Cargo Shorts

Load Planning is the hidden hero of successful LTL shipping.   In the LTL industry, Load Planning is the difference between a high-performing supply chain and a costly logistical nightmare. When executed with clarity and precision, it ensures freight moves efficiently through the carrier's network to arrive intact and on schedule.   Host Samantha Jones talks with Skip Velardo (VP of Transportation...

Achieving robust data integrity across your logistics platform does far more than just maximize on-time, in-full (OTIF) performance and minimize claims and invoicing discrepancies. The effects generate quantifiable value across the entire enterprise ecosystem, crucially optimizing carrier partnership collaboration and enhancing client satisfaction.   Host Samantha Jones talks with Greg Plemmons (C...

With the upcoming National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system changes — Docket 2025-1 — poised to boost carrier efficiency and potentially lower shipping costs, this discussion examines past classification challenges and outlines the future benefits, along with crucial preparation resources for shippers.   Host Samantha Jones of SJ Consulting is joined by Seth Bauer, Director of Traffic Se...

Must Arrive By Date (MABD) shipping has become a cornerstone for retailers and supply chains alike. Born out of the need for efficiency and precision, MABD's mandate that freight must be delivered within highly specific date and time windows. There are strict penalties for non-compliance, presenting challenges for shippers. Understanding and navigating these requirements is essential for those inv...

The domestic supply chain has changed in ways few could predict. It has rebuilt itself in new, dynamic ways, with a stronger version of Just-in-Time shipping emerging. It is called "Just-in-Time 2.0." This new model keeps the best parts of the old system while focusing on shorter, resilient lines of transport with greater redundancy.   Host Jonathan Betz is joined by Dr. Thomas Goldsby, the Profes...

Every inch counts when it comes to shipping, and accurate dimensioning can tip the scales in your favor. When weighing options, precise pallet dimensioning can make shipping faster and more efficient while reducing surprises on the final bill.   Host Jonathan Betz is joined by Todd Polen, Vice President of Pricing Systems at Old Dominion, and Glenn Zalusky, the Vice President of Strategic Business...

Whether you are shipping across the country or around the world, the right packaging makes all the difference. As the emphasis on sustainability intensifies, the industry is rapidly evolving, with data playing a vital role. But cost and fragility of freight are factors that need to be considered.   Host Jonathan Betz is joined by Dr. Greg Batt, an Associate Professor of Packaging Sciences at Clems...

Automation and digitization are rapidly transforming the LTL industry, enabling greater transparency and visibility. Seamless technology fosters improved planning, pricing, service, and relationships among carriers and shippers.   Host Jonathan Betz speaks with Barry Craver, VP of Technology at Old Dominion, who served OD on the business side for twenty years and took responsibility for IT in 2023...

The findings from Mastio's annual study of LTL carriers help shippers evaluate carriers based on many important attributes.   Shippers need to choose the right partner when selecting a carrier. Shippers want to ensure that their freight will make it to their customers on time and damage-free. What tools are available to help shippers choose the right carrier for their business? How can collecting...

Understanding freight classification is a critical part of the shipping process. If freight is not properly classified or wrong item numbers are used, the most accurate rates may not be applied, which can lead to an unwelcome surprise on the final bill. Understanding these classifications is critical to a business, but why is it a struggle for some, and what can be done to improve the system to st...

Customer expectations are growing as economic stress factors remain, giving rise to an uncertain holiday season.   Retailers face their peak period during this season of shopping and shipping. This year appears to be shaping up like few others. Inflation remains a concern, interest rates continue to rise, and retailers are worried about weakened spending. So, where do things stand now? Do shippers...

How can carriers evolve to navigate retail supply chain complexities and future consumer expectations?   The pandemic caused a seismic shift in the industry and resulted in systemic changes to traditional retail supply chain strategies. What lessons did we learn and where have we landed to better meet customer demands?   In this episode hear from Joe Metzger, former Executive Vice President of Sup...

There are many reasons for shippers and carriers to share information including better planning, better pricing, and cost savings. It benefits all parties to work together to improve transparency, efficiency, and trust. Business expectations are rapidly changing, therefore it is important to come together to talk about using digitalization in transportation and how it can lead to enhanced visibili...

Well-known, established companies have successfully navigated downturns by focusing on their foundational principles and values. Maintaining relevance in their markets had little to do with competition or price. In this episode of Cargo Shorts, we focus on understanding brand value in the market and how building good relationships with partners drives business success.   Host Jonathan Betz is join...

Anyone who buys goods and services knows how important customer service is, but how can companies deliver it successfully and consistently? What is the difference between service and a truly unique customer experience? We are always looking for ways to understand the needs and challenges of the customer to deliver exceptional service.   In this episode, Host Jonathan Betz is joined by two experts...

During 2022, the industry has continued to experience global supply chain challenges and the effect it has had on the American economy. The pandemic disrupted global supply chains and it tested the resilience and flexibility of supply chain leaders. While COVID-19 was not a typical risk event, it underscored the need for organizations to reexamine and manage their supply chains to ensure business...

The trucking industry, specifically less than truckload carriers, has reached an inflection point where digitization and automation are critical parts of the industry's future. But who will drive that transformation? Like most things we experience in life and business, change takes time and leadership. As manual processes are being replaced by automation, this leads to many downstream benefits for...

The rising cost of transportation bottlenecks and service delays have left logistics managers with much to manage. Calculating the total cost of these issues is difficult when only addressing a predetermined price per transaction. Strategic partnerships between shippers and carriers can mitigate pain points and lead to a better customer experience. But, how can logistics partners improve the suppl...

For decades, companies have used a just-in-time inventory model to reduce excess supply and create a lean production process. But recently, we've seen firms take a more conservative approach with a just-in-case supply used to avoid running out of stock. The pandemic-induced devastation of supply chains put a spotlight on some of the challenges we face and exposed vulnerabilities in the just-in-tim...

Cargo Shorts tackles all things related to the transportation of goods. Each episode digs into a key issue facing North American surface transportation with expert insights from economics, automation, and logistics professionals. Learn more about the complexities in the supply chain you're facing in your business.