Business
Transport Topics business coverage focuses on the financial, economic, and commercial aspects of the modern freight business. Looking at both the microeconomic and macroeconomic forces shaping bottom lines, the news in this category includes labor news, jobs reports, tonnage and sales indicators, operations analysis, money and banking, mergers, acquisitions, e-commerce, bankruptcy, insurance issues, and more.
Used-Truck Demand Strong, Even as Availability Grows
Strong demand for used trucks is keeping prices at high levels, even as availability of newer equipment continues to grow, analysts said.
September 15, 2014New Truck Orders Grow; 2014 Slots Nearly Filled
Persistent strength in new Class 8 truck orders has filled nearly all open build slots in manufacturers’ production plans through the remainder of 2014, industry analysts said.
September 15, 2014Study Says Fleets Reap More Savings With Investment in Fuel Technologies
Ten large trucking fleets reduced their annual fuel costs by $7,200 per truck by instituting an array of technologies and practices to increase efficiency, according to an annual industry survey.
September 15, 2014Truckers Face Lengthy Detours After Floods Close Stretch of I-15
Nearly 50 miles of Interstate 15, a critical western freight artery, was closed last week after floods severely damaged the highway north of Las Vegas, forcing thousands of truckers to take costly detours from Southern California to Montana.
September 15, 2014Western Star Unveils 5700XE
Sensing that its core customer group of small and medium-size fleets is now buying more trucks, Daimler’s Western Star unit launched a new highway tractor offering improved fuel efficiency while maintaining the brand’s classic styling. (See photos.)
XPO Says $700 Million Funding Will Speed Acquisitions
XPO Logistics Inc. said three investors have agreed to a $700 million infusion of equity that will enable the company to accelerate its revenue and profitability growth plans.
BNSF Union Members Reject 1-Person Train Crew Plan
A controversial BNSF Railway Co. labor contract proposal that would have cut some crews to one person from two has been rejected by workers who voted on the proposal, the union and the railroad confirmed.
September 12, 2014Covenant Forecasts Higher 3Q Earnings
Covenant Transportation Group Inc. said its third-quarter earnings per share will be triple what they were a year ago, excluding charges.
Transport Canada Sells Three Ports in Newfoundland
Canada’s transportation department, Transport Canada, said it has sold three ports in Newfoundland to local business groups.
September 12, 2014Consumer Sentiment Rises to Highest in 14 Months
American consumer confidence rose to the highest level in more than a year in September, as households’ views on the outlook for the economy brightened.
September 12, 2014