Freight Industry Grapples With Slow Growth Driver Shortage

Freight Industry Grapples With Slow Growth Driver Shortage

American Trucking Associations Chief Economist Bob Costello provided an in-depth analysis of the current state and future trends of the freight economy at the RILA conference. He believes economic growth is slowing but the fundamentals remain solid, although 2021 may present challenges. Costello highlighted key issues including the labor market, housing market, trade frictions, and the persistent driver shortage. He offered suggestions for businesses to navigate the uncertainties ahead, emphasizing the need for proactive planning and adaptability in a dynamic economic environment.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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DB Schenker Adopts Agile Strategy in North America Amid Uncertainty

DB Schenker Adopts Agile Strategy in North America Amid Uncertainty

DB Schenker is undergoing a strategic adjustment in the North American market, shifting from an asset-heavy to an asset-light model. The company will focus on transportation management services for specific customer segments and enhance technology applications. This move aims to adapt to market changes, reduce operational risks, and improve efficiency, ultimately providing higher-quality services to customers. By embracing agility, DB Schenker will be better equipped to address future challenges and seize new opportunities in the evolving logistics landscape.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Considers 25 Truck Tariff Sparks Manufacturing Debate

US Considers 25 Truck Tariff Sparks Manufacturing Debate

The US imposes a 25% tariff on imported heavy trucks, aiming to reshape American manufacturing, but potentially leading to increased costs and supply chain disruptions. Experts suggest this move might be intended to limit the entry of Chinese electric trucks into the US market. Shipping companies face challenges in cost control and long-term partnerships. Calls are being made to remove the tariffs, arguing they harm the interests of allies. The impact of the tariff policy is complex and requires close monitoring.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

US Rail Intermodal Gains Offset Carload Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, the U.S. rail freight market showed a divergence in the week ending October 17th. Container traffic increased by 11.3% year-over-year, while traditional freight declined by 7.5%. E-commerce growth and supply chain restructuring are driving the growth of container business. Meanwhile, energy transition and manufacturing adjustments are causing the decline in traditional freight. Railway companies should increase investment in container business, expand diversified businesses, strengthen technological innovation, and actively participate in policy making.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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Logistics Aid Network Speeds Hurricane Relief to Florida

Logistics Aid Network Speeds Hurricane Relief to Florida

In September 2022, in the face of Hurricane Ian, the American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN) swiftly mobilized to coordinate logistics resources and ensure the 'last mile' delivery of relief supplies. By alerting residents to prepare and calling on members to stand by, ALAN worked to ensure that aid reached those in need as quickly as possible. This reflects the responsibility and commitment of logistics professionals in the face of disaster, demonstrating their dedication to getting essential supplies to affected communities.

01/01/2026 Logistics
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CEVA Logistics Expands Crossborder Shipping with Weekend Expedite Service

CEVA Logistics Expands Crossborder Shipping with Weekend Expedite Service

CEVA Logistics has launched a Saturday night linehaul service, upgrading its Cross Border Trucking (CBT) program. This initiative aims to provide a more efficient and cost-effective cross-border transportation solution for customers needing shipments from Mexico delivered to the US Midwest or Ontario, Canada by Monday morning. By consolidating trucking operations, the service reduces costs and meets customers' on-time delivery requirements. It currently accounts for 20% of the CBT program, showcasing its growing importance and effectiveness in streamlining North American logistics.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Group Calls for FMCSA Safety Rating Overhaul

Trucking Group Calls for FMCSA Safety Rating Overhaul

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) is urging the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to re-evaluate its safety rating system, citing geographical biases and data quality issues that distort ratings. Concerns raised highlight deficiencies in data sufficiency, enforcement disparities, and rating standards within the current system. These shortcomings necessitate improvements to more accurately reflect a carrier's safety performance. The ATA believes a revised system is crucial for providing a more reliable assessment of motor carrier safety and identifying high-risk operators effectively.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Rail Freight Rises Amid Economic Uncertainty

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic saw a slight rebound in the week ending August 9th, but the growth rate slowed. Performance varied across different commodities, with intermodal transportation continuing to expand. Year-to-date figures are positive, but rail freight faces both challenges and opportunities. Rail freight volume is considered an economic indicator and warrants attention. The recent slowdown suggests cautious optimism as the industry navigates evolving market conditions and seeks to capitalize on intermodal growth.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Traffic

US Rail Freight Gains Carloads but Loses Intermodal Traffic

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending November 29th, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 4.3% year-over-year, primarily driven by growth in coal, minerals, and grain shipments. However, intermodal traffic experienced a 6.5% year-over-year decline. Year-to-date figures show growth in both carload and intermodal volumes, but the future growth outlook remains uncertain. The mixed performance highlights the complexities of the current freight market and the influence of various economic factors on rail transportation.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Coal Slumps in Container Traffic

US Rail Freight Gains in Coal Slumps in Container Traffic

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending November 29th, US rail freight traffic increased year-over-year, while intermodal traffic declined, indicating a 'hot carload, cold container' situation. Demand for coal, minerals, and grain is strong, while miscellaneous freight, forest products, and chemicals are down. Year-to-date figures still show growth. However, global economic uncertainties pose challenges. Digital transformation could present opportunities for the rail freight sector to adapt and thrive in the changing landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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