FreightWaves NOW

FreightWaves
  • 5.0 (1)
  • BUSINESS NEWS
  • UPDATED DAILY

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.

  1. Deadly "Chameleon" Carriers Exposed, ODFL’s 2026 Recovery, & Sysco’s $52M Verdict | The Daily

    3H AGO

    Deadly "Chameleon" Carriers Exposed, ODFL’s 2026 Recovery, & Sysco’s $52M Verdict | The Daily

    This episode begins by uncovering a tragic collision in Indiana that exposed a network of "chameleon carriers" hiding in plain sight. We explore how these operators dodge safety regulations by constantly shapeshifting their corporate identities to evade federal oversight. Next, we examine the financial landscape as Old Dominion Freight Line prepares for a potential market recovery in 2026. Their leadership believes the stars are finally aligning for an uptick in manufacturing and freight volumes later this year. The conversation then turns to a massive legal blow against Sysco, where a jury awarded $52 million to drivers who faced retaliation for reporting safety issues. This verdict highlights the severe cost of ignoring whistleblower complaints regarding hazardous working conditions and regulatory violations. Finally, we look at rising geopolitical tensions as a Chinese operator fights to retain control over critical ports at the Panama Canal. This arbitration filing introduces new uncertainty into a vital global trade chokepoint that could impact East Coast shipping volumes. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    6 min
  2. Sysco Drivers Win $52M Verdict, FMCSA’s English "Safe Zones" & Swift Arsonist Sentenced | Morning Minute

    5H AGO

    Sysco Drivers Win $52M Verdict, FMCSA’s English "Safe Zones" & Swift Arsonist Sentenced | Morning Minute

    In today's episode, we cover a massive legal victory for truck drivers as a California jury awards over $50 million in a whistleblower lawsuit against food giant Sysco. The verdict addresses allegations of retaliation against workers who reported unsafe conditions and falsified records, sending a strong message about corporate accountability. We also look at new regulatory updates where the FMCSA has established specific geographic "safe zones" for drivers struggling with English proficiency. These exceptions near the border will prevent drivers from being placed out of service for language violations, though citations will still be issued. Finally, we report on the sentencing of a truck driver who will serve additional prison time for a revenge-fueled arson spree targeting Swift Transportation trailers. The 67-year-old was convicted of setting fires across multiple states and will serve consecutive sentences for his crimes. Tune in to FreightWaves TV later today for new episodes of Brake Check, Freightonomics, and The Long Haul. You can catch all these shows and more on our YouTube channel if you miss the live broadcast. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    3 min
  3. Uber Freight Hits Breakeven, EPA Probes "Limp Mode" & Military Escorts in Red Sea | The Daily

    1D AGO

    Uber Freight Hits Breakeven, EPA Probes "Limp Mode" & Military Escorts in Red Sea | The Daily

    In this episode, we break down how Uber Freight posted flat Q4 results but finally achieved breakeven profitability through disciplined cost measures. We also discuss the company's pivot toward autonomous trucking as a long-term strategy to drive higher asset utilization. On the asset-based side, we analyze why losses continue at Heartland Express as the carrier navigates costly fleet integrations and a soft market. Despite recording its tenth consecutive net loss, the company’s improving operating margins offer a glimmer of hope for a turnaround. Regulatory news takes center stage as the EPA targets truck engine makers to investigate widespread DEF system failures causing "limp mode" incidents. This major shift aims to treat equipment reliability as a manufacturer quality issue rather than a driver compliance problem. Global instability forces the Gemini Alliance to rely on military forces to secure Red Sea voyages, even as other carriers continue to divert around Africa. Back home, the industry faces a bureaucratic paradox where 65,000 new visas are available but remain inaccessible due to a State Department freeze. Finally, we examine the broader economic fallout as weak freight demand triggers facility closures and layoffs across the logistics and manufacturing sectors. With over 3,000 jobs cut since mid-January, the industry is questioning how much leaner operations can get. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    6 min
  4. Maersk Returns to Red Sea, Werner Settles Driver Lawsuit & Heartland Earnings | Morning Minute

    1D AGO

    Maersk Returns to Red Sea, Werner Settles Driver Lawsuit & Heartland Earnings | Morning Minute

    In a major shift for global trade, shipping giants Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd are returning to the Red Sea route under naval protection. This decision marks a turning point after months of diversions around Africa due to regional instability. Despite a difficult quarter, Heartland Express sees a path to recovery by focusing on improved operating margins. Company executives believe that integrating recent acquisitions and tightening costs will position the fleet for success later this year. Legal developments are also in focus as a long-running lawsuit involving Werner Enterprises nears a final settlement. The deal addresses claims from nearly 100,000 drivers regarding unpaid wages for non-driving time and rest breaks. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    2 min
  5. Is the Freight Recession Over? Capacity Crunch, Warsh’s Fed & Werner Settlement | The Daily

    2D AGO

    Is the Freight Recession Over? Capacity Crunch, Warsh’s Fed & Werner Settlement | The Daily

    The freight recession may finally be over as January transportation metrics reveal a market in firm expansion territory. With the overall index hitting 59.6, a convergence of tightening capacity and rising rates suggests the cycle has officially turned. Regulatory pressures are squeezing the driver pool just as Werner Enterprises settles an 11-year-old lawsuit regarding driver wages. This $18 million payout underscores the rising floor for labor costs in an increasingly constrained environment. On the demand side, a surge in Japanese machine tool orders points to a manufacturing rebound later this year. North American orders jumped nearly 30%, signaling that industrial production is gearing up for a strong second half of 2026. Macroeconomic policy could also provide a tailwind if Fed Chair nominee Kevin Warsh shifts focus back to Main Street. His criticism of current monetary strategy suggests relief may be on the way for the industrial and small business sectors. Meanwhile, rail infrastructure is booming with Norfolk Southern customers advancing over $7.7 billion in new projects. Adding to the positive momentum, legal distractions are clearing up for major players following the dismissal of charges against NFI's CEO. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    6 min
  6. GenLogs Raises $60M; Lean Inventories Drive Truck Rates; NFI CEO Wins Appeal | Morning Minute

    2D AGO

    GenLogs Raises $60M; Lean Inventories Drive Truck Rates; NFI CEO Wins Appeal | Morning Minute

    Host Isaiah Buchanan kicks off this Tuesday edition with a significant legal victory for NFI CEO Sidney Brown. An appellate court has affirmed the dismissal of criminal charges against the executive regarding real estate development rights in Camden, New Jersey. Next, the show examines how robust consumer spending is leading retailers to adopt leaner inventory strategies. While this shift is softening ocean shipping demand, it is expected to drive up domestic truckload rates and tender rejections in the near term. In FreightTech news, startup GenLogs has secured $60 million in Series B funding to expand its AI-powered supply chain intelligence platform. The company aims to use its nationwide sensor network to enhance visibility and combat freight fraud across the industry. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    3 min
  7. Amazon Launches External LTL, Maersk Cuts Asia-US Flights, & Storm Fern Fallout | The Daily

    3D AGO

    Amazon Launches External LTL, Maersk Cuts Asia-US Flights, & Storm Fern Fallout | The Daily

    In this episode, we break down how severe winter weather has upended the freight market, causing tender rejections to spike well above holiday peaks. Recent data indicates that Winter Storm Fern caused massive disruption, revealing a truckload market that is far more volatile than seen in previous years. We also discuss reports that Amazon is preparing to launch its external LTL service this summer, targeting specific shippers to build density. Analysts suggest Amazon has already contacted a significant portion of the market, signaling a move that could be highly disruptive to incumbent carriers. The conversation shifts to the sky, where Maersk Air Cargo is canceling its Asia-US flights to focus on more efficient aircraft. Sources indicate that Amazon is the likely buyer for the fleet of Boeing 767 freighters as Maersk terminates its contract with Amerijet. Finally, we examine a controversial Arizona bill targeting fake CDLs that would allow law enforcement to seize vehicles from non-compliant carriers. This state-level push highlights a broader federal enforcement gap, where limited verification mechanisms allow dangerous drivers to simply ignore out-of-service orders. Follow the FreightWaves NOW Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    5 min
  8. Truckload Volatility Returns; SH 130 Courts Cross-Border Freight; ONE Reports Q3 Loss | Morning Minute

    3D AGO

    Truckload Volatility Returns; SH 130 Courts Cross-Border Freight; ONE Reports Q3 Loss | Morning Minute

    On today’s FreightWaves Morning Minute, we discuss how severe winter weather and rising tender rejections are creating unprecedented volatility in the truckload spot market. With the National Truckload Index climbing to $2.71 per mile, the current capacity crunch signals a fundamentally different environment for carriers compared to previous years. As congestion on Interstate 35 worsens, operators of the SH 130 toll road are intensifying efforts to attract cross-border freight away from Austin traffic. Tractor-trailer volume on the bypass has surged 68% since 2019 as the route positions itself as a reliable alternative for U.S.-Mexico trade flows. In maritime news, Ocean Network Express reported an $88 million net loss for the third quarter due to softer freight volumes and weaker rates. Executives attributed the decline to a challenging operating landscape, particularly regarding slow cargo movement on Asia-North America trade routes. Finally, tune in at noon for a new episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? featuring Malcolm Harris. You can catch the full broadcast live or watch the replay later on our YouTube channel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    2 min
See All (2K)

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    FreightWaves
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    2K
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © FreightWaves
  • Show Website
    FreightWaves NOW

You Might Also Like