Trinity Logistics, a prominent third-party logistics (3PL) provider, has teamed up with Truck Parking Club to offer discounted parking options for Carriers within its network.  

“We understand that Carriers face several challenges daily, but safe parking shouldn’t be one of them,” said Chad Taylor, Vice President of Carrier Development at Trinity Logistics. “This partnership allows us to ease that burden by offering an additional option for our Carrier relationships when they need safe, secure parking.” 

Carriers must be registered and set up with Trinity Logistics to take advantage of this new benefit. All current Carrier relationships will be sent email communications with instructions on how to receive their discount. Carriers who decide to capitalize on the for discount for Truck Parking Club will be able to: 

• Book a daily parking location. Some locations may also offer hourly, weekly and monthly rates.  

• Search for and book parking using an interactive map that displays all available locations across the U.S. 

• Search for and book parking when planning a route or by finding a parking spot near a specific location.  

• View parking location information, including daily costs and available spaces, as well as amenities such as restrooms, 24/7 access, etc., and contact 27/7/365 customer support (staffed by former drivers) to ask any questions. 

“Truck Parking Club was created to help truckers save time and fuel by finding and instantly reserving truck parking across the US,” said Evan Shelley, CEO at Truck Parking Club. “Our solution brings more truck parking online quickly by enabling owners to list space on their existing yards and properties. Our trucker members, and now Trinity Logistics carriers, are then able to quickly search and reserve available truck parking spaces, allowing them to plan a trip with confidence knowing they have a parking space. We are excited to partner with Trinity Logistics, as we think our solution is a great value add to their carrier partners.” 

For more information about the Truck Parking Club, visit truckparkingclub.com 

About Trinity Logistics

Trinity Logistics is a Burris Logistics Company, offering People-Centric Freight Solutions®. Our mission is to deliver creative logistics solutions through a mix of human ingenuity and innovative technology, enriching the lives of those we serve. 

For the past 45 years, we’ve been arranging freight for businesses of all sizes in truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), warehousing, intermodal, drayage, expedited, international, and technology solutions.

We are currently recognized as a Top Freight Brokerage by Transport Topics and as a Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation by Women in Trucking.

About Truck Parking Club  

Truck Parking Club is a network of instantly reservable hourly, daily, weekly and monthly truck parking locations across the US. Truck Parking Club connects truckers to truck parking locations throughout the US via truckparkingclub.com and the Truck Parking Club app. The network is made up of property owners that have locations adequate for truck parking to list on the platform: this includes trucking companies, storage companies, tow truck companies, CDL Schools, trailer leasing companies, real estate investors, truck parking operators and more. For more information, visit truckparkingclub.com. 

Stay up to date on the latest information on conditions impacting the freight market, curated by Trinity Logistics through our Freightwaves Sonar subscription.

YES, IT IS IMPORT-ANT

There has been much buzz in the last month around inbound container volumes to U.S. ports. There are 300+ ports of entry for goods into the country, with much of that volume handled by the top 20. Most of that buzz is around the uptick in volume.  

In figure 1.1, you will see for the port of Los Angeles, the largest in the country, that container volume is up almost 38 percent. That’s certainly impressive, but the neighboring port (Long Beach) was up a staggering 60 percent.

Many would anticipate this similarly impacting the outbound over-the-road volume for that market. And yes, while we see in Figure 1.2 via the blue line, there is a noticeable increase from what it was heading into the Memorial Day holiday, but it is not a direct correlation. The beige line represents the domestic rail volume from that same market, and unlike what we experienced in the “Covid years”, the rails have been a bigger mover of goods versus the bottlenecks we saw back then.  

We should expect to see import volumes continue through the next few months. As goods produced overseas have become cheaper to buy, major retailers have taken advantage of these discounts with the anticipation of robust consumer spending. Remember, almost three-fourths of inbound volume is directly related to consumer purchasing. Good news for consumers as these retailers will want to liquidate this inventory quickly at lower prices.

NOT FAR FROM HEALTHY

While not in balance, the spread between contract and spot rates continues to shrink, now sitting about $0.60 per mile higher on the contract side. Keep in mind this gap was in the $0.75 to $0.90 for much of the past year. Almost in lockstep has been the tender rejection index. It has continued its slow upward movement as seen by the green line in Figure 2.1.  

This can be attributed to capacity continuing to shrink slightly (Figure 2.2) and contract rates moving downward. It’s rare that spot rates will eclipse contract rates, but a spread of $0.40 to $0.50 is indicative of a healthier market, and we are not far from that right now.

I spent a few days traversing the state of Tennessee recently. At one stretch of a major interstate, there was a back-up at least five miles long. Luckily for me, it was on the eastbound side, and I was heading the opposite direction.  

What struck me was the sheer number of trucks that sat idled. By my estimates, almost 80 percent of the volume was truck traffic.  And while you can’t tell if a van is loaded or not, every single flatbed had freight on it. So, ladies and gentlemen, freight is still moving in this country. While it may not feel like it, volumes are trending close to 2022 levels as seen in Figure 3.1 (blue vs. green line). They say the fourth quarter is the time when carriers make hay; so here’s to an optimistic outlook for the next four months.

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Trinity Logistics, an exceptional third-party logistics provider (3PL), is pleased to share its recent hirings in vital leadership positions across two of its Regional Service Centers (RSC). 

Scott Swieca, who recently joined Trinity in April as the Arizona RSC Director of Operations, has been promoted to fulfill the role of Vice President. Swieca brings over 20 years of experience in the logistics industry. He has an extensive background working at other non-asset-based 3PLs, as well as with asset-based carrier companies. 

“Stepping into the role of Vice President for the Arizona RSC is an incredible honor,” said Swieca. “I’m excited to work with a talented Team to drive growth and solutions for our shippers and carriers. We’re in growth mode out here in Arizona, and very excited to scale our superior level of service to assist more clients. We’re building our regional brand within Trinity’s core values and aim to deliver exceptional experiences for the Team Members, carriers, shippers, and Agents we work with. I’m very excited to be here and see the growth the Scottsdale, Arizona RSC will bring.” 

In addition, Dan Lewis joins Trinity as the Director of Sales at the Iowa RSC. Lewis has worked in the logistics industry since 2015. He has a deep understanding of 3PLs and has held several sales roles, giving the Iowa office a fresh perspective. 

“I’m happy to join Team Trinity and experience their well-known company culture,” said Lewis. “It was exciting to have found an organization that felt like such a natural fit already. I look forward to working with the Sales Team to help them reach and develop tailored logistics solutions for new clients, while strengthening the current relationships we already have. I’m set with the intention to help this office exceed expectations!” 

Trinity Logistics looks forward to the insight and experience Swieca and Lewis have and bring to the company, as well as their respective offices. 

About Trinity Logistics

Trinity Logistics is a Burris Logistics Company, offering People-Centric Freight Solutions®. Our mission is to deliver creative logistics solutions through a mix of human ingenuity and innovative technology, enriching the lives of those we serve. 

For the past 45 years, we’ve been arranging freight for businesses of all sizes in truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), warehousing, intermodal, drayage, expedited, international, and technology solutions.

We are currently recognized as a Top Freight Brokerage by Transport Topics and as a Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation by Women in Trucking.

While many of us are soaking up the last of summer’s sun and fun, food manufacturing supply chains are readying for the upcoming holiday food rush.

Have you ever noticed a lot of our favorite memories are surrounded by food? When we go to celebrate something like a birthday, anniversary, or special achievement, it usually involves food. It’s no surprise then that over the holiday season, nearly 165 million consumers across the U.S. purchase food and beverages to celebrate, according to a study from Cornell. As the holidays soon approach, food consumption surges, with the average American indulging up to an extra 440 calories per serving!

The increased demand and tight holiday deadlines can present challenges for many food and beverage companies with their logistics. This is in addition to already facing a competitive peak shipping season! However, by understanding the dynamics of this unique period of time, shippers can ensure success is ahead of them. First, let’s dive into some fascinating facts and insights about food during the holiday season. Then, we’ll follow that with some essential tips so your company can be prepared for the holiday food rush!

Holiday Food Supply Timeline & Stats

The Holiday Food Surge Begins with Fall

The holiday food rush first begins with the arrival of fall flavors. Pumpkin spice, now seen as the quintessential flavor of fall, has seen a 47 percent increase in sales, as reported by The Guardian, within the past five years. In 2023 alone, Datassential reported 144 new limited-time offers that featured pumpkin on major restaurant menus. From the infamous Pumpkin Spice Lattes (PSLs) to pumpkin soups and ravioli, this flavor dominates the season. But we can’t forget another fall favorite – apple. Food and beverage items with caramel apple were one of the highest-indexing flavors last fall.

Halloween Signals Significant Holiday Food Consumption Increase

Halloween is a major milestone in the holiday food timeline, with 65 percent of consumers participating in the festivities. In fact, of all 172 million that celebrate the spooky season, 95 percent of them purchase candy. Even more staggering is that a quarter of all the candy sold annually comes from Halloween sales. It’s not all about the sweets, though! Pizza is the most popular dinner staple on All Hallow’s Eve, according to Grubhub. There’s also the annual tradition of carving a pumpkin, with Statista reporting roughly 154 million Americans partaking in the activity in 2023.

Dia de Los Muertos Celebrations Begin to Trend

Datassential reports that 10 percent of consumers in the U.S. report celebrating Dia de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. This holiday is gaining popularity, which means so are the celebratory foods associated with it! Pan de Muerto is one traditional sweet bread that’s essential to the celebration.

Thanksgiving Continues to Drive Food Supply Chain Demand

Thanksgiving remains the most popular fall holiday, with 83 percent of Americans celebrating the tradition. A whopping 46 million turkeys are consumed each year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Other top holiday staples include cranberry sauce, stuffing, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin and apple pies. That’s a lot of food to prepare for a meal, so 23 percent of consumers will buy a full, ready-made meal from a restaurant. Another 22 percent will supplement with some food from restaurants for part of their feasts.

Sweets, Candy & Chocolate Build Holiday Food Demand at Christmas & New Year’s

Leading up to Christmas, many enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and other treats. 1.76 billion candy canes, a holiday staple, are made annually for this joyous time of the year. 70 percent of Americans make Christmas desserts, with frosted sugar cookies being the top ones consumed annually. Don’t forget the eggnog! 122 million pounds of it is poured and drunk each year.

When it comes to Christmas dinner, pork dishes are the most popular globally, but turkey still trumps all for the U.S. Other winter feast staples include roasted or mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, gravy, stuffing, shrimp, and lots of Christmas pudding, cookies, and pies. Sweet tooths rejoice as 83 percent of consumers fill stockings with treats like candy and chocolate.

Christmas and New Year’s are among the busiest holidays for restaurants. Both holidays also see a spike in alcohol consumption, with New Year’s Eve being the second most alcohol-associated holiday behind Mardi Gras. Champagne is the fan favorite for those ringing in the New Year.

Logistics & SHipping Tips for Holiday Food Shipping

The holiday season often brings those in logistics the gift of increased demand and decreased capacity. Like most Americans, truck drivers aim to be home for the holidays, trimming the number of available carriers down. Freight of all kinds can increase during the period, further cutting the number of trucks available. Shippers with more specialized requirements, like temperature control, can find even less capacity. Shippers also have tighter deadlines to meet at this time to make the most of the seasonal business.

Overall, the holiday season can be a time of heightened stress and disruption. Given these unique challenges, it’s crucial for food and beverage shippers to prepare thoroughly to appease customers.

Five Tips for the Best Holiday Food Shipping Logistics Outcomes

Tip 1: Keep Inventory Stocked

Running out of stock during the holiday season is a surefire way to lose customers. Track your inventory levels closely and replenish supplies early to ensure you’re well-stocked. By keeping orders moving consistently, you’ll be able to meet consumer demand and avoid causing any disappointment.

Tip 2: Have Backup Shipping Plans Ready

The chances of any disruptions or delays happening during this season are increased. Having backup shipping plans already prepared is essential to keep your goods moving.

Build relationships with multiple carriers and suppliers, or even a third-party logistics provider (3PL). This way, you’ll have known contacts ready in case you need any help. 

Look at alternate modes of transportation and be prepared to quickly shift plans should something happen. Exploring multimodal options can be a great way to diversify risk, add capacity, and protect your freight budget. Having this flexibility available and ready can help you stay on track and your supply chain running smoothly.

Tip 3: Real-Time Visibility is Needed for Success

In today’s supply chains, having access to the visibility you need is crucial. You should either work with a provider that offers it or invest in your own technology, like a Transportation Management System (TMS).

A TMS can be very helpful during the holiday season. It can help you with routing decisions by matching your freight with the best carriers, lanes, and rates. In addition, it will allow you to optimize the in-house processes of your transportation network – which can be helpful during busy and slow seasons. By selecting the best carriers and optimizing your routes, you’ll not only increase your service but reduce your risk.

Using a TMS also gives you data-driven insights to better manage disruptions, reduce downtime, and budget your logistics spend. Data analytics can help you recognize which carriers are most likely to have the capacity, saving you time arranging your shipments.

Tip 4: Communication and Collaboration

Effective communication is key to a successful holiday season. Regularly communicate with all stakeholders, including suppliers, carriers, and customers. Collaborating with your partners during the seasonal planning phase can provide valuable insights and help you identify potential issues before they arise.

Tip 5: Partner with a 3PL

Working with a 3PL can be a game-changer during the holiday season. A 3PL offers access to a larger network of carriers, advanced technology, and expertise in managing complex logistics challenges. With their support, you can ensure your supply chain remains resilient, even in the face of unexpected disruptions.

Treat Yourself with Easier Logistics This Holiday Season

Navigating the holiday food rush can be overwhelming, and that’s why Trinity Logistics is here to be your guide. Like Santa, we’ve been around a while, with 45 years of experience handling logistics during holiday seasons.

Right away, you’ll gain access to our large network of vetted, quality carrier relationships to cover your shipments. But that’s just the start! There are many more benefits to working with Trinity, including:

• Multiple modes of transportation to find the best bang for your buck, support your business growth, or just have a backup plan ready
• Best-in-class technology and customized Managed Transportation solutions available, giving you the exact visibility and data you want
• 24/7/365 support, so no matter what day or time it is, you’ll have the help you need

One benefit that tends to shine above all else? Our exceptional People-Centric service. It’s the trait that makes Trinity different from other 3PLs and keeps our customers returning time and time again. It’s truly our care, compassion, and communication that you’ll notice and appreciate.

Everyone wants to enjoy the holiday season. Why not let Trinity focus on the logistics for your business, so you can go back to doing what you enjoy – helping consumers savor holiday treats and create memorable moments with your product.

Are you a Freight Agent that stumbled across this article?

If you’ve worked in the LTL industry for any bit of time, then you know that it’s always changing. Yes, sometimes that means it gets a bit more complicated. Rates adjust. Rules and processes are modified. Despite all this, there is usually one constant – the core LTL carriers we work with. Yet, in 2023, that changed; we saw the departure of the legacy LTL carrier known as Yellow Corporation. 

The closing of such a large and well-established LTL carrier is very rare. The industry hadn’t felt the void of such a large company since Consolidated Freightways closed 20 years prior. So, what happened? Considering Yellow Corporation was the third largest LTL carrier, what happened to all the freight they handled? 

As someone with a career in LTL, I saw this happen in real-time and have directly seen its ripple effects. I can answer some of those questions and share with you my thoughts, experiences, and observations of this impactful event in LTL history. 

The Fall of Yellow Corporation

Yellow Corporation (commonly referred to as YRC) was no stranger to financial turmoil. The company was laden with debt that was worsened with the Great Recession. It almost put them into filing for bankruptcy in 2009. 

A stint of other factors after that didn’t put them in a better position when COVID-19 rolled around in 2020. YRC was granted a $700 million COVID-relief loan by the U.S. government, which it used nearly half of to cover past due payments to healthcare and pensions, payments on equipment and properties, and interest accrued by its other debts. Fast forward to 2023, and that’s where their final chapter began. 

A few months into 2023, YRC and the Teamsters Union engaged in back-and-forth negotiations. YRC wanted to change operational procedures and sought extra funding to help it pay off its debts. Teamsters disagreed with the proposed changes. We saw news articles and hit pieces about the conflict, week after week. It was nearly impossible for the industry to ignore it. 

In July, whispers began of a possible union strike that would effectively halt YRC’s freight network. This was the writing on the wall for many shippers and third-party logistics (3PL) companies. At this point, the hull had been punctured, and water pouring in. Do you stay or do you go? 

YRC and its subsidiaries were promptly disabled from countless TMS platforms. No customer wanted their freight stuck in limbo if Teamsters were to go on strike against YRC. Because of this, YRC saw a sharp decline in freight volume and tonnage. A company that was in financial disarray was now losing its primary source of revenue. 

On July 30^th, Yellow Corporation ceased all operations. The Teamsters had not agreed to the negotiations, and the 11^th hour came and went. So, what now? 

The Aftermath of YRC’s Closing

YRC’s exit affected two parties: shippers using LTL and other LTL carriers. 

For shippers using LTL, they were two buckets: those who had already begun shifting their freight to other carriers in their pricing roster and those unfortunate enough to still have most or all freight with YRC. The latter had a more difficult situation to overcome as they now had to find an LTL carrier to move their freight without paying an arm and a leg. 

For LTL carriers, YRC’s existing freight had to go somewhere, so they had to figure out how to absorb it. Carriers such as Estes, FedEx, and XPO and their capabilities were pushed to their limit, now drinking from a firehose of incoming freight. Volumes increased drastically, and with such a rapid rise came decreased capacity. 

LTL carriers were making the difficult decision to exclude certain shippers in favor of others just to service accounts and keep their networks moving without bottlenecking. This left many smaller shippers stranded with a shorter list of available LTL carriers. 

As carriers became inundated with freight, their operating ratios took a hit, and something had to be done to regain control. A season of atypical general rate increases (GRI) began. LTL carriers needed to remain profitable lest they succumb to a fate like Yellow. 

3PLs and shippers alike started getting notifications from their carrier representatives about rates going up. Shipping LTL got more expensive now that the carriers had to pick and choose who they serviced with their finite capacity. The increased rate structures also priced out shippers that were used to YRC’s competitively priced tariffs or couldn’t stomach the increases.

For many shippers and 3PLs, the immediate aftermath of the Yellow Corporation bankruptcy was unlike any they had previously experienced. 

Now, that’s the long and short of it, but how are things today? Surely, the disappearance of a significant LTL carrier like that would have lasting, irreversible affects. 

Well, yes, but also no. 

The Current Impact of YRC’s Closing

Today the LTL industry has mostly stabilized. YRC’s freight volume has dispersed, and the dust has settled. The LTL carriers have course-corrected their capacity concerns. 

After the YRC bankruptcy, there were also new questions to answer, one of which was “What happens to their assets?” Those went through the bankruptcy courts, but the LTL carriers were eager to get a piece of it. 

The purchased terminals and trailers meant increased footprint and capacity, which can be the difference between being the best and the biggest for LTL carriers. Several carriers bid to acquire the terminals left behind by Yellow Corporation.

Estes Express, a prominent national LTL carrier, was one of the larger victors in the bidding war. As one of Trinity’s carrier relationships, I asked Estes if they could share the impact YRC’s exit had on their company. Here’s what President and COO Webb Estes had to say: 

While LTL carriers, larger shippers, and 3PLs came out in the black or relatively unscathed, others did not. Smaller shippers with all their freight lanes with YRC had no backup plans except to pay increased, non-discounted LTL rates with other carriers or risk their business operations. 

How Did Trinity Logistics Fare?

At Trinity, those first few months after the bankruptcy were interesting! We saw many new shippers start a relationship with us and saw some complications in LTL carrier transit lanes that bottlenecked. Don’t worry, they were quickly resolved. Since Trinity has a broad roster of national and regional LTL carrier contracts in place, our shipper relationships were able to use our rates to course correct from the YRC closure and effectively avoid any critical disruption. 

Is the last time we’ll see an industry-shaking event in the LTL space? Likely not. For now, the industry is stable, and many LTL carriers are growing and reporting profitable earnings. 

In my 10+ years working in the LTL industry at a 3PL, the Yellow Corporation was always a top LTL carrier for us. Seeing them fade into the wind after decades of LTL service was surreal, and I felt sad for the many YRC employees I’ve grown to know. 

Despite such an impactful event, now written in the history books, it’s a year later, and the LTL landscape is still thriving (and volatile), even with one less player at the table. 

Final Thoughts

Considering the size of Yellow and the steady decline until evaporation from the industry, I actually expected more disarray from it. Sure, the first weeks after the bankruptcy had the GRIs, shipment delays, and new shipper partnerships for Trinity to handle, but after a month or two, it was relatively smooth sailing back to normal. 

I think that speaks volumes to the age we live in. The amount of technology and time-saving efficiencies that LTL carriers invest in year after year. It allowed the industry to absorb the freight volume of one of the largest LTL carriers in the world and it did so in less than 60 days! It’s kind of crazy and a testament to the LTL industry and its controlled chaos. 

Working with Yellow for so many years, I grew familiar with some of the names worked there. People we would see at conferences, have calls with or see on emails. People who had been in the industry much longer than I have, had extensive backgrounds, and grew their roots at Yellow. 

The bankruptcy landed them in the middle of it all, but many of them went on to other LTL carriers and took their experience, adding value there. I think that’s a silver lining here. Despite the financial decision of Yellow as a company, it had people on its roster that brought purpose to LTL and now these people are creating an impact for other carriers and customers alike. For how vast it is, the LTL industry can be closeknit, so to see those former Yellow employees succeed at other LTL carriers is a bright spot in this saga. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Curt Kouts holds the Director of LTL position at Trinity Logistics. Kouts has been with Trinity and in the logistics industry for 14 years, having held several titles among carrier vetting, account management, and within the LTL Team itself. His main responsibilities as Director focus on elevating Trinity’s LTL customers’ experience, helping the LTL Team support in operations and billing, and aiding the company in overall LTL sales and success. Kouts finds the LTL industry incredibly challenging, presenting him and his Team a ton of problems that they have a passion for solving. He enjoys learning more about LTL whenever possible and overall, making LTL an experience that keeps all his customers, both internal and external, coming back.

Artificial Intelligence (AI). You see it mentioned all over the news headlines. You overhear your coworkers discussing it in the breakroom. Even your family members bring it up at get-togethers.

Much like when the internet first came to be, people are both amazed and uncertain about it. I often hear and see the same questions come up. What is the history of AI? When did it start? What exactly is AI? Is it just ChatGPT? What kinds of AI are there? Will AI take my job from me? Will AI take over the human race? (Definitely no to the last one!)

As someone who works in the technology field, I’d love to answer those exact questions for you and share some of my own thoughts on AI. 

What is Artificial Intelligence?

Let’s answer this question first. Artificial intelligence is the science of making machines think, process, and create like humans. It has become a term applied to applications that can perform tasks a human could do, like analyzing data or replying to customers online. 

The History of Artificial Intelligence 

You might be surprised to learn that AI has existed for a while. 

1950s

The Start of AI 

The first application of artificial intelligence was the Turing Test. In 1950, Alan Turing tested a machine’s ability to exhibit behavior equal to a human. The test was widely influential and believed to be the start of AI.  

In 1956, “Artificial Intelligence” was officially coined by John McCarthy, Marvin Minsky, Nathaniel Rochester, and Claude Shannon at the Dartmouth Conference. The conference is seen as the founding event of AI. 

1960s

Early Research and Optimism 

Early AI programs began to develop during this time. Computer scientists and researchers eagerly explored methods to create intelligent machines and programs.

Joseph Weizenbaum created ELIZA, a natural language processing program to explore communication between people and machines. Later, Terry Winograd created  SHRDLU, a program that understood language in a restricted environment. 

1970s

The AI Winter 

Early enthusiasm from the 1950s and 1960s fell due to limited computational power and unrealistic expectations. There was a significant decline in interest and funding for AI, so projects fell by the wayside. You’ll often see this time in history called the “AI Winter.”

1980s

Expert Systems Bring Renewed Interest 

Despite the slowdown, some projects continued, albeit with slow progress. Expert systems, designed to mimic human decision-making abilities, developed and were a turning point in AI. These systems proved that AI could be used and beneficial in businesses and industries. Many commercial fields, such as medicine and finance, began using expert systems. 

1990s

Machine Learning and Real-World Applications 

Here’s where AI started gaining momentum. During this time, we shifted from rule-based systems to Machine Learning. Machine Learning is just that – a machine or program that can learn from data. We see a lot of Machine Learning in today’s applications, like self-driving cars or facial recognition.

Machine Learning developed so well that in 1997, IBM’s Deep Blue became the first computer system to defeat world chess champion Gary Kasparov. This moment showcased AI’s potential for complex problem-solving and ability to think like a person. 

2000s

Big Data Offers AI Advancements

Up until now, AI was limited by the amount and quality of data it could train and test with Machine Learning. In the 2000s, big data came into play, giving AI access to massive amounts of data from various sources. Machine Learning had more information to train on, increasing its capability to learn complex patterns and make accurate predictions. 

Additionally, as advances made in data storage and processing technologies led to the development of more sophisticated Machine Learning algorithms, like Deep Learning. 

2010s

Breakthroughs With Deep Learning 

Deep Learning was a breakthrough in the current modernization of AI. It enabled machines to learn from large datasets and make predictions or decisions based on that. It’s made significant breakthroughs in various fields and can perform such tasks like classifying images.

In 2012,  AlexNet won, no dominated, the ImageNet Large Scale Visual Recognition Challenge. This significant event was the first widely recognized successful application of Deep Learning. 

In 2016 Google’s AlphaGo AI played a game of Go against world champion Lee Se-dol and won. Shocked, Se-dol said AlphaGo played a “nearly perfect game.” Creator DeepMind said the machine studied older games and spent a lot of time playing the game, over and over, each time learning from its mistakes and getting better. A notable moment in history, demonstrating the power of reinforcement learning with AI. 

2020s

Generative AI

Today’s largest and known impact is Generative AI, able to create new things based on previous data. There’s been a widespread adoption of Generative AI, including in writing, music, photography, even video. We’re also beginning to see AI across industries, from healthcare and finance to autonomous vehicles.

Common Forms of AI

Computer Vision

Computer Vision is a field of AI that enables machines to interpret and make decisions based on visual data. It involves acquiring, processing, analyzing, and understanding images and data to produce numerical or symbolic information. Common applications include facial recognition, object detection, medical image analysis, and autonomous vehicles. 

Honestly, Computer Vision is my favorite field of AI. I’ve had the opportunity to work on some extremely interesting use cases of Computer Vision. One was using augmented reality lenses (like virtual reality goggles) to train combat medics using Computer Vision. The Computer Vision with augmented reality added a level of realism to the virtual training, which used to be unattainable. While I would love to go into further detail about what the AI looked like, I signed a non-disclosure agreement. You’ll just have to take my word that it was really cool! 

Machine Learning (ML) 

Machine Learning is a subset of AI that allows computers to learn from and make predictions or decisions based on data. It encompasses a variety of techniques such as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning, and semi-supervised learning. Common applications range from recommendation systems (like Netflix), fraud detection, predictive analytics, and personalization. 

Deep Learning 

Deep Learning is a subset of machine learning. It involves neural networks with many layers (deep neural networks) that can learn from large amounts of data. It enables machines to learn features and representations from raw data automatically. Key components include convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), and generative adversarial networks (GANs).

Natural Language Processing (NLP) 

Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a branch of AI that focuses on the interaction between computers and humans through natural language. It enables machines to understand, interpret, generate, and respond to human language. Common applications include machine translation, sentiment analysis, chatbots, and speech recognition.

Generative AI / ChatGPT 

Generative AI refers to AI models that can generate new data like the data its trained on. This includes text, images, music, and more. ChatGPT, a specific (and well known) application of Generative AI, is a language model developed by OpenAI that can generate human-like text based on the input it receives. It uses Deep Learning techniques to produce coherent and contextually relevant responses, making it useful for applications like conversational agents, content creation, and more.

AI is Awesome BUT It Has Some Setbacks 

Don’t Worry, AI is Not Going to Take Away Your Job

Artificial intelligence has some great benefits, like processing and analyzing data in minutes, but it’s not perfect. It’s still not HUMAN, it’s not you, and that is exactly why it won’t replace you in your job. 

Take a lawyer for example. AI has been known to complete the bar exam in the 90^thpercentile. Awesome, right? But that doesn’t mean AI is going to perform better than an actual lawyer in a case. It just means the AI is better at answering the test because of its training with the text.

AI is very good and fast at anything with text, but it’s terrible at motor functions and mimicking a person in a non-scripted environment. Like with Generative AI – at some point I know you’ve seen or heard something created by it and have had the thought, “This is definitely AI.”

Ethical Components

As AI continues to be adopted and widely used, I believe it needs legislation around it. For example, do people need to state they are using AI for their work? Can they still claim it’s something created by them if AI created a part or even all of it? Who gets the credit – the person or the machine?

There’s also the concern with creators being miscredited or violations with copyright. There’s been plenty of cases or news headlines in which AI has learned from artists and essentially recycled their work in a slightly new form. Is that a form of stealing? 

AI Can Be Volatile

The development of AI is happening fast. Tomorrow, your current AI platform could be outdated. Things constantly change week to week. The features you might love now could be cut and replaced with something new. It can be hard for people and their own Technology Teams to keep up! And did I mention its hallucinations? Sometimes it likes to make up its own false information, so you should always doublecheck its results!

My Closing Thoughts

AI is real, it’s been here, and is both impressive and scary. It’s also very trendy to mention in any news article or headline, which is why you’re seeing it mentioned a lot. Nor, again, is it coming for your job anytime soon. While some articles may have you believe it will provide us world peace by the end of the year, it is still limited in capability. 

This is not to understate the need for legislation so that it is responsibly used, but rather, a presentation of the facts of AI’s impressive feats, and numbered flaws. It’s important to remember that while things like ChatGPT and Generative AI are newer, we have a long history of AI development, going back nearly as far as computers, and likely, further back than many of our lifetimes. 

About the Author

Michael Adams is a Data Scientist I at Trinity Logistics. Adams holds a Master’s Degree in Data Science and has worked three years in the field, including his 2 years at Trinity. In his current role he focuses on applying Data Science techniques and methodologies to solve difficult problems, using AI to improve business outcomes, and supporting Trinity’s Data Engineering initiatives to improve quality assurance, ETL processes, and data cleanliness. 

Outside of his role at Trinity, Adams has a couple of personal Computer Vision and AI projects of his own! When he’s not tinkering away at those, he enjoys being outdoors, either hiking or kayaking! 

Don’t let your company get caught off guard by CVSA Brake Safety Week, August 25th to August 31st, 2024! 

Shippers and carriers, mark your calendars! Brake Safety Week is soon approaching. This annual event aims to improve commercial vehicle safety and make our roadways safer, however it does impact those in logistics! Shippers and carriers alike can see disruption to their businesses. To keep your operations moving forward, it’s helpful to understand what Brake Safety Week entails and its effect on the overall freight market. 

• What is the CVSA? What is Brake Safety Week? 

• Brake Safety Week Inspection Procedure 

• Impact on Shippers 

• Impact on Carriers 

• How Shippers Can Prepare  

• How Carriers Can Prepare  

• Let’s Work Together

What is the CVSA? What is Brake Safety Week? 

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving commercial motor vehicle safety through collaboration between law enforcement, industry stakeholders, and the public sector. In partnership with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the CVSA launched its Operation Airbrake program in 1998. The goal of this initiative is to improve commercial vehicle brake safety and highway crashes due to faulty brake systems.  

This initiative includes two annual events, Brake Safety Week and an unannounced one-day inspection event, that can happen at any time. During both events, commercial vehicle inspectors conduct brake safety inspections on large trucks and buses. The inspections take place across North America, so the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.  

Brake safety is an important focus because brake-related concerns or issues are the largest percentage of out-of-service violations during roadside inspections. In fact, brake safety violations were the top vehicle violation at 25.2 percent of all out-of-service violations during last year’s International Roadcheck Event.  

Each year has a primary focus surrounding brake safety, with this year’s being the condition of brake lining and pads. During roadside inspections, any commercial vehicles found to have brake-related out-of-service violations will be removed from the roadways until they can be corrected.  

Brake Safety Week Inspection Procedure 

These are the items the CVSA inspector will look over during your inspection: 

• Driver’s license 

• Registration 

• Low air warning device 

• Pushrod travel 

• Brake linings/drums 

• Air loss rate 

• Tractor protection system 

A typical inspection during Brake Safety Week will follow these steps: 

• Check air brake mechanical components 

• Check steering axle brake mechanical components 

• Build the air pressure to 90-100 PSI 

• Check brake adjustment 

• Check the tractor protection system 

• Check the air brake ABS system 

• Test low air pressure warning device 

• Test air loss rate 

• Finalize paperwork and provide results to the driver 

Why Should I Be Concerned About Brake Safety Week? 

It’s important to be aware of when Brake Safety Week takes place because of the impact it has on shipping freight. Even though it’s just one week out of the year, no one likes to be unprepared for potential disruption or delays to their business. 

Brake Safety Week Impact on Shippers 

Shippers may face potential delays, see reduced transportation capacity, and likely higher spot rates. 

Potential Delays 

There can be potential delays due to the brake safety inspections. 

Reduced Transportation Capacity 

The increased inspection effort sometimes leads carriers to strategically choose to close their business temporarily for the week to avoid any risk of fines or penalties. You might find it more difficult to secure reliable carriers for any last-minute shipments. 

Higher Spot Rates 

With the potential for fewer trucks available and delays, spot rates can be heightened during this time.  

Brake Safety Week Impact on Carriers 

Carriers are similarly affected, so there is the potential for delays and less freight volume. 

Transportation Delays 

Just like shippers, carriers should expect to see potential delays in the movement of traffic due to the increased inspections. This could disrupt your operations. 

Fewer Shipments Available 

Shippers may choose to plan around this week, reroute certain shipments, or even look into alternative modes. Less freight may be available during this week. 

How to Prepare for Brake Safety Week: 

Shippers 

Ensure Documentation Accuracy 

Double-check all shipment documentation. Ensure it is accurate and complete to avoid delays during any unexpected inspections. 

Communicate Sensitive Shipment Needs  

If you have any special requirements or time sensitivities, communicate this well in advance. This helps your logistics provider plan effectively. Any last-minute communication risks delays. 

Find Alternatives 

Consider alternative transportation modes or routes if you expect any delays. 

Keep Customers Aware 

Be proactive and communicate potential delays during this week to your customers to manage expectations. 

Share Any Concerns 

Discuss any concerns you might have with your logistics provider. They can offer valuable insights and help develop strategies to reduce disruptions. 

Pricing Awareness 

Be aware of possible higher spot rates during Brake Safety Week. When possible, plan shipments before or after this period to secure better pricing. 

Carriers 

Double-Check Credentials 

Ensure all required credentials, like operating authority, hazmat endorsements, TWIC cards, and any other relevant permits, are current and accessible. 

Driver Documents are Up to Date 

Have drivers verify that all paperwork is up to date and accessible in case of inspection. 

Vehicle Maintenance Check 

Double-check that all vehicles have undergone any necessary preventive maintenance and are in top operating condition to avoid delays due to roadside repairs. 

Prep Your Drivers 

Make sure drivers are aware of this week and the potential for stops or delays. Train drivers on what to expect and the inspection procedure. Share this CVSA inspection checklist or tips sheet to help them improve their own brake maintenance checks. Make sure they know the channels to communicate any disruptions to their journey. 

Book Ahead  

Shippers may choose to reroute shipments, choose alternative modes, or plan around this week. Consider booking shipments well in advance for this week. 

Remember – Safety First 

The importance of this week is not disruptions but brake safety. This is a great time to remind drivers of their role in proper vehicle checks and maintenance.  

Let’s Work Together to Keep Our Roads Safe 

We believe road safety is paramount. While Brake Safety Week might cause some temporary disruptions, it serves a vital purpose in keeping the importance of brake safety and its needed maintenance front of mind. 

By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can likely see minimal effects of Brake Safety Week. 

For additional opportunities to stay ahead of disruption to your business during Brake Safety Week, consider working with Trinity Logistics. We have over 45 years of experience helping thousands of shipper and carrier companies conquer more complicated shipping situations, like CVSA inspection weeks. We’re confident in our ability to make this week (and all others) a painless one for your business. 

Severe weather events are the new normal. Can the logistics industry handle more supply chain disruption?

It’s a hot, sunny day, and you’ve found the perfect spot on the beach to sit back, relax, and enjoy the cool breeze of the ocean waves. As you’ve sat down and unpacked your snacks, a thunderstorm rolls in, causing the lifeguards to hop off their chairs, stating the beach is closing. Plans = ruined.

We’ve all been there – when poor weather makes an inconvenient appearance. But severe weather is more than just rain on your wedding day. It’s more extreme, like high winds, flooding from heavy rain, wildfires, or droughts. Severe weather events are becoming more intense and commonplace, causing supply chains to struggle. Logistics professionals often face challenges like disrupted deliveries, product shortages, and skyrocketing costs.

From intense hurricanes to wildfires, the growing effects of climate change on supply chains are becoming impossible to ignore. In a report by Breakthrough, 39 percent of transportation professionals note severe weather as the biggest challenge to their networks, having primary concerns surrounding climate change and sustainability. With severe weather and its effect of supply chain disruption being a challenge for companies for the foreseeable future, they must take proactive measures to maintain resiliency. Is your supply chain prepared?

CASES OF SUPPLY CHAIN DISRUPTION FROM RECENT SEVERE WEATHER

Climate change has led to an increase in severe weather events. If you’re uncertain as to how much of an increase we’ve seen, let me share an eye-opening fact with you. The U.S. National Climate Assessment estimates that in the 1980’s, a billion-dollar extreme weather event would take place once every four months. Now, they occur once every three weeks! That’s not a lot of downtime in between events for affected supply chains to regroup.

Supply chain disruption from severe weather like the ones mentioned below is no longer a distant worry but a constant concern.

Droughts

In recent years, droughts have been impacting vital waterways. The Panama Canal, a critical path for global shipments, has experienced its worst drought since records began in 1950. Due to low water levels, restrictions were imposed, limiting heights and the number of daily vessels. Similarly, the Mississippi River has faced periods of drought and low water levels, making it difficult to transport goods.

Elevated heat and droughts affect not only waterways for transportation but also the production of goods. For example, coffee, cocoa beans, and olives have all recently faced drought conditions, resulting in a lower output of their respective products.

Wildfires

Often fueled by extreme heat and droughts, wildfires are now an expected annual danger to many parts of the world, like the Western U.S. and parts of Canada. Fire seasons start earlier and last longer while growing in intensity and size. Though the wildfires themselves are one problem, the spread of the smoke coming off them greatly expands their impact. The smoke reduces not only our air quality but also visibility, such as with the wildfires in Canada in 2023, which created widespread smoky conditions and delayed several shipments in populated locations such as Chicago and New York.

Hurricanes

Hurricane Season continues to bring more hurricanes and stronger storms each year. In fact, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) forecasts that the 2024 season will see 17 – 25 named storms, with four to seven being a Category 3 or greater. On average, there are 14 named storms with three being a Category 3 storm or greater.

Hurricane Ian was one severe weather event to cause supply chain disruption in the Southeast in 2022. Ian was a Category 4 storm when it made landfall in Florida and resulted in a 75 percent drop in shipments during its course. More than $416 million of citrus crops, a major good grown in the area, were destroyed by Ian.

Another Category 4, Hurricane Harvey, struck Texas in 2017. More than 50 inches of rain fell, breaking previous U.S. records and causing massive flooding, which closed roadways and many facilities. Several ports along the Gulf Coast were closed for nearly a week.

Even a Category 1 hurricane can impact supply chains. In July 2024, Hurricane Beryl hit South Texas, causing major flooding, power outages, and port closures.

Deep Freezes

Several locations have seen unusual deep freezes in recent years. In 2021, Texas saw a widespread freeze that their electric grid was unplanned for, causing a blackout for over two weeks. Many manufacturing businesses had to shut down, and railroads did, too. This caused significant supply chain disruption for transportation between Texas and the Pacific Northwest.

In 2022, New York experienced Winter Storm Elliott, which lasted roughly a week. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold temperatures caused power outages, resulting in a 40 percent decrease in shipment volume.

These are just a few examples of the impact severe weather has had on supply chains in recent years. Scientists believe that supply chain disruption from severe weather events will only intensify in the coming years as extreme temperatures and sea levels continue to rise.

HOW SEVERE WEATHER CAUSES SUPPLY CHAIN DISRUPTION

Severe weather events can wreak havoc on supply chains in many ways!

Infrastructure Damage

Roads, bridges, or ports can become damaged and make routes unavailable.

Shipping and Transportation Delays

The effects of severe weather, such as flooding or wind gusts, can slow or stop transit, causing delays and increased shipping times.

Shortages and Increased Costs

Damages and delays from severe weather can impact production, reducing inventory and capacity. Increased demand then increases the cost of materials, products, or shipping.

HOW SUPPLY CHAINS CAN STAY PROACTIVE

While you can’t control the weather, you can control whether your supply chain is prepared. Now is the time to be proactive and plan so your supply chain survives and thrives when severe weather strikes.

Assess Your Risk

Map out your entire supply chain to find gaps and vulnerabilities. Identify which companies and suppliers are involved and what severe weather events might impact them. If capable, look at previous data on supply chain disruption to learn from it. Are there certain sites that experience frequent disruption? How could you have been better prepared?

Have a Contingency Plan

Now that your supply chain is mapped and risks identified, it’s time to build plans for when disruption hits. Confirm that your supply chain partners have their own plan in place. Determine backup suppliers and partners for when current ones are affected. Find and select alternative transportation methods and routes. Once established, regularly assess this plan to ensure it will operate effectively.

Invest in Extra Insurance

This may seem like simple advice but invest in insurance to protect your business from losses. For example, flood or hurricane insurance will help you restore any damaged assets from a severe storm. Business interruption coverage can offer added protection, covering any lost sales during a disruption from severe weather.

Invest in Technology

There is a lot of technology available to help you be prepared for severe weather. Technology with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and predictive analytics can be useful to help you forecast and respond quickly when issues unfold. Leveraging AI and machine learning can help you reach a level of automation in which decisions can be made from data in a matter of seconds.

Create End-to-End Visibility

One of the most common weaknesses in supply chains is a lack of visibility. With the increase in severe weather and supply chain disruption, visibility is needed now more than ever. Having real-time access to tracking, carriers, suppliers, and inventory can help you identify any issues before disruption takes place.

A transportation management system (TMS) can provide the visibility you need. It provides critical data about your shipments and orders in real-time, giving you an advantage should a problem arise. This can help you make quick decisions to reroute shipments, avoid affected areas, and keep your customers informed.

Establish Open Communication

Establishing open communication among your supply chain partners now will benefit you when severe weather happens. Be transparent. Share details about when you receive orders, where they go, and when they are due.

Let partners know your backup plans and ensure they are prepared for any severe weather events. When there is a chance of supply chain disruption, send communications right away. The earlier you can make partners aware of the possibility, the more time they have to adjust their plans.

Collaborate with Resilient Partners

Are your supply chain partners prepared for potential disruption? Identify those who are ready to weather the storms and those who are vulnerable. Supply chain disruption isn’t going away, so you’ll want to raise your concerns and highlight your need for resiliency. If the risk is too great for your supply chain, you may consider looking into alternative partners to replace them.

WEATHER ANY STORM WITH TRINITY LOGISTICS

Working with a reliable logistics provider like Trinity Logistics is a great way to build supply chain resiliency and overcome severe weather threats.

Trinity Logistics has been supporting thousands of supply chains through all sorts of supply chain disruption for over 45 years. Severe weather events don’t scare us away, as we thrive on quickly solving issues like those that storms can bring. We also have a dedicated After-Hours Team to support your business at any time. Even if severe weather halts your shipping overnight, on a holiday, or weekend, we’re here to help. 

Our nationwide network of trusted carrier relationships will ensure your shipments arrive safely at their delivery locations. You can also count on our multiple transportation options to allow you to keep your goods moving through rain, hail, or snow. Lastly, our customizable Managed Transportation solutions can give you the real-time visibility you need to stay updated and make any changes in a matter of minutes.  

Don’t let supply chain disruption fog up your company’s goals. Try Trinity Logistics and see how our People-Centric service can light the way to success.  

Stay up to date on the latest information on conditions impacting the freight market, curated by Trinity Logistics through our Freightwaves Sonar subscription.

GOOD NEWS, BUT…

Consumer spending is the biggest driver of the U.S. economy, accounting for roughly two-thirds of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). One measurement of that consumer spending is the Redbook index, which compares year-over-year growth for large domestic general retailers (think Walmart, Amazon, Target). The index has averaged just over 3.5 percent for the past 20 years, so the recent year-over-year (YoY) growth in the four-plus percent range speaks to the strength of consumer spending (Figure 1.1). This index alone certainly gives reason for optimism, however there is a cautionary tale with regards to consumer debt.  

After years of next to zero interest rates to keep the economy on its legs, consumers have seen interest rates on the rise, with the federal funds rate at its highest level since the early 2000’s. With the increase in interest to borrow funds, combined with the increased costs of essentials (food, housing, energy), many households have turned to credit cards to fill the gap for funding of these necessities. Figure 1.2 from the New York Fed Consumer Credit Panel shows the rise in consumer delinquency particularly in those groups that utilize more than half of their available credit line.  

While there appears to be relief on the horizon with the impending reduction in interest rates, it appears a portion of active consumers may be pulling back on purchases for those items that are not mission critical.  This, in turn, will have an impact on restocking of inventories and trucking activity.

While it is not approaching the levels seen in 2021, the volume index is quickly approaching levels seen in 2022. This has buoyed optimism in the industry.  

JUST SOME GOOD LUCK? TIME WILL TELL

The uptick in consumer spending, restocking of inventories and the threat of labor strife in the fourth quarter of this year has been to the benefit of those involved with the rail and import business.  

In Figure 2.1 below, the blue line represents loaded container rail volume in the U.S. and the past three months have seen the volume grow. Similarly, container volumes to the U.S. have been on the rise.  

The orange line represents container volume from China over the past six months. While some of that traditional volume is now flowing through other countries, like Mexico, there is still a great deal of activity with U.S.-China trade. Will this continue or is it fool’s gold? That is something we will continue to keep an eye on as a pullback in consumer spending will dictate how the needle moves.

STAYING RIGHT WHERE WE ARE

Finally, looking at domestic over-the-road volume (blue line) compared with carrier rejection rates (green line). The slight upward trend continues with volumes and rejection rates (Figure 3.1). Rejection rates continue to inch towards 2022 levels, but a five-to-six rejection rate is about half of what one would see in a balanced freight market.

This has yet to manifest itself in the way of increased freight rates, as capacity still exists in the market.Shippers and carriers should anticipate little change in conditions (although hurricane season is looming) until early 2025.

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Trinity Logistics, a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider, proudly welcomes Jimmy Bryant as its new Director of Agent Support. 

Hosting a wealth of experience in the logistics industry, Bryant previously held a Senior Director position at Rockfarm Supply Chain Solutions, where he successfully managed and developed their Agency Program for the past six years. Previously, he served as a Sales Director for a large brokerage in Indianapolis. 

“Trinity has always stood out for its exceptional agency program,” said Bryant. “What truly sets Trinity apart is its unwavering commitment to staff development and the overall growth of everyone involved. I chose Trinity because of its strong culture and supportive environment. I’m excited about the opportunities to advance our Freight Agent Program.”

“Jimmy’s ability to understand the unique challenges faced by Freight Agents quickly impressed me,” said Greg Massey, Senior Vice President of Agent Development. “His track record of achieving sustained growth while providing top-notch service and support aligns perfectly with Trinity’s mission of being the best, not necessarily the biggest.” 

Trinity is enthusiastic for the insight and experience Bryant brings to the company and its Freight Agent program. 

About Trinity Logistics

Trinity Logistics is a Burris Logistics Company, offering People-Centric Freight Solutions®. Our mission is to deliver creative logistics solutions through a mix of human ingenuity and innovative technology, enriching the lives of those we serve. 

For the past 45 years, we’ve been arranging freight for businesses of all sizes in truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), warehousing, intermodal, drayage, expedited, international, and technology solutions.

We are currently recognized as a Top Freight Brokerage by Transport Topics and as a Top Company for Women to Work for in Transportation by Women in Trucking.