, and optimizing tariff strategies. However, readers are reminded to exercise caution when using switch bills of lading, choosing reputable carriers, and understanding relevant laws and regulations to ensure trade security. Careful consideration is crucial for mitigating potential risks and ensuring a smooth transaction.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Exploring the Nature of Contracts Between Freight Forwarders and Shippers in International Trade

Exploring the Nature of Contracts Between Freight Forwarders and Shippers in International Trade

This case study explores the complexities of the contractual nature between freight forwarders and shippers. With the development of international cargo transportation, maritime freight forwarders can act as either agents or carriers, leading to disputes regarding legal relationships. The crux lies in whether both parties negotiated freight for the entire transport; if the agent's role is not explicitly defined, they may be regarded as the carrier. The findings indicate that specific expressions of intent and the classification of cost types are crucial in determining the nature of the legal relationship.

07/28/2025 Logistics
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Freight Forwarding vs. Logistics: Key Differences in Global Trade

Freight Forwarding vs. Logistics: Key Differences in Global Trade

This article explores the differences between freight forwarding and logistics, as well as how freight forwarders operate. Freight forwarders are agents in the shipping process and are not actual carriers; they primarily handle booking and customs declaration. There are tier 1 and tier 2 freight forwarders, each with different qualifications and invoicing capabilities. Although tier 1 forwarders might have some booking rights, they are not always the best choice in terms of pricing and service. The role of freight forwarders is crucial, and shippers should select the right forwarder based on their needs.

07/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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