next week's "brakedown"

Brake Safety Week, which is taking place next week (August 20-26th) is an initiative spearheaded by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA). With representatives from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, the CVSA shines a spotlight on the importance of brake systems in our commercial vehicles.  Expect an "unannounced one-day brake safety enforcement initiative, which may be held at any time," according to the CVSA.

Here's what you need to know:

Shifts in the global supply chain are taking place simultaneously as the Panama Canal's operations strain due to drought. What does this mean for shippers in the drayage market? Grains might be down, but East Coast and Gulf Ports of the United States are in a  favorable position to minimize the impact thanks to some seemingly unrelated shifts in the global supply chain. So, what does grain, electric vehicles, and China's national security have to do with it? Read on to find out. 

So, what's the big deal with the Panama Canal?

Did you know that a staggering 40% of all containers originating from the United States travel through the iconic Panama Canal? This engineering marvel connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This is a critical point for U.S. imports and exports, so shippers need to pay attention as the drought will likely affect operations through the end of 2023.

U.s. transit & panama canal facts to know

• The U.S. accounts for just over 73% of traffic for the Panama Canal.

It wasn’t just drivers who entered the industry during the peak of the pandemic. The role of logistician was booming. The pandemic created demand for supply chain talent giving rise to a new generation of logisticians, the “pandemic logistician.” Many came to the industry to join the logistics circus, prompting us to question:

The difference between east coast and west coast ports

Recent disruptions across Total Terminals International (TTI) ports on the West Coast shut down 6 major ports: Seattle, Tacoma, Oakland, Hueneme, Long Beach, and Los Angeles. Detrimental reactions to labor contract negotiations breed unpredictability and concerns for the west coast ports. Still, there is some relief as a tentative agreement was reached this past Wednesday.

“We are pleased to have reached an agreement that recognizes the heroic efforts and personal sacrifices of the ILWU workforce in keeping our ports operating,” said PMA President James McKenna and ILWU President Willie Adams in a joint statement. “We are also pleased to turn our full attention back to the operation of the West Coast Ports.” 

-- Statement from the Pacific Maritime Association
June 14th, 2023

Don't wait for the next shutdown to familiarize yourself with the distinctions between U.S. seaports, their key players, and the improvements being made...or at least attempted.