#freight industry impact

[artisticdivasworld]

Truckers Brace for Impact as Freight Jobs Disappear

The freight industry just got hit with over 14,300 layoffs across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. That’s a big deal, and it’s going to ripple through the industry in ways that could make life even harder for individual truckers trying to make a living. (Photo: Jim Allen/FreightWaves) First off, fewer workers in manufacturing and logistics means less freight moving. When factories slow down or…

[writers-potion]

I'm writing a sci-fi story about a space freight hauler with a heavy focus on the economy. Any tips for writing a complex fictional economy and all of it's intricacies and inner-workings?

Constructing a Fictional Economy

The economy is all about: How is the limited financial/natural/human resources distributed between various parties?

So, the most important question you should be able to answer are:

Who are the "have"s and "have-not"s?

What's "expensive" and what's "commonplace"?

What are the rules(laws, taxes, trade) of this game?

Building Blocks of the Economic System

Type of economic system. Even if your fictional economy is made up, it will need to be based on the existing systems: capitalism, socialism, mixed economies, feudalism, barter, etc.

Currency and monetary systems: the currency can be in various forms like gols, silver, digital, fiat, other commodity, etc. Estalish a central bank (or equivalent) responsible for monetary policy

Exchange rates

Inflation

Domestic and International trade: Trade policies and treaties. Transportation, communication infrastructure

Labour and employment: labor force trends, employment opportunities, workers rights. Consider the role of education, training and skill development in the labour market

The government's role: Fiscal policy(tax rate?), market regulation, social welfare, pension plans, etc.

Impact of Technology: Examine the role of tech in productivity, automation and job displacement. How does the digital economy and e-commerce shape the world?

Economic history: what are some historical events (like The Great Depresion and the 2008 Housing Crisis) that left lasting impacts on the psychologial workings of your economy?

For a comprehensive economic system, you'll need to consider ideally all of the above. However, depending on the characteristics of your country, you will need to concentrate on some more than others. i.e. a country heavily dependent on exports will care a lot more about the exchange rate and how to keep it stable.

For Fantasy Economies:

Social status: The haves and have-nots in fantasy world will be much more clear-cut, often with little room for movement up and down the socioeconoic ladder.

Scaricity. What is a resource that is hard to come by?

Geographical Characteristics: The setting will play a huge role in deciding what your country has and doesn't. Mountains and seas will determine time and cost of trade. Climatic conditions will determine shelf life of food items.

Impact of Magic: Magic can determine the cost of obtaining certain commodities. How does teleportation magic impact trade?

For Sci-Fi Economies Related to Space Exploration

Thankfully, space exploitation is slowly becoming a reality, we can now identify the factors we'll need to consider:

Economics of space waste: How large is the space waste problem? Is it recycled or resold? Any regulations about disposing of space wste?

New Energy: Is there any new clean energy? Is energy scarce?

Investors: Who/which country are the giants of space travel?

Ownership: Who "owns" space? How do you draw the borders between territories in space?

New class of workers: How are people working in space treated? Skilled or unskilled?

Relationship between space and Earth: Are resources mined in space and brought back to Earth, or is there a plan to live in space permanently?

What are some new professional niches?

What's the military implication of space exploitation? What new weapons, networks and spying techniques?

Also, consider:

Impact of space travel on food security, gender equality, racial equality

Impact of space travel on education.

Impact of space travel on the entertainment industry. Perhaps shooting monters in space isn't just a virtual thing anymore?

What are some indsutries that decline due to space travel?

I suggest reading up the Economic Impact Report from NASA, and futuristic reports from business consultants like McKinsey.

If space exploitation is a relatiely new technology that not everyone has access to, the workings of the economy will be skewed to benefit large investors and tech giants. As more regulations appear and prices go down, it will be further be integrated into the various industries, eventually becoming a new style of living.

[probablyasocialecologist]

According to a first of its kind study on “corporate carbon damages”, firms would lose 44% of their profits if they had to pay for the damages attributable to their climate pollution. When one of the researchers was asked what the total amount in dollars would be for such damages, co-author Christian Leuz revealed that “At $190 [the U.S. EPA’s current cost per ton of carbon], the utility industry averaged damages more than twice its profits. Materials manufacturing, energy and transportation industries all had average damages that exceeded their profits.” An additional analysis from 2013 that focused on pricing in environmental externalities came to a similar conclusion that does not bode well for “climate capitalism.” Influential climate analyst David Roberts, writing for Grist at the time, concludes: “Of the top 20 region-sectors ranked by environmental impacts, none would be profitable if environmental costs were fully integrated. Ponder that for a moment: None of the world’s top industrial sectors would be profitable if they were paying their full freight. Zero.” Not paying for the damages their production systems cause — what are often called “externalities” — whether related to the health of people or the sustainability of ecosystems, has been a way for capitalism to escape a falling rate of profit and maintain its dominance despites its obvious damage to people and biosphere.

Andrew Ahern, Making Graphs to Flatter the Global Elite

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from the Nation of Change:

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has unveiled a monumental $4.3 billion funding initiative targeting climate pollution and environmental justice across 30 states. This announcement comes as part of the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act. EPA Administrator Michael Regan emphasized the importance of community-driven solutions to tackle climate change, stating, “President Biden believes in the power of community-driven solutions to fight climate change, protect public health, and grow our economy.”

The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program, supported by the Inflation Reduction Act, aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while promoting environmental justice and economic growth. The selected projects are estimated to cut greenhouse gas emissions by the equivalent of 971 million metric tons by 2050, which is comparable to the energy consumption of 5 million homes over 25 years.

Transportation

One of the major allocations includes $500 million dedicated to decarbonizing freight transportation at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. This funding will support the installation of electric charging equipment, the deployment of zero-emission freight vehicles, and the conversion of cargo handling equipment to reduce emissions.

Energy

Michigan is set to receive $129 million to accelerate its renewable energy projects. This initiative aims to streamline the siting, zoning, and permitting of renewable energy infrastructure, helping the state achieve its goal of 60% renewable energy by 2035.

Industry

Pennsylvania will benefit from $396 million to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from industrial facilities, including cement and asphalt plants. This effort is part of a broader initiative, RISE PA, to target industrial sector emissions and promote cleaner industrial practices.

Agriculture

Nebraska will receive $307 million for sustainable agriculture and energy efficiency projects. These funds will support climate-smart agriculture practices, reduce agricultural waste, improve energy efficiency in commercial and industrial facilities, and deploy solar panels and electrified irrigation wells.

Commercial and residential buildings

The northeastern states of Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Maine will collectively receive $450 million to promote the adoption of cold-climate heat pumps and water heaters. These technologies are crucial for improving energy efficiency in homes and commercial buildings, particularly in regions with harsh winters.

Waste management

The grants will also support various waste management projects aimed at reducing pollution and promoting recycling and waste reduction initiatives. These efforts are vital for minimizing the environmental impact of waste and improving public health.

[iww-gnv]

ST. LOUIS — The Teamsters Union made an abrupt announcement Monday morning: It had received notice that the Nashville, Tennessee-based trucking giant Yellow Corp. was closing operations and planned to file for bankruptcy. The expected closure leaves tens of thousands of jobs in the balance, and the impact on already delicate supply chains won’t be known for weeks to come. At the company’s sprawling truck yard in the Kosciusko neighborhood of St. Louis on Monday, signs were posted noting that “all company operations have ceased” as of Sunday. Trailers were positioned to block the entrances to the yard. “Today’s news is unfortunate but not surprising,” Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien said in a statement. “Yellow has historically proven that it could not manage itself despite billions of dollars in worker concessions and hundreds of millions in bailout funding from the federal government. This is a sad day for workers and the American freight industry.”

[ptagtrucking]

Empowering Lives Through the PTAG Second Chance Employer Program

Hello Trucking Community!

At the heart of our industry lies a commitment to not just moving freight but also moving lives forward. We’re excited to highlight the Professional Trucking Association Group (PTAG) and our impactful Second Chance Employer Program!

This initiative is dedicated to teaming up with employers who are ready to provide opportunities for veterans, ex-convicts, and underprivileged individuals. We believe in the power of second chances and the incredible potential that lies within every individual, regardless of their past.

Here’s how we’re making a difference:

Building Partnerships: We connect motivated individuals with employers who understand the value of diversity and the unique experiences that veterans and formerly incarcerated individuals bring to the table.

Career Development: Through training and mentorship, participants gain essential skills that enhance their employability and prepare them for successful careers in the trucking industry.

Fostering Inclusion: By championing inclusivity, we aim to create a workforce that reflects the rich tapestry of our society—one where everyone has a chance to thrive.

Community Impact: As we uplift individuals, we also strengthen our communities. When we invest in people, we pave the way for a brighter future for all.

If you’re an employer looking to make a meaningful impact, or an individual seeking a second chance, we invite you to join us in this transformative journey. Together, let’s drive change and create opportunities that lead to lasting success!

Remember, every journey begins with a single step. Let’s take that step together!

If you’re considering the opportunity to become a second chance employer, then contact us at 832-736-4220 or email us ptagt2011@Gmail.com and join us as a partner, you'll discover numerous advantages that support both you and your business.

#PTAG #Trucking #SecondChance #SecondChanceEmployerProgram #TruckingWithPurpose #Empowerment #CommunityImpact

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

Amazon drought disrupts river transportation, raises manufacturing costs in Brazil

Estimates suggest the dry season will impose R$1.3 billion in additional costs on the Manaus Free Trade Zone

The Negro River in Amazonas has reached 12.1 meters this year, its lowest level in over a century. In some tributaries, what used to be waterways has turned into fields dominated by wild rice and mud. A local saying encapsulates the situation: “During the floods, you lose everything, but the drought kills you.”

For the second consecutive year, the state of Amazonas is enduring a severe dry season. In 2023, the Negro River in Manaus measured 12.7 meters, the lowest level since official records began, in 1902. Still, that was more than half a meter higher than the level recorded in 2024. By comparison, the previous record low occurred in 2010, when the river reached 13.63 meters.

Last year, images of dead river dolphins and stranded cargo vessels were common due to the low water levels. This year, with conditions even worse, the scenes have repeated. In a region where rivers serve as the main transportation routes both within the state and beyond, the impacts range from daily life to the balance sheets of companies based in the Manaus Industrial Hub (PIM). The most severe effects are felt socially, as low water levels lead to forced isolation, supply shortages, and challenges in registering for social programs.

The Amazonas State Industry Center (CIEAM) estimates the drought has added over R$1.3 billion in costs for Manaus Free Trade Zone companies. This amount is slightly lower than the extra expenses reported in 2023. To mitigate the worsening effects of the drought, companies have extended their stockpiles and even relocated floating ports. Despite these measures, a survey of PIM sectors revealed that 87% of companies were affected by the so-called drought surcharge, which includes increased freight costs, storage fees for products in third-party warehouses, and additional charges from container transport ships.

Continue reading.

[beardedmrbean]

The Bulgarian economy is expected to gain significantly from the country’s admission to the Schengen area, with annual economic benefits estimated at 500 million leva. The Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association (BICA) expressed optimism that the removal of border controls will have an immediate impact, not only on transport companies but also on Bulgarian citizens. Milena Angelova from BICA noted that the psychological barrier associated with crossing the Schengen border had been an obstacle to full EU integration, and the new development should help overcome it.

President Rumen Radev also emphasized the importance of this achievement, describing it as a significant milestone for Bulgaria's strategic goals. He highlighted the impact on Bulgaria’s integration into the European Union, its economic growth, and the overall benefits for its citizens. Radev expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the country’s progress in meeting the Schengen requirements.

Georgi Dimov, Director of the Customs Agency, confirmed that the agency is fully prepared for Schengen implementation by land. Speaking after attending the Justice and Home Affairs Council meeting in Brussels alongside Minister Atanas Ilkov, Dimov announced that the council unanimously approved January 1, 2025, as the date for lifting internal land border checks between Bulgaria and Romania. Dimov assured that the Customs Agency would maintain strict control over the EU's external borders and fulfill its responsibilities within the country to ensure the safety of citizens, businesses, and fiscal authorities.

Dimov highlighted the critical role Bulgaria plays as an EU intersection, referencing the Kapitan Andreevo crossing, which is the largest land border crossing in Europe and the second largest in the world. Bulgaria also hosts five cross-border corridors, with over 4.5 million freight vehicles passing through annually. These figures underscore the country’s strategic importance for European supply chains. Despite the removal of checks at former internal borders with Greece and Romania, the Customs Agency will continue to combat customs, excise, and currency violations effectively.

From January 1, 2025, internal border checks with Greece will cease entirely. On the northern border with Romania, partial controls may be conducted based on risk analysis, rather than blanket checks for all vehicles, ensuring smoother transit while maintaining necessary security measures.

[rajasthan-political-leader]

Rajasthan Export Promotions 2024: A Visionary Initiative by Col Rajyavardhan Rathore

Rajasthan, a state known for its rich heritage, craftsmanship, and industrial potential, is poised to become a major player in global trade with the introduction of the Rajasthan Export Promotions 2024 policy. Spearheaded by Col Rajyavardhan Rathore, this initiative aims to boost the state’s exports, empower local artisans, and attract foreign investments.

In this article, we explore the highlights, objectives, and potential impact of this policy on Rajasthan’s economy and its global standing.

Why Rajasthan Needs an Export Promotion Policy

Rajasthan has long been a hub of unique goods such as handcrafted textiles, gems, jewelry, and agricultural products. However, the state’s export potential has often been underutilized due to logistical challenges, lack of infrastructure, and limited global outreach.

The Export Promotions 2024 policy addresses these gaps and sets a roadmap for Rajasthan to become a competitive exporter on the global stage.

Col Rajyavardhan Rathore’s Leadership in Export Growth

As a leader with a vision for Rajasthan’s economic prosperity, Col Rathore emphasized: “This policy is not just about boosting exports; it’s about uplifting our artisans, industrialists, and farmers while placing Rajasthan firmly on the global trade map.”

Key Objectives of Rajasthan Export Promotions 2024

Increase Export Revenue: Achieve a significant rise in Rajasthan’s export contributions to India’s GDP.

Diversify Export Categories: Expand beyond traditional sectors to include IT, renewable energy equipment, and processed food.

Empower Local Businesses: Provide small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with access to international markets.

Sustainability: Promote eco-friendly products and sustainable practices in exports.

Highlights of the Export Promotions 2024 Policy

1. Infrastructure Development

Export Hubs: Establishment of dedicated export hubs in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur.

Logistics Support: Improved connectivity through highways, railways, and air cargo facilities.

Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Expansion of SEZs for industries like textiles, gems, and ceramics.

2. Financial Support

Export Subsidies: Incentives for exporters, including subsidies on freight charges.

Credit Facilities: Low-interest loans and credit schemes for MSMEs.

Tax Benefits: Exemptions on specific export-oriented services and products.

3. Digitalization and E-commerce

Online Export Platforms: Launch of a state-specific portal for exporters to showcase and sell their products globally.

E-Commerce Training: Workshops for businesses to leverage global e-commerce giants like Amazon and Alibaba.

4. Skill Development and Awareness

Training Programs: Upskilling artisans and entrepreneurs in global market trends.

Export Awareness Drives: Seminars and expos to connect businesses with international buyers.

5. Focus on Key Export Sectors

Handicrafts and Textiles: Reviving traditional crafts for global appeal.

Gems and Jewelry: Strengthening Rajasthan’s leadership in the global gemstone trade.

Agriculture and Food Processing: Exporting organic and processed food products.

Renewable Energy Equipment: Leveraging Rajasthan’s solar energy expertise.

Impact of the Policy on Rajasthan

Economic Growth

An anticipated 25% increase in export revenues by 2026.

Boost in employment opportunities in export-centric industries.

Empowerment of Artisans and MSMEs

Enhanced income for local artisans, weavers, and entrepreneurs.

Global recognition for Rajasthan’s traditional and modern industries.

Global Standing

Positioning Rajasthan as a preferred destination for international buyers and investors.

Strengthening Rajasthan’s brand as a hub of quality and innovation.

Col Rajyavardhan Rathore’s Vision for the Future

Col Rathore envisions Rajasthan as a global export leader that balances tradition with innovation. In his words: “This policy is a blend of Rajasthan’s cultural roots and modern aspirations. It’s about creating a thriving economy while preserving our heritage.”

The Road Ahead

The Rajasthan Export Promotions 2024 policy sets the stage for the state’s transformation into an export powerhouse. By focusing on infrastructure, technology, and talent, this initiative will create a sustainable, globally competitive ecosystem.

Conclusion

Rajasthan Export Promotions 2024 is more than just a policy — it’s a commitment to progress and prosperity. Under Col Rajyavardhan Rathore’s visionary leadership, Rajasthan is poised to make its mark on the world stage while empowering its people and industries.

[fatehbaz]

The 1830s saw an explosion of railway lines built up and down the length of Great Britain. The first to open for passengers and freight with a set time table was the Liverpool and Manchester Railway in 1830. Scotland’s first line opened a year later when the Glasgow and Garnkirk Railway started bringing coal from the Lanarkshire pits to the growing city.��

Railways were private undertakings that were authorised by acts of Parliament. They required large sums of finance in order to pay for the land, materials and labour for construction. Investors poured hundreds of thousands of pounds into the start-up railway companies – an amount that would equate to billions in today’s money. 

Were these railways funded through slavery? Not directly, as slavery was banned in the British Empire in 1833. However the owners of the enslaved people received compensation for their lost ‘property’ in 1834, which amounted to over £10 million pounds. Much of that money was then re-invested in other industries. Over 61,000 people received compensation through this fund, many of whom went on to invest in the new railway companies springing up everywhere.

University College London (UCL) has been conducting in-depth research into these compensation claims and offers a searchable database of the applications, claims approved and some of the investments made by the claimants. A search using the ‘railway’ filter brings up over 170 such investments, many in Scotland. Just one example is the West Indian Merchant (i.e., slave owner) Thomas Dunlop Douglas (1776–1869) of Glasgow. He was awarded over £15,000 in compensation for almost 400 people held in bondage in British Guiana. The UCL project lists details of fifteen investments he later made in Scottish railways. Many of these were local Glasgow lines but he was also one of five beneficiaries of slavery compensation who invested over £130,000 in the Edinburgh and Glasgow Railway, which opened in 1842.

The UCL database continues to be updated and more research is required to pinpoint direct connections, but there can be no doubt that some of the funds paid for the ‘property’ of the enslaved Africans went to building our railway system. And everyone who takes the train between Scotland’s two major cities is travelling over one of the impacts of Glasgow’s links with the slave economy.

---

Image, caption, and all text above by: John Messner. “Glasgow’s railways ... funded by slavery?” Legacies of Slavery in Glasgow Museums and Collections. An online resource published by Glasgow Museums. 1 December 2021.

[warningsine]

Coldplay has announced that they have reduced their touring carbon footprint by 59% compared with their previous world tour – via some creative methods that include kinetic dancefloors that allow dancing fans to generate electricity, recyclable LED wristbands and the band travelling by train.

On Monday the British band announced that they were “happy to report that direct CO2e emissions from the first two years of this tour are 59% less than our previous stadium tour (2016-17), on a show-by-show comparison”.

In 2021 the band first announced a 12-point plan to lower emissions while touring, two years after frontman Chris Martin vowed to never tour again unless it was done sustainably and with a “positive impact”.

The band’s pledge for the Music of the Spheres world tour, which began in 2022, was to reduce their carbon emissions from show production, freight, band and crew travel by “at least 50%”.

Two years later, the band say they have surpassed that figure – with the help of their fans.

“We’d like to thank everyone who’s come to a show and helped charge the show batteries on the power bikes and kinetic dancefloors,” they said in a statement on their website.

“Everyone who’s arrived by foot, bike, ride share or public transport; everyone who’s come with refillable water bottles or returned their LED wristband for recycling; and everyone who’s bought a ticket, which means you’ve already planted one of seven million trees so far.

“As a band, and as an industry, we’re a long way from where we need to be on this. But we’re grateful for everyone’s help so far, and we salute everyone who’s making efforts to push things in the right direction.”

Coldplay’s shows have featured kinectic dancefloors that generate electricity through the audience jumping up and down on customised tiles.

During the show fans are also encouraged to hop on power bikes, which, along with solar installations and the dancefloors, charge smaller stage areas during concerts, as well as phone, laptop and tool-charging stations for the crew.

Coldplay’s data was collated by sustainability business Hope Solutions and their claims verified by Massachusetts Institute of Technology. MIT Prof John E Fernandez praised the band for “leading by example … to move the entire music industry toward true and humane sustainability”.

“With each subsequent year of their tour … Coldplay is modelling a trajectory toward a low carbon, biodiverse and equitable future,” Fernandez said.

Last July, an interim report suggested the band had fallen just short of their aim, achieving a 47% reduction in carbon emissions. But the new figures released by the band suggests the tour has become more efficient as it goes on.

The band claims that “72% of all tour waste has been diverted from landfill and sent for reuse, recycling and composting”, up from 66% in 2023.

Eighteen shows were powered entirely by a tourable battery system, made from recycled BMW batteries.

Two solar-powered “ocean cleanup river interceptors” have also been paid for during the tour.

For every ticket sold – 7 million so far – a tree has been planted through the global reforestation nonprofit One Tree Planted.

Live touring is a carbon-intensive business, particularly for world tours where venues are often thousands of kilometres apart. Artists such as Taylor Swift have been criticised for excessive use of private jets for touring and personal use.

While Coldplay rely on air travel for most of their shows, Martin has pledged to take public transport to gigs where possible. He arrived for the band’s shows in Cardiff by train.

[artisticdivasworld]

Freight Rates Are Climbing Again—But Will New Tariffs Pump the Brakes?

After a prolonged period of low rates and challenging conditions, the trucking industry is finally witnessing a positive shift. Freight rates are on the rise, with companies like XPO reporting stronger earnings, suggesting a market tilt in favor of truckers. However, recent tariffs introduced by President Trump could introduce new challenges. The Tariff Landscape In early February 2025,…

[script-a-world]

Submitted via Google Form:

My story needs me  to create massive load bearing trucks (up to 80 metric tonnes) in my story as well as the roads they go on. They do need to go on the main roads across my world, not specifically designed roads in limited areas. I'm not sure what are good truck measurements that I need or anything like that. How many tyres, how large? Whether they are tall, long, or wide. I suppose if they are wide trucks, they are certainly allowed to use two lanes. These trucks need to either have a container of their own or are simply flat and you can place a container onto it. Also what speeds can these trucks go, what if I in fact do need them to be speedy as well?

Addy: While this isn’t my area of expertise, I have a little bit of experience with road capacity and design. I’m most familiar with the United States, so I’m going to use US numbers for road and vehicle capacity. “Main roads” could mean many things, from highways to residential streets. I’m going to assume that this is some sort of freight that needs to be delivered to factories or other industrial centers.. basically, I’m assuming that this vehicle needs to go anywhere a modern-day semi truck needs to be able to go.

When in doubt on this kind of thing, a good place to start is to look up whatever governmental agency regulates your subject of interest. Read through the glossary, look at their website, see what kind of things they focus on and find important. You can also look up a handbook, or combine the agency name with a simple keyword. I have an advantage in knowing what to look for, but it all really starts with the governmental agencies involved.

If this was Earth, the kind of capacity you’re talking about – 80 metric tons / 176,000 lbs / 88 imperial tons – would be handled exclusively by rail, with normal freight vehicles moving cargo to and from the rail depot. In some cases, such as for rock quarries, rail stations are built on-site to eliminate the need for wheeled vehicles. Rail doesn’t offer much mobility, though, so let’s look at some numbers.

(Image is from a 2012 FHWA report on some kind of pilot program in Maine and Vermont, I just lifted it from google)

Semi-trucks (which I’m just going to call trucks) have two main types of axle. You have single axles and tandem axles. You also have tridem axles, but those aren’t as common on large vehicles. A single axle is just an axle with wheels on it. A tandem axle is a grouping of two axles that are closely spaced, around 4 ft/1.2 meters. The weight capacities allowed on these axles varies by the state, and I’m going to use Michigan numbers. More on that below.

Next to consider is the overall weight of the vehicle. Trucks have laden and unladen weights; these are also known as gross vehicle weight (GVW) and curb weight, respectively.  The laden weight/GVW is how much it weighs with cargo, passengers, fuel, and everything else. The unladen/curb weight is how much the vehicle weighs without any loading or containers on it. The laden weight is what safety measures and capacity laws apply to. There are two major reasons that trucks have weight limits. The first is wear on the road. The longevity of a road is basically determined by how many heavy-weight vehicles (so semi-trucks and RVs) drive on it – passenger vehicles don’t really weigh enough to cause an impact. Heavier vehicles, more damage to the road. The second reason is road safety. At speeds of 65 mph/105 kmph, it takes a passenger vehicle ~300 ft/91 meters to come to a stop, assuming a flat road. A semi truck traveling the same speed will take about twice as long to stop. Your proposed vehicle would probably take a bit over twice as long again, for a total stopping distance of roughly 1320 ft/402 meters. This is just a matter of physics. 

You can have it go as fast or as slow as you want, but it’s probably going to have pretty terrible acceleration. You also probably don’t want it to go too fast, since the whole stopping distance thing can get pretty dangerous.

Most states have a maximum gross vehicle weight of 80,000-100,000 lbs, but Michigan is apparently insane, with a maximum GVW of 164,000 lbs. Their calculation method is actually a bit easier for us, as they limit the amount of weight on each axle in a way that lets us add a lot of wheels. So ignore everything I just said, we’re going to use the Michigan method.

Max loads, pulled straight from Michigan law. If you want to look it up yourself, google “MVC 257.722”

 (a) If the axle spacing is 9 feet or more between axles, the maximum axle load shall not exceed 18,000 pounds for vehicles equipped with high pressure pneumatic or balloon tires.

  (b) If the axle spacing is less than 9 feet between 2 axles but more than 3-1/2 feet, the maximum axle load shall not exceed 13,000 pounds for high pressure pneumatic or balloon tires.

  (c) If the axles are spaced less than 3-1/2 feet apart, the maximum axle load shall not exceed 9,000 pounds per axle.

  (d) Subdivisions (a), (b), and (c) shall be known as the normal loading maximum.

Michigan law also allows for a single tandem axle with 16,000 lbs/axle, for a total of 32,000 lbs across the tandem axle. There are other exceptions and allowances, but they don’t apply to our many-axled vehicle. 

Image from Livingston County Road Commission

This is an example of an allowed Michigan truck design. The tractor unit is the part with the driver, and the semi-trailer is the part that detaches. If we change the steer loading from 15,400 to 18,000 (permitted if you do special tires), add a third axle to the rear portion of the tractor unit (not allowed under Michigan law, do not try at home), and add one additional tire to the back of the semi-trailer, that gets us up to 183,000 lbs. If we keep the tractor unit the same and instead add two tires to the back of the semi-trailer, we get 180,000 lbs, which also gets us to your 176,000 capacity.

To word it another way, the image shown has a 1-2-8 pattern. We could make that a 1-3-9 pattern or a 1-2-10 pattern – either way would work.

So basically, you’re looking at a vehicle that’s 53 ft long along the axles. If we add 6 ft to account for the front and back, that gets a vehicle with an overall length of 59 ft. It’s 8.5 ft wide and has one steer axle, 2-3 rear tractor axles, and 9-10 semi-trailer axles, for a total of 50 wheels. In meters, that’s 16.2 along the wheels, 18 total length, and 2.6 wide. Height doesn’t really matter, though it’s probably somewhere between 3.5 and 4 meters.

Michigan does apply a seasonal limit decrease in the spring, reducing capacity by 25% on concrete roads and 35% on all other road surfaces. Call it 35% on everything to be safe, so you’d have a springtime capacity of roughly 118,000 lbs.

Utuabzu: Sounds like you want a road train, you see them in rural Australia fairly often. They're big, noisy and pretty intimidating to drive past. Generally they're used to transport ore from mines to ports where rail isn't available or practical.

Tex: This was, interestingly, also an issue faced by the US President Eisenhower. He was previously part of the 1919 Motor Transport Corps convoy, and when he became president, he expanded upon the Interstate Highway System with the passage of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956. American highways were used as part of the military logistics system, compensating for the limitations of transportation via railway. Most of the roads that later formed the Interstate Highway System were based upon the Pershing Map, created by General Pershing in response to the 1919 convoy.

This allowed the standardization of roads, routes, and construction of highways, which needed to withstand the weight of goods transported by the military (i.e. tanks, missiles). Highway engineering has accordingly developed its own methods, and really came into prominence after WWII, with significant developments in its construction.

[godesssiri]

Auctions can be great fun; I’ve been going for years. My great grandmother was an auction regular, and I’ve got some gorgeous Victorian through to Art Deco furniture that she picked up in the 40s and 50s because it was unfashionable old junk then and she got it for a song. Going to live in-person auctions is becoming a thing of the past in the age of the internet but they do still exist, and they can be a way to get hold of some very high-quality items very cheap. So here's my best tips and advice.

There is a local auction house I go to that has a no reserve auction every other Thursday and it’s so much fun, I’ve gotten some real treasures there. They do estate, police, insurance, and business closure auctions.

Estate is exactly what you think it is. Someone is downsizing or has died and so anything that might be worth money gets sent to auction, this is where you get the amazing antiques, affordable furniture, and box lots of random treasures/junk. Police auctions are lost property, looooots of bikes, drones minus their controllers, cell phones. Police hold onto that stuff for a certain amount of time then auction it to help with the storage costs. Insurance you get some really good new stuff. If things are freight damaged a company will make an insurance claim and get paid out the price of the whole crate or pallet or whatever, but the insurance company will take anything that’s not broken. So, if a box of 8 bottles of whiskey gets dropped and 4 of them smash then the insurance company has 4 unbroken bottles to sell, and they put them in an auction to re-coup their costs. Insurance auctions often have lots of booze, industrial quantities of cleaning products, some fancy shelf stable foods, beauty products, all brand new with maybe just some packaging that’s worse for wear. Business closures are either when the owner is voluntarily closing down or when they have gone insolvent, and the liquidator is selling off everything. This can be a great source for tools and specialist equipment.

All things sold at auction are sold as is, so buyer beware. There will be viewing before the auction during which you can handle the items and check them over, if they’re electrical plug them in a see if they work. I have bought some lemons from auction because I didn’t check them thoroughly enough and that was my own fault. Also check if you can still get replacement parts for the make and model of what you’re looking at, yeah got an impact drill that just needed a replacement part, except they don’t make parts for that model anymore. Police auctions especially watch for faulty/damaged stuff, particularly the bikes, there’s a reason that stuff has ended up in police lost and found lock up. Once you’ve decided that the thing you’re looking at is in good enough condition for you mark it in your auction catalogue.

Everything in an auction will have a lot number. Things will be sold either as an individual item or as a lot, if you only want one thing in a particular lot then too bad, you’re buying everything so if it’s a box lot of junk with 1 gem then you are responsible for finding homes for all the junk if you buy it to get that one gem, sometime it’s sooooo worth doing this, sometimes it’s not. The auction house will have a catalogue which is usually just a few sheets of paper with a numbered list of items. Carry your catalogue around with you at the viewing, take a pen, make notes of what you want, identifying info about the item, what you’re willing to pay, any other relevant info. It can be a really good idea to research on your phone. If it’s an insurance auction I always look up what you can buy things for retail, there’s no point getting caught up in bidding and paying more than you would at a retail store. Last auction I went to people were bidding $40 on a lot of 2 bottles of liquor that sells for $20 a bottle and with the auction fees they’ll have ended up paying more than retail.

You have to pay the auctioneers fees/premium. At most places this is about 15% so keep in mind if you bid $100 on something you will actually be paying $115. You agree to this when you sign up for the auction and get your bidding number, it’s a legally binding contract. Those people who were buying the lot of 2 bottles of liquor and bidding $40 would have actually paid $46 which is $6 more than they would have paid down the road at the liquor store. I put in a couple of bids but stopped when it got over $30 because it wouldn’t have been a bargain. The person who won that lot for $40 was obviously attending their first auction with a giggly group of friends and got caught up in the thrill of having the winning bid, I very much doubt she’d considered the premium, so she probably didn’t realize until later that she hadn’t gotten a good deal. This is why it’s really really important to have a good idea what things a worth, what you could buy them for elsewhere, and be very disciplined about how much you are willing to bid. Go into each auction lot with a figure in mind, calculate what the auction premium will be on that figure and do not go over it. Again remember that when you signed up for the auction and got your bidding number you entered into a legally binding contract so if you over bid that’s your bad.

If you have a problem with gambling, then auctions are not for you. It’s the same kind of adrenaline rush and a very similar financial risk. You might walk out with something worth far more than the money you’ve put in or you might overspend and end up feeling down on yourself for being so stupid. It’s very easy to get caught up in the rush of bidding and justify to yourself just $10 more but is it really just $10 or is it 3 or 4 times just $10 more? Always keep the figure you are willing to spend in the front of your mind. Write it on your catalogue. Have the calculator app open on your phone and quickly add 15% to the current bid. Is it still a bargain? Or are you caught in the rush and about to overspend?

When you sign up for the auction you will be given an auction number, this is important to hold onto, it’s how the auctioneer will identify you as the person who has put in the winning bid. When you bid you can wave your number or catalogue, or nod at the auctioneer, or say ‘bid’ or ‘yep’ or ‘here’, if possible, make eye contact with the auctioneer or their spotter when you bid. The auctioneer will be looking all around the room for bidders and will usually have at least 1 assistant who is also looking and will bring your bid to the auctioneer’s attention if they miss you. When you win a lot then the auctioneer will take your number and write it on the auction sheet, hold up your card and/or call out your number once you’ve won. If you have the winning bid, then write what you bid on your catalogue and add the auction premium. When you’re ready to leave go to the cashier and give them your number and they’ll go over the lots they have you down as winning and give you a total – check this against what you’ve got written on your catalogue, so you make sure you get all your stuff. Once you’ve paid you can go and collect your wins, you can do this even if the auction is still going, if there’s nothing else you want to bid on, they’re usually happy for you to pay and leave part way through.

Don’t make the first bid. Auctioneer’s will often put in an opening bid of what they think is reasonable for the item, sometimes it’s worth way less than that, sometimes it’s worth way more. If no one bids they’ll drop the opening, if still no one bids they’ll drop it again. Remember if you’re at a no reserve auction they have to get rid of this stuff, if that means accepting twenty bucks for a 200-year-old antique then they will. Wait to see if anyone else is going to bid then take your shot. Sometimes bidding will start slow but build up and the lot will go for close to or way more than the auctioneer’s opening bid but sometimes you can get something amazing for a ridiculously low price because no one want’s that particular lot. The last auction I went to was an antique store closing down and the retail price stickers from the store were still on all the items. I got a 500-year-old celadon glazed ginger jar for thirty bucks!!! $34.50 including the premium. The antique store’s price sticker was $375. The auctioneer started bidding at $100 but no one went for it, so I waited, and the auctioneer dropped it to $50 then $20. Someone else bid $20 but I wanted that jar, so I bid $30, and the other person didn’t want it enough to get into a bidding war, so I got it. Often if an item looks like it’s going to go for next to nothing then a dealer will put in a bid figuring that they’ll at least be able to make little profit on something they spent peanuts on and I’m pretty sure the other bidder was a dealer who didn’t want the risk of finding a buyer and making a profit if they couldn’t pick it up super cheap. Auctions are very much the luck of the draw with who is attending. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and the people who are there won’t want the same things you do. Sometimes you’ll have to fight for the thing you want.

Who attends auctions? Dealers mostly. If you go regularly, you’ll recognize the dealers and re-sellers. They’re there every auction, they know the auctioneers and each other and have inside jokes, they’re very focused and disciplined with their bidding, they know how to pinch a penny until it squeals. If you’re going to buy cool vintage or cheap household items you can sometimes edge out dealers because they know exactly what they can re-sell an item for and they’re thinking of their profit margins, on the flip-side they might outbid what you’re willing to spend because they do know exactly what they can get for that item and it’s worth more to them than it is to you if you’re just looking for a bargain. The other people who attend auctions are the professionals who are picking up tools/equipment for their business. If you’re a diy-er who want’s cheap tools they might outbid you because they know exactly what those tools are worth, if a professional has no interest whatsoever in a tool though then there’s a reason for that and you should probably steer clear yourself. People looking to stretch a buck will go to auctions because you can pick up full dining suites for less than $100 or perfectly good household appliances for next to nothing, if you’re broke and setting up house then an auction can be a great way to get the basics for even less than thrift store prices if you’re lucky. Collectors go to auctions because that’s where we get the truly unique stuff. Things I have bought at auction include the aforementioned 500-year-old jar, a taxidermy armadillo basket, 4 huge Victorian glass domes, a copper lobster shaped mold just like the one The Golden Girls had on the wall in their kitchen (the one that looks like a dick and balls from a distance). Collectors can be tricky because they might want something so much that they’re willing to outbid everyone else, but on the other hand they might not be willing to pay too much because they have to justify it to themselves and/or their partner. Often a collector will go to an auction for just a couple of specific items, if you’re lucky the items you want and the items they want will be different, so you won’t get into a bidding war. My last auction I was incredibly lucky because there were a few collectors there, but we were all after completely different things, one of them is actually in a FB group I’m in so when I showed off my win he congratulated me and said he’d gotten what he’d been there for and we were able to mutually gush over each other’s scores.

This tip is against etiquette in some auction houses and fully against the rules and will get you kicked out of others so be very careful if you choose to do it: If you were bidding on a box lot for one item in it and you lose but you see someone you think is a dealer has won it, you can quietly approach them and ask to buy that particular item off them. A lot of them will happily do you a deal for cash so they make some of their money back then and there and don’t have to take the item home. Maybe just approach them outside if it’s against the rules at that auction house because some places are really hardass about it.

People can be intimidated by auctions because they can be such high risk and high adrenaline events but once you’ve gained some confidence, they can be so much fun. If you’ve got free time when an auction’s on, I’d highly recommend just going and watching, even if you don’t bid on anything. Find a seat and just observe. They can be incredibly interesting, particularly if you like to people watch. Just watching the auction can help build your confidence until you feel like you can participate. You also learn so much by seeing what sells for a lot and what is hard to shift, it helps you gain an idea of what things are worth. There’ll always be a few old lady dealers who’ve been doing this forever and are happy to impart wisdom, or chatty collectors who will infodump about items in the auction or things they’ve scored in the past. Take some food and drink and a pen to make notes on your catalogue. A good auctioneer will usually go through about 100 lots in an hour so a 300-lot auction will take about 3 hours. Make sure you know where the toilet is. Have fun.

My last thrift post

[internationalfreightforwarding]

Customs Brokerage Strategies: Mitigating Risks in Global Trade

A customs brokerage firm is significant in global trade and goes beyond intermediaries. It is the one that helps exporters and importers manage the intricate field of international trading regulations and procedures.

But what are all the possible international trade risks, and what are the approaches customs brokerage firms take to overcome them?

Navigating Regulatory Challenges

Staying compliant with all the customs laws is vital for importers and exporters to prevent costly penalties and other consequences. Compliance ensures all goods are imported, exported, and progressed correctly.

Customs brokers ensure adherence to diverse international trade laws by meeting all certain documentation necessities. It includes:

Proper labeling of goods,

Accurately measuring all products,

Paying the right amount of taxes and duties, and

Contributing all the precise customs credentials for access to other countries.

Technology Integration for Risk Management

The continuous development of technologies has impacted the worldwide business industry, even the global customs brokerage sector. These technological developments have helped these firms adapt their strategies to the ever-changing landscapes of the field. It has mitigated risks in the importing and exporting process, such as:

Securing global trade by providing tamper-resistant record dealings,

Enhanced customs procedure efficiency, easing the goods’ flow across borders,

Allowed customs brokers to evaluate massive amounts of data and determine patterns to make wise decisions and

Enabled potent monitoring of shipments and cargo conditions and provided real-time updates to clients and customs brokers.

Effective Communication

One of the key factors in mitigating risks in customs brokerage is how obtainable communication is. Clear communication is highly vital between customs brokers, relevant authorities, and clients. Hence, here are some of the effective strategies these individuals should do for transparent communication in global trade scenarios:

Showing vulnerability to build trust,

Utilizing technology to give one messaging platform,

Steady in expressing a well-balanced empathy and privacy, respectively,

Clear on letting their clients know about their values by providing stable communication and

Avoid confusing terminologies and use communicative words that are easy to understand.

Mitigate Risks with Excelsior!

Strengthening risk mitigation is also effective in collaboration with the right shipping company, which could help you find the right government agencies and other stakeholders, like Excelsior.

Excelsior, a well-known freight forwarder international, has been in the shipping industry for fifteen years. It has marked its name in the market by giving the best and most honest service to our clients. Hence, clients are at peace when they book services for Excelsior to get all their shipments to arrive safely at their proper destination.

Engage more with us by calling us at (+632) 8525-9775 or email us at wecare@excelsior.ph.

[rainbowfruitusa]

The Crucial Roles and Responsibilities in the Fish Market Ecosystem

The bustling world of the fish market Dorchester, MA is a complex and interconnected ecosystem, where various players work together to bring the ocean's bounty to consumers worldwide. From fishermen to wholesalers to retailers, each entity in the fish market holds distinct roles and responsibilities that contribute to the overall functioning of this vital industry.

 In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the essential roles and responsibilities within the fish market ecosystem, shedding light on the intricate network that ensures the availability of fresh seafood to households and businesses.

Fishermen: Harvesting the Ocean's Bounty

At the heart of the fish market ecosystem are the fishermen who brave the waters to harvest the ocean's bounty. Their primary responsibility is to catch a variety of fish and other seafood, using their expertise and knowledge of fishing grounds to sustainably procure the freshest catch. 

Fishermen play a pivotal role in supplying the initial inventory to the fish market and are essential contributors to the seafood supply chain.

Fish Auctions and Wholesalers: Streamlining Distribution

After the catch is brought ashore, fish auctions and wholesalers step in to streamline the distribution process. Their roles involve purchasing fish directly from fishermen and then facilitating the sale to retailers and fishmongers. 

These entities are responsible for efficiently handling, storing, and transporting the seafood to ensure its freshness is preserved during transit, thus playing a crucial role in connecting the catch with the wider market.

Retailers and Fishmongers: Bringing Seafood to Consumers

Retailers and fishmongers serve as the final link in the fish market Dorchester, MA ecosystem, bridging the gap between the seafood supply chain and consumers. Their responsibilities include procuring fresh fish and seafood from wholesalers and effectively presenting and selling the products to the general public.

 They are also tasked with maintaining the quality of the seafood and ensuring that customers have access to a diverse selection of fresh, high-quality fish.

Regulatory Bodies: Ensuring Standards and Compliance

Regulatory bodies play a critical role in the fish market ecosystem by establishing and enforcing standards and regulations to ensure the sustainability, safety, and quality of seafood products. They are responsible for overseeing fishing practices, setting catch limits, monitoring environmental impact, and implementing measures to prevent overfishing. 

Regulatory bodies also work to enforce food safety standards, thus safeguarding consumers and the fish market industry as a whole.

Processing and Packaging Facilities: Adding Value to Seafood Products

Processing and packaging facilities contribute to the fish market ecosystem by adding value to seafood products. Their responsibilities include cleaning, filleting, and packaging the catch to meet consumer preferences and industry standards.

 Additionally, these facilities play a crucial role in extending the shelf life of seafood through various preservation methods, ensuring that the products reach consumers in optimal condition.

Transportation and Logistics: Enabling Worldwide Distribution

The efficient transportation and logistics network are essential components of the fish market ecosystem, responsible for enabling the worldwide distribution of seafood products.

 From refrigerated trucks to air freight, these entities play a crucial role in ensuring that fresh seafood reaches distant markets and consumers, contributing to the global availability of diverse seafood options.

Consumers: Driving Demand and Sustainability

Last but not least, consumers form an integral part of the fish market ecosystem, driving demand for sustainable seafood and influencing industry practices. Their choices and preferences have the power to shape the market by promoting sustainable fishing practices, responsible sourcing, and supporting local and ethical suppliers.

Consumers hold the responsibility of making informed purchasing decisions that contribute to the health and sustainability of the fish market ecosystem.

Conclusion: Sustaining the Fish Market Ecosystem

In conclusion, the fish market Dorchester, MA ecosystem is a complex web of interconnected roles and responsibilities, where each participant plays a critical part in ensuring the availability of fresh, sustainable seafood. 

From fishermen to retailers to regulatory bodies, every entity carries out distinct duties that collectively sustain the industry. Understanding and appreciating the contributions of each participant is crucial in promoting the responsible and sustainable growth of the fish market ecosystem, thus ensuring its longevity for future generations to enjoy.

Source From: The Crucial Roles and Responsibilities in the Fish Market Ecosystem