The Intermodal Logistics Podcast

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that may be true of the freight environment, which includes vast swathes of land, a wide variety of goods and commodities, the Gulf Coast, and the U.S.-Mexico border. But keeping it all moving isn't just reserved for big carriers, short-line railroads and shallow water ports like those operated by TNW Corporation also play a vital role. TNW Director of Business Support & Development Joey Evans joins us to discuss it's key place in the Texas supply chain and the state's freight market today. Joey explains how short-line railroads differ from larger rail carriers (and why they're all important), his role as Texas Short Line & Regional Railroad Association President (and why upgrading infrastructure matters), and the areas of the state that TNW's four short-lines cover.Plus, he goes over the importance of transloading, how short lines handle containers, TNW's Port of Victoria operations, and how the company is dealing with higher diesel prices. Joey also takes us through its cross-border role, what's moving the most through Texas these days, and why technology is a differentiator for short line railroads.Learn more about TNW Corporation at www.tnwcorporation.com.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Just a couple of weeks after a gathering of industry pros at the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) Capital Ideas Conference, President & CEO Chris Burroughs joins us again on The Intermodal Logistics Podcast to share a recap of the Phoenix gathering, the hot topics covered there (and still percolating), and the general mood he's seeing in the freight world today.Atop the list is an issue TIA has long focused on, cargo theft, and Chris explains some concrete progress made by the FMCSA, the FBI and in Congress to combat this continually concerning problem. We touch on how awareness has risen and technology has evolved to help - but also how technology has helped thieves, too.Chris also shares the definition of chameleon carriers - which have also gained in profile due to media coverage of late - and explains why they're dangerous when it comes to road safety. And he reacts to a recent CBS Sunday Morning report that he says unfairly singled out C.H. Robinson - pointing out the difficulty of safe carrier verification as an area that the government needs to assist with.Chris goes over the big issue on the minds of many TIA members that was part of that report, the Supreme Court Montgomery case, which could have implications on broker liability for accidents caused by carriers they use - with the ruling pending. And finally, we hit on AI, and even the film Sideways.Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org, where you can also find their Cargo Theft Hotline, recently created in partnership with the FBI.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Plenty is happening in (and to) the trucking market of late, so we welcome back an old friend to The Intermodal Logistics Podcast to check on where it stands. ACT Research VP and Senior Analyst Tim Denoyer joins us as our first ever in-studio guest, to go over truck production and the state of the fleet, and what that signals for capacity and activity going forward.Plus, we address FMCSA enforcement measures and their effects on the market, how high diesel prices from the Iran conflict are changing driving behaviors (and how they're affecting costs), and why the combination of elevated rates and fuel seem to setup an opportunity for intermodal.Additionally, Tim takes us through his thoughts on the volume picture - with a look at manufacturing, the Federal Reserve (and interest rates), tariffs and whether AI data centers are making a dent.For more from Tim and the ACT team, visit www.actresearch.net. And you can also check out the monthly Cass Transportation Index updates at www.cassinfo.com/freight-audit-payment/cass-transportation-indexes.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Whether it's domestic, import or export, shipping agricultural products involves unique challenges - challenges that the co-founder and Executive Director of the Agriculture Transportation Coalition (AgTC) Peter Friedmann has been tackling on behalf of membership for many years. Peter joins us on this edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast to offer an overview of the organization, what goods and products fall under the ag umbrella, how they ship and more. Included in the "and more" is a discussion of the vital role of intermodal, perhaps surprising to some who think of bulk grain shipping. He explains how many different items require containers to move - and how intermodal and transloading (something we also discuss in this blog: www.inteklogistics.com/blog/the-third-option-bulk-and-agricultural-shippers-dont-know-about) helps them get where they're needed. Plus, he goes over the import, export and domestic scenarios involved - highlighting key locations like ports and rail terminals that make movement happen.Additionally, Peter points out how cargo theft is affecting agriculture in multiple ways, both with targeted products like whey protein and beef, and with thieves simply breaking seals on containers then leaving the contents - making them no longer viable for use.Learn more about AgTC at www.agtrans.org and get more detail on their Annual Meeting coming up May 18-21 (which Peter also discusses) at agtrans.org/events.Subscribe or follow us now to catch new episodes of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

The spike in diesel prices is starting to show up in the trucking market - with implications for intermodal as well. That's according to DAT iQ Principal Analyst Dean Croke, our guest on this episode of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast.In a wide-ranging conversation, Dean goes over how the sudden increase in fuel related to the Iran conflict has changed the equation for trucking carriers, essentially eliminating margin especially for smaller, independent contractors. He tells us how elevated diesel prices may keep capacity (already a bit tight) out of the market, lead to a greater pursuit of contract versus spot rates, and send shippers toward intermodal to keep shipping costs down.Speaking of capacity, Dean explains how many have exited the market due to FMCSA enforcement activities - and why a driver safety focus is a good thing in relation to a large portion of suspect training facilities being shuttered.He also takes us through produce season, which areas are hot and which are not so much, the issues at both the Canadian and Mexican borders, port activity and why the reefer market may be especially tight at times this year. Plus, Dean and Rick recap their time at the J.P. Morgan Industrials Conference in Washington.Get more from Dean through the DAT Freight & Analytics YouTube channel youtube.com/@datfreight and website www.dat.com/blog/author/dean-croke. And learn more about DAT iQ at www.dat.com/iq.Subscribe or follow us now to catch new episodes of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Less than three months into 2026, the ocean cargo outlook for the year has been thrown a major curveball with the U.S. and Israeli actions against Iran.Xeneta Chief Analyst Peter Sand returns to The Intermodal Logistics Podcast to go over both what was expected and what's changed in the ocean freight space now and for the next several months because of the Iranian situation.We go over the status of the Suez Canal and Red Sea shipping route, the Strait of Hormuz and oil, what adjustments carriers are making and the overall ocean rate picture.Plus, we discuss Xeneta's 2026 Ocean Outlook (released a few months back), which expected a bit of a shipper's market, how U.S. (and China) tariffs were projected to impact behavior, how the Supreme Court's IEEPA ruling may make its own mark, and some sage advice for shipper and carrier relations during turbulent (and not so turbulent) times.To learn more about Xeneta and see the outlook for yourself, visit www.xeneta.com, where Peter also offers regular industry updates via Xeneta's blog.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

When it comes to sustainability, there's long been a thought that in the corporate arena it was all for show. However, the 2026 State of Transportation Report by Breakthrough paints a different picture - at least when it comes to the freight industry.On this edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, Breakthrough COO Jenny Vander Zanden joins us to go over the report, which shows a strong majority of shippers and carriers report progress on sustainability goals, and more than two thirds expect to reduce emissions in the coming year.We discuss how even with fewer outside incentives tied to sustainable behaviors, companies see their own benefits - like decreased fuel costs and greater supply chain agility - that keep them on a positive environmental track. We even learn the related term "greenhushing." Jenny tells us how about a third of shippers explored (or are exploring) mode conversion - including using more intermodal - to realize emissions and fuel savings on top of rates. She also talks about her career path, which took her from intern to the C-suite, and how Breakthrough started with a fuel focus but now does much more. Learn more about Breakthrough and find the report at www.breakthroughfuel.com.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

While intermodal is our focus, it's important to remember how all forms of freight transportation around the globe tie together to make supply chains go. On this episode, we welcome Cathy Morrow Roberson, Founder and Head Analyst of Logistics Trends & Insights, to give us a fuller picture.Cathy takes us through a number of major supply chain stories - touching on the railroad merger between UP and NS, trucking capacity and FMCSA (as well as state) rules enforcement, ocean freight volumes (and Red Sea status), tariffs & trade policy and air cargo activity. Speaking of air cargo, Cathy goes over the general relationship between air and ocean cargo as well.Before getting into all those topics, though, we talk with Cathy about her background - moving from a librarian to a logistics career with UPS, to where she is now as a leading industry analyst. She discusses the value of research and making connections with other people involved in freight, and she talks about how more women and minorities have gotten into logistics since her career began - with more work to do.Learn more about Logistics Trends and Insights at logisticsti.com and find Cathy on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-morrow-roberson-lti), where you can also subscribe to her free weekly Freight Forward newsletter (www.linkedin.com/newsletters/freight-forward-6915791014746066944).As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Retail is the final link in supply chains getting finished products to consumers. So how did the industry do for the crown jewel period of the holiday season (and last year overall), and what are the expectations for 2026? For those answers and more, we welcome Jonathan Gold, Vice President, Supply Chain and Customs Policy with the National Retail Federation (NRF) to The Intermodal Logistics Podcast. Jonathan tells us how consumer spending stayed strong through the holidays, appearing to meet lofty expectations even if there were some adjustments in spending patterns related to pricing concerns. He also goes over how retailers were able to ensure item availability unlike some instances in the past when there were shortages.Looking at 2025 as a whole, we discuss the effects of tariffs on retailers and how many were able to shift supply chains to keep products flowing while minimizing costs. And on the flip side, we talk about how fluctuations in trade policy caused the inventory pull-forward phenomenon, with smaller retailers having a tougher time adjusting over the course of the year.In 2026, Jonathan explains that NRF membership is especially hoping for more certainty and stability policy-wise, and he expresses optimism that consumer spending will stay strong throughout the year. Beyond those questions, we touch on credit card swipe fees, retail theft, the NRF Big Show and more.Learn more about the NRF at www.nrf.com.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Just over a year after taking over as President and CEO of the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), Anne Reinke joins us on The Intermodal Logistics Podcast to both look back at her first 12 months on the job, and look forward to how IANA aims to tackle the biggest challenge facing intermodal - increasing market share.Anne gives an overview of IANA's 2025, which included a focus on more policy advocacy and becoming even more of a go-to for industry data - along with the things that affected intermodal last year like tariffs, the Union Pacific - Norfolk Southern railroad merger announcement and the freight market as a whole.But everything does come back to intermodal market share, and Anne discusses how much room it has for improvement as it currently sits at roughly 5% of domestic freight. She goes over IANA's survey of shippers who both use it already and don't use it at all to get a clear picture of what to address - while also recognizing that it's beyond raising awareness and changing minds: It's about getting shippers to take action and incorporate intermodal.And as a tease for IANA's big annual conference, the Intermodal EXPO, Anne shares a special guest planned for September's event related to that aforementioned merger.To learn more about IANA including educational resources, EXPO, and how to join, visit www.intermodal.org.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Truckload and intermodal rate and volume trends - along with market conditions - are shaping shipper and broker strategy for 2026. For the first episode of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast of the new year, we discuss all that and more as we offer our 2026 outlook.InTek Logistics President Shelli Austin and InTek Logistics CEO Rick LaGore have you covered, looking at how transportation operations are going right now, how 2025 wrapped up, and the economic factors that led to last year's disappointment and will likely continue that direction this year.Plus, they discuss how truckload rates have generally risen while intermodal has stayed lower (with fewer fluctuations), why companies continue to leave the market and impact capacity, why price plus service makes intermodal worth a try for first-timers and those who've used it in the past, and whether there is any volume catalyst coming to ignite the freight market this year.Find Rick's deeper analysis of the coming year on the InTek Logistics blog https://www.inteklogistics.com/blog/2026-freight-market-forecast-2019-parallels and watch our freight forecast video https://youtu.be/NCH-wXfAI1A?si=y4CJnG7Em_oV3rZZ.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

While traditional forward logistics gets most of the attention, reverse logistics (in essence, returns) is a significant part of business as well. And our guest on this episode of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast explains how doing it right means a circular approach. Rich Bulger is the Founder of All Things Circular and author of "Going Circular: The Evolution of Reverse Logistics Into a Competitive Weapon." Rich explains how an early job at Verizon involving used phones got him into the reverse approach, and  how experiences with Cisco and other companies - along with others in the industry - helped him triangulate the circular approach.Rich tells us what goes into reverse logistics and how businesses can win with an approach that looks not only at the first, but the second customer. He also goes over how younger generations make purchases expecting to return or resell, how sustainability factors in, and how the Trump Administration's tariff policy actually encourages resale over new product purchases.Find Rich on Linkedin at linkedin.com/in/rich-bulger-43b02112 and visit All Things Circular at allthingscircular.com, where you can find more about the company, Rich's podcast of the same name, and his book.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

On this edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, we cover a variety of bases with Port X Logistics Founder and CEO Brian Kempisty - joining us from his home in Montana.We start by learning about his background and the founding of Port X in 2017, then we get into the company itself - the areas it covers and services it provides.Next, we bounce around a few key issues, as Brian explains the situation with drayage (and trucking in general) in California - why regulatory enforcement has led to drivers leaving the profession (and how cargo theft ties in). He also points out how market conditions have forced out a number of smaller carriers.Brian then takes us through his thoughts on the market this year and next, port activity, a surprisingly strong product of late, the housing market, and the advantages of transloading.Learn more about Port X Logistics at www.portxlogistics.com.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Almost all the way through year one of the second Trump administration, it's possible to assess the effects of some major policies on freight. On this edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, we welcome Arizona State University Professor Dr. Dale Rogers to discuss three key initiatives that relate to supply chains:The English language requirement for truck driversRamped up immigration enforcementTariffsDr. Rogers talks about how, particularly in areas like California and other states that border Mexico, a number of drivers may not be English-proficient. He tells us how the combination of the English policy - as well as worries about being targeted by immigration enforcement - are causing many to leave the field. But he points out that the industry is already dealing with a shortage of new truck drivers (without a lot of signs that younger Americans are interested in trucking- much like other jobs immigrants traditionally take on), so such an exodus will slow freight activity in these areas. We also pivot to tariff policy, and how this year's decisions on trade have reshaped global supply chains. Dr. Rogers and co-host, InTek Logistics CEO Rick LaGore, go over how this year and next year could shape up like 2018-19, when the previous Trump administration levied more targeted tariffs (they even go further back to Smoot-Hawley around 1930). But they share optimism that trade policy could evolve and lead to brighter days ahead for freight.See the paper Dr. Rogers co-authored on tariffs just last year, providing valuable historical context: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1478409224000037. And find out more about ASU's Supply Chain program: https://wpcarey.asu.edu/supply-chain-management-degrees.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

With an undoubtedly changed international trade environment along with differing priorities on sustainability, two key freight factors went from somewhat predictable to up in the air this year. On the latest edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, we explore two surveys commissioned by Sphera that take the pulse of those logistics decision-makers: one on the effects of new trade policy and the other on how much sustainability still matters to them when government incentives are pulled back. Sphera VP of Product Development Scott Lehmann takes us through both surveys, laying out the background on each issue and what those polled said. A key finding from the trade survey was that nearly three quarters of businesses experienced supplier disruptions leading to revenue loss this year - and one quarter characterized those disruptions as "significant." Scott tells us how companies are adjusting, and how AI is coming into play as both a reactive and proactive tool.On the sustainability front, Scott explains how respondents fall into three categories today: leaders still fully committed, compliant actors who prioritize it based on outside factors, and re-assessors who are using the period of lighter pressure to reconsider and align their strategies with business goals. In that case, he discusses how sustainability, service and cost-savings can all align when planned properly - especially in transportation.Get the survey on trade: https://sphera.com/company/news/sphera-survey-nearly-three-quarters-of-companies-suffered-revenue-losses-from-supplier-disruptions-in-the-last-12-months, the survey on sustainability: https://sphera.com/resources/blog/sustainability-in-flux-why-regulatory-shifts-demand-smarter-strategy, and find out more about Sphera: https://sphera.com.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

As with any industry, transportation requires standards to operate at maximum efficiency. And the organization behind setting those standards for LTL, truckload and more, is the National Motor Freight Traffic Association or NMFTA. NMFTA VP of Operations Keith Peterson joins us on The Intermodal Logistics Podcast to discuss not only those standards, but an initiative that combines them with digitization known as the Digital Standards Development Council (DSDC).Keith explains why the push for digitization alongside standardization is so important in freight, with positive side effects including streamlined operations and protection against fraud/theft. Plus, he discusses why NMFTA has focused on involving industry stakeholders including carriers, shippers, 3PLs and more in setting these processes to ensure broader adoption.Speaking of adoption, we discuss how the use of a current transportation management system (TMS) helps make integrating with these standards through APIs simpler, even for non-tech savvy (or small-staffed) companies. And bouncing off the digitization conversation, we talk about cybersecurity, and why it's also a focus for NMFTA - Keith specifically emphasizes educating everyone in your organization to look for suspicious communications.To learn more about NMFTA, visit www.nmfta.org. For information on the DSDC and how to get involved, go to dsdc.nmfta.org.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

With cargo theft taking a step further into the forefront of consciousness after the recent story on Guy Fieri and Sammy Hagar's disappearing loads of Santo Tequila, the spotlight also goes on solutions to prevent it in the future. That's where Curtis Spencer, CEO of Bloodhound Tracking Device, comes in, as he joins us on The Intermodal Logistics Podcast.Curtis tells us how the origins of Bloodhound date to 9/11 as federal officials looked for better ways to track cargo throughout supply chains. He discusses developing the technology with former NASA engineers, and how addressing theft has become an even greater focus than looking for suspicious freight. Curtis outlines how Bloodhound tracks location, temperature, tampering and more, all with a super-long lasting battery - and without being easily detected.And he goes over how one of his devices would've made the tequila theft a lot tougher. Plus, Curtis takes us through his other company, IMS Worldwide, and how setting up FTZs (or Foreign Trade Zones) has become an especially busy business during this year of tariffs and inventory pull-forward.Learn more about Bloodhound at btdtracker.com, and find out more about IMS Worldwide at imsw.com.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Railroad is likely the first form of transportation that comes to mind when considering intermodal, but trucks play a vital role in getting freight delivered door-to-door. Drayage trucking takes the spotlight on the last of our episodes of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast recorded at IANA's Intermodal EXPO, as we welcome Kevin Lhotak, President of Reliable Transportation Specialists (RTSI).Kevin tells us about his company's lengthy dray history, the areas of the country it covers and the key role of drayage in the intermodal journey to connect origin and destination - as well as points in between - to long-haul rail. He explains the importance of independent contractors to drive dray providers like his, how his company has adjusted to a shifting marketplace, and how valuable in-person interactions from events like EXPO are to doing business.Learn more about RTSI at www.reliabletrans.com. And for more on the Intermodal Association of North America's EXPO event (and IANA itself), visit www.intermodal.org/intermodalexpo.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

While there are only a select few Class 1 Railroads in the U.S., there are hundreds of so-called short-line railroads. And our guest on this edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast from IANA's Intermodal EXPO in Long Beach, California has worked with both.Iowa Interstate Railroad Director of Intermodal Andy Bradfield explains the differences between smaller and larger railroads. He also outlines how his landlocked railroad is connected to ocean cargo and the East Coast in particular via intermodal and Chicago. Andy continues discussing IAIS's efforts to grow its intermodal footprint beyond international to domestic 53-foot containers as well.He also offers his thoughts on creative solutions to convert truckload to intermodal and his perspective as a former Union Pacific employee about the implications of UP's planned merger with Norfolk Southern.Learn more about Iowa Interstate Railroad at iaisrr.com or email Andy at [email protected]. And for more on the Intermodal Association of North America's EXPO and IANA, visit www.intermodal.org/intermodalexpo.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Intermodal is not just a long-haul option. CSX Director Sales, Rail Assets Lauren Eskew joined The Intermodal Logistics Podcast from IANA's Intermodal EXPO in Long Beach, California to outline the class 1 railroad's Rail Plus program and their various shorter distance offerings east of the Mississippi.Lauren points out the surprising speed of intermodal on these shorter lanes, debunking a common misconception brokers and shippers have. She discusses what Rail Plus is, and its advantages in helping freight providers seamlessly add intermodal to their portfolio. Plus (on top of the Rail Plus piece), Lauren tells us about the Highway to Rail (H2R) Optimizer and CSX's continued initiatives to make in roads (or rails) in Mexico.Learn more about CSX at www.intermodal.com. And for more on the Intermodal Association of North America's EXPO and IANA, visit www.intermodal.org/intermodalexpo.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Following fluctuations in the truckload market tells you not only plenty about the state of freight, but the overall economy as well. And one of the leaders in the field, Tim Denoyer, VP & Senior Analyst with ACT Research, joins us on The Intermodal Logistics Podcast on-site at IANA's Intermodal EXPO in Long Beach, California - following his participation on a panel there earlier in the day.Tim tells us about his background in finance and how it led him to ACT, as well as how the company tracks the truckload market. He also gets into what's happening now as freight has continued to stay slow along with how the rise in use of private fleets has impacted the for-hire side of trucking.Plus, Tim and InTek Logistics CEO Rick LaGore discuss how truckload and intermodal are connected in terms of indicators, and he spotlights the big upcoming event that he's watching that could potentially jumpstart both modes - the Supreme Court review of many of President Trump's tariffs.To learn more about ACT Research, visit www.actresearch.net. For more about EXPO and IANA, visit www.intermodal.org/intermodalexpo.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

The Academic Challenge, also known as the Case Competition, is a highlight of the IANA Intermodal EXPO each year, and the 2025 iteration was no different. On this edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast from on-site in Long Beach, California, we welcome this year's winners, the team from Mississippi State University made up of Sophie Perrigin, Emma Lovely-Gonzalez, Brad Sills and Elijah Davis along with their advisor, Dr. Chris Boone - MSU Associate Professor of Supply Chain Management.We go over what the 12-school competition involved, how the group prepared - especially as a first-time participant, what the students learned from their participation not only in the challenge, but also from their overall visit to EXPO, and their future plans.Plus, InTek Logistics President Shelli Austin shares her perspective as one of the judges of the competition and her optimism for the long-term health of intermodal based on the students' talent.And Dr. Boone discusses Mississippi State's program, which values experiential learning to prepare students for careers in the industry - Starkville's cowbells get an honorable mention as well.For more about EXPO and IANA, visit www.intermodal.org/intermodalexpo. To learn about MSU's College of Business, which includes supply chain programs, visit www.business.msstate.edu.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Kicking off our series of excellent interviews from IANA Intermodal EXPO in Long Beach, California this week, the Intermodal Logistics Podcast welcomes returning guest (and previous IANA Silver Kingpin Award honoree) Jeff Brashares of CMA CGM.Jeff and InTek Logistics President Shelli Austin discuss the gathering of intermodal pros through the years, from how and why it started to what it's become- and why its current location makes so much sense. Plus, they stress the importance of the in-person interactions that EXPO offers, especially thrown into focus after COVID.Then, we talk about ocean box repositioning, aka ocean container intermodal, and why using ocean containers to move freight via domestic intermodal makes sense for many shippers - as well as carriers.To learn more about ocean box intermodal, visit our page at www.inteklogistics.com/ocean-container-intermodal or CMA CGM at www.cma-cgm.com/intermodal-solutions/north-america. And find out more about IANA, and how you can attend next year's EXPO at www.intermodal.org/intermodalexpo.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

About this time a year ago, many expected 2025 would be a prosperous year in transportation - the year of the freight recovery.  More than eight months in though, it's clear that hasn't been the case. InTek Logistics President Shelli Austin - normally a co-host - is our guest on The Intermodal Logistics Podcast this time, and she shares her view on how the year has gone so far. Shelli uses the word 'rollercoaster' to describe the fits and starts of the freight market as companies responded to tariff speculation, tariff pauses and actual tariffs. She discusses inventory pull forward and why this technical peak season isn't feeling too peak-ish.We also discuss the railroad merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, and why getting the idea of transcontinental in the news has brought positive attention to the industry. And Shelli shares her excitement at the many collaborations and innovations taking place in rail/intermodal that will set it up well when freight volume is humming along at a good pace.You can catch Shelli on a couple of September industry panels, at FTR in Indianapolis (more at www.ftrconference.com), and at IANA's Intermodal EXPO in Long Beach, California (more at www.intermodalexpo.com).As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

It's been an eventful summer for intermodal to say the least. To go over all the happenings (from the rail merger to the state of savings and service), we welcome a returning guest who's as plugged in to the industry as anyone, Ari Ashe with the Journal of Commerce.We lead with the biggest story - the aforementioned rail merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern. Ari takes us through the timeline of the transaction moving forward, explaining why there's a ticking clock on approval, the bumps in the road other stakeholders will likely bring up, and how this all came together to begin with.Plus, we talk about the implications for carload and intermodal service, and what the other class 1 railroads are likely to do in response. Speaking of intermodal service, Ari also gives us an update on his latest Intermodal Service Scorecard, which gives pretty high scores to the railroads as well as intermodal providers.He then goes over his Intermodal Savings Index, which showed a bit of narrowing on savings vs truck on some lanes due to overcapacity. And he tells us volume - which had been trending somewhat positive - looks to be hitting a wall.Finally, Ari promotes JOC's upcoming Inland Distribution Conference in Chicago next month, which just booked UP's Jim Vena as a featured guest among a packed program. Find Ari's latest reporting at www.joc.com, and learn more about Inland at inland.joc.com.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

In mid-September, Long Beach, California becomes the center of the intermodal universe as it hosts EXPO. On The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, we preview this must-attend gathering put on by the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA), with IANA President and CEO Anne Reinke and VP of Member Services Hal Pollard.Anne and Hal take us through the programming, which includes panels on the state of the industry (trade policy and rail mergers are likely to come up), cargo theft, drug trafficking, AI, business development, and more. They also highlight the Connie Awards, and EXPO's exhibit hall, which features a number of technology and equipment providers as well as activities worth checking out.On the business side, our guests mention the many networking opportunities both officially included on the program and simply from having so many industry heavy hitters gathered in the same place (a place we'll be podcasting from as well!). We discuss both the opening event: the Academic Challenge (aka the Case Competition), which features student groups from 15 colleges, and the closing speaker, firefighter Royal Ramey who will share his unique story.Intermodal EXPO takes place Sunday, Sept. 14 through Wednesday, Sept. 17 at the Long Beach Convention Center. Interested in attending? Hal shared a special discount code: Partner25, which takes $100 off registration. Learn more and sign up at www.intermodalexpo.com.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

AI continues to offer new solutions for a variety of scenarios, and agents have become one of the next big things for artificial intelligence. Transportation and logistics companies can benefit from using these agents under many circumstances - especially to automate tedious tasks. Peter Qian, CEO of Ventus AI, joins us on The Intermodal Logistics Podcast to discuss how companies like his can help do just that.Peter takes us through a couple of use cases, including one with InTek Logistics, as well as explaining what agents do in general. He also tells us how he sees AI impacting jobs - with the idea being to allow employees to focus on customer interactions and service instead of repetitive, sometimes mundane responsibilities that AI can handle faster.We also discuss how AI agents can scale for companies of various size and markets that can fluctuate like freight shipping. Learn more about Peter and Ventus at www.ventus.ai.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

As we pass the halfway point of 2025, we take stock with a new perspective on where intermodal stands now and going forward, thanks to Bridget Dean, Associate Editor with Progressive Railroading - on this edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast.Bridget talks about her recent cover story which takes a look back at the first six months of the year and perhaps surprising volume strength juxtaposed with uncertainty about fluctuating tariff policy from the Trump Administration and worries about continued softness in other areas of the industry. She tells us what experts expect as the year moves forward and why class 1 railroads are still moving forward with many long-term projects despite that "u" word from earlier. We also discuss how elections in Mexico, the U.S. and Canada are both shaping and being shaped by policies.And Bridget shares how she got into covering rail and intermodal - something she's only done since last year, how helpful colleagues and sources have been in getting her acclimated, how she'd recommend the field (and other B to B reporting opportunities) to newer journalists, and how there is a focus on cultivating new pros by others in the industry.Find Bridget's cover story here: www.progressiverailroading.com/intermodal/news/Class-Is-continue-to-maneuver-for-long-term-intermodal-growth-despite-short-term-uncertainties--74656, and get more from Progressive Railroading (including how to subscribe to its railPrime service) at www.progressiverailroading.com.As for our podcast, subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Depending on the source, upwards of 90% of freight travels by ocean at some point, meaning sea shipping ties in with every freight mode, just about every shipper, and just about every customer - worldwide. On this edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, we focus on ocean cargo with Xeneta Chief Analyst Peter Sand.We begin by going over what goes into container shipping rates, what Xeneta does to monitor, inform and connect shippers with carriers, and why knowledge is power in navigating the sea freight industry. Then, Peter offers his thoughts on the marketplace today, including the continuing impacts of Red Sea rerouting, why the East Coast and West Coast are so vastly different right now rate-wise, and which shippers should be jumping on contracts versus sticking with spot.He also explains index-linked contracts and why they could be the way to go for many shippers - especially during volatile situations. And of course, we address the Trump Administration's tariff policies and how they're impacting supply chains - both directly and indirectly. Finally, Peter offers insights as to what may be ahead in the coming months and year.Learn more about Xeneta - which covers international ocean and air freight - at www.xeneta.com. While there, you can not only find out how to work with them but also explore many free market monitoring resources and information.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

After hitting a high note nearly two decades ago, freight volume on railroads have stayed down - threatening the industry long-term. On this episode of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, Trains.com writer Bill Stephens discusses the findings of a TD Cowen report he wrote about in a recent article (found here: www.trains.com/trn/news-reviews/news-wire/report-railroads-must-gain-volume-to-remain-relevant)He tells us why volume dipped in the second part of the 2000s and has yet to bounce back, why investors tended not to care but do now, and  how the report points to volume recovery as key to railroads' success. He goes over the prescription to get cargo back: the need for service improvements for product traveling exclusively by railcar (an issue intermodal has made greater strides on). We also go over a potential outcome if things don't get better - the idea of mergers. Bill takes us through the policy history that makes such an outcome complicated to say the least, even with some in leadership open to the possibility.Finally, we look to cross-border, where there's plenty of opportunity for railroads - and there are plenty initiatives to take advantage - but we discuss how (and why) that opportunity remains somewhat untapped.Find more from Bill at Trains.com and by subscribing to the magazine www.trains.com/trn/subscription-plans. You can also follow him on LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/bill-stephens-59692314.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Software and technology solutions abound today - touching just about every aspect of supply chains. But Smart Access, an application that focuses on distribution center operations, stands out because rather than removing the human element - it aims to personalize the retail DC floor and encourage interaction. CEO and Founder Tim Regnier joins this episode of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast to explain how he and his team arrived at the idea of the software and what exactly it does - combining standard operating procedures (SOPs) with employee observation, coaching and training to optimize operations. He also addresses what could be seen as a barrier - that floor staff may not want to look over their shoulder - with data indicating that not only does it improve productivity but also helps job retention.We also discuss how some companies are better (or worse) than others in terms of developing and maintaining SOPs (and how Smart Access helps turn them into living documents), applications beyond what it does currently regarding ISO and carrier usage, and how clients both in the retail and 3PL space are handling the current tariff environment.Learn more about Smart Access at www.smartaccess.io. And find Tim on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/tim-regnier.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Maintenance and repair are vital to keeping supply chains moving, but many are missing out on efficiencies that come with better technology. On this edition of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, we talk about a software that's streamlining the M&R process for intermodal equipment (and truck carriers as well), REACH, with its CEO and co-founder Paul Burgoyne.Paul tells us how REACH came about, the app-based simplicity of optimizing driver and technician time, the many companies that use the platform (including recent podcast subject DCLI and its RapidLink service), and how most don't - still dealing with spreadsheets and emails instead. He explains how it works for both planned and unplanned (i.e. roadside emergency) events, how it compares to non-freight apps like Uber and how it offers visibility into what had previously been an opaque area in transportation.Learn more about REACH at www.reach24.net or contact Paul on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-burgoyne-1893a924.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

It's been an issue as long as trucks and their drivers have traversed the country with freight - where to safely park. Now, technology and innovation have converged to address the problem, with a simple app known as Truck Parking Club. Its CEO and co-Founder Evan Shelley joins us to discuss the genesis of the idea and the progress it's already made since launching in late 2022 - having just passed 1,900 locations across the U.S.He tells us how simplicity is key, as drivers can book (and lot owners can list) much like AirBNB or Uber, complete with search filters to fit each unique situation and reviews to guide users to the best option. Evan also discusses how the data gathered through the app can help in other areas and his future goals for Truck Parking Club.For more on Truck Parking Club, download the app on Apple or Android, and visit www.truckparkingclub.com.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Thousands of containers, and thus chassis and trucks, move across the country every day. And while an ideal world would have everything going perfectly each time, wear and tear happens, meaning there's an ongoing need for repairs and maintenance. On this episode of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, we discuss a (sort of) new nationwide solution - RapidLink Repairs - with RapidLink and DCLI VP of Sales Rob Finch.Rob explains how RapidLink was borne from DCLI's already robust maintenance network now expanding to customers using other chassis. He tells us the wide variety of trailer and chassis (and beyond) repairs that can happen roadside or by appointment across the country, with an average three-hour call-to-roll time. We also go over the general state of chassis in the U.S., RapidLink's transparent pricing, the need for a national service such as this, and how to become a customer.For more information on RapidLink, visit www.rapidlinkrepairs.com.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

RFID technology has been around for quite some time, but Eric Biel, Powercast's Director of Strategic Partnerships, shares how his company is elevating its use in freight, especially for temperature-monitoring and warehouse applications.Eric discusses how both custom-designed and adapted RFID tags, known as RAIN RFID, provide detailed, real-time data on temperature, humidity, and more for products like food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals that need a stable cold chain. He highlights how these compact sensors can accompany shipments and store significant data, whether they are powered or not, all with a simple scan. Eric also explains how powered tags with LED indicators simplify locating products in warehouses and distribution centers, and with this power, the scanner's range to detect a tag is extended. Further, he describes how Powercast has innovated technology to power these tags without batteries, using ambient electricity to wirelessly charge them—a technology that has also been applied to TV remotes and other devices.Discover more about Powercast at www.powercastco.com.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Quite a bit of the food Americans eat is grown on foreign soil, so it only gets here because of food importers. On the latest episode of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, guest Bob Bauer, President of the Association of Food Industries (AFI), discusses the food import process, some examples of products that the U.S. doesn't (and can't) produce on a large scale like nuts and olive oil, and the challenges importers face with evolving tariff policies. On the tariff issue, he explains what importers are doing to prepare and respond - and what they're not doing just yet.Bob also tells us about AFI, its advocacy on behalf of its members, food standards it has helped enact (and why they're important) and its role in legislation like the Food Safety Modernization Act of 2011. He goes over the steps a typical product takes to get to the U.S., how importers bear the risk and responsibility,  and what freight modes are most common.We also discuss AFI's upcoming Annual Convention, set for April 24-26 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which will feature more discussion on tariffs, the economy and the role of AI in the food industry. Learn more about AFI and the Convention at www.afius.org.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Choosing freight rail offers a wide array of benefits - but they're benefits many need reminders of. That's where GoRail comes in. To discuss more about what GoRail does, its now more than 20-year history and the evolution of the industry, State Director Brett Sebastian and AVP for Communications Betsy Cantwell join The Intermodal Logistics Podcast.Betsy and Brett talk about GoRail's origins, its role at the Federal, state and local government levels - and why each is important - and the Rail Advocate and Rail Champion programs. Plus, they go over some of GoRail's legislative priorities, including the safe crossing grant program, the highway trust fund, and the 2026 reauthorization of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). We also highlight the GoRail Twenty report (including some key rail stats) and cross-border issues now arising.For more on GoRail, including reports, the Rail Grant Hub and state-by-state info, visit www.gorail.org.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

As the first quarter of 2025 nears an end, check in on the state of freight as it stands now, as it compares to 2024, and as it relates to the future of the market.InTek CEO Rick Lagore answers 5 questions (plus a few follow-ups) to offer a measure of the logistics landscape - discussing predictions of recovery made just a few months ago that already feel deferred, spot rates and volumes relating to intermodal, how the new administration is affecting freight, interest rates and inflation, and when we may see a freight recovery (with a couple of potential scenarios).Compare this episode to our 2023 predictions https://youtu.be/hyOhnrqjx3k?si=kYNpq5eZrXU26njw and 2024 https://youtu.be/0fLRC-Wn3H0?si=WlRxwWtF4gGxH3Z3, and you may find things haven't changed as much as hoped for the market.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

Freight moves domestically and across borders every day using various combinations of road, rail, ship, etcetera, but one thing all that freight - and all the providers who have a stake in it - have in common is insurance. On the latest episode of The Intermodal Logistics Podcast, guest Mark Vickers, EVP of International Logistics for Reliance Partners, discusses cargo insurance - including what it is, why it's needed, why coverage depends on the situation and how it's influenced by outside factors.He particularly spotlights Borderless Coverage, a product he initially came up with to cover valuable freight beyond the U.S. borders and into Mexico and Canada - all with one policy. Mark tells us about the security issues facing cross-border freight and the prior lack of coverage options. He also talks about over the top coverage options for specific scenarios like high value freight or cargo normally not shipped by a particular provider. And he explains why strong insurance can be a differentiator in winning business, even if it means a freight provider's bid is a bit higher.We also discuss potential tariff impacts on the industry as well as inflation - which not only impacts everyone's bottom line but also makes a difference as to the type of cargo thieves target.Learn more about Reliance Partners at https://reliancepartners.com/ and look up Mark on LinkedIn here https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-vickers-a90a6710/ for more from him. Plus, find out about the upcoming 8th Annual Modernization of Cross Border Trade event in Texas here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/8th-annual-modernization-of-cross-border-trade-tickets-1112890809369?aff=oddtdtcreator.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more.

The new leader of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) already knows the lay of the land, so he's hit the ground running tackling membership priorities. President and CEO Chris Burroughs began leading TIA in November, after his predecessor Anne Reinke took the leadership spot with the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) - see and hear more from her on our previous episode of the Intermodal Logistics Podcast.But unlike many new CEOs, Chris had already spent more than 13 years with his organization, and he tells us on this edition how that background - including the earlier days of TIA with fewer staff - helped him wear many hats and gave him a broad understanding of how things work. Since taking over leadership, Chris says TIA's continued focusing on a problem that's not going away - fraud, navigating the transition from the Biden to Trump administrations in the process.He continues to see getting exposure in Washington D.C. as key to helping the association's priorities, which also include nuclear verdicts arising from accidents involving commercial trucks, owner-operator definitions and more. Plus, Chris tells us about TIA's focus on expanding its continuing education offerings - many of which are free to members.And, we hear about the Capital Ideas Conference, with the 2025 edition taking place in San Antonio this April. Learn more about the TIA at its website, www.tianet.org, where you can also find registration information and more about the conference. Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more about InTek.

Taking over a new organization is always a challenge, but Anne Reinke is ready to face it head-on when it comes to running the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA). Anne joins us on The Intermodal Logistics Podcast about a month into her tenure as IANA President and CEO following four years in the same role with the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA).She tells us about her background, including how she got into the industry, her love of railroads that started with her time at CSX, and how that helped lead her to IANA. We discuss the challenge of replacing a longtime leader like Joni Casey, who headed up the association for about 27 years, and how she's worked to get the lay of the land by talking with just about all IANA's staff and board members in her first month.Anne goes over the challenges facing intermodal as it looks to gain market share - with a big one being awareness. She talks about plans to increase marketing efforts as well as raising IANA's advocacy profile in Washington - to get the road and rail mode a seat at the table in transportation discussions.For more on IANA, visit www.intermodal.org, where you can also register to become a member, access learning resources that are only expected to grow, and find out about the association's upcoming Business Meeting.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.inteklogistics.com to learn more about InTek.

It's the base of intermodal container movement and a necessity for dray trucks' ability to transport boxes to their final destination. It's the chassis, so consider this a chassis appreciation episode of the Intermodal Logistics Podcast.To explain all it does and how the chassis system in the U.S. works, we welcome Abby Anderson, AVP of Marine Operations for DCLI. Abby tells us about DCLI's systems, how chassis movement has been streamlined in recent years, adjusting to supply and demand, and the different ways ports, railroads and drayage carriers rely on chassis for container transport.She also tells us about improvements in chassis availability, how they determine when they're in good order, the difference between marine and domestic chassis programs, and how the recent agreement preventing a port strike on the east and Gulf coasts helps the freight industry.To learn more about DCLI and what it does, visit dcli.com.And as you may have noticed, this is the first episode of the Intermodal Logistics Podcast, renamed from InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast. We're still offering the excellent guests and industry insights you've come to expect, but with a name that better reflects our focus on intermodal transportation. Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.intekfreight-logistics.com to learn more about InTek.

Intermodal logistics combines road and rail for valuable transportation solution in todays supply chain environment. So why not focus a podcast on this important freight mode? That's what the Intermodal Logistics Podcast is all about - welcoming key industry figures to provide the ins and outs of intermodal and how it fits into the shipping landscape.With topics like market updates, ports, warehousing, railroads, dray trucking, sustainability, news headlines, cross-border, cargo types and much more, the Intermodal Logistics Podcast has your bases covered, touching not only intermodal, but the freight world in general.  And just as they did when it was called InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast, hosts Kevin Baxter, Shelli Austin and Rick LaGore are not above having some fun along the way as well. Subscribe or follow the Intermodal Logistics Podcast, on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.And visit https://www.intekfreight-logistics.com to stay up on all things freight, logistics, supply chain and more.

Freight touches a vast array of industries, and one of them touches freight in a variety of ways. Paper and packaging not only moves via traditional shipping modes across the world, it also ensures other goods move safely through supply chains. To take us through the industry, Rick and Kevin speak with Greg Lovensheimer, President of Millcraft Paper Company.Greg explains the ins and outs of paper and packaging, the both expected and unexpected products that fall under its umbrella and how the industry has evolved over the years. He also explains paper production, starting from the forest - and why sustainability has always been a major part of it.Plus, Greg tells us how the market is doing today, how it relates to freight, how AI is impacting paper and packaging, and what he thinks of The Office's take on his field.Learn more about Millcraft at millcraft.com, and learn more about the industry through the National Paper Trade Association (for which Greg serves as Chair) at www.gonpta.com. And for still more on paper and packaging, visit the American Forest and Paper Association website here www.afandpa.org.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes of InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.intekfreight-logistics.com to learn more about InTek.

As the year winds down, where does the intermodal market stand? And what should we expect heading into 2025, with a new administration and proposed tariff policies that could have a substantial effect on international trade? For those answers and more, we turn to the intermodalist himself, Larry Gross, President and Founder of Gross Transportation Consulting, for Episode 50 of InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast. Larry goes inside the numbers to tell us how intermodal is doing today, how it compares over time, its stance against truckload, and the difference between inland point intermodal (thriving with port activity) & purely domestic intermodal. Plus, he shares his thoughts on the election's potential effects on the market in 2025, and how tariffs would likely shift the balance of intermodal activity.Additionally, we talk cross-border intermodal, where Larry notes, the numbers disagree with both the activity of many businesses and anecdotal evidence of growing strength between the U.S. and Mexico.For more from Larry, visit intermodalindepth.com, where you can sign up for his excellent Intermodal In-Depth reports and find other services he offers. You can also check out his first time on our podcast, back on Episode 5, to learn more about his background https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKNoJwpPkYs. Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes of InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.intekfreight-logistics.com to learn more about InTek.

The Logistics Managers Index (LMI) tracks the freight market through thick and thin. Until recently, it's been thin, but head author Zac Rogers, Assistant Professor of Operations & Supply Chain Management at Colorado State University, tells us indications squarely point to a healthy recovery.Zac tells us about his background, the origins of the Index, how it surveys logistics pros (and who they are), how it relates to the economy as a whole, what typically causes shifts and where it's heading now. Plus, we discuss how the election and incoming President Trump's suggested tariffs (and other policies) could influence the freight recovery.And we talk a bit about teaching future supply chain pros along with the three pillars of sustainability to consider - beyond simply environmental benefits.Find the Logistics Managers Index at www.the-lmi.com and check out our monthly summaries - including the latest from the October LMI blog.intekfreight-logistics.com/october-24-logistics-managers-index-lmi.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes of InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.intekfreight-logistics.com to learn more about InTek.

Drayage is a vital part of intermodal transportation, but many of its processes are stuck in the past. Enter ModalView, an app that marks a collaboration between Norfolk Southern and DrayNow aimed at modernizing and streamlining those first and final mile processes. To discuss, hosts Kevin and Shelli welcome Senior Director of Product Meghan Nesta, President and General Manager Mike Albert and former President of Triple Crown Services (and current consultant) Sam Niness.The ModalView team talks about how the partnership materialized, and the many ways the app helps dray drivers, IMCs and by proxy, shippers with visibility, real-time tracking and real-time documentation.To learn more about working with ModalView, visit modalview.com.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes of InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.intekfreight-logistics.com to learn more about InTek.

Intermodal is traditionally associated with long-haul shipping, but a few Sunshine State - and Mexico - solutions show it can shine with short-haul, too. On the latest InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast, Luis Hernandez, VP of Intermodal with Florida East Coast Railway (a member of Grupo Mexico - which also owns Ferromex) to discuss those Florida options, from intra-Miami to all the way up and down the coast.Luis tells us how intermodal not only offers convenience for Florida freight, but also surprising speed - whether between ports or not. He talks about the relationship between FEC and the expanding Brightline passenger rail network - and how railroad crossings have changed for Floridians. He also discusses the freight landscape in Mexico, how intermodal offers underused solutions for cross-border shipping, and how AMTI - the Mexican intermodal association - is working to make more inroads (or rails in this case).Learn more about FEC at https://fecrwy.com, Ferromex at https://www.ferromex.com/index-eng.jsp and AMTI at https://www.amtimexico.com/en.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes of InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.intekfreight-logistics.com to learn more about InTek.

It all starts at the ports - especially when moving intermodal across North America. And one of the busiest of those, is the Port of Long Beach in Southern California. Hosts Kevin Baxter and Shelli Austin are joined by POLB COO Dr. Noel Hacegaba as he discusses how the port operates, just how busy it is this year in terms of container shipping, how it handled the pandemic-related peak, port strike impacts, how it's prioritized infrastructure to improve service, and more.We dive into sustainability, including measures the port has taken to reduce its environmental impact, the progress of electric trucks, the ability of on-dock rail to help with emissions and freight movement simultaneously, and how the port is tackling sea level rise. Additionally, we discuss the Intermodal Association of North America (whose board both Shelli and Noel serve on), the importance of creating an educational pipeline for future supply chain pros, and, a band called the TEUs - for which Noel and some fellow POLB employees play.Learn more about the Port of Long Beach at www.polb.com, and find a performance by the TEUs in a video of the recent POLB State of the Port 2024.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes of InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.intekfreight-logistics.com to learn more about InTek.

Intermodal transportation offers a variety of benefits over other shipping modes, including lower rates, greater capacity, consistency of service, and a reduced environmental impact. But with the vast majority - nearly three-quarters in fact - of domestic freight traveling via truck, shippers may feel a barrier to entry to this combination of road for short-haul and rail for the long-haul.On this episode, we play a home game with host Kevin Baxter joined by both his regular co-hosts, InTek Freight & Logistics President Shelli Austin and InTek CEO Rick LaGore, as they discuss the process of getting started with intermodal. We go over which freight works for the mode, the qualities of a good intermodal lane, the importance of research, finding the right intermodal marketing company and more.Plus, they go over some misconceptions about intermodal, the need for reputable freight partners, unique fees (and how to avoid them), and the importance (and simplicity) of proper blocking and bracing.Learn more about getting started with intermodal at www.intekfreight-logistics.com/intermodal.Subscribe or follow now to catch new episodes of InTek Freight & Logistics: The Podcast as soon as they're out, and please do rate and review us. Have a question? Contact us at [email protected]. And visit our website, www.intekfreight-logistics.com to learn more about InTek.