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Arpin welcomes B. Lynn Tomarchio as regional director of business development

WEST WARWICK, R.I. – Arpin International Group has picked B. Lynn Tomarchio as the company’s new regional director of business development.  “We are so excited to have someone of Lynn’s experience and market presence join the Arpin team,”said Mark J. Burchell, vice president of sales and global business development. “She is well respected in the industry, and her energy and passion to support her clients is a testament to her long-standing customer relationships. In addition, Lynn is well-known to many of our overseas agent partners. Her stellar reputation is truly on a global scale.”  According to a company media release, Tomarchio steps into this pivotal role at Arpin and is at the forefront of its growth strategy, building strong, long-term customer relationships and contributing to the company’s continued success in the mobility arena. Tomarchio has been in the moving industry for more than two decades, according to the release. She is a highly accomplished mobility professional with a long track record of successfully interpreting complex client needs into best-in-class service delivery. Her collaborative approach with internal teams and external stakeholders has earned her a well-deserved reputation for excellence in the industry. Currently residing in California, Tomarchio is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University and is an active member of leading industry organizations, including Bay Area Mobility Management, Portland Relocation Council, Arizona Relocation Alliance, Women of Global Mobility and Worldwide Employee Relocation Council. She will be appearing at the upcoming WERC Global Workforce Symposium in National Harbor, Md. from October 22-25.  “Tomarchio’s addition to the Arpin team underscores the company’s commitment to exceptional service and leadership in global mobility,” the company said.

EEOC sues three employers for sexual harassment, including Wallers Trucking

PHOENIX, Ariz – The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has filed three lawsuits alleging that employers in Arizona, Utah and Wyoming violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by allowing sexual harassment to permeate their workplaces, including Wallers Trucking Company Inc. The employers permitted work environments that were illegally hostile toward female employees and, in two of the cases, resulted in physical sexual assault. “The EEOC continues its mission to protect workers across the spectrum of workplaces under the agency’s purview and to guide employers in ensuring that employees are safe, protected, and treated with dignity and respect, including to have their complaints about sexual harassment taken seriously,” said Karla Gilbride, EEOC general counsel “In furtherance of this mission, the EEOC’s recent harassment guidance is a helpful resource for employers, employees and practitioners that reflects the continued importance of this issue to the agency.” According to a press release, the EEOC’s Phoenix District Office, which has jurisdiction for Arizona, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and part of New Mexico, filed: EEOC v. Wallers Trucking Company Inc.., Case No.1:24-cv-00197-SWS in S. District Court for the District of Wyoming. The suit alleged that Waller’s Trucking Company violated federal law when its owner sexually harassed female employees over the course of several years. The owner made crude and sexually explicit comments to at least two female employees, frequently in front of their coworkers and/or over radio, and also inappropriately grabbed female employees without their permission. Wallers Trucking, a family-owned business, failed to take action despite multiple complaints and reports of sexual harassment, and instead continued to foster a hostile work environment for its female employees and fired at least two female employees. EEOC v. Christian Care Management, Inc., dba Christian Care Companies/Fellowship Square, Case No. 2:24-cv-02620-GMS, in S. District Court for the District of Arizona. The agency filed suit against the operator of senior living communities located across the State of Arizona after a client repeatedly harassed female employees over an extended period of time. The client made vulgar and sexually explicit comments to several female employees and propositioned female employees to engage in sexual activity with him. Female employees complained about the harassment by the client, but Christian Care failed to take prompt and adequate measures against the client to end the harassment or deter future sexual harassment by the client. Christian Care created a hostile work environment for female employees, which culminated in the client committing egregious sexual harassment and physical assault of a different female employee, including grabbing her breast and attempting to grope her vagina, the EEOC said. EEOC v. HHS Environmental Services, LLC., Case No. 2-24-cv-00721, in S. District Court for the District of Utah. The EEOC alleged that HHS Environmental, which provides janitorial and other services to hospitals, violated federal law when a male employee sexually harassed at least three female employees. According to the EEOC, the male employee made inappropriate sexual comments, and repeatedly attempted to inappropriately kiss, touch, and grab the female employees without their permission. Despite the employees’ repeated and persistent reports of harassment, the company took no action for over a year to curb the harassment, and retaliated against the female employees by firing two of them after they reported the harassment. HHS also retaliated against another female victim by doubling her workload until she eventually resigned due to the untenable working conditions. “Federal law prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace, regardless of whether the offender is the owner of the business, a co-worker, a customer or a resident,” said Mary Jo O’Neill regional attorney the EEOC’s Phoenix District Office. “The EEOC has pursued, and will continue to pursue, charges of sexual harassment against employers regardless of the status of the offender. Employers have a legal duty to stop sexual harassment and to protect their workers from such egregious sexual harassment in the workplace.” EEOC  Phoenix District Director Melinda Caraballo add that the EEOC is committed to protecting vulnerable workers and will vigorously pursue relief for the victims and in the public interest. “Sexual harassment that alters an employee’s working conditions is a violation of federal law,” Caraballo said. Last fiscal year, the number of charges the EEOC received involving harassment jumped more than 28% to 31,354, the highest since the agency started monitoring harassment charge numbers in fiscal year 2010. Charges involving retaliation reached more than 46,000, a 31-year high. For more information on sexual harassment, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/sexual-harassment.

Averitt’s charity program donates $100k for hurricane relief

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – As communities across the region continue to recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, Averitt has announced a contribution to support relief efforts. “Our associates and customers have been deeply concerned for the communities and families affected by Hurricane Helene,” said Gary Sasser, chairman and chief executive officer at Averitt. “We want to do our part, and this contribution represents our desire to support recovery efforts and provide relief to those in need.” According to a company press release, In response to the needs of those affected, Averitt is donating $100,000 to Samaritan’s Purse through Averitt Cares for Kids, made possible through associate-driven contributions and a company match to the program. In addition to the monetary support, Averitt associates are donating bottled water and wet wipes as part of the company’s Team Up Community Challenge, Averitt’s community service initiative. These two necessities were chosen by direct feedback from Averitt’s associates in the impacted areas. All of these donations will be collected throughout Averitt’s nationwide distribution network and distributed to associates and communities in need. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who has been affected by this storm,” Sasser said. “We are thankful for the resilience shown by our associates and the communities they call home, and we hope this contribution brings some relief during this difficult time.” Visit Averitt.com/Charities for more information about Averitt’s giving initiatives.

Bernsen receives TAT 2024 Harriet Tubman Award for role in rescuing a human trafficking victim

WESTLAKE, Ohio – Charles Bernsen, general manager of the Petro in Florence, S.C., has been named the winner of the 2024 TAT Harriet Tubman Award, presented by Progressive Commercial for, his role in rescuing a human trafficking victim. Bernsen received the award, which includes a trophy and check for $5,000, from TAT (formerly Truckers Against Trafficking) Executive Director Esther Goetsch and TravelCenters of America CEO Debi Boffa at TA Florence, S.C. on Oct. 2, the location where he worked as general manager when the incident occurred for which he is being recognized. As an added surprise, the trafficking survivor Bernsen aided, Nikki, also attended the awards presentation. This marked the first meeting between the two since the incident that brought them together originally. Bernsen, one of 18,000 TA employees who receive TAT’s human trafficking training annually, noticed a distressed young woman hanging around the store. She would disappear for periods of time into the restroom but then reappear in the lobby area. After a couple days of seeing her repeatedly, Bernsen approached her and asked if she needed help. She burst into tears, telling him she had escaped a man who had been holding her captive in a hotel across the street from the TA where he’d been selling her for sex. Bernsen offered her food, clothing, a blanket and information about TAT. He had her call the National Human Trafficking Hotline and speak to them, and then purchased a bus ticket for her to get home and provided money for expenses along the way. Nikki, later made a video with TAT about her experience and said Bernsen’s soft-spoken demeanor and compassion enabled her to trust him. Bernsen said the TAT training definitely better prepared him for this situation. “Once you’ve been exposed to all this evil, it’s always in the back of your mind that this could be happening, and it could happen in the blink of an eye,” Bernsen said. “The education, the videos and conferences we’ve gone to have been a huge help.” Bernsen added that receiving the award was “very humbling.” “The main thing about this is that it can make everyone else in our company aware that we can make a difference if we pay attention and treat people better,” Bernsen said. “That’s the main take away for me.” TAT created the annual award to honor a member of the trucking, bus or energy industry, whose direct actions help save or improve the lives of those exploited or prevent human trafficking from taking place. “Charles’s vigilance, empathy, and acute actions for Nikki exemplify TAT’s mission,” Goetsch stated. “He knew exactly what to do when he found himself in the right place at the right time, a crucial moment that changed everything for her. Instead of turning a blind eye, he acted with compassion and courage. We are proud and grateful to present Charles with our 2024 Harriet Tubman Award.” The award was named in honor of famed abolitionist Harriet Tubman, whose courageous personal actions resulted in the transportation of 300 slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad and whose overall role in the freedom movement was instrumental in the freeing of thousands more. “We are extremely proud of the actions Charles took when encountering Nikki and are so grateful for the positive outcome in this situation,” said Boffa. “Charles is a true role model for all our team members, and I know his actions and this award will inspire others when they see something. Here at TA, we remain committed to educating all of our team members on human trafficking awareness and empowering them to take action; they are the eyes and ears of our nation’s highways, and, as Charles has shown, we can make a difference.” A 501c3 organization, TAT stands committed to educate, equip, empower and mobilize members of key industries and agencies to combat human trafficking.

Dockworkers’ union suspend strike until Jan. 15 to allow time to negotiate new contract

DETROIT (AP) — The union representing 45,000 striking U.S. dockworkers at East and Gulf coast ports has reached a deal to suspend a three-day strike until Jan. 15 to provide time to negotiate a new contract. The union, the International Longshoremen’s Association, is to resume working immediately. Both sides also reached agreement on wages, but no details were given, according to a joint statement from the ports and union Thursday night. The union went on strike early Tuesday after its contract expired in a dispute over pay and the automation of tasks at the ports from Maine to Texas. The strike came at the peak of the holiday shopping season at 36 ports that handle about half the cargo from ships coming into and out of the United States. The walkout raised the risk of shortages of goods on store shelves if it lasted more than a few weeks. But most retailers had stocked up or shipped items early in anticipation of the work stoppage. The strike came at the peak of the holiday shopping season at 36 ports that handle about half of the cargo from ships coming into and out of the United States. It raised the risk of shortages of goods on store shelves if it lasted more than a few weeks. But most retailers had stocked up or shipped items early in anticipation of the work stoppage.

Jim Hawk Truck Trailers celebrates 50th anniversary as Great Dane dealer

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa — Jim Hawk Truck Trailers is celebrating its 50th anniversary as a Great Dane dealer. “Celebrating 50 years as a Great Dane dealer is a significant milestone and a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire Jim Hawk team,” said Rick Mullininx, Great Dane president and COO. “Their commitment to providing high-quality products and services has remained unwavering, and we look forward to working together for many more years to come.” According to a company press release, over the past five decades, Jim Hawk has secured its reputation as an industry leader, known for exceptional customer service and a comprehensive range of products and services, with locations in Iowa, Missouri, Illinois and South Dakota. Jim Hawk has been recognized many times for its excellence in the industry. Over the years, the equipment company has won several awards, including Great Dane’s Dealer of the Year, Parts Sales Achievement Awards and multiple Salesman King Pin Awards, which highlight top sales achievements by individual team members. “We’re very proud that Jim Hawk has represented our brand all these years,” said Rob Ulsh, Great Dane vice president of dealer and international sales. “Their values align perfectly with ours, focusing on integrity, innovation, and a customer-first approach. We look forward to celebrating their milestone all year long.” Jim Hawk‘s commitment to excellence extends beyond sales and service. The company sells and ships custom-built and in-stock trailers, featuring a full line of parts, service, and repair facilities to handle all facets of the transportation market. “Remaining a family-owned business and a Great Dane dealer for 50 years has allowed us to develop strong relationships with our customers,” said Jim Hawk, III, president. “Our growth and success are a direct result of the trust and loyalty our customers place in us. We are continuously evolving to meet their needs and exceed their expectations, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone anniversary.”

Ramsey MediaWorks expands with the acquisition of The Hightower Agency

JOPLIN, Mo. – Ramsey MediaWorks, an advertising agency that specializes in Talent Acquisition (TA) Marketing, announced that it has recently acquired The Hightower Agency, a company considered a legacy firm in the transportation recruitment marketing industry. According to a media release announcing the deal, this acquisition strengthens Ramsey MediaWorks’ position as a leader in providing cutting-edge, custom advertising solutions and enhances its ability to serve a broader range of clients with advanced technology and automation tools. “The Hightower Agency, established in 1990, has built a solid reputation for delivering effective client-first recruitment marketing campaigns, the release stated. “With a strong and highly respected long-term client base, The Hightower Agency has successfully supported employers in finding and attracting quality talent for over three decades. The integration of Hightower’s strengths into an already robust portfolio will allow Ramsey MediaWorks to offer unmatched customer service in the talent acquisition landscape.” “We are excited to welcome The Hightower Agency into the Ramsey MediaWorks family. When we look at the current TA/Recruitment Marketing landscape, it’s full of companies providing overly standardized solutions and products that funnel their clients into the same mold,” said Garrett Ramsey, President. “This acquisition aligns with our mission to relentlessly serve our clients via an embedded and customized approach. With Hightower’s long-standing reputation for client-first service, it was a no-brainer to bring them under our umbrella and provide them with advanced tech and automation tools to help bolster their client offering moving forward.” Ramsey MediaWorks’ release stated it believes the deal will enhance service offerings, including: Expanded Relationships: The Hightower Agency’s years of experience in recruitment marketing will bring familiar faces into the Ramsey MediaWorks family. Advanced Technology & Automation Tools: Ramsey MediaWorks has been relentlessly pursuing and adopting new technology and automation tools into our clients’ first-party ecosystems. By integrating The Hightower Agency’s relationships with Ramsey MediaWorks’ cutting-edge technology, clients will benefit from an enhanced ability to reach top-tier candidates quickly and efficiently. Broader Client Reach: The combined resources and talent of both agencies will enable Ramsey MediaWorks to support larger-scale projects and service new entities across the transportation industry and beyond. “This is a pivotal chapter for us,” said Pat Hightower, President of The Hightower Agency. “We’re excited about the new opportunities that will be available to several of our employees and long-standing clients. With Ramsey MediaWorks’ advanced technologies and a shared client-first approach, I am thrilled to see what the future holds.”  The company believes that the acquisition is expected to be fully integrated by November 1, 2024, with no disruption to current services, the release stated. “Clients of both agencies will continue to receive the high-quality service they have come to expect, along with access to new tools and resources to better achieve their TA/Recruitment Marketing goals.”

Atlas World Group extends chairman & CEO Jack Griffin’s contract

EVANSVILLE, Ind.  — The Atlas World Group Board of Directors has extended its contract with Chairman and CEO Jack Griffin, signaling the board’s confidence that Atlas will continue to thrive into 2025 and beyond under his leadership. “Jack Griffin is a leader we trust,” the board said in a media release. “He is a market leader, a thought leader, and a quality leader who has driven Atlas to the forefront of the industry during his tenure. From employees and Agents to customers and shareholders, Jack has all of Atlas’ best interests at heart. Our management team is the strongest we have ever had, and under Jack’s continued leadership and adherence to the Atlas Pathways Strategic Plan, we know this organization will continue to grow.” Elected CEO in November 2016, Griffin has guided the strategic vision of Atlas World Group and its ten subsidiaries while advancing the company’s footprint and position in the relocation, moving, transportation and logistics industries, according to the release. Griffin has more than 30 years of experience in the transportation industry and has led Atlas to some of its greatest successes while navigating a volatile and rapidly changing market. In recent years, Griffin has overseen three major acquisitions, welcomed a leading national moving company back to the Atlas Agent family, and directed an organizational pricing reset that cemented Atlas as the industry leader. “It is a great privilege to serve this company and everyone who relies on Atlas’ services,” Griffin said. “While the past four years have not been without their challenges, I am proud to report that Atlas remains fiscally and operationally strong. I am grateful to the Board for their continued trust and support and am confident that Atlas will carry our steady momentum forward for years to come.”

Mack Trucks awarded new Sourcewell contract

GREENSBORO, N.C.  – Mack Trucks has been awarded a new contract with Sourcewell, a government service cooperative offering competitive pricing and volume discounts on Mack trucks to its more than 50,000 members. “During the last four years, Mack Trucks and our dealers have performed very well under our contract, and we are happy with the acceptance from customers,” said Jonathan Randall, president of Mack Trucks North America. “Evident by the steady sales growth throughout our first contract, Sourcewell has become a key part of our municipal business, and we’re honored to have been selected for a new contract.” According to a company press release, government, education and nonprofit agencies partnering with Sourcewell can purchase Mack’s Class 6-8 vehicles — the Mack Anthem, Mack Granite, Mack LR, Mack LR Electric, Mack MD Series, Mack MD Electric, Mack Pinnacle and Mack TerraPro models. Sourcewell is a government agency that saves its member agencies time and money through the efficient cooperative purchasing process. By combining the buying power of its member agencies, Sourcewell offers cooperative purchasing contracts that leverages volumized pricing and reduces the costs of the individual bid development process. During 2022-2023, Sourcewell members purchased more than $7.9 billion in contracted sales. All government and education entities are eligible to register as a participating agency with Sourcewell. “Sourcewell strives to provide high quality products and services through our cooperative purchasing contracts,” said Nick Trout, Sourcewell senior supplier development executive. “In their previous contract with us, Mack proved to be a valuable supplier partner for our participating agencies all across the United States.” Mack Trucks’ Sourcewell contract 032824-MAK is open now and available to Sourcewell members. For more information, please visit www.macktrucks.com, www.sourcewell-mn.gov or a local Mack dealership.

Shippers stress the need for port strike to end

WASHINGTON — The Shippers Coalition is calling for an expedited resolution to the current strike at the East and Gulf Coast Ports. According to a press release from the Shippers Coalition, the ILA and USMX’s failure to negotiate has resulted in an uncertain situation for shippers and consumers with no end in sight to the strike. The supply chain disruptions will only compound, leaving factories and plants closed and consumers with higher prices at stores and empty shelves at stores. “President Biden and his administration must step in and use all the tools at their disposal to end this strike immediately,” the Coalition said. “The devastation from Hurricane Helene makes it more crucial for the President step up, so families do not have to worry about a potential shortage of essential goods.” The Coalition said that, in the meantime, the administration can use other authorities to inject much-needed fluidity into the supply chain, including allowing a waiver for an increase of gross vehicle weight limits on the Federal Interstate system. During this supply chain emergency, trucks could be filled to capacity and goods to be shipped across the country. “If President Biden is not going to use the power granted to him to bring workers back to their jobs, then the administration should use other authorities to make sure goods can get to consumers during times of emergency,” says Sean Joyce, executive director of the Shippers Coalition. “Empty shelves are unacceptable and we demand that the parties come to a resolution, so we don’t cause long-lasting damage to our supply chain.” The Coalition added that the devastating impacts can be mitigated if the MOVE Act was passed by Congress and signed into law. Allowing states to waive Federal weight limits on the Interstate System during emergencies would help modernize the supply chain and keep the flow of goods moving when they are most needed.

Respect the drive: TrueBlue and Centerline Drivers honor the work of drivers

TACOMA, Wash. —  TrueBlue and Centerline Drivers, a TrueBlue company, celebrated its fourth annual “Respect the Drive Month” to recognize the important contributions of truck drivers nationwide. “Our drivers are the heartbeat of our organization—delivering excellence mile after mile,” said Jill Quinn, president of Centerline Drivers. “Their dedication, skill and unwavering commitment keep our business moving forward and our customers smiling. We don’t just appreciate our drivers – through Respect the Drive, we celebrate them this month and every day for the incredible work they do. They truly are the unsung heroes of the economy.” According to a company press release, Centerline created “Respect the Drive Month” to honor the work of truck drivers, an effort that has gained urgency as the industry faces a driver shortage of roughly 60,000 drivers according to the American Trucking Association. Centerline’s State of Trucking 2024 survey echoed these challenges, revealing that nearly 25% of drivers reported feeling underappreciated as a key reason for seeking a new profession this year. During this year’s observance, Centerline also introduced the Respect the Drive Customer Awards program to acknowledge companies that support the trucking industry. The initiative features multiple award categories to recognize companies that demonstrate leadership in safety, inclusivity, and fostering a positive culture for drivers. Categories include: Open Road Award: Recognizing efforts to make the industry more inclusive. Driver Culture Award: Celebrating companies that prioritize a supportive environment for drivers. Safety Award: Honoring those committed to ongoing driver safety and training. Respect the Drive Award: The highest honor, encompassing all aspects of safety, inclusivity, and culture. “Centerline is dedicated to celebrating the hard work and achievements of its drivers year-round,” the company said in the release. “Through programs like Respect the Drive, the company continues to recognize drivers’ dedication, loyalty and the vital role they play in supporting its customers.”

PrePass integrates with Motive to enhance fleet operations

PHOENIX, Az. —  PrePass is now available on the Motive Marketplace through a new partnership with AI-powered integrated operations platform Motive, offering its comprehensive suite of services. “This new partnership with Motive will help fleets optimize their operations by delivering more value today and into the future,” said Chris Murray, president of PrePass. “As the only integrated bypass and tolling solution, we maximize their investment in telematics platforms by enabling more bypass opportunities, delivering substantial toll cost savings, and enhancing the experience for drivers and back-office staff.” According to a media release, the integration empowers fleets with seamless access to PrePass‘ industry-leading integrated weigh station bypass and toll management services, significantly enhancing fleet safety, productivity and profitability. Customers will benefit from fewer weigh station stops and improved bypass reliability with the PrePass app and transponder. Additionally, Motive and PrePass customers will gain access to PrePass GPS Toll Verification, an innovative new service that saves fleets time and money by matching GPS location to toll charges. By surfacing toll charge inaccuracies, PrePass can file and resolve disputes on behalf of its customers, ensuring accurate toll payments and reducing operational costs. “Through our partnership, fleets can use PrePass to optimize routes, reduce expenses, and enhance safety,” said Harvey Grasty, senior director of partnerships at Motive. “With PrePass integrated into Motive’s platform, fleets can save time by bypassing weigh stations and improve operations by relying on one unified platform for comprehensive support, toll management, and dispute resolution.” For more information about the integration and services, visit PrePass.com.

Hirschbach Motor Lines wins 2024 SmartWay Excellence Award

DUBUQUE, Iowa — Hirschbach Motor Lines Inc. was recently honored with a SmartWay Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as an industry leader in freight supply chain environmental performance and energy efficiency. According to a media release, The Excellence Award recognizes the top two percent of leading shippers and truck carriers among more than 4,000 SmartWay Partners. Hirschbach was recognized for their superior freight sustainability leadership. Brad Pinchuk, owner of Hirschbach Motor Lines, and Fred Staugh, Chief Maintenance Officer, received this award on behalf of the company. Government officials gave keynote remarks, touching briefly on the SmartWay program, its goals and SmartWay accomplishments in North America.

Dockworkers may have the negotiating advantage in their strike against US ports

PHILADELPHIA — The 45,000 dockworkers who went on strike Tuesday, Oct. 1 — for the first time in decades — at 36 U.S. ports from Maine to Texas may wield the upper hand in their standoff with port operators over wages and the use of automation. Organized labor enjoys rising public support and has had a string of recent victories in other industries, in addition to the backing of the pro-union administration of President Joe Biden. The dockworkers’ negotiating stand is likely further strengthened by the nation’s supply chain of goods being under pressure in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which has coincided with the peak shipping season for holiday goods. The union is also pointing to shipping companies’ record profits, which have come in part because of shortages resulting from the pandemic, and to a more generous contract that West Coast dockworkers achieved last year. The longshoremen’s workloads also have increased, and the effects of inflation have eroded their pay in recent years. In addition, commerce into and out of the U.S. has been growing, playing to the union’s advantage. Further enhancing its leverage is a still-tight job market, with workers in some industries demanding, and in some cases receiving, a larger share of companies’ outsize profits. “I think this work group has a lot of bargaining power,” said Harry Katz, a professor of collective bargaining at Cornell University. “They’re essential workers that can’t be replaced, and also the ports are doing well.” The dockworkers’ strike, their first since 1977, could snarl supply chains and cause shortages and higher prices if it stretches on for more than a few weeks. Beginning after midnight, the workers walked picket lines Tuesday and carried signs calling for more money and a ban on automation that could cost workers their jobs. Experts say consumers won’t likely notice shortages for at least a few weeks, if the strike lasts that long, though some perishable items such as bananas could disappear from grocery stores — although at this time of year, most other fruits and vegetables are domestically grown and not processed at ports, according to Alan Siger, president of the Produce Distributors Association. In anticipation of a strike, most major retailers also stocked up on goods, moving ahead shipments of holiday gift items. The strike, coming weeks before a tight presidential election, could also become a factor in the race if shortages begin to affect many voters. Pressure could eventually grow for the Biden administration to intervene to try to force a temporary suspension of the strike. Little progress was reported in the talks until just hours before the strike began at 12:01 a.m. The U.S. Maritime Alliance, the group negotiating for the ports, said both sides did budge from their initial positions. The alliance offered 50% raises over the six-year life of the contract. Comments from the union’s leadership had briefly suggested a move to 61.5%, but the union has since signaled that it’s sticking with its initial demand for a 77% pay increase over six years. “We have demonstrated a commitment to doing our part to end the completely avoidable ILA strike,” the alliance said Tuesday. The ports’ pay offer is more than every other recent union settlement, the group said. “We look forward to hearing from the Union about how we can return to the table and actually bargain, which is the only way to reach a resolution,” the statement said. In early picketing, workers outside the Port of Philadelphia walked in a circle and chanted, “No work without a fair contract.” The union posted message boards on the side of a truck reading: “Automation Hurts Families: ILA Stands For Job Protection.” Boise Butler, president of the union local, asserted that the workers want a contract that doesn’t allow for the automation of their jobs. The shipping companies, he argued, made billions during the pandemic by charging high prices. “Now,” Butler said, “we want them to pay back. They’re going to pay back.” And in New Orleans, Henry Glover Jr., a fourth-generation dockworker who is president of the union local, said he can recall the days when longshoremen unloaded 150-pound sacks of sugar by hand. He acknowledges that machinery has made the job easier, but he worries that the ports need fewer people to handle the equipment. “Automation could be good, but they’re using it to kill jobs,” Glover said. “We don’t want them to implement anything that would take our jobs out.” William Brucher, an assistant professor of labor studies and employment relations at Rutgers University, noted that “this is a very opportune time” for striking workers. The contract agreement reached last year with West Coast dockworkers, who are represented by a different union, shows that “higher wages are definitely possible” for the longshoremen and has enhanced their bargaining power, Brucher said. Under the Taft-Hartley Act, Biden could seek a court order for an 80-day cooling-off period that would end the strike at least temporarily, but he has told reporters that he wouldn’t take that step. The administration could risk losing union support if it exercised such power, which experts say could be particularly detrimental for Democrats ahead of next month’s election. On Tuesday, the White House continued to ask the alliance to negotiate a fair contract that reflects the longshoremen’s contribution to the economy. “As our nation climbs out of the aftermath of Hurricane Helene,” Biden said in a statement, “dockworkers will play an essential role in getting communities the resources they need. Now is not the time for ocean carriers to refuse to negotiate a fair wage for these essential workers while raking in record profits.” Ben Nolan, a transportation analyst with Stifel, said the administration isn’t likely to intervene until consumers start to see empty shelves or can’t find critical goods like medicines. “Medications and other things come in on containers,” Nolan said. “I think if the administration wanted to have a reason to get involved, it’s stuff like that.” By Tom Krisher, Wyatte Grantham-Philips and Tassanee Vejpongsa, The Associated Press. Krisher reported from Detroit, Grantham-Philips from New York. Associated Press journalists Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia, Jack Brook in New Orleans, Anne D’Innocenzio and Mae Anderson in New York, Dee-Ann Durbin in Detroit, Josh Boak in Washington, and Annie Mulligan in Houston contributed to this report.

Reinke brings expertise to top role as IANA’s new president and CEO

CALVERTON, Md. – Anne Reinke has joined the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) as its new president and CEO, according the IANA Board of Directors. “In looking for a new leader to advance IANA’s role as the voice of the intermodal freight transportation industry, we could not have found a more qualified individual,” said Trevor Ash, chair of IANA’s Board of Directors and CEO of CIE Manufacturing. Reinke joins IANA following four years as president & CEO of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), according to IANA media release. Prior to her tenure at TIA, Reinke spent two years as Deputy Assistant Secretary with the U.S. Department of Transportation and 16 years with CSX Corporation. “IANA is a world-class organization that Joni has so ably led for 27 years,” Reinke said. “I am eager to continue the growth and success she achieved and appreciate the opportunity that the IANA Board has given me. I will be forever grateful for my time at TIA for the experience and perspective I received as its leader.”

Truckstop spot rates shifted ‘as expected’ last week, FTR says

Data from Truckstop for the week ended Sept. 27, analyzed by FTR Transportation Intelligence, show mostly incremental movements in spot rates that followed seasonal patterns, according to an Oct. 1 release. In line with comparable weeks over the past several years, broker-posted dry van and flatbed spot rates increased slightly, while refrigerated rates declined, following a typical pattern, according to the release. Spot metrics for the week showed no clear signs of an initial market impact from Hurricane Helene, although the increases in dry van and refrigerated posted load volumes were notably higher in the Southeast than in other regions. With a dip in truck postings, the Market Demand Index increased to 62.2, the highest level in 10 weeks. Total spot load availability Total load activity rose 4.9% after increasing less than 1% during the previous week. Load postings were 6% below the same week of 2023 and about 33% below the five-year average for the week. One possible impact from Helene was a notably sharper increase in dry van and refrigerated load volumes in the Southeast than in other regions. Total truck postings edged down 1.5%, and the Market Demand Index — the ratio of load postings to truck postings in the system — rose to its highest level in 10 weeks. Total spot rates The total broker-posted rate increased just over a half cent after declining close to 3 cents during the previous week. Rates were nearly 5% below the same below the same 2023 week — the weakest year-over-year comparison in 17 weeks — and more than 10% below the five-year average. Spot rates excluding a calculated fuel surcharge were still higher year over year for each of the principal equipment types, but the comparisons were narrower than they have been in recent weeks. The current week (Week 40), which ends Oct. 4, usually sees lower spot rates week over week in each equipment type. Dry van spot rates Dry van spot rates increased nearly 2 cents after falling more than 3 cents in the prior week. Rates were nearly 7% below the same 2023 week — the largest negative year-over-year comparison since March — and about 17% below the five-year average for the week. Excluding an imputed fuel surcharge, rates were about 3% higher than the same week of 2023. Dry van loads rose 9.3%. Volume was nearly 26% below the same 2023 week and close to 47% below the five-year average. Refrigerated spot rates Refrigerated spot rates decreased 4.6 cents after falling nearly 8 cents during the previous week. Rates were more than 4% below the same week last year and close to 14% below the five-year average. Rates excluding an imputed fuel surcharge were up nearly 4% year over year. Refrigerated loads increased 2.8%. Volume was more than 7% below the same 2023 week and about 39% below the five-year average for the week. Flatbed spot rates  Flatbed spot rates ticked up nearly 1 cent for just the second increase in the past 15 weeks. Rates were more than 5% below the same 2023 week – the largest negative y/y comparison since the end of May – and more than 10% below the five-year average for the week. Rates excluding an imputed fuel surcharge were up 2.6% y/y. Flatbed loads increased 3.5%. Volume was 11.5% above the same week last year but more than 27% below the five-year average.

Dockworkers’ strike could push up prices and cause shortages if it lasts for weeks

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — From Maine to Texas, dockworkers at 36 ports across the eastern United States are on strike for the first time in decades, a work stoppage that could snarl supply chains and cause shortages and higher prices if it stretches on for more than a few weeks. Workers began walking picket lines early Tuesday in a strike over wages and the ports’ use of automation, though some progress was reported in negotiations over a new contract. The existing contract between the ports and about 45,000 members of the International Longshoremen’s Association expired at midnight. The strike comes just weeks before a tight presidential election and could become a factor in the race if shortages begin to affect many voters. In early picketing, workers outside the Port of Philadelphia walked in a circle and chanted, “No work without a fair contract.” The union, which is striking for the first time since 1977, posted message boards on the side of a truck reading: “Automation Hurts Families: ILA Stands For Job Protection.” Boise Butler, president of the union local, asserted that the workers want a fair contract that doesn’t allow for the automation of their jobs. The shipping companies, he argued, made billions during the pandemic by charging high prices. “Now,” Butler said, “we want them to pay back. They’re going to pay back.” He warned that the union plans to strike for as long as it needs to achieve a fair deal and has valuable leverage over the companies. “This is not something that you start and you stop,” Butler said. “We’re not weak,” he added, pointing to the union’s vital importance to the nation’s economy The U.S. Maritime Alliance, which represents the ports, said Monday evening that both sides had given some ground on their previous wage demands. But no deal was reached. Labor experts suggest that the striking workers may wield the upper hand in the standoff. The union’s most recent contract with the alliance was negotiated before the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors ranging from the effects of inflation to increased workloads from pandemic-era demands to a more generous contract achieved by the dockworkers’ West Coast counterparts have boosted their standing to demand higher pay, better workplace protections and a slowdown in the automation of work functions. “This is a very opportune time,” said William Brucher, an assistant professor of labor studies and employment relations at Rutgers University. Though inflation has diminished, Brucher noted, the cost of living is still much higher than it was before COVID-19, which means the buying power of workers’ wages has shrunk. Brucher also pointed to momentum from other labor activity over recent years, as unions across industries have demanded more and seen companies provide concessions as a result. And the contract agreement made last year with West Coast dockworkers, who are represented by a different union, shows that “higher wages are definitely possible” for the longshoremen and has enhanced their bargaining power. Leading up to the strike, the union’s opening offer in the talks was for a 77% pay raise over the six-year life of the contract, with President Harold Daggett saying it’s necessary to make up for inflation and years of small raises. The union members earn a base salary of about $81,000 per year, but some can pull in over $200,000 annually with significant amounts of overtime. On Monday evening, the alliance said it had increased its offer to 50% raises over six years and pledged to keep limits on automation that are in place from the old contract. The alliance also said its offer tripled employer contributions to retirement plans and strengthened health care options. The union, though, wants a complete ban on automation, and it was unclear how far apart the two sides are on the issue. In a statement early Tuesday, the union said it rejected the alliance’s latest proposal because it “fell far short of what ILA rank-and-file members are demanding in wages and protections against automation.” The two sides had not held formal negotiations since June. Consumers won’t likely feel any consequences from the strike right away, supply chain experts say. In anticipation of a strike, most major retailers have stocked up on goods, moving ahead shipments of holiday gift items. But if the work stoppage drags out for more than a few weeks, consumers could feel the effects. If drawn out, the strike could cause some goods to arrive late for peak holiday shopping season, potentially disrupting the delivery of anything from toys and artificial Christmas trees to cars, coffee and fruit. The strike will likely have an almost immediate impact on supplies of perishable imports like bananas. The ports that are affected by the strike handle 3.8 million metric tons of bananas each year, or 75% of the nation’s supply, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. Though consumers might face higher prices for some of these items over time, businesses will likely take hits sooner. In addition to paying for delays, competition to keep prices down or relatively stable may lead some affected companies to incur extra costs. Jay Foreman, CEO of Basic Fun, which makes such toys as Care Bears and Lincoln Logs, said he has been monitoring the port situation for months and planned for it by shifting all container shipments to West Coast ports. But he said the shift added anywhere from 10% to 20% extra costs that his company will have to absorb. Foreman added that Basic Fun’s prices for the next 10 months are locked in with retailers but that he might have to raise prices during the second half of 2025 if the strike is prolonged. “We were expecting a good holiday season, but now those extra costs are going to eat into profits,” he said. “It affects raises and bonuses.” The strike could also snarl exports from East Coast ports and create traffic jams at ports on the West Coast. Railroads say they can ramp up to carry more freight from the West Coast, but analysts say they can’t move enough to make up for the closed Eastern ports. J.P. Morgan estimated that a strike that shuts down East and Gulf coast ports could cost the economy $3.8 billion to $4.5 billion per day, with some of that recovered over time after normal operations resume. Retailers, auto parts suppliers and produce importers had hoped for a settlement or that President Joe Biden would intervene and end the strike using the Taft-Hartley Act, which allows him to seek an 80-day cooling off period. But during a Sunday exchange with reporters, Biden, who has worked to court union votes for Democrats, said “no” when asked if he planned to intervene in the potential work stoppage. In an update Tuesday morning, the White House maintained that administration officials were working “around the clock” to help negotiations move forward. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were also “closely monitoring” potential supply chain impacts, the White House added, enlisting a task force to meet daily and prepare for any disruptions. Biden’s keeping his word on not intervening carries a lot of weight for the coming election, experts say. “Democrats really can’t afford to alienate organized labor,” Brucher said. Taft-Harley injunctions by a president are “widely despised” by unions across the country, he said, and those same unions are necessary for turnout at the polls, particularly for Harris’ campaign.

Former Ohio trucking company owner sentenced for shipping fraud scheme

OHIO —  The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio has sentenced Gurtej Singh, also known as Gary Bhullar, to 12 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment and 100 hours of community service for his role in a shipping fraud scheme. According to a U.S. Department of Transportation press release from the Office of the Inspector General, on February 6,  Singh, who owned and managed several trucking companies in Ohio and California, pleaded guilty to committing wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud shippers. “The investigation revealed that from April 2018 until May 2022, Singh would charge shippers a premium rate to reserve the entire trailer to ensure their load would not be mixed with cargo from other shipments,” according to the release. “However, Singh and others surreptitiously opened sealed truck trailers and removed goods to illegally consolidate loads to save costs, often failing to deliver many goods to their final destination.” The original indictment in May 2023 stated Singh and others who own and operated several motor carrier companies conspired to steal cargo from interstate shipments that were supposed to be delivered to Amazon and Bath and Body Works. Singh directed CSE drivers to stop at the CSE warehouse in Columbus, Ohio so employees could steal cargo from their trucks. The employees accessed the trailers by removing locking mechanisms on the trailer doors, making it appear as though the trailer doors were never opened during transport. Singh also filed an application with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) falsely stating that Singh did not have relationships with other FMCSA regulated entities. DOT-OIG conducted this investigation with the Columbus, Ohio Police Department.

Repeating history: Timing of port strike eerily similar to 1938 truckers’ strike

East and Gulf Coast ports shut down at midnight Oct. 1, 2024, as 45,000 union longshoremen walked off their jobs. Freight will quickly back up as many parts of the Southeast work to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, which hit the Big Bend area of Florida on Sept. 26 and wove a path of destruction reaching far beyond the coastline. With the port strike, analysts expect the impact on import and exports to be $5 billion per day. Coincidentally, exactly 86 years ago in New York City, a truckers’ strike affected shipping up and down the East Coast — when the area was hit by a Category 3 hurricane. Here’s how the story goes. By the late 1930s, trucking held a firm grip on commerce throughout the U.S. While railroads and seaports served cities on both coasts, it was trucks that delivered the bulk of the goods throughout the country and into cities, shuttling goods between terminals and delivering to stores and worksites. While railroad workers had worked eight-hour days for many years, truckers weren’t provided the same working conditions. The Motor Carrier Act proposed in 1937 would have allowed truckers to work up to 60 hours a week, with 12 hours a day behind the wheel. Even in large metropolitan areas like New York City, those extremes had not been considered; however, local trucking firms did require drivers to work 47-hour weeks at a pay rate of $56.50 per week. The terms didn’t sit well with truck drivers. When the drivers’ contracts expired on Sept. 1, 1938, employers pushed for truck drivers to take a pay cut. The drivers responded negatively, pushing for a new contract that would lower their work hours to 40 per week — with no pay cut and including one week’s vacation. A large part of the motivation of the drivers’ terms were to spread work to the some 4,000 unemployed drivers in New York City. As Sept. 15 approached, the employers backed away from the 47-hour work week. Instead, they suggested a 44-hour week with no pay reduction. Members of the truckers’ unions rejected the proposal, and 1,000 members went so far as to unofficially vote for a strike. On Sept. 15, Local 807 voted for an unsanctioned, or “outlaw” strike, across New York City. It was their belief that negotiators were not working to achieve the lower hours the union members wanted. As the idea of a truckers’ strike began to gain steam, a hurricane was barreling up the East Coast. In a few days, there would be a need for relief efforts, and truck drivers would be a major contributor to relief to areas all along the Atlantic coast. With an eye on the storm, another 1,000 workers voted to strike and 5,000 more were expected to follow. However, the truckers planned to honor their civic duty and agreed to deliver relief supplies as required. Employers proposed five- and three-day truces to the growing movement toward a drivers’ strike. The drivers involved rejected both. Their position was strengthened when the Sailors Union of the Pacific agreed not to cross picket lines — and picketing of the Holland Tunnel between New York and New Jersey virtually brought interstate trucking to a halt. Eventually, this block on interstate trucking would impact over 2,000 gas stations in New York City. By Sept. 20, over 12,000 striking truckers were in the city, 5,000 of them operating “driving picket lines” to enforce the strike effort. The next day, as acting mayor Newbold Morris ordered the strike to end in 24 hours, Long Island was struck by a Category 3 hurricane. To date, the strike had interrupted deliveries for the 1939 World’s Fair construction and caused shipping lines along the East Coast to stop working the piers, as no freight was being moved. Similar stoppages happened along the Pennsylvania and New York Central railroad lines where freight piled up in warehouses. With relief for those impacted by the hurricane taking priority, the union agreed to a temporary truce, which would last until Sept. 24. Over the ensuing 48 hours, negotiators made no progress toward an agreement between the employers and drivers’ unions. A “real strike” was now a looming possibility. Employers used the truce period to build a backlog of supplies in case a strike occurred, but road damage from the hurricane disrupted these efforts. Then, when no agreement was reached at the end of the truce period, an official strike vote was held on Sept. 25, with 4,071 in favor of the strike and only 365 against. The “real strike” was on. Just one day later, 20,000 Teamsters union drivers in New Jersey voted to join their neighbors’ effort and fight for better working conditions. Dealing another blow to the employers was the Longshoreman’s Union public statement that it would not attempt to disrupt the drivers’ strike. In addition, they announced that when their contract ended in just a few months they too would be asking for a 40-hour workweek. During the official strike, truck drivers agreed to exempt food, medicine and relief goods from the strike embargo so vital supplies could be delivered to hurricane-stricken areas. Regardless, those enforcing the strike effort caught many drivers attempting to circumvent the rules and make ordinary deliveries under the premise of emergency relief efforts, placing “flood signs” on the windshields of their trucks. New York City’s Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia spent a majority of the strike period out of the city. Upon his return, he found between 30,000 and 35,000 drivers on strike. He proposed new terms to both the strikers and employers. First, LaGuardia suggested a two-year contract calling for a 44-hour workweek with no pay cut. This compromise would require drivers to work eight hours on weekdays and four hours on Saturdays — and the weekend work would be paid at time and a half. All work over eight hours in a single day would be subject to the same overtime pay. However, drivers could not work more than 44 hours a week, regardless of overtime incurred Monday-Friday. In other words, if a driver worked a total of four hours of overtime during the regular workweek, the driver would not be allowed to work on Saturday. The striking drivers voted to accept the terms; however, their employers initially resisted. Eventually, cracks formed in the employers’ opposition, and over the next several days, more drivers and employers broke ranks and agreed to LaGuardia’s terms. The drivers’ strike ended on Oct. 2, 1938, when all major trucking firms agreed to the conditions. The aftermath of the New York City truckers’ strike created some changes at the federal level. No longer did the Motor Carrier Association push for a 60-hour workweek. To help ensure drivers were paid for their work, it initiated the use of driving logs. The agency also approved the use of “sleeper” cabs to address long-distance drivers and the need for rest periods along their routes. Perhaps most importantly, the truckers’ strike made Americans recognize how important trucking had become to an economy that 20 years earlier was driven by railroad and wagons transporting freight. That historic strike of 1938 also helped set the stage for interstate regulations related to trucking — and an increased the federal government’s involvement in the freight industry. As port workers from Maine to Texas form picket lines in an attempt to better their working conditions, the question is this: The longshoremen supported truckers back in 1938. Will the trucking industry provide the same support back now? Time will tell.

Former Omnitracs exec Jeff Westover named Rand McNally’s CRO

BOISE, Idaho.  —  Rand McNally has named Jeff Westover as Global Head of Sales and Marketing and Chief Revenue Officer (CRO). “Jeff brings a powerful blend of proven skills, experience and creativity that are exactly what Rand McNally needs at this stage in our journey,” said CEO Doug Phillips. “He’s already having a positive impact on the team and our customers,”  “I’m looking forward to partnering with Jeff to accelerate our growth and meet the maturing needs of the market.” Westover will lead all commercial and go-to-market (GTM) aspects of the company, and its family of brands, as it climbs to the next level of innovation and growth. According to a company media release, Rand McNally empowers fleets, drivers and operations to safely and efficiently navigate the road ahead while the brand has and continues to stand for safety, simplicity, and trust. Westover is responsible for driving customer value, and growing revenue across Rand’s portfolio of brands and capabilities. After three decades of success building customer results, value expansion, go-to-market leadership, and strategic initiatives across the transportation, technology, SaaS and services sectors at companies including Omnitracs (formerly Qualcomm), Hyperscience, Hewlett-Packard, Autonomy, Siebel, and Microsoft, Westover is excited by the opportunity to return to the industry with the most trusted brand in Rand McNally. “Rand’s unmatched legacy of trust is built on 165+ years of steadfast value delivery… all of it on the road,” Westover said. “That enviable reputation has been well earned, and I’m beyond excited to help this next generation of Randers build upon it. As a kid, I attached the Rand brand to adventure and road trips.  As we move forward, we’ll amplify that core feeling. Fleets and drivers alike know Rand McNally will work tirelessly to maintain and reward the trust they’ve placed in our brand over the decades.” Westover, his wife Tricia, and their four children live in Dallas, Texas where they are very involved in their local community, children’s schools, church and goldendoodles’ lives.