FreightWaves Today

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 […]

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 […]

SummaryView Transcript The flatbed freight market may have seen a slight cool-off recently, but don’t let that fool you. Massive investments in AI data centers and a record-breaking defense bill are set to fuel unprecedented demand. Discover why flatbed trucking is poised for a huge upside, moving everything from concrete for new facilities to munitions […]

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 […]

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 […]

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.

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 […]

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, […]

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.

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 […]

SummaryView Transcript Supply chain security is more critical and complex than ever, with fraud and cargo theft on the rise globally. Pawan Joshi, CSO at e2open, breaks down how old-school tactics like train heists are making a comeback and why digital platforms are essential to combat these evolving threats. Learn how deep visibility, active tracking, […]

SummaryView Transcript Extreme heat is scorching the Eastern US, from the Gulf Coast to Canada, with heat index values hitting 114 degrees. This isn’t just a weather story; it’s a critical freight market update for temperature-controlled freight. We’re seeing reefer spot rates and tender rejections near all-time highs. Companies are shifting from dry van to […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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.

Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment from Dallas, TX, is headed to Sweden for the Volvo VISTA World Championship. Learn what this global service competition entails, from mastering European Volvo trucks to troubleshooting complex technical issues under pressure. Team lead Deyan Draganov shares insights into the rigorous training and unique challenges they face.

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.

SummaryView Transcript The freight market is officially in its ‘Super Bowl’ moment as spot rates surge and demand spikes. Ahead of the July 4th holiday, freight volumes are stacking up, leading to unprecedented volatility. We break down the dynamics, why contract rates are lagging, and what shippers can expect for the second half of 2026. […]