Although PGT Services specializes in flatbed transportation primarily focusing on steel, building products, pipe, heavy machinery, and drayage – we have the capabilities to move almost all commodities requiring flatbed.

Managing Project Logistics may seem daunting to some, but at PGT Services, it’s a challenge weembrace with confidence. With a rich history of successfully tackling intricate, large-scale projects, 

we have consistently delivered solutions that exceed expectations. Our unwavering commitment toprioritizing safety, maintaining pristine service, and handling every aspect of project logistics with carehas been the cornerstone of PGT Services. 

As the year concludes and we look into the New Year, we reflect on the final month of the year—December and everything that occurred in the transportation and logistics world. To start we address the Pennsylvania Parking shortage with a report titled “expanding truck parking in Pennsylvania,” emphasizing public-private collaboration and designating PennDOT as an executive sponsor. Additionally, this year the progress for battery-electric trucks was slower than expected. Issues arose in both the Red Sea and the Panama Canal where there were attacks on commercial vessels in the lower Red Sea, and a drought in the Panama Canal forcing shippers to pick between extended wait times or high fees.

Amid Red Sea turmoil, LNG tanker rental rates have dropped below $100,000 a day in the Pacific basin due to reduced demand from mild weather and market segmentation. Finally, on a more positive note, Canada has allocated $3.9 million for safety improvements on the Alaska highway for safer roadways. As the heart of winter continues, and we reflect on December, we are excited for what’s to come in the industry.

As winter continues to approach, we saw many events take place to prepare the industry for long-term success. Winter driving demands caution due to challenging conditions and potential vehicle issues, necessitating comprehensive safety plans and effective communication between fleets and drivers. Meanwhile, DP World faces a 30,000-container backlog at Australian ports after a cyberattack, disrupting nearly 40% of the country’s goods flow. Ongoing investigations and security measures by DP World suggest potential trade disruptions lasting for days.

Despite economic uncertainties, 73% of merchants anticipate increased holiday sales, aligning with the National Retail Federation’s 3-4% YoY growth prediction in holiday spending. The trucking sector adopts smart camera technology, integrating AI and computer vision for enhanced safety. Gasoline prices in the U.S. have fallen for 60 consecutive days, potentially boosting retail sales during the holiday season. The USDOT mandates states to establish emission-reduction goals by Feb. 1, aligning with President Biden’s climate change efforts and offering federal funding for targeted emissions reductions in the transportation sector.

Flatbed Shipping requires specialized knowledge and should be managed with detailed execution. PGT Services’ experts match your freight with qualified and experienced carriers meeting all of your securement needs.

October saw many events take place to prepare the industry for long-term success as colder weather and winter approaches. Indiana adds 200 truck parking spaces at Kankakee Welcome Center to address shortages and create a safer environment. At the ports, port authorities are exploring real-time cargo tracking, with privacy concerns raised. American electric vehicle manufacturer, Rivian, plans to open Atlanta space to showcase its brand and confirms a $5 billion Georgia factory for R2 crossover production. These many advancements are encouraging for the transportation industry!

Additionally, Trucking fleets face complexities due to evolving emissions regulations in California and the need for zero-emission technology. UPS highlights renewable natural gas as a solution. CARB’s ACT rule may limit diesel truck availability, and congestion added significant costs in 2021. This congestion problem, cost the industry an enormous $94.6 billion. On a much more positive note, The Women in Motion group is expanding its memberships and resources to support female independent contractors. As the darkness roles in earlier, and we reflect on October, we are excited for what’s to come in the industry.

We bring reliable flatbed capacity to help our customers manage their transportation process. Learn more about the commodities our employees are trained in executing safely and efficiently for our customers.

As September ends and we get ready for fall to ramp up, we look forward to the busy transportation season that comes with it—let’s recap on the previous month! Shrinking US storage in Oklahoma impacts global oil markets, raising premiums for US crude in Asia and Brent-Middle East oil spreads despite. In Iowa, Governor Reynolds approved a 30-day grain harvest proclamation, allowing overweight loads for agriculture products until October 11. In addition to overall industry advancements, the Biden administration allocates $1.4 billion for railway safety and capacity projects across 35 states.

Still combating pandemic-related production issues, Trailer manufacturers explore automation, and prepare for electric trucks and more autonomous vehicles. Additionally, federal trucking regulators plan a study to investigate the impact of driver detention time on safety and operations. The 35th Annual National Truck Driver Appreciation Week took place the week of September 10–16, celebrating 3.5 million truck drivers through various events emphasizing the importance of recognizing truck drivers.