LOGISTICS + TRANSPORTATION AFTER THE WAKE OF THE STORM(S)

Kingsgate wants to again, extend thoughts and prayers out to everyone who was impacted by these catastrophic storms that have rattled those around the Gulf since the end of August. Although the hurricanes have physically ceased, their impact on those affected has just begun. The citizens who live in the areas destroyed by these National Disasters are rebuilding their lives and the cities are reconstructing buildings, roads and etc. From a logistics perspective, the aftermath of the hurricanes will cause waves of disruption, affect supply chain flow and hit freight pricing, especially as relief and aid are being sent.

According to Truckstop.com, “Over the next few months, as much as 7 percent of the US truck fleet could be diverted from normal commercial activity to disaster relief and reconstruction effort” and because that prediction was made prior to Hurricane Maria hit, the percentage will presumably rise. Efficiency and accuracy in scheduling and freight management is more important now than ever.

This all hit right before the Thanksgiving and the Holidays peak season, as well as, the December 2017 launch of the ELD mandate. Tight truck capacity and higher shipping rates are sure to follow. The rate impacts from these storms will be temporary but rebuilding entire cities’ supply chains will leave a longer lasting impact. Regardless, there are a lot of lessons that have and will develop from these storms.

With all that said, we understand your company’s freight still needs to be shipped to keep your business and the economy going, all whilst relief efforts are being provided. Kingsgate is doing whatever we can to help our customers continue delivering their promise to their customers and helping provide aid. If you need a dedicated broker to help you haul your freight please call Kingsgate 513.874.7447.

All the Best,

Jeff Beckham