

FreightWaves NOW
FreightWaves
FreightWaves NOW is your daily source for the most impactful news in logistics. We break down the complex world of freight—covering trucking, rail, air, and ocean markets—to bring you actionable insights. Whether you are a carrier, shipper, or broker, we provide the data-driven context you need to navigate a volatile market.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 9, 2024 • 10min
CPG Companies and the Changing Face of American Eating Habits
In this episode of FreightWaves Now Community Spotlight, Kaylee and Grace discuss the rise of snacking in America and how it has changed the way we eat. They also talk about the impact of social media on snacking trends and the challenges that snack companies face in a world where people are increasingly concerned about their health.
Here are some key points from the discussion:
00:00:16 Snacking has become a hallmark of the American way of eating.
00:00:37 There has been a cultural shift towards snacking in recent decades.
00:01:12 CPG companies are capitalizing on this trend by developing new and innovative snack products.
00:05:32 Social media is playing a major role in shaping snacking trends.
00:06:55 Snack companies are facing challenges from the health and wellness movement.
Want to learn more about the snacking industry? Check out our previous episodes and subscribe to The Stockout for more insights and updates.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 6, 2024 • 11min
Navigating the Challenges of Produce Transportation
Join us for an insightful discussion on the complexities of cross-border logistics, specifically focusing on the transportation of temperature-sensitive produce between the United States and Mexico. Our expert guest, Mary O'Connell, dives into the challenges posed by border congestion, exchange rate fluctuations, and increased inspections.
Discover how companies are adapting their strategies to overcome these hurdles, including the establishment of co-located warehouses and customs brokerage facilities on both sides of the border. Learn about the importance of prioritizing produce shipments and the creative solutions implemented to ensure the timely and safe delivery of perishable goods.
Key topics covered:
The impact of near-shoring on cross-border produce transportation
Challenges faced at border crossings due to increased traffic
Strategies for mitigating congestion and ensuring efficient customs clearance
The role of exchange rates in influencing cross-border freight costs
The impact of increased inspections on border crossings and cold chain logistics
Don't miss this informative episode as we explore the intricacies of cross-border logistics and the innovative solutions being adopted by industry leaders.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 5, 2024 • 11min
Navigating the Freight Market: Post-Labor Day Outlook
In this episode of FreightWaves Now, host Kaylee Nix sits down with Thomas Wasson, author of the Loaded and Rolling newsletter, to discuss the current state of the freight market. They delve into topics such as:
Hurricane season and its impact on the market
Retailer strategies for the upcoming holiday season
Early winter weather conditions affecting freight operations
The ongoing driver shortage and its challenges
The role of technology in the freight industry
Don't miss this insightful discussion as we navigate the complexities of the freight market.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 3, 2024 • 9min
Labor Day Weekend and the Freight Market
In this episode, we discuss the impact of Labor Day weekend on the freight market. We explore the mixed reports on retail peak season spending and the rising import levels from Asia. Additionally, we delve into the factors influencing the market, including the Canadian rail strike, port renovations in China, and the potential for near-shoring. Join us as we analyze the current state of the freight market and discuss the outlook for the coming months.
Key Topics:
Labor Day weekend and retail peak season
Rising import levels from Asia
Impact of the Canadian rail strike
Port renovations in China
Near-shoring and its potential impact
Don't miss this insightful discussion on the freight market!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 30, 2024 • 10min
Exploring the Evolution of Cold Storage: A Conversation with Charles Betts
Join us for an insightful discussion with Charles Betts from Interstate Cold Storage as we delve into the trends shaping the cold storage industry. Discover how consumer demand has shifted post-pandemic, leading to changes in cold storage operations. Learn about the growing need for smaller, more strategically located warehouses to meet the demands of direct-to-consumer models.
We also explore the latest advancements in cold storage technology, including energy-efficient solutions and sustainability initiatives. Discover how organizations can implement these changes to improve their operations and reduce their environmental impact.
Key Topics:
The impact of the pandemic on cold storage
Changing consumer demands
The rise of direct-to-consumer models
Advancements in cold storage technology
Sustainability initiatives in the cold storage industry
Don't miss this informative conversation on the future of cold storage!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 29, 2024 • 10min
Cummins Unveils Flexible Engine Platform
Get a behind-the-scenes look at Cummins' new Helms Project, a groundbreaking engine platform that can run on diesel, natural gas, or hydrogen. Learn how this innovative solution provides fleets with the flexibility to choose the right alternative fuel without sacrificing performance. Discover Cummins' impressive manufacturing efficiency and their commitment to sustainability. Plus, hear from Cummins' leadership about the future of the company and their vision for a cleaner transportation industry.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 27, 2024 • 9min
Beyond the Beer Fridge: Building a Thriving Culture in Freight Brokerage
This episode of Check Call features a fascinating discussion with Craig Lough of A. Duie Pyle. Discover how they have achieved an impressive 100% employee retention rate, a rarity in the industry known for high turnover.
Learn about the strategies and culture that have contributed to their success, including:
Prioritizing employee well-being: From flexible work hours to affordable living locations, Pyles at Bro fosters a supportive environment.
Investing in professional development: Offering career paths and opportunities for growth helps employees feel valued and motivated.
Active listening: Regularly gathering feedback and implementing changes ensures that employees' needs are met.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 22, 2024 • 11min
The Trucker-Shipper Dance: How to Win in a Tough Market
This episode of FreightWaves' Loaded and Rolling Community Spotlight dives deep into the current state of the trucking industry, focusing on the relationship between carriers and shippers. Here's what you'll learn:
The Trucker-Shipper Conversation: Relive the crossover event between Thomas Wasson of Loaded and Rolling and Mike Baudendistel of The Stock Out. They discuss the nitty-gritty of carrier vetting and how to navigate a challenging market from both perspectives.
Pro Tips for CPG Shippers: Learn how to become a carrier of choice and how to avoid getting burned when the market turns. Discover what services are most important to carriers and how to build strong relationships.
The Future of Freight Brokers: Explore the potential risks and rewards for freight brokers in the current market.
Trucks with Benefits? Thomas Watson shares his insights on the future of carrier-broker relationships.
Don't miss out! Watch the full episode today on the FreightWaves YouTube channel
Want more? Subscribe to the FreightWaves Loaded and Rolling newsletter for even more insights delivered straight to your inbox every Friday.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 21, 2024 • 10min
How Climate Change Impacts Cold Chain
This episode of FreightWaves Now's Community Spotlight dives into the world of cold chain logistics with a focus on how climate change is impacting this industry.
Mary O'Connell speaks with Fred Woo, a meteorologist, about the concept of vulnerability as it applies to goods, not just people. Climate change is causing more extreme weather events, which can lead to spoilage of goods being transported in the cold chain. This can have a significant economic impact on businesses.
The discussion also covers how cold chain logistics providers can mitigate these risks by using technologies and strategies to maintain consistent temperatures for goods regardless of the weather conditions.
Watch to learn more about the challenges and solutions in cold chain logistics in the face of climate change.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 21, 2024 • 11min
Want to learn more about the future of trucking?
This episode of FreightWaves' Truck Tech Community Spotlight dives deep into the latest advancements in the trucking industry. Here's a taste of what you'll learn:
Volvo VNL deep dive: Explore the safety features of the all-new Volvo VNL with product marketing manager Maggie Sullivan.
Is this a game-changer for Volvo? Alan Adler discusses the potential impact of the new VNL platform on Volvo's future strategies.
Financing the future: Discover which companies in the trucking tech space are attracting investment from banks, and why this is a positive sign for the industry.
Nikola's funding struggles: Learn why Nikola is still relying on equity markets, while other companies are securing bank loans.
The future of funding for trucking tech: Uncover the three main funding streams for trucking tech companies - equity, grants, and bank loans.
Don't miss out! Watch the full episode today on the FreightWaves YouTube channel
Want more? Subscribe to the FreightWaves Truck Tech newsletter for even more insights delivered straight to your inbox every Friday.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


