Trucking Industry Faces Shortage Seeks Younger Drivers

Trucking Industry Faces Shortage Seeks Younger Drivers

The US faces a growing truck driver shortage, prompting the DRIVE-Safe Act, which proposes allowing drivers under 21 to operate interstate. This has sparked industry debate, with proponents arguing it eases capacity constraints, while opponents cite safety concerns. This article analyzes the pros and cons of the Act and suggests multifaceted solutions, including improved compensation, better working conditions, and enhanced training. It emphasizes the need to balance efficiency and safety for the healthy development of the trucking industry.

Trucking Tonnage Drop Points to Economic Slowdown

Trucking Tonnage Drop Points to Economic Slowdown

The American Trucking Associations reported that the unadjusted truck tonnage index fell 4.6% in February compared to January. This decrease in freight volume could signal a slowdown in economic activity and warrants close monitoring of subsequent developments. The trucking tonnage index is often viewed as a leading indicator of the overall health of the economy, reflecting changes in demand for goods and materials across various sectors. A sustained decline could indicate weakening consumer spending or business investment.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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XPO Logistics Splits LTL and Brokerage Units in Strategic Overhaul

XPO Logistics Splits LTL and Brokerage Units in Strategic Overhaul

XPO Logistics plans to spin off its Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) and North American truck brokerage businesses into two separate publicly traded companies, and divest its European and North American intermodal operations. This strategic restructuring aims to unlock value, improve operational efficiency, and create more focused and competitive industry leaders, ultimately generating greater returns for customers, employees, and shareholders. The strategic adjustments, expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of this year, will reshape XPO's business landscape.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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US Maritime Shipping Faces Challenges Amid Growth Opportunities

US Maritime Shipping Faces Challenges Amid Growth Opportunities

While not 'locked down,' U.S. maritime shipping faces numerous challenges: port congestion, truck driver shortages, rising labor costs, and increased international competition. Addressing these issues requires a collaborative effort from the government, businesses, and unions. This includes upgrading infrastructure, improving labor conditions, and optimizing logistics management to ensure the global competitiveness of U.S. maritime shipping. Solutions must focus on efficiency and resilience to navigate current disruptions and future-proof the industry against evolving global trade dynamics.

April Data Shows Mixed Results for Multimodal Transport Sector

April Data Shows Mixed Results for Multimodal Transport Sector

According to the Intermodal Association of North America, North American intermodal volume edged up just 0.2% in April, with divergent performance across segments. Trailer volume declined significantly, domestic containers remained weak, while international containers saw growth against the trend. Factors such as loose truck capacity, railway service adjustments, and trade frictions are impacting industry development. The report forecasts a full-year volume growth of 2%-3%. Companies need to optimize services and increase technology investment to meet the challenges.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

West Coast Import Boom Fuels Strong Q4 Intermodal Growth

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a strong start to Q4 for intermodal transportation, with October volumes up 8.9% year-over-year. This growth was fueled by a surge in West Coast imports and robust consumer spending. International containers were a key driver, showing a cumulative increase of 15.2% for the year. Industry experts anticipate strong international freight volumes to continue through the end of the year. Tightening truck capacity is expected to further benefit intermodal transportation.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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New Trucking Rules Risk Supply Chain Disruptions Analysts Say

New Trucking Rules Risk Supply Chain Disruptions Analysts Say

Proposed new Hours of Service (HOS) regulations for truck drivers in the US could significantly reduce available trucking hours and further constrain already tight capacity. These changes may lead to increased freight rates and delivery delays. Businesses need to proactively adapt by optimizing their supply chains, strengthening collaborations, and embracing technology. These measures are crucial to navigate the potential disruptions and contribute to a safer and more efficient future for the trucking industry and the supply chains it supports.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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New HOS Rules Strain Trucking Capacity Risk Supply Chain Delays

New HOS Rules Strain Trucking Capacity Risk Supply Chain Delays

Proposed changes to the U.S. Hours of Service (HOS) regulations for truck drivers could significantly reduce available trucking hours, further straining already tight capacity. Industry experts fear the new rules will lead to capacity shortages, increased costs, and service disruptions. Companies should proactively voice their concerns, adapt flexibly, and embrace innovation to navigate the impending changes. This proactive approach will be crucial for mitigating the potential negative impacts on the supply chain and ensuring continued efficient transportation of goods.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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XPO Logistics to Split in Strategic Move to Boost Growth

XPO Logistics to Split in Strategic Move to Boost Growth

XPO Logistics plans to spin off its logistics business, aiming to create two independent public companies focused on their respective areas. XPORemainCo will concentrate on less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation and truck brokerage, while NewCo will focus on contract logistics. This move is intended to improve operational efficiency, unlock shareholder value, and better serve customer needs. The management team will remain stable, and technological advantages will be maintained. Industry experts generally view this strategic transformation favorably.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Trade Uncertainty Boosts North American Intermodal Growth

Trade Uncertainty Boosts North American Intermodal Growth

Multimodal expert Larry Gross pointed out at the RailTrends conference that international intermodal transportation is declining due to tariffs, while domestic intermodal is showing growth. He emphasized that domestic intermodal is key to future growth and requires attention to uncertainties such as global shipping, truck driver supply, and trade policies. Freight volume is projected to remain flat or slightly decrease by 2026. The future of freight relies on navigating these challenges and capitalizing on domestic opportunities.