Logistics

As truck drivers crisscross the country hauling goods vital to the fight against the coronavirus, they find themselves at the center of another fast-spreading outbreak: nationwide gratitude. It’s showing up along the roads, on TV, in emails and social media, and even at the White House.

Trucking is handling increased demand and awaits a potential surge of pent-up activity because of the coronavirus, but what that means for the industry long term remains an open question.

Truck drivers have faced a number of hurdles in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. But lately, traffic hasn’t been one of them.

The season’s first load of iron ore left the Duluth harbor before dawn March 22, carrying with it some extra cargo — caution over the spread of coronavirus.

U.S. trucking companies are riding a surge in cargo demand from consumers stockpiling basic goods, but it may not last long.

UPS Inc. said it is taking steps to protect its employees from contracting the COVID-19 virus and that it reached an agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters concerning paid-leave guidelines for unionized workers who are affected by it.

Electric-transit bus manufacturer Proterra appointed current Chairman Jack Allen to CEO as it prepares to extend its technology to other vehicle segments, including last-mile delivery.

FedEx Corp. CEO Fred Smith said during a television appearance that he doesn’t expect his company to seek assistance from the federal government to survive the economic downturn being caused by the spread of COVID-19.

An updated guidance memo issued by the director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency clearly identifies truck drivers and related logistics personnel as “essential employees” helping the nation attempt to slow the spread of the coronavirus.