Guest: Jason Haith of OEC Group on evolving freight markets; Railroads sue California over new locomotive regulations; and changing warehouse workforce dynamics

Jun 23, 2023

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Our guest on this week's episode is Jason Haith, branch manager of OEC Group's Louisville office. Anyone who has followed freight markets over the past year is well aware that they have undergone drastic changes. These changes make it harder for both shippers and carriers to decide what is fair pricing as they move to sign new contracts and to find carriage on the spot markets. As a seasoned analyst of logistics markets, Haith provides insights on what to expect for the remainder of the year and what early next year may look like in freight offerings.

The State of California has created a rule that would require switch, industrial, and passenger locomotives built in 2030 or after to operate in zero-emissions mode while in California, and in 2035 or after for freight line haul. It would also set a 30-minute idling limit for locomotives in the state and would require railroads to set aside funds to upgrade to cleaner locomotive technologies. Railroad groups are suing the state over these new regulations, saying the technology that California requires isn't really even available yet. We discuss the requirements and their implications for the rail industry.

With low unemployment rates continuing, operators of warehouses and distribution centers are finding it harder than ever to find good workers. New research is showing what it may take to attract new workers while retaining current staff.

DC Velocity's sister publication CSCMP's Supply Chain Quarterly offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane. It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A new eight-part series on Transportation Tech has launched. Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes.

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Podcast is sponsored by: PERC: The Propane Research Council

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