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In this episode of the FreightWaves Morning Minute, we investigate a major class-action filing aimed at stopping the California DMV from canceling nearly 20,000 commercial driver's licenses due to administrative errors. The Lawsuit Targets California DMV Over Administrative Failures Affecting 20,000 CDL Drivers argues that these cancellations disproportionately affect the Sikh community and pose an immediate risk to the stability of the supply chain. We also break down critical leadership updates in maritime governance, including the Senate confirmation of former Maersk executive Stephen Carmel as the administrator of the Maritime Administration. As the Marad chief, FMC nominee confirmed, these new appointees are set to fill vital gaps in the agencies that regulate U.S. ocean and port logistics. Finally, we discuss the rejection of an ambitious rail initiative after Amtrak turns down the ‘Transcontinental Chief’ proposal, citing a lack of a fundamental business case for the 72-hour transcontinental service. AmeriStarRail now plans to lobby Congress to force negotiations for the drive-aboard train service in hopes of launching by the 2028 Olympics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Daily, we explore the rising cost of rigidity as new regulations and market shifts challenge supply chain agility. We analyze how the FRA caps non-English rail crews at 10-mile border zone to create cross-border capacity bottlenecks and discuss New legislation could upend truck broker margins by imposing steep surcharges on carriers with safety violations. Shippers face a difficult balancing act as Inventory management strategy shifts once again toward leaner models, potentially risking stockouts if demand spikes in 2026. Meanwhile, ocean carriers are adopting split strategies, with significant Ocean rates as the New Year promises a good ‘blanking’ for US East Coast, driving up rates while West Coast capacity expands. In the equipment sector, REPOWR’s data shows it cost more in ‘25 for a short-term dry van rental despite a weak market, driven largely by tighter network security efforts. Finally, we look at the Canada Post, mail carriers tentatively agree on labor deal, which secures weekend delivery but locks in operational rigidity by rejecting dynamic routing. We also briefly touch on the STB asks comments on ‘completeness’ of rail merger application as regulators review the 7,000-page document regarding the UP-NS deal. This regulatory scrutiny adds another layer of complexity to an industry already grappling with rapid structural changes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we discuss how Canada Post, mail carriers tentatively agree on a labor deal after a difficult period involving strikes and work slowdowns. The proposed five-year contract includes wage increases and the introduction of weekend parcel delivery, though it excludes the corporation's demands for dynamic routing and load leveling. We also examine why new legislation could upend truck broker margins by imposing a 10% surcharge on contracts involving carriers with multiple safety violations. This bill aims to hold brokers directly accountable for carrier safety, a shift that could challenge smaller brokers with data-intensive tracking requirements regarding violation histories. Finally, we look at the announcement that Stord to double e-commerce fulfillment capacity in Kentucky through a $40 million investment in a new facility and advanced automation. This expansion complements the company's recent acquisition of Penny Black, a software solution designed to personalize the post-purchase customer experience through custom packaging inserts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Daily from FreightWaves, we dive into the escalating risks facing global logistics, starting with a $200K cargo theft that exposes growing fraud schemes in trucking industry and highlights the sophisticated digital deception threatening shippers. Impersonators posing as a global engineering firm used fake paperwork to steal merchandise from a small business, underscoring a reported 29% spike in cargo theft incidents. We also analyze the historic UP, NS: Merger will create 10,000 single-line service lanes, shift 105k truckloads to rail, a strategic move designed to reverse a decade-long decline in rail market share. This massive consolidation targets "watershed markets" and aims to reduce transit times by up to 70 hours on key routes by eliminating costly interchanges. In regulatory news, the New York City bill that targeted Amazon won’t get taken up in 2025, avoiding a potential legal battle over interstate commerce despite having supermajority support in the City Council. Meanwhile, infrastructure concerns take center stage after over-sized cargo strikes six Oklahoma overpasses, forcing closures and prompting an emergency declaration for expensive repairs along the Will Rogers Turnpike. Legal scrutiny intensifies as a judge denies summary judgment in deaf driver applicant’s rejection, allowing a discrimination suit against Wilson Logistics to proceed to trial. On the global front, the Federal Maritime Commission is escalating a dispute as the US weighs sanctions as Spanish port ban escalates over denied docking access for U.S.-flagged vessels bound for Israel. Finally, we discuss the critical distinction highlighted in The Difference Between a Truck Owner and a Business Owner in Trucking, emphasizing how intentional systems—not just hustle—are essential for survival. This episode challenges listeners to consider whether they are building a fragile operation dependent on personal effort or a durable business asset. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BNSF CEO: Rail merger still a “significant threat” to economy, consumers covers the intensifying opposition to the proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger, as rival BNSF warns of potential service failures and higher rates. CEO Katie Farmer argues that the deal fails to meet regulatory requirements and offers public benefits that could otherwise be achieved through simple collaboration. We also analyze the "Chart of the Week" in Inventory management strategy shifts once again, which highlights a move toward leaner inventories after periods of over-ordering and destocking. This strategy increases the value of agile transportation services but carries the risk of missed revenue opportunities if demand suddenly spikes. Finally, we look at a discrimination lawsuit in Judge denies summary judgment in deaf driver applicant’s rejection, where a federal judge ruled that a case against Wilson Logistics will proceed to trial or settlement. The suit alleges the company illegally refused to hire a qualified deaf driver who held a valid federal hearing exemption. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of FreightWaves Daily, we analyze why the freight market has shifted into panic mode with rejection rates doubling and spot rates climbing significantly. We break down the perfect storm of weather, holiday demand, and regulatory crackdowns that are rapidly removing carrier capacity from the road. We then turn to the escalating constitutional showdown in California, where the state plans to reissue 17,000 non-domiciled CDLs despite federal warnings. The FMCSA has threatened to withhold highway funding or even decertify the state's entire commercial licensing program if officials proceed with the plan. In rail news, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have filed a historic application to create America's first transcontinental railroad, uniting western and eastern networks. This massive merger aims to convert interline lanes to single-line service, potentially shifting millions of truckloads off the highway and onto the tracks. The U.S. Postal Service is making a desperate pivot by opening its last-mile network to retailers and logistics companies in a bid to stave off insolvency. This strategy allows shippers to bid on volume and pricing for same-day or next-day delivery using the USPS infrastructure. Facing a 1,500% surge in organized crime, industry leaders are pressuring lawmakers to pass legislation that federalizes the fight against cargo theft. The proposed bill would lower the threshold for federal intervention and create a coordination center to track transnational criminal rings. Finally, we cover Maersk’s recent test transit through the Red Sea and RPM Freight’s strategic acquisition to enter the luxury vehicle transport market. Volatility is baked into the 2026 landscape, so tune in to understand how these shifts impact your supply chain planning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have officially submitted their nearly 7,000-page application to the Surface Transportation Board to create the nation's first Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern file historic rail merger application. If the merger meets regulatory approval, the companies anticipate the deal will be finalized and the new network operational by early 2027. In an effort to restore financial viability, the United States Postal Service is opening its US Postal Services wants retailers to compete for last-mile delivery network to retailers and logistics companies willing to bid for the service. Postmaster General David Steiner's new strategy will begin accepting bids early next year, with service potentially launching in the third quarter of 2026. Meanwhile, DHL Global Forwarding has committed $1.5 million to expand DHL drops $1.5 million to expand cold storage at LAX capabilities near Los Angeles International Airport. This investment targets the growing demand from pharmaceutical and life sciences shippers while strengthening Los Angeles' role as a critical gateway for temperature-sensitive cargo. Stay tuned to FreightWaves TV for new episodes of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, Freight Expectations, and Running on Ice later this afternoon. Listen now for a concise summary of today’s top logistics stories before heading into the new year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Daily, we explore the historic downturn in the trucking market where compliant carriers are struggling against rates that have fallen well below operating costs. We examine claims that labor arbitrage and CDL fraud are tilting the playing field by allowing non-compliant fleets to undercut the market. We also investigate a potential regulatory ticking time bomb as the administration considers rescheduling marijuana, a move that could inadvertently strip the DOT of its authority to test drivers. With marijuana accounting for nearly 60% of positive drug tests, the industry is urgently pushing for a safety carve-out to prevent liability risks. Global operations are facing their own chaos, illustrated by FedEx struggling to manage pilot accommodations after grounding its MD-11 fleet during peak season. On the ocean side, carriers like Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd are dropping Baltimore from key services, citing the risks associated with the long transit up the Chesapeake Bay. Geopolitical tensions are also rising as a massive sale of global port assets has stalled because China is demanding a controlling interest in Panama Canal facilities. This move highlights the growing struggle for control over critical trade choke points in the global supply chain. Finally, we look at how technology is stepping in to help fleets build resilience, from Nirvana Insurance raising $100M to create an AI-driven operating system for risk management. We also discuss a new partnership between OTR Solutions and SONAR that embeds real-time rate intelligence directly into carrier workflows to help them negotiate with confidence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the FreightWaves Morning Minute breaks down how OTR Solutions partners with SONAR to bring data-driven rate intelligence directly to carriers. The integration empowers fleets to benchmark their performance against market conditions and negotiate with greater confidence. In the M&A sector, the podcast highlights that RPM Freight acquires Dealers Choice Auto Transport to expand its finished vehicle logistics capabilities. This strategic move adds white-glove service for luxury vehicles to RPM's network while opening new OEM opportunities for Dealers Choice. Finally, the briefing examines the legislative landscape as trucking, retail pressure lawmakers to pass anti-theft bill amid a surge in sophisticated cargo theft. Industry leaders argue that a unified federal response is essential to tackle the complex, transnational criminal networks targeting the supply chain today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we break down the bifurcation in global logistics, where carriers look to higher rates, fewer sailings on key Asia-US route while demand on Asia-Europe lanes strengthens. Domestically, a strange market paradox is emerging as the Cass TL Linehaul Index extends a positive run, with rates rising due to tight capacity even as shipment volumes decline. Structural changes are hitting the workforce hard, evidenced by reports that from factories to fulfillment centers, more layoffs hit U.S. supply chains, including major cuts at Ford and Kroger. These strategic pivots are happening alongside regulatory updates, such as when a new bipartisan caucus targets trucking reform to address CDL integrity and aging infrastructure. Safety concerns are also driving legislative action, as new legislation tackles truck-bridge crashes caused by inaccurate GPS routing in states like New York. Meanwhile, friction is building in the rail sector as rail unions oppose historic transcontinental rail merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. Finally, to navigate this volatility, the industry is shifting toward predictive technology, exemplified by Inside Cleo’s vision for an AI-native supply chain that thinks ahead. We discuss how these context-aware tools are becoming essential for maintaining service levels amidst permanent labor and capacity shifts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the FreightWaves Morning Minute, we break down the conflicting economic signals heading into 2026 as plummeting operational costs collide with tightening capacity. Benchmark diesel falls again as oil market selloff picks up steam, with crude futures dipping below $60 per barrel even as retail pump prices struggle to catch up to the drop. Capacity pressures are intensifying from factories to fulfillment centers, as more layoffs hit U.S. supply chain, including over 4,200 recent job cuts at major companies like Ford and Great Dane. These structural reductions highlight a market realignment that goes beyond typical seasonal dips, creating significant capacity constraints across the sector. New government data reveals that truck transportation jobs last month were the lowest in years, dropping to levels not seen since June 2021. Despite this decline in employment, the capacity squeeze has pushed the average hourly wage for non-supervisory trucking employees to a record high of $31.40. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we examine major structural shifts in the supply chain, starting with how Wagner Logistics has acquired the contract logistics business of Dawson Logistics to expand its national footprint and industrial capabilities. We also discuss Amazon Air Cargo's new money-back guarantee, a move that offers refunds of up to $10,000 for service failures as the retailer commercializes its internal network. The conversation turns to the southern border, where Uber Freight predicts a freight rebound driven by nearshoring and Mexico's growing role as a top trading partner. We also analyze the political momentum behind the proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern rail merger, which has recently gained bipartisan support from lawmakers in Mississippi and Louisiana. Finally, we highlight the financial risks of operational negligence, focusing on a $44.1 million nuclear verdict against New Prime stemming from a fatal crash involving a driver with inadequate winter training. This is contrasted with industry-wide reliability, as major parcel carriers achieved a 98% on-time delivery rate during the early holiday peak season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the FreightWaves Morning Minute, we discuss the major leadership shuffle as Brad Jacobs steps down as chairman of XPO and GXO to dedicate his full attention to his newest venture. He aims to grow QXO into a $50 billion revenue giant in the building products sector through a strategy of aggressive consolidation and organic growth. Union Pacific has appointed Tony Will, the retiring CEO of CF Industries, to its board of directors as the company prepares for a historic transformation. This executive move precedes the expected December 19 filing for a merger with Norfolk Southern that aims to establish the nation's first transcontinental railroad. We also cover how Amazon is offering a money-back guarantee to air cargo shippers to signal its reliability as a third-party logistics partner. This strategic pivot mirrors the AWS model, leveraging internal logistics capacity and a new digital console to offer high-control service to external customers. Finally, tune in for previews of the latest episodes of Loaded and Rolling and Check Call coming up later today on FreightWaves TV. Don't forget to visit the website to vote for your Favorite Freight Town before the results are revealed in January. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Daily, we unpack a confusing market signal where domestic trucking capacity is tightening due to carrier attrition despite soft demand. Meanwhile, oversupply in the ocean freight market is causing carriers to lose pricing power as vessels return to the Suez Canal. We also explore how upcoming 2026 customs reforms in Mexico aim to crack down on duty evasion but will drastically increase liability for customs brokers. These changes represent a significant shift in trade governance that could reshape cross-border manufacturing compliance. New analysis of FMCSA data reveals a shocking safety gap, showing that midsize trucking fleets have significantly higher crash rates per driver than their larger competitors. This discovery raises critical questions about how shippers should approach carrier vetting to mitigate outsized risk profiles. In executive news, industry titan Brad Jacobs steps down from XPO and GXO to focus his energy on building his new venture, QXO. Additionally, Ryder System announces a leadership transition as CEO Robert Sanchez prepares to retire after doubling the company's revenue during his tenure. Finally, we discuss how Orderful’s new AI-powered platform, Mosaic, aims to eliminate the decades-old headache of manual EDI mapping. This innovation promises to cut integration times from months to weeks for global supply chains. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we discuss how the House approval of digital financial disclosures would impact USPS mail by eliminating the requirement for hardcopy delivery of investor documents. This legislation could further reduce mail volume and revenue for the financially struggling Postal Service, which recently reported a $2.8 billion operating loss. Next, we cover the news that Maersk tabs new CFO, North American chief in global leadership shakeup as the shipping giant attempts to regain ground after losing its top global ranking. Robert Erni joins as the new Chief Financial Officer alongside other regional leadership changes intended to address an evolving market and increased competition. Finally, we look at the data showing Mexico’s heavy-truck exports plunges 22% as light-vehicle demand also dips amid ongoing trade uncertainties and local disruptions. Industry leaders point to U.S. tariffs and road blockades as key factors driving significant declines in production and exports across the automotive sector. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the FreightWaves Morning Minute, we break down PACCAR’s strategic push into zero-emission vehicles with new medium-duty models from Peterbilt and Kenworth. The parent company is doubling down on scalability by building out the necessary charging infrastructure to support these electric fleets. Next, we discuss a historic labor victory as Teamsters locals in Northern California and Nevada secure a groundbreaking regional deal with Sysco. This four-year contract establishes a new industry standard with a 34% wage increase and strong protections against automation. Finally, we look at the monumental filing by Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern to create the nation's first freight-only transcontinental railroad. This move initiates a critical review period that serves as the first real test of the Surface Transportation Board’s tougher consolidation rules. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, we analyze the Department of Transportation’s recent move to sideline 9,500 truck drivers for English-language violations. Critics warn that this crackdown may be distracting from larger problems regarding fraudulent CDLs and foreign labor exploitation. We also discuss a pivotal Supreme Court case where a bipartisan group of attorneys general is challenging protections for freight brokers. If successful, this push could force brokers to face state liability claims for negligent carrier selection. In corporate news, Enterprise Mobility is expanding into the heavy-duty market by acquiring Hogan, while Heartland Express integrates CFI’s operations to improve profitability. We also cover CSX's decision to ground its entire corporate jet fleet as the railroad faces financial headwinds. Market volatility remains high as Laredo carrier Texas International Enterprises files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. To help you navigate these shifts, we preview the upcoming FreightWaves Roadshow, designed to equip logistics professionals with strategies for resilience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Federal Highway Administration is calling on the private sector to provide funding for the replacement of the American Legion Memorial Bridge, which is currently costing the industry an estimated $43 million in congestion delays. For more details on the agency's request to address this major infrastructure challenge, read how the DOT wants private sector to end $43M freight bottleneck. DHL Supply Chain has officially added its first Tesla Semi to its fleet following a successful pilot program in California that saw the vehicle average 1.72 kWh per mile. You can learn more about the vehicle's specs and route performance as DHL Supply Chain deploys first Tesla Semi in net zero carbon push. A Laredo-based cross-border carrier with 600 drivers has filed for bankruptcy protection, reporting up to $50 million in liabilities and over 200 creditors. Details regarding the filing and fleet operations are available in the report: Laredo carrier Texas International Enterprises files for Chapter 11. Finally, tune in to FreightWaves TV for new episodes of The Long Haul and Freightonomics airing later this morning. Don't forget to visit vote.freightwaves.com to cast your ballot for America's favorite freight town before the results are revealed at the end of the year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode explores the high-stakes balancing act logistics companies face as they navigate internal optimization against a backdrop of external chaos. We begin by analyzing the sharp drop in benchmark diesel prices as domestic refineries ramp up production, though experts warn of a potential oil super glut by 2026. In the cold chain sector, Lineage is combatting excess capacity by rolling out its LinOS system to generate $110 million in efficiency gains through automation. Meanwhile, the automotive logistics space sees strategic consolidation as RPM acquires PARS to create a comprehensive vehicle lifecycle platform that includes driveaway and titling services. Technological advancements continue as Daimler Truck and Torc Robotics integrate short-range LiDAR to bring autonomous freightliners to the North American market. However, carriers must remain vigilant on compliance, as the FMCSA has revoked 62% more ELDs this year, threatening immediate shutdowns for fleets using banned devices. Corporate governance takes center stage with the affirmed 20-year sentence for Slync.io's founder, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of fiduciary trust in freight tech. Finally, we examine the supply chain risks emerging from threatened tariffs on Mexico tied to a dispute over water deliveries that is already impacting Texas agriculture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Daily, we break down the severe supply chain disruptions occurring as blockades choke Mexico’s border trade as farmers and truckers escalate unrest, stranding thousands of truckloads and causing billions in unrealized exports. We also analyze the market outlook as Morgan Stanley sees a supply-side 'spark' for trucking in 2026, predicting that regulatory crackdowns on drivers will significantly tighten capacity and raise rate floors. The conversation turns to safety and compliance, highlighting commentary that the trucking industry needs better crash data to fix critical flaws in how carriers are vetted for liability. Simultaneously, regulators are embracing new technology, as Feds OK automation and say railroads can make fewer visual track safety checks, a move intended to increase efficiency despite union concerns about risk. On the innovation front, we discuss a milestone deployment as the sand must flow: Aurora's driverless fleet hits Permian roads to autonomously haul frac sand for more than 20 hours a day. We close with a look at the intellectual property war in logistics software, where o9 Solutions accuses SAP of trade secret theft in a high-stakes supply chain software dispute, alleging former executives stole thousands of files to boost a competitor’s AI capabilities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices