PRIMO LEADING NEWS
WEEK DECEMBER 11TH TO 15TH, 2023
US and Industry
UPS Changes US Diesel Surcharges, Shippers Refocus Optimization Efforts
DECEMBER 4, 2023
The diesel market is experiencing a notable downward trend, with prices now 87.5 cents cheaper per gallon than last year, and a significant 45.3 cents drop in the past six weeks. In this environment of rapidly changing fuel costs and challenges in tracking your shipment’s associated fuel surcharges, PRIMO’s Managed Trans system provides a vital service. It effectively eliminates the complexity of tracking fluctuating fuel surcharges by offering embedded account managers who ensure carriers bill costs accurately. This approach allows customers to benefit from transparent, all-inclusive rates, avoiding unexpected surcharges and providing much-needed stability in logistics planning.
East Coast Strike Threat Worries Shippers, PRIMO Readies Alternate Routes
December 6, 2023
The shipping industry faces potential upheaval with the possibility of labor disruptions, including a strike, along the US East and Gulf coasts. This concern is particularly pressing as the current collective bargaining agreement for union members of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) is set to expire in September 2024 unless an agreement is reached. In addition, DHL workers at the Cincinnati Air Hub are also striking now. PRIMO is proactively addressing these concerns by offering robust intermodal solutions, including rail alternatives, to ensure seamless and uninterrupted logistics operations. These solutions are particularly valuable in navigating the complexities of potential port strikes and maintaining consistent supply chain flow, thereby providing shippers with reliable and efficient alternatives during times of uncertainty.
El Niño Weather Patterns Likely to Disrupt Holiday Shipping
dECEMBER 5, 2023
The expected El Niño weather pattern is set to bring a mix of wetter, colder conditions to the southern U.S. and drier, warmer conditions to the north, with potential for disruptive winter storms. These weather-related challenges, which annually cost the freight industry up to $9 billion, necessitate advanced planning and strategic responses. PRIMO’s managed transportation system is equipped to navigate these challenges, utilizing advanced weather intelligence and proactive route optimization. This ensures efficient and timely deliveries, safeguarding against the unpredictability of seasonal weather impacts and maintaining the integrity of shipments, even in freezing temperatures.
trucking
Big US LTL Carriers Take Yellow’s Terminals in Auction, PRIMO’s Network Remains Undisrupted
december 5, 2023
In a significant development in the logistics industry, four of the largest US less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers have acquired 77 of Yellow’s terminals, a move that could influence LTL capacity and pricing. This acquisition, totaling $1.57 billion, keeps a large portion of Yellow’s terminals within the LTL sector, potentially firming up LTL pricing as we head into 2024. Despite these industry changes, PRIMO’s network continues to provide robust and reliable LTL solutions, ensuring consistent service and capacity for shippers. PRIMO’s ability to counteract the imbalance of LTL capacity, especially in the face of industry consolidation or changing bids, offers a dependable option for businesses navigating these new dynamics.
Technology
Biden Moves to Reduce Reliance on Chinese-Made EV Batteries, Increases Demand for US Expertise
December 5, 2023
The Biden administration’s recent policy changes, aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese-made EV batteries, are reshaping the global battery supply chain. These changes include excluding Chinese entities from receiving tax credits for investing in the U.S. EV supply chain and setting stringent criteria for determining company control by foreign entities. This shift could have far-reaching consequences for critical mineral producers and the EV market. PRIMO’s expertise in managing chemicals and electronics positions us to effectively navigate these changes in the EV battery market. PRIMO’s specialized logistics solutions ensure secure, efficient supply chain operations, crucial for adapting to the evolving landscape of EV battery logistics and supporting the surge in U.S. EV supply chain investment.