The trucking industry has a reputation for being low-margin, highly fragmented and cyclical. Many tech companies have an interest in shaking up and rethinking the industry.

The state of the freight market 2017 The latest American Trucking Association (ATA) report predicts freight volumes and the number of goods moved by truck will grow. Shipping rates are expected to increase as existing capacity is negatively affected by economic conditions and new regulations.

Supply chain relationships have evolved to be central to the success of 3PLs and their customers. Companies are finding innovative ways to make collaboration work for the shared benefit, and by teaming up with suppliers, buyers, and competitors, companies are reaping benefits of cost efficiencies and monetary availability.

A long-term funding plan to modernize America’s infrastructure has been extensively talked about in political circles. This election, it’s not different.

Uber’s Plan for Long-Haul Trucking. Uber Technologies acquired Otto, a self-driving truck startup. The goal is for Otto-branded trucks and trucks equipped with Otto technology to begin hauling freight next year. The Uber-Otto freight move model includes technologies like navigation, mapping and tracking. Uber is aiming to establish itself as a freight hauler and technology partner for the $700 billion-a-year trucking industry. On October 20, Uber reached a landmark milestone by completing the first ever commercial cargo run for a self-driving truck.

By 2017, the US population is expected to rise to 332 million, a 70% increase from fifty years ago. Population growth in cities is placing a strain on existing transportation systems and creating demand for more transportation choices. Industries and consumers depend on the consistent, timely flow of goods and services. The mounting volume and availability of information and the rapid development and adoption of technologies is transforming all aspects of life – including transportation.

For cargo shipping, focus is on the Cuban port, Container Terminal Mariel (TC Mariel) which opened in January 2014. The Obama Administration has made it easier for container services to add Cuba as a port of call since they’ve reopened embassies and ended a 54-year diplomatic standstill with the country. In May 2016, the first US cruise ship docked in Cuba since 1978 – opening the door to more travel and business with Cuba, but there are still limitations on trade in goods and services – the US trade embargo is still in place.

The fast e-commerce environment, which is increasing competition, and the initiative to use data to analyze trends and operational efficiency are contributing to the demand for hi-tech logistics solutions. Technology is the key driver of an organization’s supply chain efficiency and success. Shippers are familiar with transportation management software (TMS) systems that give them a competitive edge. New tools like mobile apps, cloud-based software, and big data provide shippers immediate, enhanced visibility that breaks silos and generates communication, collaboration and efficiency.

TMS for inboundInbound freight management is multifaceted and can eat up more than 40% of the average organization’s annual freight budget, according to Aberdeen Group. However, using a TMS for inbound shipments can help prevent unwanted costs.

how to use TMSSupply chains are increasingly complex, and companies who leverage technology find competitive rates, enhanced operations, greater flexibility, and cost reductions.

LTL Rates Increase Despite Freight Conditions. Freight companies announced rate increases despite the uncertain freight market. UPS said that the rate increases will support ongoing expansion and capability enhancements. LTL rates are primed for an overall 1.5% increase in 2016, and another 2% increase in 2017. (Read: Transportation Outlook: What if there’s Another Recession?)

Deciding the best mode for shipping your freight can be complicated. To determine the primary way to move freight, shippers should identify the size of the shipment, the budget, the delivery schedule, and the freight’s fragility. To know which mode fits you best, you have to know the difference between LTL and FTL shipping.

SafeTrucking.jpgThe week of September 11-17, 2016 was Brake Safety Week, an annual outreach and enforcement campaign designed to improve commercial motor vehicle brake safety.