Topic
Logistics
Logistics Nominations Opening Soon for 2027 FreightTech Awards
FreightWaves will open nominations for the 2027 FreightTech Awards this fall, culminating at the Future of Freight Festival in Chattanooga. The program, now in its ninth year, recognizes top disruptive technology companies in North American freight through a rigorous judging process. The 2026 awards highlighted trends in automation, fraud prevention, and consolidation.
Logistics Shipping faces talent crisis as aging workforce threatens global maritime operat
The global shipping industry is grappling with a severe talent shortage, as an aging workforce and recruitment gaps threaten operations. At a BIMCO seminar in Athens, leaders warned that around 20,000 seafarers remain stuck in the Persian Gulf, highlighting the human cost of geopolitical conflicts. Industry experts called for collective action to attract young talent, retain experienced personnel, and address seafarer welfare and criminalization issues.
Logistics Brake failures plague fireworks logistics as Fourth of July approaches
A June 6 fireworks truck fire on I-75 near Chattanooga, Tennessee, uncovered severe hazmat compliance failures. FreightWaves analysis of FMCSA data shows over 1,400 brake violations among fireworks carriers, with Evans Delivery Company and ContainerPort Group accounting for most. Nearly a third of fireworks loads move on hotshot equipment, raising safety concerns as the Fourth of July demand peaks.
The DVIR: The Hidden Compliance Risk in Your Trucking Operations
Read the full story for in-depth analysis.
Logistics Truckload carriers eye multiyear rate upcycle as capacity tightens
The truckload market is entering a multiyear rate upcycle as capacity constraints tighten due to regulatory enforcement and cost inflation. Carriers like J.B. Hunt, Schneider National, and Werner Enterprises report accelerating contract renewals and double-digit rate hikes, while routing guides crumble and spot rates surge. Shippers face urgent need to secure sustainable carrier partnerships to mitigate rising costs.
Logistics Containerlines Cash In as Chinese Car Exports Surge 73% in May
Chinese passenger car exports surged 73% year-on-year in May to approximately 809,000 vehicles, driven by a doubling of new energy vehicle shipments. The booming export volume has pushed car carrier charter rates to fresh highs, forcing Chinese OEMs to divert growing volumes onto containerships, with around 1 million cars now shipped via container.
Logistics Port of Los Angeles $3.4B Budget Forecasts 7% Container Volume Dip
The Port of Los Angeles approved a $3.4 billion budget for FY2026-2027, forecasting a 7% drop in container volumes to 9.3 million TEU. China's share of imports through the port fell to about 40% in 2026 from 61% in 2020, driven by ongoing trade war and tariff uncertainty. The budget boosts capital improvements by 31%, including rail and terminal projects.
Logistics Canada Post to End Door-to-Door Delivery for 620K Addresses by 2027
Canada Post announced it will convert 485,000 additional addresses in 37 communities to community mailboxes in 2027, plus 136,000 previously planned, ending door-to-door delivery for a total of 620,000 addresses. The move is part of a restructuring after a record $1.15 billion loss in 2025 and eight consecutive years of losses. Shippers will need to adapt to centralized delivery for a growing share of Canadian addresses.
Logistics Freight's Security Shift: Speed Alone No Longer Enough as Fraud Threats Rise
The freight industry faces rising cargo theft and identity fraud, forcing a shift from trust-based operations to verified processes. Malcolm Harris of What the Truck and Verisk CargoNet highlight the need for structured verification combining technology and human judgment.
Technology Volvo Sets Q1 2027 for Fully Driverless Truck Operations
Volvo Autonomous Solutions will remove safety drivers from autonomous trucks on U.S. highways in Q1 2027, targeting over 300 trucks by end of 2027 and $3 billion in revenue within five years. The company is expanding commercial operations in Texas and Oklahoma, with new routes eliminating drayage and directly serving customer facilities.
Logistics Zhejiang Yonghang orders up to six ultramax bulkers at Yangfan Group
Chinese owner Zhejiang Yonghang Shipping has contracted with Yangfan Group for up to six ultramax bulk carriers, with four firm and two optional vessels. The 64,500 dwt ships, designed by SDARI, will be Chinese-flagged and meet latest environmental rules. Estimated newbuild cost is around $34m per vessel. This follows Yangfan Group's recent containership order from Baozhou Shipping.
Logistics WTIV Incident at Port of Esbjerg Damages Nine Offshore Wind Blades
High winds caused the Fred. Olsen Windcarrier-owned WTIV Brave Tern to collide with a crane and Cadeler's Wind Keeper at the Port of Esbjerg on June 10, damaging nine offshore wind blades destined for RWE's 1.1GW Thor wind farm. The Danish Maritime Authority detained the vessel. Each blade is valued at approximately €3.6m ($4.15m). One person was sent to hospital for a checkup. The incident may delay turbine installation work on the Thor wind farm, which began in March and was scheduled for completion this year.
Logistics Sea Cargo Charter Signatories Hold Emissions Line Amid 2025 Shipping Turmoil
The Sea Cargo Charter’s 2025 annual report shows signatories maintained climate performance, averaging 11.6% behind IMO’s minimum decarbonisation trajectory, an improvement from 12.2% in 2024. Despite geopolitical turmoil and shifting trade patterns, 20 of 29 reporting companies lowered carbon intensity. Operational optimizations remain the primary tool, with growing interest in low-carbon fuels and wind propulsion.
Logistics Greek Capesize Owner NGM Flips Vintage Bulker for $17.4M in Firm Market
Greek capesize owner NGM sold the 2003-built vessel Charm to Chinese interests for around $17.4 million, more than $7 million above its purchase price in 2020. The sale is part of an accelerating shake-out of Greek capesize owners cashing in on historically firm asset values. Several other vintage capesize bulkers have changed hands recently.
Logistics Emotional Toll on Seafarers Poses Structural Risk to Global Shipping
A growing body of research, including surveys by Nautilus Federation and ISWAN, reveals that family separation and relationship strain among seafarers are becoming structural risks to the shipping industry. Nearly one in three seafarers has experienced a serious relationship breakdown linked to time away from home, and divorce rates are 20–30% higher than the national average. Welfare organisations report rising calls for relationship support, and experts warn that emotional distress affects concentration, retention, and operational safety.
Logistics Fortescue Revises Fleet Procedures After Bulker Loses Propulsion Off Port Hedlan
Fortescue's shipping arm has introduced fleetwide engine management changes after its bulk carrier FMG Nicola lost propulsion while departing Port Hedland on February 7, 2025. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) found the shutdown was caused by an erroneous activation of a low lubricating oil pressure emergency shutdown switch. FMG International has upgraded testing procedures and introduced a standardised rapid-response protocol.
Logistics Why Human Behavioural Competence Is Critical in Modern Maritime Operations
According to Splash247, the maritime industry is increasingly recognising that technical competence alone is insufficient for safe operations. Behavioural competencies such as communication, situational awareness, and teamwork are now seen as integral. The Nautical Institute Academy has launched a Behavioural Competency Assessor Course to help bridge this gap.
Amazon's LTL Gap: Buying Forward Air Could Solve Expedited Tier
Amazon launched a national economy LTL network, but lacks a premium expedited tier. FreightWaves argues that acquiring Forward Air — which operates a scheduled, airport-centric road feeder network — would instantly fill that gap and create a formidable competitor to incumbents like Old Dominion and FedEx Freight.
Logistics Ag Retailers Warn Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern Merger Threatens Rates, Service
The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) has raised serious concerns about the proposed Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern rail merger, warning it will concentrate pricing power and hurt agricultural shippers. ARA president Daren Coppock noted rail rates have risen 40% over 20 years, faster than truck rates, and past mergers have reduced competition.
Logistics He Walked Away From Barber Chair for Box Truck: Lessons for Logistics Operators
Victor Newton left a 28-year barber career to become a box truck owner-operator after a YouTube headline claimed $20,000 in a month. Five years in, he discusses the 90% failure rate, the difference between truck ownership and business ownership, and niche strategies like partial loads that can change the math for small carriers.
Logistics Structural Flaws in Crew Travel Budgets Exposed
Crew travel budgets in the shipping industry are plagued by structural inefficiencies, leading to unmanaged costs. The lack of competitive re-tendering and visibility into decision-making processes are key issues.
Logistics Controversy Surrounds Air India Flight 171 Crash Investigation
The investigation into the crash of Air India Flight 171 has sparked controversy, with accusations of bias and conflicts of interest. The preliminary report suggests pilot error, but safety campaigners and pilot groups are challenging these findings.
Logistics Rail Traffic Surge Signals Industrial Growth
Rail traffic has increased significantly, indicating a robust industrial economy. Rail carload traffic rose by 2.5% and intermodal traffic by 8% year-over-year, according to FreightWaves.
Logistics Medical Certification Gaps Threaten CDL Validity
A gap in medical certification processes is putting Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) at risk of downgrades. The shift in responsibility for uploading medical exam results to the FMCSA is not fully adopted by all medical examiners, leading to compliance issues.
Technology Volvo Trucks to Launch Unattended Over-the-Air Updates
Volvo Trucks is set to launch unattended over-the-air software updates, allowing fleets to update vehicles without downtime. This innovation aims to increase productivity by reducing unplanned stops and simplifying update processes.
Logistics Amazon's LTL Entry Unlikely to Disrupt Market
Amazon's expansion into the less-than-truckload (LTL) market is not expected to significantly disrupt existing carriers, according to analysts. Despite Amazon's asset-light model and extensive network, the market's high barriers to entry and established players' strong service offerings limit immediate impact.
Logistics Nuclear Verdicts Threaten U.S. Trucking Profitability
Nuclear verdicts are increasingly impacting the profitability of U.S. trucking carriers, with significant rises in litigation costs and insurance premiums. The trucking industry faces systemic risks as nuclear verdicts become more frequent and severe.
Logistics U.S. Rail Freight Surges with 7.8% Volume Increase
U.S. rail freight volumes have surged by 7.8% for the week ending June 6, 2026, with significant growth in intermodal traffic. Key commodities like grain and metallic ores are leading the charge, while coal and chemicals see declines.
Logistics Port Houston's Hurricane Preparedness Ensures Swift Cargo Movement
Port Houston's year-round hurricane preparedness focuses on safety and rapid cargo recovery. With lessons from past storms, the port coordinates with key partners to minimize disruptions.
Logistics Organized Cargo Theft Targets Arizona Rail Corridor
Organized cargo theft crews continue to target the rail corridor in Northern Arizona, with recent arrests highlighting the ongoing issue. Authorities are working to combat these thefts, which frequently involve high-value goods like electronics and clothing.
Logistics SONAR's New Index Tracks Accepted Truckload Volumes
SONAR has launched the Accepted Truckload Volume Index (ASTVI) to provide a clearer view of freight that moves through the market. This index helps distinguish between tendered and accepted freight, offering valuable insights for logistics professionals.
Regulations & Compliance Brazil's Biofouling Rules: $9M Fines Loom for Non-Compliance
Effective June 17, 2026, Brazil's new biofouling regulations mandate commercial vessels over 24m to comply with strict management plans and inspections, with fines up to $9M for violations. Full enforcement begins January 10, 2028.
Logistics Chinese Ports Lead Global Efficiency Rankings
Chinese ports, led by Fuzhou, dominate the latest Container Port Performance Index, highlighting their efficiency in global logistics. The report underscores the role of ports in managing supply chain disruptions.
Trade New Tariffs Trigger Early Trans-Pacific Peak Season
New tariffs and rising fuel costs have accelerated the trans-Pacific peak shipping season, with significant rate hikes reported. The U.S. Trade Representative's new tariffs on 60 countries and potential tariffs on Brazil and others are key factors.
Logistics Hong Kong Firm Synelysia Orders Eight Feeders at Xinle
Synelysia Limited, a new Hong Kong company, has ordered up to eight feeder containerships at Xinle Shipyard. The vessels are expected to be delivered starting in 2028, with each ship costing approximately $32 million.
Logistics Amazon Expands LTL Network to All Businesses
Amazon has expanded its less-than-truckload (LTL) network to serve all businesses, offering a full-scale logistics solution. This move positions Amazon as a competitor to traditional LTL carriers.
Logistics Purus Expands LNG Fleet with New Samsung Order
Purus Marine is linked to a new LNG carrier order at Samsung Heavy Industries, expanding its fleet. The $252m contract for a 174,000 cu m vessel is set for delivery in January 2029.
Logistics Huaxia Financial Leasing Seeks Yard Slots for Six Newcastlemaxes
Huaxia Financial Leasing is seeking yard slots for six newcastlemax bulk carriers, marking a significant expansion in the dry bulk sector. The Beijing-based company has launched a tender for vessels with a price cap of $79.5 million each.
Logistics Lohmann Sells Final Feeder Ships to Lila Global
Hermann Lohmann Bereederung has sold its last two container vessels, Marina L and Theodor, to Lila Global, marking its exit from container shipping. The vessels are currently chartered to CMA CGM and X-Press Feeders.
Logistics Amazon's £1bn UK Investment to Boost Logistics and Jobs
Amazon is investing £1 billion in the UK, creating 4,000 jobs with new facilities in Northampton and Kettering. This expansion aims to enhance logistics efficiency and support the UK's economy.
Logistics Exmar's Ammonia-Powered Vessel Marks New Era in Shipping
Exmar has launched the world's first oceangoing vessel powered by a dual-fuel ammonia engine, marking a significant milestone in sustainable shipping. The vessel, named Antwerpen, is part of a series of four ships designed to operate with low emissions.
Logistics ICS Endorses Onboard Carbon Capture for Shipping Emissions
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) endorses onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS) as a viable near-term solution for reducing vessel emissions. The ICS report highlights OCCS's potential amidst limited availability of green fuels.
Logistics PV Drilling Expands Fleet with New Jackup Rig Acquisition
Petrovietnam Drilling and Well Service Corporation (PV Drilling) has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of a new jackup drilling rig, increasing its total to eight. The rig, named PV Drilling X, will be transported to Vietnam for upgrades and is expected to enter service in 2027.
Logistics MOL and JAL Partner on Futuristic Seaglider Project
Mitsui OSK Lines and Japan Airlines are collaborating with Regent and Lloyd’s Register to develop the Seaglider, a zero-emission wing-in-ground craft. This initiative aims to revolutionize transport for coastal cities and island communities by 2030.
Logistics Samsung Heavy Secures $2.9bn Contract for US FLNG Project
Samsung Heavy Industries has signed a $2.9 billion contract to construct the Delfin FLNG Unit 1, the first floating liquefied natural gas unit in the United States. The project, involving Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Delfin Midstream, is set to begin production in 2030.
Logistics Moscow's Shadow Fleet: A Secret Network of Watchmen
An investigation reveals a network of Russian watchmen aboard tankers carrying sanctioned oil, ensuring compliance and evasion of Western authorities. These individuals, often with military backgrounds, play a crucial role in Russia's shadow fleet operations.
Logistics MSC Achieves Record 21.6% Global Market Share
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has set a new record by capturing 21.6% of the global container market. This achievement surpasses Maersk's previous high and highlights MSC's aggressive expansion strategy.
Logistics SplashTech: Navigating Shipping's Digital Transformation
SplashTech magazine offers a comprehensive guide to the technological changes in the shipping industry. It targets shipowners and operators, providing insights into digital advancements and strategic investments.
Logistics Air Freight Costs Rise as ATF Prices Increase by 10%
Air freight costs are expected to rise following a 10% increase in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices by oil marketing companies. The new price-stabilisation regime will freeze ATF prices at Rs 115 per litre for three years, affecting domestic and international flights of Indian carriers.
Logistics Diesel Prices Drop as Spot Demand Rises Amid Contract Failures
The average diesel price has dropped to $5.21 per gallon, marking a significant decrease. Meanwhile, RXO reports a rise in spot demand as contract routing guides fail, highlighting stress in traditional freight networks.
Logistics SONAR's Hackathon to Tackle Driver App Shortage
FreightWaves SONAR is launching a virtual hackathon to develop apps for truck drivers. The event aims to address the lack of driver-focused software in the trucking industry.
Logistics AI Agents Transforming Freight Operations
AI is revolutionizing freight operations by automating tasks and enhancing decision-making. A survey by FreightWaves and Trimble highlights current AI adoption, challenges, and future expectations in the industry.
Logistics FedEx Pilots Secure New Contract After Lengthy Negotiations
FedEx pilots have ratified a new labor contract with 83% approval, concluding over five years of negotiations. The agreement includes a 40% pay raise and back pay for pilots.
Logistics PepsiCo and Gatik Unveil Driverless Trucking Partnership
PepsiCo and Gatik have launched a major driverless trucking initiative, marking the largest commercial autonomous freight deployment. The partnership covers operations in Texas, Arizona, and Arkansas, enhancing supply chain efficiency.
Logistics Icon Energy Ventures into Container Shipping
Icon Energy, a Greek dry bulk owner, is diversifying by acquiring a minority stake in a container shipping venture. The investment involves a 2,000 TEU feeder vessel chartered at $26,500 per day, generating $19 million over two years.
Logistics Amazon Relay Enhances Safety and Prepares for Prime Day
Amazon Relay is implementing measures to combat freight fraud and enhance safety, including a new safety rewards program. These initiatives come as the company prepares for increased demand during Prime Day.
Logistics Pingtan Minghui Ventures into Tanker Market with New Orders
Pingtan Minghui Shipping, traditionally a dry bulk carrier, has ordered two LR2 tankers, marking its entry into the tanker sector. The vessels, built by Taizhou JianXing Heavy Industry, are set for delivery in 2028.
Logistics International Seaways Orders LNG-Ready Tankers in South Korea
International Seaways has contracted two LNG-ready LR1 product tankers at K Shipbuilding in South Korea, with options for two more. This move aligns with their fleet optimization strategy, following recent vessel sales and platform expansions.
Logistics CM Energy Launches Innovative Meridian Class CSOV
CM Energy has introduced the Meridian Class CSOV, a next-generation vessel designed for the offshore wind industry. This vessel offers low-carbon propulsion options, aligning with sustainability goals.
Logistics Keyfield Expands Offshore Fleet with New AHTS Vessel
Keyfield International has acquired a 2014-built AHTS vessel for $7.35 million to expand its offshore fleet. The vessel, to be renamed Keyfield Joyful, will undergo upgrades and is expected to be deployed in late 2026.