FreightWaves Today

FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Supply Chain: Why Ocean Rates Skyrocketed 300% in 5 Months

SummaryView Transcript GEODIS Americas CEO Laura Ritchey reveals the stark reality of today’s “uneven” economy and its impact on supply chains. While some sectors thrive, others grapple with extreme ocean shipping delays, surging freight rates, and emerging challenges from data center infrastructure. Learn how companies navigate unprecedented backlogs and leverage new tech like AI for […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, August 4, 2026

July Manufacturing Data: Strong Numbers Signal Demand Boost

SummaryView Transcript July’s PMI and ISM reports show incredible strength in manufacturing, with new orders up and customer inventories low. This data points directly to increased freight demand and a robust peak season ahead. Dive into the numbers and what they mean for the logistics industry. July’s Purchasing Managers’ Index climbed to 55.6 — up […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Old Trailers, New Purpose: Warehouse on Wheels Reinvents Storage | FreightWaves

SummaryView Transcript John Brooks, CEO of Warehouse on Wheels, shares how his company is revolutionizing industrial storage by repurposing end-of-life over-the-road trailers. Discover their rapid growth, cost-effective solutions, and how they provide critical flexibility in today’s unpredictable supply chain. Learn about their unique business model and the newly released Supply Chain Activity Index. #SupplyChainInnovation #LogisticsSolutions […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, August 3, 2026

How ArcBest Defied Expectations with Stellar Q2 Performance

SummaryView Transcript ArcBest’s Q2 earnings reveal a significant 650 basis point improvement in its asset-based division. CEO Seth Runser unpacks how the company achieved these impressive numbers, sharing insights into market demand signals and their integrated logistics strategy. Discover how ArcBest leverages its 100+ year legacy, brand consolidation, and new digital platform to thrive amidst […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, August 3, 2026

Freight Market Update: 5 Signals Capacity Is Tight

SummaryView Transcript Freight market update: 5 pillars explaining why capacity is tight and rates are holding up. Backed by SONAR data and Q2 carrier earnings, this breaks down tender rejections, spot rates, steady demand, dedicated capacity shifts and why driver recruiting is getting tougher. If you want the real takeaway fast: this looks more supply-driven […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, August 3, 2026

C.H. Robinson: Nuclear Verdict’s Existential Threat to Brokers

SummaryView Transcript The C.H. Robinson earnings call was overshadowed by the massive $600M nuclear verdict. FreightWaves’ John Kingston and Max Fuller dive into the lawsuit’s implications, from rising insurance costs to the redefinition of independent contractor status. Is this an existential threat to the brokerage business model as we know it? C.H. Robinson’s CEO Dave […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, August 3, 2026

Nuclear Verdicts: $86M awarded despite NO negligence? [Trucking Crisis]

SummaryView Transcript Trucking leaders David Parker (Covenant Logistics) and Max Fuller (U.S. Xpress) unpack the state of the freight market, from the driver shortage to nuclear verdicts. Discover why market stability and tort reform are crucial for carrier survival and what’s driving the “supercycle” in this candid discussion. A Utah jury awarded an $86 million […]

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FreightWaves Staff Thursday, July 30, 2026

Why ‘Shipper of Choice’ is a MUST in Chemical Logistics

SummaryView Transcript In the cutthroat world of chemical logistics, building strong carrier relationships isn’t just nice-to-have – it’s a strategic imperative. Rob McRae from Univar Solutions shares how their ‘shipper of choice’ mentality, especially in niche liquid bulk hazmat, helps them secure capacity and navigate erratic markets. Discover why long-term partnerships are key to resilience. […]

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FreightWaves Staff Thursday, July 30, 2026

Unlock Freight Success: Why Carrier Partnerships Matter | RXO Strategy

SummaryView Transcript Brian Reilly, VP National Account Sales at RXO, breaks down the critical role of strong carrier partnerships and communication in today’s dynamic freight market. Learn how RXO helps shippers build lasting relationships, optimize capacity, and create a ‘shipper of choice’ environment that rewards top performers. Spot freight rates are running 40% to 70% […]

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FreightWaves Staff Thursday, July 30, 2026

Capacity CRUNCH: Why Trucks are Disappearing from the Market

SummaryView Transcript The freight market has seen unprecedented challenges, from a “freight recession” to tightening capacity and soaring liability costs. Ben Caplenor, EVP of Operations at LRT Solutions, shares his insights on navigating these head-on, explaining how logistics companies can stand out with top-tier service and strategic partnerships. Plus, FreightWaves’ Mary O’Connell weighs in on […]

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FreightWaves Staff Thursday, July 30, 2026

Carriers Gain Leverage: Become a Shipper of Choice to Win Capacity

SummaryView Transcript In today’s evolving freight market, gaining carrier loyalty means becoming a true “shipper of choice.” Covenant’s Tyson Wimberly shares actionable insights from the Univar Carrier Kickoff on what carriers look for in long-term partners. Discover strategies for visibility, operational alignment, and how to differentiate your business to secure capacity amidst fierce competition. Carriers […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

J.B. Hunt on Freight Recession & Rate Hikes: What’s Next?

SummaryView Transcript The trucking market is undergoing significant changes, with spot capacity rates seeing a dramatic year-over-year increase. J.B. Hunt’s SVP of Operations, Josh Phelan, explains how supply-side pressures, cost inflation, and a tight driver market are driving these shifts. Learn why the industry needs higher rates to reinvest and what this means for the […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Freight Rates: Are they rising because of DEMAND or CAPACITY?

SummaryView Transcript The latest Q2 earnings reports from major trucking and rail carriers paint a clear picture: the freight market is tight, and rates are rising. But is it really about surging demand? Discover the underlying reasons behind increasing contract and spot rates, elevated tender rejections, and how regulatory pressures are shaping market capacity. We […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Knight-Swift Q2: Why This Carrier’s Profit Beat Signals Market Shift

SummaryView Transcript Knight-Swift’s Q2 earnings blew past expectations, driven by an impressive surge in truckload rates. Our Finance Editor, Todd Maiden, breaks down how this signals a major inflection point in the freight market. With aggressive rate reviews and strategic adjustments, Knight-Swift is poised for significant profit growth that hasn’t even hit the books yet. […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Rail Merger Promises: “Where’s the Beef?” | FreightWaves Today

SummaryView Transcript Paul Tonsager, CEO & Founder of Integrated Multi-Modal Solutions, questions the ambitious claims of the recent rail merger applications, asking “Where’s the beef?” in terms of specifics for truckload diversions. He discusses the long-term growth stagnation in freight, the immediate opportunities for railroads, and the complex dynamics of intermodal relationships. Discover why industry […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Unpacking Rail Earnings: How Volume Growth Fuels Merger Talks

SummaryView Transcript Railroads are seeing a significant upturn in Q2 earnings, with most Class 1 carriers raising their guidance. But the big story is the revelation of strategic deals between Union Pacific and Canadian National, directly tied to the CPKC merger. Discover how these competitive shifts will redefine domestic and cross-border rail operations, bypassing congested […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Housing Market Crash Slams Last-Mile Delivery: What’s Next?

SummaryView Transcript The last-mile delivery sector for big and bulky items is experiencing a significant slowdown, with growth rates halved. FreightWaves’ Eric Kulisch breaks down how a weak housing market, high mortgage rates, and shifting consumer behavior are directly impacting the movement of furniture, appliances, and more. Learn why execution and AI-driven technology are becoming […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Massive $600 Million Nuclear Verdict Hits C.H. Robinson & Brokerage Industry

SummaryView Transcript A $600 million nuclear verdict against C.H. Robinson sends shockwaves through the brokerage industry. This landmark post-Montgomery case goes beyond typical carrier liability, with the jury effectively deeming the independent carrier’s driver an employee of C.H. Robinson. John Kingston, Editor at Large for FreightWaves, breaks down the implications for brokers, carriers, and the […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Broker Liability: $604M Judgment Signals New Era of Risk in Trucking

SummaryView Transcript The trucking industry is bracing for a wave of “nuclear judgments” following a massive $604 million verdict against an operating transportation company. This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a sign of a looming crisis where brokers are increasingly targeted by plaintiff attorneys. Find out how this shifting legal landscape will impact operations, compliance, […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

The Unforeseen Pivot: XPO’s Bold Asset-Heavy Acquisition

SummaryView Transcript Dennis McCaffrey, SVP at RXO, shares incredible insights into XPO’s (and now RXO’s) strategic evolution, including Brad Jacobs’ surprising pivot from an asset-light brokerage rollup to a major asset-heavy operation with the acquisition of Con-way. Learn what drove this monumental shift and how it reshaped the logistics landscape. McCaffrey also details RXO’s current […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

RateSafe: The App Giving Truck Drivers Decision-Making Power [Hackathon Winner]

SummaryView Transcript RateSafe, the winning app from FreightWaves’ Driver App Shortage Hackathon, is changing how truckers evaluate loads. Developed by Sean Conley of Vantage Logistics, this app uses SONAR API data and personalized driver metrics to help owner-operators decide whether to ‘take, avoid, or counter’ a load. It goes beyond just price, considering fuel economy, […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Last-Mile Delivery: The Hidden Costs of Poor Reliability | FreightWaves Today

SummaryView Transcript Last-mile delivery is more complex than ever, and consumer expectations are rapidly evolving. Jake Stein, VP of Retail Growth at Burq and former Uber Direct leader, explains why reliability is now more important than speed for customer satisfaction. Discover how retailers can leverage hybrid models and AI-enabled platforms to meet these shifting demands, […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Freight Efficiency: How to Solve the “Dumb Box” Problem in Trucking

SummaryView Transcript The logistics industry has a dirty little secret: trailers sit idle for 30-40% of their lifespan, costing carriers and shippers millions. Chris Hines, CEO of REPOWR, reveals how their new Trailer Optimization Platform (TOP) is transforming this inefficiency into opportunity. Discover how advanced data feeds and an execution layer can automate repositioning, boost […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Trucking Capacity Tightness: Why It’s Here To Stay

SummaryView Transcript The freight market is seeing a major shift: capacity is tightening due to regulatory pressures and driver challenges, not just demand. Discover how these factors, alongside diverging spot rates and diesel prices, are impacting carriers and the overall supply chain. This deep dive into Q2 earnings from major players like Knight-Swift, Werner, and […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Trucking Company’s ESOP: How Employee Ownership Drives Low Turnover (35%)

SummaryView Transcript Nussbaum Transportation, a leading 600-truck fleet, made a pivotal decision in 2018: transitioning to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). CEO Brent Nussbaum reveals the motivations behind this move, emphasizing a core philosophy passed down from his father: ‘take care of your people.’ Discover how employee ownership helps retain drivers with industry-low 35% […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Trucking Earnings: Why UPS Is Falling Behind in a Robust Market

SummaryView Transcript While the freight market shows resilience, UPS earnings paint a different picture, raising questions about Amazon’s impact and the carrier’s restructuring. Meanwhile, truck OEMs like PACCAR are reporting strong performance, indicating robust demand and favorable pricing ahead. Christopher Versace breaks down the Q2 earnings season in logistics and transportation. UPS stock sold off […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

The ‘Capacity Tax’: How AI Data Centers Alter Freight Markets

SummaryView Transcript The freight market is behaving unusually, and AI data centers are a major reason why. IntelliTrans’ Blake Ezell explains how this ‘silent competitor’ for specialized flatbed capacity is driving up rates for traditional bulk shippers, even as overall volumes soften. Discover why a growing digital world creates a physical ‘capacity tax’ for your […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Is This Trucking Market Different? Why Capacity Won’t Flood Back In

SummaryView Transcript Aaron Graft, CEO of Triumph Financial, dives deep into why this freight market cycle is structurally different. He explains that increased litigation, regulation, and legislation act as barriers to entry, preventing the surge of new capacity seen in previous upturns. This fundamental shift suggests the current tight market conditions might persist longer than […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Celadon Bankruptcy: The Inside Story & Stranded Drivers [FreightWaves Exclusive]

SummaryView Transcript Paul Svindland, former CEO of Celadon, reveals the emotional toll of the company’s bankruptcy. He recounts how FreightWaves breaking the news prematurely led to chaos, stranded drivers, and fuel cards being shut off during the harsh winter of 2019. Despite the operational health of the business, a mountain of financial and legal issues […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Is This Trucking Market Different? Why Capacity Won’t Flood Back In

SummaryView Transcript Aaron Graft, CEO of Triumph Financial, dives deep into why this freight market cycle is structurally different. He explains that increased litigation, regulation, and legislation act as barriers to entry, preventing the surge of new capacity seen in previous upturns. This fundamental shift suggests the current tight market conditions might persist longer than […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 24, 2026

Modal Shift: Why Shippers AVOID Cheaper Intermodal | FreightWaves Today

SummaryView Transcript Nicholas Shipe from Circle Logistics reveals critical shifts in automotive logistics and the factors influencing intermodal vs. expedited freight decisions. Learn why cost isn’t the only driver when manufacturers prioritize production uptime. Plus, discover the surprising truth about America’s overlooked energy advantage shaping industrial supply chains. Summary unavailable.

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 24, 2026

Trucking Compliance Crackdown EXPANDS: What it Means for the Freight Market

SummaryView Transcript The trucking industry is facing an expanding compliance crackdown, with states intensifying safety inspections and enforcing CDL regulations. This isn’t just a federal issue; local enforcement is driving a tighter freight market, reducing available capacity, and pushing spot rates to near-record highs. Understand why this regulatory shift is reshaping the industry. Summary unavailable.

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 24, 2026

Zebra’s “Physical AI” Transforms Supply Chain Operations | Expert View

SummaryView Transcript Andre Luecht from Zebra Technologies dives into the power of “physical AI” for the supply chain. Discover how this innovative approach empowers frontline workers with real-time feedback, transforming warehouse and logistics operations. Learn how advanced visibility solutions go beyond basic tracking to provide granular insights, improving accuracy and speed from factory floor to […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 24, 2026

Is This Trucking Market Different? Why Capacity Won’t Flood Back In

SummaryView Transcript Aaron Graft, CEO of Triumph Financial, dives deep into why this freight market cycle is structurally different. He explains that increased litigation, regulation, and legislation act as barriers to entry, preventing the surge of new capacity seen in previous upturns. This fundamental shift suggests the current tight market conditions might persist longer than […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, July 21, 2026

Trimble’s Big Move: Unpacking the Transportation Division Sale

SummaryView Transcript Trimble is reportedly selling its transportation division, including major acquisitions like Transporeon and PeopleNet. Bart de Muynck breaks down the challenges of integrating disparate carrier and shipper tech worlds, poor market timing for acquisitions, and why even large enterprises struggle to unify complex platforms in a rapidly evolving logistics tech landscape. Discover how […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, July 21, 2026

Weather Optics: Unpacking Tropical Storm Bertha’s Impact on Freight

SummaryView Transcript Tropical Storm Bertha is crawling along the Gulf Coast, raising concerns about significant coastal flooding and heavy rainfall. While this hurricane season is predicted to be quiet due to El Niño, Weather Optics’ Joshua Feldman explains why slow-moving storms like Bertha can still pose a serious threat to logistics and supply chains, especially […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, July 21, 2026

Fuel Hedging: Restaurant Supply Chain’s Secret Weapon for Stability

SummaryView Transcript Discover how Armada’s CFO, Brian McGowan, tackles the complex, low-margin world of food and restaurant logistics. Learn how their comprehensive supply chain solutions, including innovative fuel hedging strategies, saved clients nearly $9 million amidst volatile fuel prices and inflation. We also discuss how AI and new tech are reshaping food delivery and what […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, July 21, 2026

Serial Entrepreneur Reveals Keys to Successful Freight Tech Exits

SummaryView Transcript FreightWaves sits down with Marc Held, CEO of HOPTEK, an AI-native freight monetization platform. Learn how his unique approach to problem-solving, influenced by a successful track record in logistics tech exits including Green Screens and Turvo, is now being applied to help carriers maximize profit and streamline tender decisions. Discover how HOPTEK is […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, July 20, 2026

Private vs. Public: How ODW Logistics Navigates Growth & Strategy

SummaryView Transcript Paul Boothe, Chief Commercial Officer at ODW Logistics, joins FreightWaves Today to dissect the nuances of the ArcBest-Molo acquisition, the impact of cultural integration, and the evolving dynamics of the logistics market. Boothe shares insights from his decades-long career, covering the automotive sector’s pivot post-COVID, the ‘supercycle’ in freight, and the critical role […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, July 20, 2026

70% Logistics Cost Cut? | Why Custom AI Models are the Future

SummaryView Transcript Every logistics company operates uniquely, so why settle for one-size-fits-all AI? Sushanth Raman, CEO of Pallet, introduces custom AI models designed specifically for individual businesses. Discover how sovereign AI slashes execution costs by 70-80%, enhances data privacy, and drives tangible ROI. Learn why owning your intelligence is critical for future supply chain success. […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, July 20, 2026

Trucking Market Update: Is a Strong Retail Peak Season Inbound?

SummaryView Transcript FreightWaves CEO Craig Fuller reports LIVE from the world’s largest airshow with critical insights into the tightening freight market. Discover how international container spot rates have surged 400% and what this means for domestic trucking. We break down the quiet trucking market, strong intermodal activity, and the anticipated surge of long-haul volume from […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, July 20, 2026

Exclusive: The $1 Billion Cargo Theft Network Plaguing the Supply Chain

SummaryView Transcript FreightWaves’ Phil Brink dives into two explosive stories shaking the supply chain: a $1 billion cargo theft network exposed by the FBI, and federal crackdowns on 75 CDL training schools suspected of widespread fraud. Learn about the sophisticated methods criminals use, the implications for driver safety, and how law enforcement and brokers are […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, July 20, 2026

AI Data Center Boom: Is It an Absolute Bubble for Freight?

SummaryView Transcript Freight demand is split. While consumer-centric sectors like beverages and appliances struggle, industrial demand for electrical goods, data centers, and batteries is soaring, creating a unique bifurcation in the freight market. Dr. Jason Miller from Michigan State University warns the AI data center build-out could be an ‘absolute bubble’ mirroring past tech booms, […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, July 20, 2026

Freight Broker Data: How Your Tech Could Lead to Lawsuits

SummaryView Transcript Digital freight brokers relying on automation might be creating a data trail that could be used against them in court. Cassandra Gaines, founder and CEO of Carrier Assure, discusses how collected data can prove brokers knew about risks but failed to act, potentially leading to significant liability. Learn what data points matter, which […]

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FreightWaves Staff Monday, July 20, 2026

Iran’s Strait of Hormuz Blockade: What it Means for Global Oil [FreightWaves]

SummaryView Transcript Iran’s recent actions in the Strait of Hormuz, including missile strikes on oil tankers and a looming blockade, are creating a major headache for global supply chains. With 20% of the world’s oil at stake, the shipping industry faces critical decisions on security and legal recourse. Nitsana Darshan-Leitner, President of the Israel Law […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 17, 2026

C.H. Robinson’s AI Success: Real Tech or Clever Restructuring?

SummaryView Transcript C.H. Robinson has been lauded as the most successful AI company in logistics, but how much of this is truly AI-driven innovation versus strategic business restructuring? We dive into their approach, exploring the balance between cutting-edge AI, lean methodologies, and the crucial element of human change management. Learn how they navigate cultural shifts, […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 17, 2026

Logistics AI: Why Drivers PREFER Talking to Bots (Shocking!)

SummaryView Transcript CloneOps CEO David Bell reveals how AI agents are transforming the modern supply chain. Discover why drivers prefer interacting with AI for critical logistics updates and how this shift is enhancing efficiency and accuracy. Bell shares insights on building a profitable AI company and the real impact of intelligent automation on operations. Summary […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 17, 2026

Freight M&A: Why is Private Equity ‘Bullish’ on the Next 18 Months?

SummaryView Transcript Despite a recent slowdown, the freight M&A market is buzzing with excitement. Investment banking director Eddie Zukowski explains why he’s bullish on the next 12-18 months, driven by macroeconomic stability, recovering freight rates, and a massive $2 trillion capital logjam from private equity. Discover what’s hot, what’s not, and how hybrid operating models […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 17, 2026

Intermodal Booms: Why J.B. Hunt & Shippers Win Big | FreightWaves Earnings

SummaryView Transcript The Q2 earnings reports from Prologis and J.B. Hunt reveal critical shifts in the freight market. Discover how tight warehouse capacity is driving record lease signings and why intermodal is presenting massive opportunities for shippers looking to cut costs. We break down the diverging rate trends between truckload and intermodal, showing where the […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 17, 2026

Private Equity in Trucking: Why Most Deals Fail (and 1 That Didn’t)

SummaryView Transcript Private equity’s track record in asset-based trucking is ‘painful,’ according to Spencer Tenney of The Tenney Group. Learn why traditional private equity models struggle in this sector, and what ingredients are essential for successful, specialized freight investments like the nine-figure Texas Trans Eastern deal. Discover how understanding market cycles and partnering with ‘run […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

LSP44 vs. project44: Why Project44 Split Into Two Companies

SummaryView Transcript Project44 is splitting into two distinct companies: the original Project44 focusing on shippers, and the newly formed LSP44 targeting logistics service providers. CEO Jett McCandless explains the strategic rationale behind this bold move, revealing that a ‘desire to win’ against the complexities of different client needs was the driving force. Discover why this […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Why ‘Vibecoding’ a TMS is a Recipe for Disaster in Logistics

SummaryView Transcript Building a robust Transportation Management System (TMS) isn’t a side project. Alyssa Norcross, Group Product Manager at Revenova, breaks down why relying on “vibecoding” for complex logistics operations is a flawed approach. She emphasizes the critical need for enterprise-grade solutions built on solid infrastructure like Salesforce, highlighting the importance of depth, integrations, security, […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

J.B. Hunt Earnings: The NEW Freight Market Barometer?

SummaryView Transcript J.B. Hunt’s Q2 earnings are a crucial barometer for the entire freight market. This deep dive into J.B. Hunt’s intermodal, dedicated, and last-mile operations reveals how evolving market conditions like fuel costs, capacity tightness, and legal liabilities are reshaping the logistics landscape. Discover what these trends mean for your business in the second […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Manufacturing Recovery & GDP Growth: What’s Next for US?

SummaryView Transcript Mark Vitner, Chief Economist at Piedmont Crescent Capital, joins FreightWaves to dissect the surprising resilience of the American consumer and the broader economy. Vitner explains why manufacturing activity and GDP are set for an upside surprise, while also highlighting the unique challenges in the housing market and their indirect impact on freight demand. […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

EDI Problems SOLVED? Orderful Cuts Onboarding from Year to Weeks | FreightWaves

SummaryView Transcript EDI onboarding can take a year, costing companies millions in errors. Orderful CEO Erik Kiser explains how their AI-powered, self-service platform is disrupting this outdated model, cutting onboarding time from months to weeks – with a goal of days or even minutes. Discover how their innovative approach, backed by a $35M investment from […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

From $1 Sale to $4 Billion: NFI’s Journey Beyond Volatile Truckload | Supply Chain Strategy

SummaryView Transcript NFI CEO Sid Brown pulls back the curtain on the company’s nearly century-long evolution, revealing the strategic decision to move away from traditional one-way truckload operations towards a diversified portfolio including dedicated fleets, warehousing, and intermodal. He shares a compelling anecdote about the brutal economics of trucking that prompted a significant business model […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Trump’s Hormuz Policy Pivot: What it Means for Global Supply Chain

SummaryView Transcript The Strait of Hormuz is facing a major geopolitical shift, as President Trump’s administration pivots from a proposed toll system to a full trade blockade against Iran. FreightWaves breaks down how this sudden policy change creates immediate pressure on global supply chains, leading to increased port congestion, rising international shipping rates, and elevated […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Freight Profitability: Why Machines Outperform Humans in Fleet Optimization

SummaryView Transcript Discover why focusing solely on miles per truck misses critical profitability opportunities. Jake Dettmer of Optimal Dynamics explains how advanced decision automation and “forward yield” optimization help fleets maximize revenue per hour across their entire network, securing better margins even in tight markets. Learn why machines are set to outperform human decision-making in […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Diesel Prices SPIKE, Hormuz Tensions Rise: What It Means for Trucking

SummaryView Transcript Diesel prices are soaring, and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are disrupting global supply. FreightWaves’ John Kingston breaks down the latest DOE report, crude oil futures, and the geopolitical factors driving unprecedented volatility in energy markets. Plus, find out why truck driver pay has seen an astounding 70% surge since 2020. Summary […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Navigating Choke Points: Why Shipowners Face “Absolute Confusion”

SummaryView Transcript The Strait of Hormuz is facing unprecedented risk, with war risk insurance premiums soaring 33 times above normal rates. Captain Rahul Khanna from Allianz Commercial dives deep into how geopolitical tensions, misdeclared hazardous cargo, and a shift from efficiency to resilience are fundamentally changing the landscape of global shipping. Learn why shipowners are […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 10, 2026

Freight Recession Over? Bloomberg Analyst on Trucking Market & Stocks

SummaryView Transcript Bloomberg Intelligence’s Lee Klaskow dives deep into the state of the freight market, explaining how structural changes like federal mandates are elongating traditional trucking cycles. Discover why truckload and LTL stocks are soaring, what owner-operators and brokers expect for rates, and the impact of the Montgomery case on industry consolidation. Klaskow also shares […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 10, 2026

NOx Emissions Rule: What It Means for Trucking in 2027

SummaryView Transcript The EPA’s new NOx emissions rule is here, setting tighter standards for heavy-duty trucks. But while these regulations promise environmental benefits, they come with a hefty price tag for new trucks — up to $25,000 extra per unit. Industry experts weigh in on how fleets typically respond with pre-buys, but question whether this […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 10, 2026

Supply Chain: Intermodal’s Unexpected Domestic Boom Explained

SummaryView Transcript Intermodal volumes are surging, but the story has changed. Anne Reinke, President & CEO of IANA, reveals why domestic freight is now the driving force behind intermodal’s robust growth, explaining how supply-side factors and long-term contracts are insulating it from market volatility. Discover why intermodal is becoming an “easy button” for shippers and […]

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FreightWaves Staff Friday, July 10, 2026

Trucking M&A Heats Up: Are We Entering a Supercycle?

SummaryView Transcript The freight market is showing signs of a major shift in M&A activity. After a difficult period, private equity and strategic buyers are re-evaluating opportunities as freight rates stabilize and earnings profiles improve. Chris Wofford of Wofford Advisors breaks down the forces at play, including the potential for a trucking supercycle, and what […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Trucking insurance fraud: The digital trap costing companies millions

SummaryView Transcript After a trucking accident, the immediate physical event is often followed by a hidden digital battle. Learn how fraudulent online activities, from spoofed websites to coordinated crime groups, are exploiting accident victims and costing transportation companies millions. Discover how AI is expanding this ‘attack surface’ and what your business can do to protect […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Is The Freight Market Headed For a Crisis? What the LMI Says

SummaryView Transcript The latest Logistics Managers’ Index (LMI) report reveals a robust but extremely tight freight market, with transportation capacity hitting near-record lows. Shippers are struggling to find capacity, pushing transportation prices higher, a trend not seen since 2022. While retailers gain consumer confidence, manufacturers remain cautious. Dive into the data to understand the pressures […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Rail Freight Booms: Why the Industrial Economy Is STRONGER Than You Think

SummaryView Transcript Rail freight is showing surprising strength in 2026, with record-breaking carloads and intermodal units. AAR President and CEO Ian Jefferies dives into the data, revealing broad-based growth across categories from chemicals to motor vehicles. He explains how fuel prices, trucking capacity issues, and regulatory changes are impacting the market, positioning rail as a […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Global Shipping at Risk: Middle East Instability, Iran, & UAE’s Counter-Strategy

SummaryView Transcript Political analyst Ahmed Sharif Al Ameri explains why the Middle East remains unstable, directly accusing the Iranian regime of ‘terrorist’ activities that threaten global energy and supply chains. He details the UAE’s proactive strategy, including leaving OPEC for greater production freedom and investing in alternative pipelines to ensure long-term stability and economic diversification. […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 8, 2026

US Rail Freight Surges: Industrial Economy at 15-Year High?

SummaryView Transcript Rail freight numbers are telling a surprising story about the strength of the US industrial economy. With significant gains in carloads, intermodal, and specific commodities like steel and lumber, is the freight market witnessing a broad-based recovery? Editor Bill Stephens breaks down the latest AAR report, revealing record-breaking volumes and the factors driving […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Freight Payments: Why This 120-Year-Old Bank Has the Edge

SummaryView Transcript Discover how Cass, a 120-year-old financial institution, stands apart in the freight payments landscape. EVP Tony Urban explains why being a federally regulated bank offers unparalleled advantages in payment security, fraud prevention, and working capital solutions, especially for enterprise shippers. Learn how Cass navigates market cycles and leverages technology like AI to provide […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Defense Spending SOARS: How $1.5 Trillion Impacts Freight

SummaryView Transcript The US defense budget is set to hit $1.5 trillion, a massive 50% increase, with 80% earmarked for weapons procurement. This surge isn’t just about military might; it’s a huge signal for the freight and logistics industry, especially flatbed. Carriers and shippers should brace for significant demand in defense-related freight movement across the […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Inside Amazon’s Elite Disaster Relief Team: How They Act FAST

SummaryView Transcript When disaster strikes, every second counts. Amazon’s Disaster Relief program leverages its vast logistics network, cutting-edge technology, and dedicated people to deliver critical aid precisely when and where it’s needed most. Learn how Amazon pre-positions supplies and coordinates with global partners to ensure immediate impact in chaotic environments like the Venezuela earthquake, bringing […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Supply Chain’s True Grit: How Logistics Shines in Disasters

SummaryView Transcript During hurricane season, the logistics industry truly shines. Michelle Livingstone, founder of M.D. Livingstone Consulting, shares her journey from Home Depot’s hurricane command center to empowering women in supply chain. Discover how improved visibility, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to people elevate the industry in times of crisis and opportunity. Summary unavailable.

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Biofuel Boost: How the SEED Act Could Cut Trucking Costs by $1 Billion

SummaryView Transcript The SEED Act, a federal blenders tax credit, could bring significant relief to the trucking industry and American consumers. Jesús Guerra, President of Energy at Pilot Company, explains how reinstating this crucial policy could reduce fuel volatility, boost domestic production, and ultimately lower costs for everyone. He also touches on the current state […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Cargo Theft Surge: What Air Cargo Security Gets Right

SummaryView Transcript Cargo theft is getting smarter, and trucking is still playing catch-up. Brandon Fried of the Airforwarders Association breaks down how organized thieves are stealing loads through doctored paperwork, email impersonation and weak counterparty checks — and what trucking can learn from air cargo security. This conversation covers known shipper rules, 100% cargo screening, […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Ocean Shipping Cartel: Is This Legal? | Rates Surge

SummaryView Transcript The global supply chain is facing unprecedented challenges, with trucking spot rates hitting record highs and international ocean freight rates soaring. This video breaks down why shippers are paying up, how carrier market power is shaping the industry, and the surprising role of market concentration. Summary unavailable.

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Fake IDs are Everywhere! How AI Makes Fraud Scarily Easy | Intellicheck CEO

SummaryView Transcript Identity theft isn’t just a personal problem; it’s a massive threat to the logistics and supply chain industries. Bryan Lewis, CEO of Intellicheck, reveals how easy it is for criminals to create sophisticated fake IDs, leading to billions in cargo theft and other financial fraud. Discover the cutting-edge technology that can verify identities […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Broker Liability on Trial. What the Supreme Court’s U-Turn Case Means for Trucking

SummaryView Transcript A shocking ‘U-turn’ lawsuit against C.H. Robinson highlights growing tensions around freight broker liability. We discuss why this “ridiculous” case, despite the broker having no involvement in the load, raises critical questions about negligent hiring, tort reform, and the future of broker risk in the trucking industry. Plaintiff attorney Ted Bassett offers his […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Fuel Prices: Why They Soar Up Like a Rocket, Fall Like a Feather | Supply Chain Economics

SummaryView Transcript Ever wonder why fuel prices seem to skyrocket overnight but trickle down like a feather? Breakthrough’s Chief Economist, Matthew Muenster, breaks down the operational and market dynamics behind this frustrating reality. Learn how inventory strategies, competitor pricing, and global events dictate fuel costs, impacting everything from trucking to air freight. Discover how informed […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Rail Freight Boom: US Intermodal Volume Up, But Speeds Crash [Shocking Data]

SummaryView Transcript US intermodal rail volume saw a robust 10% increase last week, continuing a strong growth streak. However, this surge is causing significant network slowdowns across major railroads, with some experiencing 10-20 month lows in train speeds. Meanwhile, Canadian intermodal volumes are declining, creating a stark contrast in North American rail performance. Bill Stephens […]

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FreightWaves Staff Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Liability in Trucking: How Bad Legislation Drives Up Costs

SummaryView Transcript The trucking insurance market is in turmoil, but the real issue goes beyond ‘nuclear verdicts.’ Cover Whale’s CRO, Myles Oppenheimer, explains how legislative environments and a lack of underwriting discipline are creating a ‘self-inflicted wound’ that traditional insurers can’t handle. We dive into the massive implications for freight brokers and carriers, especially after […]

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Container Shipping: Why Rates are Skyrocketing (It’s NOT Demand)

Container spot rates from China to the US West Coast have surged over 300% from March to June. FreightWaves’ Craig Fuller breaks down why this isn’t a demand-driven surge, but a reflection of concentrated power among international ocean carriers. Discover how foreign-owned shipping lines operate as a cartel, manipulating capacity and impacting US businesses. Plus, get insights on the domestic trucking market’s holiday capacity crunch and how RXO provides crucial support.

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FreightWaves Staff Tuesday, June 30, 2026

C.H. Robinson Cleared in Florida ‘U-Turn’ Lawsuit | Broker Liability Test

C.H. Robinson has been dismissed from a high-profile Florida ‘U-turn’ lawsuit, a significant development in the ongoing debate around broker liability. Despite being named a defendant, the broker proved it had no connection to the tragic incident. This case highlights how plaintiff attorneys sometimes target ‘deep-pocketed’ companies without sufficient evidence, impacting the legal landscape for freight brokers.

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