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Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Choices in the Trucking Industry

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Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Choices in the Trucking Industry

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Most discussions on trucker safety focus on driving habits and other vehicle-related actions. While these factors are undoubtedly critical to ensuring truck drivers stay safe, the industry should also consider some less obvious issues. Driver health receives less attention, and that should change.

More than 50% of truck drivers are obese, compared to 26.7% of all U.S. adults. Similarly, diabetes is 50% more common in truckers than in the general population, and 54% of truckers smoke, compared to just 21% overall. These health issues can put drivers at greater risk of disease, increase their medical bills, hinder their quality of life and even endanger their lives.


 

Many of these health trends result from the industry’s long hours, little flexibility and limited options. Consequently, the trucking industry must change to promote healthier lifestyles. Here’s how it can do so.

1. Provide Health Information Resources

The first way the industry can fight unhealthy lifestyle choices is with information. Many drivers may be unaware of how to make healthier choices, and there are limited resources available to teach them. Truckers report that 70% of trucking companies and 81% of truck stops have no health promotion programs.

Studies suggest that providing more information could help promote healthier lifestyles. While 96% of American adults want their food choices to deliver health benefits, only 45% can accurately name the ones that can. Health coaching programs can help address that latter figure, providing a way forward for truckers.

Trucking companies and truck stops should offer resources to teach truckers how to improve their eating, exercise and other health habits. Information alone won’t solve the sector’s health issues, but it provides a starting point. Without it, becoming healthier is far more challenging.

2. Make Schedules More Flexible

One of the reasons so many truckers face health issues is because of their schedules. Since truckers work long hours, they may not have the time to exercise regularly. Even though it’s possible to work out in 10 minutes, drivers may be too tired after a long day on the road.

More flexible schedules would help give drivers the time they need to become more physically active. When that’s not possible, another solution is to send them on the road in pairs. While one drives, the other can relax or sleep, helping them feel less tired when they stop and encouraging more physical activity.

Having drivers travel in pairs will also boost trucker health by improving their sleep schedules. Sleep deficiency can increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, stroke and more. Truck drivers can prevent these risks by taking more time for shuteye.

3. Offer Access to Exercise Programs as a Benefit

Another obstacle drivers face in trying to live healthier is a lack of access to necessary resources. Truckers may not know of any available exercise programs or how to get started, and even if they do, they may be expensive. Trucking companies can encourage exercise by providing these programs as a job benefit.

Drivers who stay with the company for a given amount of time could get a free gym membership as a perk. More truckers may be willing to try programs they don’t need to pay for. Offering these benefits company-wide can also provide a social reason for going, as truckers will be in the gym with peers and co-workers.

Trucking companies can try to make these options more enticing by offering various options. For example, boxing can burn up to 800 calories in an hour and may interest drivers more than an ordinary gym. Providing fun ways to exercise like this may encourage more participation.

4. Reward Healthy Behavior

Similarly, trucking companies can encourage healthier lifestyle choices by rewarding them. A sense of competition, or even just the thought of a prize, can convince drivers who may not otherwise be interested in health programs. Companies can create a tier system where drivers who meet different goals receive increasing awards.

For example, a company could offer monetary bonuses, days off or gift cards for completing different weight loss tiers. These programs don’t have to last year-round, but holding them regularly can encourage ongoing healthier choices. After living this way for a month or two, drivers may want to adopt those behaviors permanently.

While these initiatives can create a spirit of competition, companies shouldn’t lean into the competitive side too much. Rewards should be based on completing goals, not outperforming others. Otherwise, these programs could have the opposite effect than intended, discouraging some employees from participating.

5. Promote Convenient Care Clinics

There are more than 40,000 medical providers that conduct Department of Transportation and CDL medical exams. Many of these locations are also convenient care clinics, which can be a useful health resource for drivers. Trucking companies should promote them so drivers know where they can find information about their health.

Convenient care clinics can assess truckers’ health, provide any needed care and help them develop a roadmap for healthier living. Having easy, affordable access to this care can significantly affect driver health, but they have to know about them first.

Trucking companies should inform new hires about these clinics and continue to promote them through newsletters, emails and signage. The more companies talk about them, the more likely drivers are to check them out.

6. Work With Truck Stops to Improve Offerings

Truck stops play a critical role in the health and lifestyle of truckers. Since drivers spend much of their downtime at these locations, that’s where they make many crucial health choices. They’re also notoriously insufficient when it comes to healthy offerings, so trucking companies should work with them to improve.

One study found that not one surveyed stop offered exercise facilities, and 81% didn’t even have a walking path. Most also only had a few healthy food offerings, with 25% lacking them entirely. If these areas had more options, trucker health would likely improve.

Trucking companies can see if they can partner with these stops to offer better choices. Funding exercise facilities or healthier food options will go a long way.

Trucker Health Must Improve

Healthier truckers will spend less on medical bills, have a higher quality of life and live longer. While health may be a matter of personal choices, trucking companies can help improve the safety of their employees by promoting better options.

As it currently stands, the trucking industry faces something of a health crisis. If more companies follow these steps, they can make the profession an altogether healthier one.

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Archives, Global Trade Daily, Site Selection, State Spotlight

7 STATES WITH COMPREHENSIVE FACILITIES FOR THE MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION OF GOODS

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Thankfully, with COVID-19 vaccination programs in full swing, it appears that we are emerging out of the worst of the pandemic which has blighted the lives of so many people and caused so much devastation to businesses across all industries. 

Major parts of the U.S. economy, quite literally, were brought to a standstill with enforced closures and restrictions on the movement of people.

However, despite the disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic, goods were still shifted in enormous volume during the course of 2020, the value of such activity in the U.S. and Canada estimated to have surpassed $6.8 billion. 

This figure should steadily rise given how increasingly dependent intermodal transport activity is on the consumer economy’s demand. It is also supported by well-developed hubs across all states that help to facilitate the movement of goods as seamlessly as possible. 

Here, we take a look at just some of the U.S. states with the most favorable logistics infrastructure. 

Illinois

The midwestern state is extremely well served by an array of transport hubs, the most significant being situated in and around its primary city of Chicago. 

Staggeringly, around a quarter of all rail freight calls into the city either as a final destination or stop on a journey to another terminus. Meanwhile, O’Hare International Airport processes around 2 million metric tons of cargo at a value of approximately $200 billion every year.

The state is also indebted to what is North America’s largest inland port in the form of CenterPoint Intermodal Center. Situated in the Joilet and Elwood area, around 40 miles southwest of Chicago, it is a 6,400-acre master-planned intermodal development that sees 3 million TEUs pass through it every year. It is currently home to more than 30 tenant companies that, between them, occupy more than 14 million square feet of space.

CenterPoint Intermodal Center is also built with heavyweight roads able to withstand massive pressure and contains several other useful features such as water and utility systems, public bus service connections, no restrictions on trailer parking ratios and 24/7 on-site fire and police protection.  

The site contains a massive 785-acre Union Pacific Railroad complex just south of Joliet, while another enormous rail complex measuring 770 acres that is operated by BNSF lies farther to the southwest.

When all of this is taken into consideration, CenterPoint can rightly be referred to as Illinois’ intermodal epicenter.  

The state is also making waves in the port scene, with officials recently announcing a $110 million fund to modernize public ports across the territory. Illinois is home to a network of waterways that includes 19 public port districts and more than 400 private terminals along the Illinois, Kaskaskia, Ohio and Mississippi rivers.

Texas

The Lone Star State is also no stranger to port-based trade. 

Texas has no fewer than 11 deep-draft ports, eight shallow-draft ports and two recreational ports that combine to make a critical contribution to the economic growth of the state, and represent key components of the region’s transportation system. 

The southern state’s ports are backed up by some of the country’s largest interstate highways and an enormous network of railroads. 

According to figures released by the Association of American Railroads, Texas received 208.1 million tons of rail freight in 2019, the most of any state. To put that in context, Illinois, the second-ranked state, received 107.4 million terminated rail tons. Texas also, unsurprisingly, has by far the largest network of rail infrastructure in terms of outright length, measuring at 10,460 miles compared to second-placed Illinois, which has 6,883 miles of track.   

Over in Dallas, a fairly recent addition to the city’s intermodal transport infrastructure (opening in 2015) is the Wylie Intermodal Terminal. It is a $64 million development owned by Kansas City Southern Railway (KCS), and is set to capitalize on significant opportunities in cross-border activity with Mexico. 

Wylie itself is a city and northeastern suburb of Dallas, with the KCS terminal sprawling across 500 acres of land and servicing 12 gulf ports and one Pacific Ocean port, as well as more than 140 transload centers and 11 intermodal ramps. KCS also provides 181 interchange points with other railroads, including all U.S. and Mexico Class 1 railroads.

Michigan

In a typical year, one without the disruptions caused by the pandemic, U.S. freight railroads move around 1.7 billion tons across nearly 140,000 miles of privately-owned infrastructure that run through 49 states.

Michigan is home to 28 such railroads and ranks 14th in terms of total rail miles, with 3,465 miles of track at its disposal. In 2019, it received 31.4 million tons of rail-based cargo and sent 21.2 million tons on its way to other parts of the country or abroad. 

The Detroit region offers extensive logistics options for businesses, including world-leading warehousing and what is often cited as the nation’s best undergraduate and graduate supply chain and logistics university courses.

Furthermore, the region’s strategic location on the Canadian border grants prime access to the wider U.S. and Canadian markets, with more than 47 million people within just a five-hour drive.

Detroit also contains more than 2,000 miles of interstates and highways, four Class 1 railroads, seven cargo ports and 15 airports. In total, the region moves $44 billion of goods evert year. 

According to the Michigan Freight Plan devised in 2017, the state has “an extensive transportation infrastructure system that supports more than $862 billion in economic activity on an annual basis, from ports to rail and highways to runways.”

California 

Over on the West Coast, California boasts some of the most comprehensive logistics infrastructure in the country, especially when it comes to ports and railroads. 

Indeed, California is the third most popular destination for rail freight in the United States, receiving 94.9 million tons in 2019 – the state is also fifth in terms of total tail miles, with 4,971 miles of track spanning over two Class 1 railroads and 26 short-line railroads.  

Los Angeles is home to the West Coast’s busiest seafaring trade hub thanks to the adjoining ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. In total, California has one private and 11 public deep seaports and numerous private port and terminal facilities. These handle more than 40% of the total containerized cargo entering the U.S., and almost a third of the nation’s exports. 

Such formidable infrastructure is even further bolstered by 5,800 commercial miles of high traffic volume interstate and state highways, and 12 airports with major cargo facilities. 

All of this combines to present California as one of America’s most extensive, complex and interconnected freight hubs, a system which, according to the Californian government, employs 5 million people. 

Washington 

In the Pacific Northwest, Washington boasts an extraordinary number of ports–some 75 that are found in 33 of the region’s 39 counties. These are supported by 465 miles of navigable waterways for barge traffic on the Columbia and Snake rivers.   

For companies needing logistics infrastructure for accessing the Pacific sea lanes, Washington represents the prudent choice, with many of the 75 ports a day’s sail closer to Asian markets than any others on the West Coast. 

Washington also has the second-largest concentration of distribution centers on the Left Coast, well supplied by 30 railroads (including the Union Pacific and BNSF) which, between them, account for 2,891 miles of track. This allows the state to rank seventh in the U.S. in terms of rail cargo received (65.8 million tons a year). 

Washington’s roads network is also well developed, with 7,000 miles of state highways and more than 39,000 miles of country roads that help reach the most remote parts of the region. In terms of air transportation, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is the state’s largest international airport and the ninth busiest in the country.

Much of this infrastructure has been subject to improvements and expansions as part of the $70 billion Connecting Washington program, a bill voted for in 2015 that supports several major projects on the state’s roads, railways, ferry terminals and more.

Pennsylvania 

The Keystone State boasts of 61 railroads in operation, the most of any state in the country. These transport around 150 million tons of freight in and out of the region annually. 

The railroads feed a host of other important logistics infrastructure hubs, which include international airports at Erie, Harrisburg, the Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Along with nine other scheduled-service, domestic passenger airports, they move 560,000 tons of material every year. 

Pennsylvania’s three major ports are also extremely successful, exploiting their strategic position between the northeast and Mid-Atlantic and providing deep water, inland and Great Lakes access for convenient international importing and exporting. Indeed, the state’s foreign trade zone program has levelled the playing field and boosts U.S. competitiveness by reducing operational costs for businesses. 

Joining all the logistical dots are more than 120,000 miles of state and local highways which, along with airports and railroads, are part of the Act 89 transportation plan–a commitment to improve numerous transit passages and hubs to the tune of more than $60 billion. 

Wyoming 

Our final stop is landlocked Wyoming, nestled in the Mountain West subregion of the western United States.

Despite being home to just six railroads spanning 1,877 miles, it tops the charts on originated rail tons by a long way. In 2019, 273.2 million tons of goods were sent from the state, more than double that of Illinois in second (125.9 tons). 

Wyoming’s location means it relies heavily on road transportation to move goods from points A to B and onwards to other parts of the country. Here, it is well catered for, with Wyoming motorists collectively traveling 10.2 billion miles annually and moving a large proportion of the $66 billion of commodities shipped to and from the state each year. 

The design, construction and maintenance of transportation infrastructure supports around 13,000 full-time jobs across all sectors of the economy, including tourism, retail, agriculture and manufacturing. 

Wyoming’s airports also play an important supporting role. There are nine in total, the most significant being Jackson Hole Airport, located in the spectacular Grand Teton National Park. 

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Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Let’s Hear It for Truckers.

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Given the industry’s shortage of truckers, and the mess that has created along the supply chain, mid-September’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week took on added meaning this year.

Palmetto, Florida’s Port Manatee treated more than 200 truckers to lunches and jam-packed goody bags on Sept. 17, the final day of the weeklong celebration.

“Port Manatee is truly blessed to be served by these devoted professional drivers,” said Reggie Bellamy, chairman of the Manatee County Port Authority. “Especially in these challenging times, truckers have gone above and beyond in demonstrating their commitment to keeping the supply chain running smoothly.”

A. Duie Pyle, a premier provider of asset and non-asset-based supply chain solutions, on Sept. 13 recognized 25 of its less-than-truckload (LTL) drivers for achieving the Million Mile Safe Driver milestone in 2020. Overall, the West Chester, Pennsylvania-based company has had 171 One Million Mile Drivers, 23 Two Million Mile Drivers, and two Three Million Mile Drivers.

“These drivers are true professionals,” said Pete Dannecker, Pyle’s VP of Risk and Integrated Resources, “and I congratulate them for their dedication to safe driving in the congested Northeastern metropolitan region in which A. Duie Pyle operates.”

Free grub, goody bags and safety recognition are nice, but one thing that is usually better appreciated is cold hard cash. That’s what Mark-it Express, an intermodal trucking and freight brokerage company headquartered in Lemont, Illinois, provided to its Land of Lincoln truckers effective Aug. 2 of this year.

“In appreciation for their loyalty, commitment and value the team,” the company announced Mark-it Express drivers in Illinois are now receiving $27 an hour without the Hazardous Materials endorsement and $30 an hour with the endorsement. Mark-it drivers at the Detroit and Kansas City terminals also got pay bumps. “We have been saying over and over that we appreciate our drivers and see how hard you are working,” said Mark-it President Tony Apa.

“Thank you all again–we wouldn’t be here without you.”

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Metal Replacement Demand to Rise Across the Electronics Sector in the Coming Years

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Over the past few years, manufacturers across the automotive, aerospace & defense, energy, and electronics industries are showing enormous interest in metal alternatives to obtain higher design freedom, improved performance and significant weight reductions. Metal replacement materials largely help in speeding up installations and enhancing the mechanical properties which in turn offers greater durability and reduces the overall cost. The growing prominence of these solutions is expected to proliferate the expansion of the metal replacement market in the ensuing years.

The industry is observing lucrative growth opportunities in the electronics sector on account of the elevated sales of consumer electronics, especially mobile phones, across the globe. According to the Consumer Technology Association statistics, revenue from the retail sales from the consumer technology industry in the U.S. will reach USD 461 billion in 2021, representing a rise of 4.3% year on year.


 

On the other hand, China is showing promising performance with regard to cell phone exports. According to the data published by the General Administration of Customs of China, cell phone exports in the country accounted for USD 22.9 billion during the first two months of 2021, representing year-on-year growth of 49.2%.

Such a considerable rise in the demand for consumer electronics goods is subsequently driving the adoption of metal replacement solutions. They find important usage in mobile device enclosures, circuit boards, batteries, sensors, audio speakers, etc. to address engineering challenges and improve the performance and reliability of products. For instance, high-performance polymer solutions offer high reliability, versatility, and design freedom for next-generation electronic devices.

The numerous product advantages are essentially driving its demand in the aerospace industry. The high-performance polymers are enabling aerospace companies to enhance the performance of their aircraft by replacing the metals. The adoption of these polymers is being driven by the growing necessity for fuel-efficient and eco-friendly aircraft. In addition, they also offer greater reliability, reduce assembly times and minimize operating and manufacturing costs.

As a result of the high product demand in aerospace, several eminent market players are inclined on developing innovative solutions designed according to the industry needs to gain a competitive edge in the market. To illustrate, in 2020, Victrex collaborated with French aircraft manufacturer Daher to develop a 176-ply laminate structural panel for aircraft with a 32 mm thickness, based on VICTREX AE™ 250 LMPAEK thermoplastic composite. According to the company, this new solution will expedite the aircraft manufacturing process and improve efficiency.

Speaking of the application of metal replacement in the transportation sector, it is being extensively used to make vehicles lighter and more fuel-efficient. Metal alternatives like polymers, plastics, composites, etc. not only enhance fuel efficiency but also improve durability and driving comfort through reduced noise and vibration.

Quoting an instance, in 2020, AIMPLAS, the Plastics Technology Centre, contributed to the European Mat4Rail project involving the manufacturing of new materials and components for the railway of the future. The initiative was aimed at reducing the weight of railway vehicles by replacing metal components with composite materials to enhance the vehicle capacity and passenger comfort. The role of AIMPLAS was to develop new hybrid resin formulations offering better resistance to flame propagation and to be used in fiber-reinforced polymers.

Rising demand for material that can enhance performance and offer greater freedom during manufacturing has impelled the demand for metal replacement solutions across sectors like electronics, aerospace, automobile, etc. Besides, technological developments in these solutions are further driving their demand and is expected to accelerate the business growth in coming years.

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Archives, Global Trade Daily, News

Splice Introduces Its Yard Management System and Changes the Spelling of Its Name

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Today Splice announced the launch of Yard Spot, its integrated yard management system application built on the foundation of Splice. The cloud-based application combines numerous sources of data in a common operating view to reduce turn-times, avoid detention fees, and increase productivity of container yards.

Yard Spot displays location data from global positioning system (GPS) and electronic logging devices (ELD), operational data from transportation management systems and terminals, and real-time locations from fixed and mobile cameras. The integration of disparate data sources provides a complete picture of the yard to find equipment quickly and simply, and it helps prioritize movements for dispatch operations.

“Yard Spot enters the market when efficient yard management is essential,” said Kevin Speers, CEO of Splice. “Its benefits extend well beyond knowing where equipment is. Yard Spot helps retain precious truck power, reduce equipment-late fees and alleviate yard congestion.”

Yard Spot’s visual representation of yards has numerous benefits:

-Know where containers and equipment are in real-time to allow trucks in and out of your facility quickly.

-Prioritize dispatch movements to reduce per diem and detention fees by having last free day, gate in/out, empty/full mapped to the location of equipment.

-Audit the yard from anywhere, anytime and use the common operating view to see potential problems and immediately solve them.

“Yard Spot is powered by Splice’s integration platform, and it shows how we can stack applications that otherwise cannot talk to each other to build an altogether new tool,” said Chris Ruddick, COO of Splice. “Splice is continually adding integrations that will strengthen Yard Spot and our overall ability to improve supply chain logistics. Splice can integrate EDI, APIs, sensors, and IoT devices, which opens a whole new level of visibility, analytics and automation for Yard Spot users.”

Additionally, Splice announced that it has changed the spelling of its name. “The magic of Splice is analogous to splicing rope. We take existing applications and data and weave them together to make something stronger and more useful for supply chain and logistics operations,” said Speers. “The name highlights many facets of our value, and by using the accepted spelling of splice, we can better articulate the benefits of our solutions.” Formerly written as Splyc, the company is rolling out updates to its visual identity and branding. Learn more about Splice at www.splice-it.com.

For more information about Yard Spot, visit www.splice-it.com/yard-spot.

 _______________________________________________________________

About Splice

Splice is a solutions platform for supply chain logistics that helps applications that otherwise are disconnected share data and talk to each other. It grew out of the need for integration-driven innovation to speed up information flows, streamline supply chains, and eliminate manual and error-prone processes. We make it easier to work with partners and across organizations. Splice accelerates digital transformation through integration-enabled automation, and we are continuously building our library of integrations. By stacking applications and data sources on top of Splice, we can create point solutions like Yard Spot, our integrated yard management system. We value interconnectedness and inclusion, and we look forward to hearing from you. Learn more about Splice at www.splice-it.com.

For media questions and conversation, please contact Kevin Speers at 757-530-5300 or communications@splice-it.com.

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Hyundai Translead Taps PowerFleet Telematics to Launch HT LinkSense Platform

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PowerFleet, Inc. (Nasdaq: PWFL), a global leader and provider of subscription-based wireless IoT and M2M solutions for securing, controlling, tracking, and managing high-value enterprise assets, today announced Hyundai Translead, the leading van trailer manufacturer in North America, will be leveraging the PowerFleet LV-300 trailer tracking gateway solution to launch HT LinkSense. Through this integration with PowerFleet, HT LinkSense will be able to provide fleet managers with the flexibility to choose sensor and telematics solutions that meet their needs. Initially, the HT LinkSense solution will be available for the Hyundai Translead dry van line, but future expansion into refrigerated, flatbed, chassis and aftermarket products is planned.

“We are excited to partner with PowerFleet as we expand possibilities for customers in fleet data strategy by providing a scalable, open platform solution with HT LinkSense,” said Sean Kenney, Hyundai Translead’s Chief Sales Officer. “Through our partnership, we offer flexibility through universal connectivity of sensors for maximum fleet operational efficiency, making smart fleets smarter.”


 

The PowerFleet LV-300 asset tracking solution provides continuous real-time visibility while in transit, and more accurate arrival and departure information to better plan supply chain resource allocation. Connected by 4G LTE, it provides wireless reporting to ensure clients can receive continuous updates on the status and condition of their assets and important cargo. The LV-300 tethers to a power source and also utilizes a long-lasting rechargeable battery for untethered operation and features tamper detection for increased security.

“We are honored that Hyundai Translead has selected PowerFleet as a key part of its HT LinkSense solution for trailers,” explains Chris Wolfe, CEO of PowerFleet. “Our integrated logistics solutions will enable customers to access a more holistic view of their trailers and freight status by capturing critical sensor and telematics data. By leveraging our trusted telematics platform, analytics and real-time reporting capabilities, Hyundai Translead will raise the bar with its’ HT LinkSense offering by delivering high-value asset information to the transportation industry.”

______________________________________________________________________

About PowerFleet
PowerFleet® Inc. (NASDAQ: PWFL; TASE: PWFL) is a global leader and provider of subscription-based wireless IoT and M2M solutions for securing, controlling, tracking, and managing high-value enterprise assets such as industrial trucks, tractor trailers, containers, cargo, and vehicles and truck fleets. The company is headquartered in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, with offices located around the globe. PowerFleet’s patented technologies address the needs of organizations to monitor and analyze their assets to increase efficiency and productivity, reduce costs, and improve profitability. Our offerings are sold under the global brands PowerFleet, Pointer, and Cellocator. For more information, please visit www.powerfleet.com, the content of which does not form a part of this press release.

About Hyundai Translead

Hyundai Translead is the leading van trailer manufacturer in North America. The company manufactures dry and refrigerated van trailers as well as flatbeds, chassis, and dollies. Founded in 1989, Hyundai Translead is 100% owned by Hyundai Motor Group and is headquartered in San Diego, CA. For more information, please visit www.hyundaitranslead.com

PowerFleet Company Contact
Ned Mavrommatis, CFO 
NMavrommatis@powerfleet.com
(201) 996-9000 

PowerFleet Investor Contact
Matt Glover
Gateway Investor Relations
PWFL@gatewayir.com
(949) 574-3860

PowerFleet Media Contact
Jacqueline Agudelo
powerfleet@n6a.com

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A Quick Guide On How IoT Is Revolutionizing The Fleet Management Industry

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Fleet management has been radically transformed by innovations such as smart devices and sensors in the digital age. The IoT-enabled future of the supply chain industry looks promising as more companies across the globe are embracing the technology.

Research predicts the revenue of the global IoT fleet management market will reach an estimated US$15,500 million by 2024. This is not surprising at all because the sector has achieved great strides by being tech-forward.

Key benefits of IoT in fleet management

Real-time vehicle monitoring

The use of IoT in fleet management allows efficient monitoring of the vehicles and associated assets. The two-way communication system records crucial data. It facilitates remote monitoring, allowing operators to track vehicle conditions and ensure driver safety through predictive maintenance and timely delivery of goods in proper condition.

Risk mitigation

Automation through IoT-driven sensors and smart transport systems helps mitigate risks. The system keeps you informed in real-time about any required changes in routes due to traffic congestions or adverse weather conditions.


Remote data management

With an IoT-driven solution, fleet operators have access to vehicle performance data that helps them make informed decisions quickly. Endpoints can be handled remotely, and real-time data is easily accessible over the cloud.

Impeccable customer service

Fleet management centers can integrate smart solutions with their existing ERP systems to optimize performance across all aspects of the business. It helps them drive superior customer experience through higher on-time delivery rates and reduced defect rates.

Cost optimization

The IoT technology helps freight and transportation businesses work more efficiently. Automation eliminates the need for time-consuming operations, and connected devices provide seamless connectivity. Tracking shipments in real-time helps logistics companies optimize costs without compromising customer service and driver safety.

Smart reporting

IoT-powered devices such as the digital tachograph make fleet management reporting intelligent. It records complete data concerning a vehicle’s utilization and shares it in real-time via connected devices. The data helps fleet operators track the vehicle’s health and alerts them regarding upcoming maintenance requirements.

Six ways IoT has revolutionized fleet management

Environment-friendly operations

IoT solutions offer a great way to reduce carbon footprint through sustainable fleet management. These intuitive technologies monitor driver performance and fuel utilization per mile. You can use the data to align your efforts with your green fleet strategy.

It can be used to improve driver behavior through training and adopting route optimization techniques. Vehicle condition tracking allows the identification of service requirements in advance. You can regularly monitor all your vehicles and maintain them in a good condition.

Not only does IoT technology help reduce environmental pollution from idle vehicles, but it also saves money on wear-and-tear repair costs by helping drivers avoid speeding or idling their cars unnecessarily. It reduces the overall impact of your business on the environment.

Preventive maintenance

Vehicles equipped with IoT sensors collect data from endpoints and send automated signals. This feature can generate early warnings or alerts for monitoring crucial parts of a vehicle such as tires, breaks, and so on.

Based on the information collected, fleet managers can identify parts that need maintenance or must be replaced. You can set alerts for low battery, low levels of coolant, changes in tire pressure, fluctuations in temperature, or defective engine.

The preventive fleet management services help vehicles perform optimally. You can change crucial parts such as tires in advance and re-stock spare parts to avoid accidents and ensure all vehicles run safely at all times.

Engine performance

Remote Engine Monitoring & Diagnostics has been a catalyst to improved fleet performance and optimization. Fleet managers can use it to monitor and analyze the critical engine parameters remotely.

The concept uses diagnostics fault codes to understand what may be wrong with a vehicle. In-vehicle data acquisitions provide comprehensive information on how the vehicle performs or if any problems need attention off the road.

In addition, integrated field engineer optimization means less downtime by sending engineers where they are needed most.

Fleet operators can also use IoT for spare part management. Ensure your inventory is stocked as per upcoming requirements so your vehicles would not proceed on the next trip without necessary repairs.

Improved fuel efficiency

The fuel efficiency of a supply chain vehicle is mainly dependent on the driver and vehicle condition. Poor driving behavior such as idling or unnecessary acceleration and deceleration consumes excessive fuel.

It also leads to wear and tear of crucial components such as tires, brake discs, and so on. The performance of improperly handled vehicles depreciates over time, resulting in higher fuel consumption. Using IoT technology allows you to track vehicle performance data in real-time.

You can analyze data such as average speed to identify erratic patterns in driving behavior. It also provides details related to the condition of parts of vehicles. Improved fuel efficiency saves costs for the company and reduces the adverse impact on the environment.

Commendable automation

IoT-driven connected devices can be used to automate procedures and revolutionize fleet management. Fleet managers can automate many processes, such as route planning and maintenance checks.

Different IoT sensors and GPS-enabled smart systems installed on the vehicle send automatic notifications upon detecting a vehicle breakdown or when weather conditions are fluctuating. It reduces human intervention in maintenance checks and saves time.

Automatic rerouting informs drivers in real-time and helps in saving costs while meeting delivery timelines. Route optimization ensures your fleet takes the best possible route to reach the destination on the expected delivery date without increasing fuel spends.

Higher visibility

IoT collects data from different sensors and stores vast amounts of data. It helps companies use these insights to fulfill various objectives such as fleet performance, compliance with laws, driver behavior, idling, or speeding.

IoT enables cargo cars to keep perishable items and food products fresh. Their network of embedded temperature control devices throughout the cargo chain.

The visibility offered by them helps you ensure food items stay at an optimal safe storage level for consumption or transport.

They work by checking on whether items inside the vehicle’s cabin are outside the specified temperature range. The fleet operator is notified directly from within its internal environment-controlled compartment of the fleet.

Technology requirements for fleet management

Fleet managers should equip their vehicles with the latest IoT-enabled devices and wireless technology. Using high-quality sensors enables accurate recording of data at the endpoints.

For precise data collection, you must select a suitable variety or group of sensors depending upon the requirement of your vehicle and products.

You can pick from temperature, pressure, light, humidity, and proximity sensors. OEMs and telematics service providers must adhere to compatibility standards when developing IoT solutions to ensure precise data sensing.

When deploying IoT devices, you must ensure they perform across all networks, including 2G, 3G, or 4G LTE networks. Explore connection options across diverse networks like Wi-Fi and BLE for a cost-effective approach.

You can also experiment with advanced technologies such as Augmented Reality, Blockchain, and Cognitive Recognition to optimize your fleet management strategy.

You may also need custom software and cloud storage for storing and analyzing data. These must enable remote monitoring and controlling of all connected devices.

All IoT equipment used in your vehicle must conform to safety standards to ensure compliance with road safety rules and driving standards of all regions covered throughout the journey.

The combined impact of telematics and IoT

Telematics has fueled a revolution in the logistics industry by making fleet management more efficient.

-The use of technology to track the location and condition of vehicles means that drivers are less likely to get lost, miss deliveries, or run out of gas while driving.

-Modernized fleet management offers fuel efficiency.

-Driver monitoring ensures lesser accidents and penalties owing to poor driving practices.

-Improved safety for both drivers behind the wheel as well as workers on or near highways.

-Decrease in operational costs as fleets will last longer.

-It is now easier to keep track of shipments at all times through connected devices. The GPS tracking software allows fleet managers to monitor their shipments in real-time. You can follow the map and select the best route for on-time delivery.

-One can study valuable data related to vehicle maintenance or fuel management for project cost calculation and optimization.

Over to you

Imagine a world where you can know the location of your fleet within moments and track it in real-time. With IoT, companies save time and costs by decreasing wait times for inspections and conducting proactive maintenance of their vehicles.

They can provide better customer service by ensuring each customer can track their order and minimize delayed delivery instances. They control your fleet and can reduce accidents or delays caused due to miscommunication between departments.

IoT is making the adoption of these changes easier than ever for companies. They are equipped to strategize better and increase productivity by automating routine tasks.

Therefore, integrating information technology improves the performance of your fleet business manifolds. It assures improvement in efficiency and compliance with road security standards.

electric vehicles
Archives, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Trucking

Electric Vehicles and the Supply Chain Industry: Top 3 Emerging Trends

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Technology keeps evolving and impacting lives. It is changing how things happen in various industries worldwide. One of the most impacted industries is the supply chain industry, mainly because electric vehicles are becoming more popular now than ever before.

Research shows that by 2025, 30% of all vehicle sales will be hybrid electric vehicles and EVs. Vehicle manufacturers are doing their best to keep up with the demand for electric cars. This has been a result of carriers in the supply chain industry opting for clean-running vehicles.

It is vital to know how electric vehicles are set to transform the supply chain industry. This includes companies that offer car transportation services. In this article, you will learn about emerging electric vehicle trends. It will also look into how the trends will impact the supply chain industry.


 

Read on to find out more.

New Challenges for Automotive Companies

As mentioned earlier, technology has had a massive impact on automotive companies. Supply chain companies are looking for modern cars and trucks. Automotive manufacturers now have new challenges. The materials and parts used in making these cars are different from regular automobiles.

For instance, the designs have substantially changed in modern cars. In addition, the manufacturing process has also changed. Manufacturers have introduced different electronic components. Besides, other pieces of technology like sensors and microchips have also gained popularity in the industry.

Besides these changes, regulations have also become a challenge for automobile manufacturers. Every tiny part used in making modern cars needs to meet regulatory requirements. This hasn’t been an easy thing for car manufacturers worldwide. It has made it a challenge to meet the soaring demand for cars.

The challenges automotive manufacturers experience affects the supply chain industry significantly. It may delay the planned shift to more efficient cars and trucks. But so far, a gradual change has been possible. The reality is that a complete transformation to an energy-efficient industry is still far.

Increasing Demand for Electric Vehicles

The demand for electric vehicles in the supply chain industry doesn’t seem to slow down. For instance, most car shippers have already started changing their fleets. It could happen quicker if automobile manufacturers could produce as many modern cars and trucks as traditional ones.

However, three vital trends are emerging in this industry of late. These trends will impact many things including the costs of shipping cars. This comes as vehicle transporters plan to have more clean-running trucks in their fleets. EVs will reduce the car shipping operating costs and promote a cleaner environment.

This section will take a more in-depth look at the trends impacting vehicle shipping and the supply chain industry.

Here’s the first trend that you should look out for today.

1. Limited Lithium

Lithium-ion batteries power modern electric cars. But then, there have been concerns of whether there’s enough lithium to support their manufacture. This is because of the ever-growing market of lithium-ion batteries. Well, there have been reports that lithium is running out worldwide.

This hasn’t been good news to an already booming electric vehicle industry. It is even worse for the supply chain industry, especially auto car transporters. The planned shift to more efficient trucks to boost their car shipping business may not be achieved as soon as expected.

Predictions already show that at today’s prices, lithium could run out by 2025. However, the good news is that electric vehicles may reach cost parity with regular cars by 2024. That will make it easy for car transporters to shift to electric cars. It will also lead to an overall reduction in car shipping costs.

2. Lower Consumption

Consumption has been a concern for vehicle transporters worldwide. It is the consumption of shipping trucks that pushes car shipping costs high. But then, shipping a car will cost less when motor carriers change their fleets to include more energy-efficient trucks and some electric vehicles.

For energy-efficient trucks, it will be about low gas consumption and less pollution. This will mean well for the environment and also mitigate pollution-related diseases. The good news is that electric cars will take efficiency to a whole new level. They will also mean little or no pollutants into the environment.

This is what companies offering car hauling services want to achieve. They want to contribute to a cleaner environment. Besides, it will also help them keep up with regulations. This will, however, be achieved once electric cars become mainstream and cheaper.

3. Interdependent Supply Chains

There’s a lot more waiting to change in the supply chain industry. This is because changing car shipping fleets alone won’t be enough to achieve a sustainable energy revolution. Chargers and electrical grids will also have to convert to clean energy to achieve this transformation.

Another trend that you’ll see is an increase in the production of more efficient gas-powered cars. Car shippers will have both energy-efficient gas-powered and electric vehicles in their fleets. Thus, the production of gas-powered engines won’t decline like many people could be thinking.

This means that car suppliers will focus both on gas and electric-powered cars. Even if the prices of electric-powered vehicles drop in the future, they may remain relatively expensive. To be precise, the industry will have to wait at least 20 more years before seeing a complete shift in fleets.

Conclusion

The supply chain industry is one of the biggest industries in the world. It is also one of those set to get transformed by the mainstreaming of electric vehicles. This industry has been anticipating a change in trucks for a while. The primary aim has been to reduce consumption and costs as well as be compliant.

This has seemed to happen in recent years as more electric vehicles are getting produced. But it hasn’t meant anything for car transportation companies as they can’t replace entire fleets yet. The supply of electric cars remains low while the demand keeps rising every day.

However, the future remains bright as car manufacturers push for more production. The availability of raw materials like lithium will determine how soon this happens. Meanwhile, stakeholders in the supply chain industry, especially vehicle transporters, will have to be patient.

ports Fuentes
Archives, Global Trade Daily, Site Selection, U.S. Ports

GLOBAL COMMERCE’S LIFEBLOOD: PORT CITY REVIEW 2021

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While maritime trade can be traced back to ancient civilizations in previous millennia, sea freight and ports have never been more important than they are today.

The lifeblood of global commerce, seaports handle almost 811 million TEUs every year, supporting industries of all shapes and sizes all over the world. Indeed, many of the United States’ maritime logistics hubs are some of the largest, their associated economic development corporations (EDCs) having helped to accelerate their growth and value to regional, national and global economies.


In this 2021 roundup of 15 U.S. port cities, we analyze the role of some of the country’s key logistics hubs—as well as the role their economic development engines play in ensuring their continual progression.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is arguably the West Coast’s most important intermodal transport hub, the beating heart of which is the Port of Los Angeles–a seaport covering 7,500 acres of land and water along 43 miles of waterfront. It is the nation’s No. 1 container port, with its state-of-the-art facilities seeing it move 9.2 million TEUs in 2020. Port of Los Angeles also adjoins to the Port of Long Beach, another one of the busiest seaports in the world, moving around 7.5 million TEUs every year. Both ports are supported by the efforts of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation, the regional EDC combining economic research with industry programs, workforce development, business assistance and policy changes that promote a thriving local economy, for which these two ports are vital. 

New York City, New York

New York City Economic Development Corp. (NYCEDC) is the EDC for the nation’s most highly populated city, home to more than 8 million people. A mission-driven non-profit, it aims to support the city by creating prosperity through investing in neighborhoods, building sustainably, creating workforce opportunities and advancing company growth. In achieving these goals, it works closely with the Port of New York and New Jersey. Recently, it has been helping to develop a visionary freight system, supported the major South Brooklyn Marine Terminal project and completed a 2019 survey of the NYC and NJ maritime community. “Through PortNYC and other initiatives, we’re working to ensure both the long-term health of the maritime industry in NYC and the city’s economy as a whole,” NYCEDC states.

New Orleans, Louisiana

With the simple mission of creating a region with a thriving economy and an excellent quality of life, Greater New Orleans (GNO) pursues a two-pronged strategy as the EDC for the region. This includes helping to attract, retain and develop key businesses (Business Development), and propose, promote and facilitate policies and programs that improve business conditions (Business Environment). Such efforts have assisted in securing a new ground-breaking Lineage Logistics project at the Port of New Orleans, the organization having committed $42 million to the expansion of the Jourdan Road cold-storage facility in New Orleans East in April 2021. “The cold-storage complex at Jourdan Road along the Inner Harbor Navigation Canal will grow from 160,000 square feet to 304,000 square feet,” an announcement from GNO reads.

Oakland, California

While Oakland is home to fewer than half a million people, its maritime logistics hub–Port of Oakland–is renowned as a key gateway to U.S. commerce. It oversees 1,300 acres of maritime-related facilities serving a local market of more than 14.5 million consumers, with 34 million people located within a seven-hour drive of its facilities. Supporting Port of Oakland’s thriving economic activity is the East Bay Economic Development Alliance (EDA). The two have an intertwined relationship, the EDA having previously supported harbor dredging activities in 1991 and 2009, and assisted stakeholders in resolving the transportation impacts created by the port’s growth in 2003. In 2020, it also recognized the port at its Innovation Awards for its significant contributions as a long-standing generator of jobs and economic vitality in the region.

Norfolk, Virginia

The city of Norfolk, Virginia, is home to a vibrant intermodal transport scene, in large part thanks to a formidable maritime history centered around the enormous naval base on Chesapeake Bay and the Port of Virginia. The port boasts of the largest percentage of rail arrivals and departures on the East Coast, is directly responsible for nearly 40,000 jobs, and managed 2,327 vessel calls and departures in 2019, equating to around 3 million TEUs and 55 million tons of cargo worth almost $75 billion. The Hampton Roads Economic Development Alliance (EDA) has long assisted both domestic and international firms wishing to invest in the Norfolk area, offering three lucrative tax incentives to companies using the port: The Port Volume Increase Tax Credit, Barge and Rail Use Tax Credit and International Trade Facility Tax Credit.

Savannah, Georgia

The Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA) is the EDC for Savannah, its goal being to help create, grow and attract new job opportunities and investment in the region. It attracts and supports a variety of organizations through customized services that include anything from infrastructure and real estate opportunities to incentives and tax abatements. Much of Savannah’s draw stems from the Port of Savannah, where 85% of the world’s top 3PLs operate in Georgia. To maintain this competitive advantage, SEDA actively supports several logistics-related projects, including the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project, the Mid-American Arc Initiative & International, and The Center of Innovation for Logistics for the state of Georgia.

Houston, Texas

Originally founded in 1840, the Greater Houston Partnership (GHP) strives to make the region the best place to live, work and build a business, serving a thousand-member companies and 7.1 million people in the 12-county Houston region. It is a fervent supporter of the Port of Houston, hosting an annual State of the Port conference, outlining the logistics hub’s performance, future growth opportunities and capital investment plans to regional economic players. The overall impact of the port on a national level includes 3.2 million jobs, $801.9 billion in economic value and more than $38.1 billion in tax revenue. “As the largest port in foreign tonnage in the nation, Port Houston is an economic engine supporting the Houston region, the state of Texas, and the nation,” GHP states. 

Tampa, Florida 

The Tampa Bay Economic Development Council (EDC) has remained the designated economic development agency for Hillsborough County for 12 years, also serving the surrounding cities of Tampa, Plant City and Temple Terrace. Currently it is delivering upon a 2020-2022 strategic action plan geared toward achieving business development, talent attraction and placemaking. As part of this vision, the EDC provides several incentives to business, creating high-wage jobs in high-value industries. In terms of its engagements with the ports, logistics and supply chain industry, it supports those organizations seeking real estate opportunities not only at the Port of Tampa Bay, but equally in Port Redwing and Port Ybor. 

Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City is extremely well connected, in large part thanks to what is North America’s largest inland port–the CenterPoint Intermodal Center. Located in the Joilet and Elwood area, it is a 6,400-acre, master-planned intermodal development which handles approximately three million TEUs every year. The site is also home to more than 30 economic powerhouse tenant companies that between them occupy over 14 million square feet of space. The Chicago Regional Growth Corporation plays a key role in supporting the city and region’s buoyant logistics activities, priding itself on a “history of working together” with key partners to developed projects leading to growth, investment and the creation of quality jobs.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Port of Philadelphia, also known as PhilaPort, holds several impressive accolades. Not only is it the fastest growing port in the U.S., having achieved a 7% increase in container volumes in 2020. Equally, it generates roughly 55,000 jobs for the local region, handles 6.4 million metric tons annually, is the largest refrigerated port in the country and helps to generate $30.5 billion in trade every year. The Philadelphia Industrial Development Corp. (PIDC) continues to play a crucial role in helping the port to reach new heights. The city’s EDC, the PIDC has leveraged $30 billion in total investment and assisted in retaining and creating hundreds of thousands of jobs in Philadelphia since its foundation 62 years ago. The local seaport industry’s latest venture, announced March 2021, will see the development of a $23 million distribution center that is set to add more than 200,000 square feet of flexible, food-grade storage within one mile of Packer Avenue Marine Terminal.

Mobile, Alabama

The Port of Mobile is a significant contributor to the city’s economy. Indeed, the figures speak for themselves. According to the Alabama State Port Authority, its economic impact includes roughly 155,000 direct and indirect jobs, $559.3 million in direct and indirect tax impact, and a total economic value $25.4 billion. The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA) has supported the growth of these numbers over many years, having worked to support companies compete not only locally but on a global stage. The EDPA helps various free trade zones (FTZs) to flourish while also providing tax incentives, support for startups and management of the region’s transport links that are vital to its intermodal abilities and more. 

Matagorda County, Texas

Matagorda County is privileged enough to be the home of two ports: Port of Bay City and Port of Palacios. The former has approximately 150 acres of land available for commercial development, providing access to the Colorado River Channel, while the latter equally provides opportunities and parcels for long-term lease and development. Both ports are backed by the Matagorda County EDC that provides key economic contributors with incentives including employee recruitment and training, tailored services to help locate or expand, tax abatement policies and tax-free industrial and environmental bonds.

Baltimore, Maryland

The City of Baltimore is home to one of Maryland’s four FTZs. Serving as the administrator of the FTZ is the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC), which is  mandated to grow the city’s economy in an inclusive manner by retaining, expanding and attracting businesses and promoting investment. Port of Baltimore forms a large part of these activities, being one of the 10 busiest ports in the U.S. and serving a significant part of the East Coast. The bulk of the products that pass through the port, and indeed the FTZ, includes cars, paper and steel, with BDC itself reporting that the total value of shipments through Baltimore’s FTZ was more than $19.9 billion in 2017.

Cleveland, Ohio

The Greater Cleveland Partnership (GCP) is a particularly active EDC, supporting the city and its 12,000 members as a catalyst for business growth and development in its various forms. It works closely with the Port of Cleveland, the latter responsible for more than 20,000 jobs and $3.5 billion in annual economic activity tied to the 13 million tons of cargo it handles per annum. With support from GCP, the port announced in May 2012 that it would be moving ahead with $20 million in projects that will include dock improvements, main gate enhancements and the construction of a state-of-the-art customs processing facility. This latest investment follows the completion of a $1.1 million cruise terminal processing center and $10.36 million extension of the Cleveland Bulk Terminal iron ore tunnel in 2020, the latter anticipated to bring another 1 million tons of cargo each year to the port. 

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is an interesting proposition, being the home of one of the country’s most active intermodal freight hubs and the thriving Port of Memphis, despite being in a landlocked state in Tennessee. The port serves 150 industries and handles a rich variety of goods, from petroleum and cement to grain and steel. It is able to connect these vital goods with the rest of the country thanks to the Mississippi River, five Class 1 railroads, major north-south and east-west interstate highways, and the nearby airport. Such is its critical role in accelerating economic activity, it carries an annual economic impact of more than $9.2 billion. Created in 2011, the Economic and Development Growth Engine (EDGE) for Memphis and Shelby County helps to support the region’s buoyant logistics industry, managing its foreign trade zone, providing business loans and tax incentives, and overseeing the Memphis Port Commission. 

breakbulk americas
Archives, Executive Education, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily, Ocean Ports

BREAKBULK IS BACK: AFTER PANDEMIC HICCUP, BREAKBULK AMERICAS RETURNS TO HOUSTON

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After missing 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Breakbulk Americas is returning in September.

“This event from September 28 to 30 is all about getting together as an industry after a very long two-year break,” says Leslie Meredith, Marketing and Media Director for the event. “Breakbulk Americas is the first Breakbulk event to return to the market post-pandemic. We are working very closely with the City of Houston and the George R. Brown Convention Center to make sure that this is a safe experience for all.”

You might say Breakbulk Americas has gotten a shot in the arm.

“Fortunately, the vaccine rollout has been very efficient and Americans are able to move around with a great deal of freedom, which bodes well for the event this fall,” Meredith says.


 

Safety for all involved is paramount for event organizers, Hyve Group. In January, Visit Houston, the city’s entity that governs events and tourism, outlined its exceptional safety measures that will be in place for the event along with other improvements to support the region’s top event for the project cargo and breakbulk industry.

John Solis, senior vice president of Sales & Client Services at the George R. Brown Convention Center (a.k.a. GRB Center), said in a communiqué to Breakbulk, the convention center has made significant enhancements to its facility. The GRB Center is the first convention center in the world to deploy the Integrated Viral Protection (IVP) system, which deploys biodefense filtration technology proven to eliminate SARS-CoV-2 (99.999%) and other airborne contaminants. 

In addition, a new virtual studio inside the GRB Center will provide flexibility to maximize opportunities for hybrid experiences. This feature will allow Breakbulk to host remote expert speakers should that be necessary due to travel or budgetary considerations, along with its in-person industry panelists. 

A third enhancement will be permanent thermal scanning stations located at all entry points that can process up to 100 guests per minute, ensuring no delays to access the exhibition floor.

The new features complement Hyve’s own safe and secure program that is applied to all Hyve events.

At the last Breakbulk Americas convention in 2019, more than 4,800 attended, which has made Breakbulk Americas the region’s largest and most influential event across Canada, the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean for all those involved in the project cargo and breakbulk community.

Meredith said organizers have “some exciting plans for Breakbulk Americas to fuel networking for new business opportunities, which has never been more important. The traditional welcome reception held Tuesday evening at the GRB Center will embrace the spirit of Texas as thousands gather for the Reunion at the Breakbulk Saloon. The entire exhibition floor will be decked out Western-style with ‘watering holes’ (themed bars) throughout the hall.”

Leading up to the reunion will be an exclusive Executive Summit for C-level exhibitors and shippers to tackle post-COVID recovery together. On a lighter note, all attendees are invited to participate in the 2021 Maritime Workers Emergency Medical Fund Golf Tournament at the Hermann Park Golf Course in Houston.

The first full day of the exhibition and conference begins on Wednesday, Sept. 29, continuing through Thursday afternoon, Sept. 30. On the main stage, industry leaders will present a wide range of insights on the evolving impact of COVID on business and projects, President Biden’s infrastructure plan, U.S. offshore wind project opportunities, the carrier sector, women in breakbulk on tackling the imposter syndrome and the effects, both long term and short term, of the greening of the oil and gas supply chain.

Meredith said that “an integral part of Breakbulk Americas is contributing to the next generation of transport and logistics professionals, which we do through the Jerry Nagel Education Day and guided tours of the exhibition floor. With strong ties to Texas universities and beyond, Breakbulk typically hosts around 200 students and their instructors at this introduction to the industry and to its leaders. Education Day will be held on Thursday.”

(Agenda: https://americas.breakbulk.com/business-programme.)

Breakbulk Americas attracts new exhibitors annually, but there are many who make it a “must” event, like the Port of Baltimore.

“Breakbulk cargo is a very important subject matter for the Port of Baltimore and Breakbulk Americas is a must-attend conference,” says William Doyle, executive director of the Maryland Port Administration. “Last year, Baltimore handled more than 173,000 tons of breakbulk cargo, which was a 23% jump over 2019 and so far this year we are up 4% over last year.”

Doyle continued: “We regularly handle power and heat steam recovery generation machinery, wind turbine equipment, transformers and other energy production equipment. We also serve as a major gateway for breakbulk premium fresh fiber paperboards, including folding boxboards, food service boards and white kraftliners, especially since the e-commerce boom.” 

He noted that his facility’s “excellent geographic location to states like Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio allows Baltimore to be an ideal port for handling breakbulk cargo destined to those states. Baltimore also has two, heavy-lift cranes and direct-to-rail capabilities. The Breakbulk Americas conference allows us to meet and connect with our current breakbulk customers and seek out opportunities with prospective customers. We will have our breakbulk sales representative Rick Pagley at the event.”

For Barnhart Crane and Rigging in Fairhope, Alabama, “there is really no greater opportunity to connect and network with those involved in the heavy transport and project cargo industry than Breakbulk Americas,” says Chris Teague, Barhart’s director of Marketing. “Barnhart has been committed to this event for years because it has always borne fruit. As a national company with 50 locations across the U.S., Breakbulk is the one event for which our sales team can gather and engage with customers, vendors and key influencers within the industry. Year-after-year, all Breakbulk Americas attendees and exhibitors can always be guaranteed to interact with the (pun intended) movers and shakers in the industry.” 

Ken Carey, manager, Business Development, with the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corp., says “Highway H2O has been attending this event for many years. We find the quality of the event, the attendees and the other exhibitors to be world-class.”

Carey adds that, “Given the bi-national scope of the Seaway-Great Lakes transportation system, we also enjoy the opportunity to meet new contacts and expand on relationships we have developed over the years.”

Convention exhibitor Port Tampa Bay looks at Breakbulk Americas as key to its business, according to Wade Elliott, the port’s vice president of Business Development. 

“We are Florida’s largest port for steel cargo and have been receiving increasing volumes of breakbulk lumber, thanks to a new service which was launched last year,” Elliott says. “Breakbulk Americas provides a great networking forum for us to meet with the carriers, importers and exporters and coordinate plans to serve our growing market, in particular the Tampa/Orlando I-4 Corridor, Florida’s distribution hub.”

Annual Breakbulk Americas attendee Wolfe House Movers/Buckingham Heavy Transport has between two and four company members at the event, says Anna Brovont, the Bernville, Pennsylvania, company’s marketing administrator.

“As a heavy haul transporter, we have found that Breakbulk Americas has been integral to our business in bringing us an opportunity to discuss their interests with our clients, expand our networks and stay abreast of developments within the industry,” she says. “We do some business but use Breakbulk Americas primarily to touch base with clients.”