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Third Year for everywoman Ceremony

UK – Nominations for the MAN everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards 2010 will be opening tomorrow. Awards are in several categories spanning the full spectrum of freight and logistics related jobs from management to warehousing, drivers to trainers, and aims to encourage awareness of the increasing role that women play in the UK’s transport industry.

Crisis Costs Two Years of Growth - Bisignani

WORLDWIDE – Figures released by IATA today indicate that air freight is still depressed though slowly recovering, with demand for international air cargo in October 0.5% below that of the same month last year. This is, however, significantly better than the 5.4% decline in comparison for September.

Spanish Trawler Guards See Off Attack

SOMALIA – The Spanish Ministry of Defence has said in a statement that an attack on a Spanish trawler on Sunday was repelled by the embarked private security guards. The half hour gun battle saw the pirates attempt to hit the trawler Ortube Berria with a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG).

More Rail Car Orders in Australia and Ukraine,US Report Demonstrates Better Fuel Efficiency, Indian Freight Timetable

AUSTRALIA – UKRAINE – US – INDIA – CANADA -UK After our hopeful report of last week demonstrating an increase in rolling stock orders comes news that Aussie Locomotive maker United Group Rail (UGL) have orders to design and build ten locomotives and three hundred wagons for Swiss based Xstrata Coal demonstrating their confidence in the market. Simultaneously the good news that the Kryukovsky Railcar Plant (KVSZ) in Ukraine, which closed for production in April, and subsequently managed production for only three days per week due to lack of orders, has now resumed a full five day per week schedule. The management report orders for a minimum of 400 rail freight cars per month as opposed to the average of less than 200 per month it has managed so far this year.

Preparation for Future Growth

UK - Toll Global Forwarding (TGF) has promoted Graham Ward to the position of Managing Director of its UK operation. He replaces Eddie Stroud who, after 42 years in the industry, will assume the role of Chairman of the UK company.

Signs of Recovery Stall in Light of Dubai Crisis but Hope Remains

WORLD WIDE – News that the Baltic Exchange Dry Bulk Index figures were down for a sixth straight session, plus the financial situation in Dubai, conveniently revealed during the Thanksgiving holiday, have naturally caused a flurry of concern amongst those who habitually track such freight industry indicators religiously. Rarely however do such instantly accessible statistics tell the precise story.

Freight Plane “ broke into pieces” on Take Off Killing Three

SHANGHAI – CHINA – A Zimbabwe registered cargo plane crashed at 07.40 hours local time today whilst attempting to take off from the city’s Pudong airport en route to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan. Reports claim an intense fire followed after the plane ploughed off the runway into a storage building, its tail having broken into three pieces.

New Study Shows How Logistics Improved Over Twenty Years

AUSTRALIA – A study published by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE) has shown how technological development has made the country’s freight industries more energy efficient in the majority of sectors from twenty years ago.

PM Calls on Workers to Return to Work

SOUTH KOREA - South Korea's rail freight services have ground to an almost complete halt for the second day as rail workers continue their indefinite strike over restructuring at state-owned operator Korail which they believe will negatively affect their pay and working conditions.

No Resolution After Pilots Walk Out on Penultimate Meeting

INDIA - After Praful Patel, India’s Aviation Minister managed to persuade the pilots of Air India to return to work in October after the September strike, it seems that all efforts to resolve the situation may be in vain after all. No resolution to the situation surrounding a review of performance linked incentives has been forthcoming and it would seem only a last ditch meeting, scheduled for 30th November, holds any hope of preventing an all out stoppage.

Logistics in a War Zone can be a Deadly Business

LOGAR – AFGHANISTAN – We are used by now to the tales of horror coming out of this stricken province, soldiers are dying daily and, although each nation mourns its own, often this disguises the true picture of what is a truly international operation. The Danish ISAF soldier who died at the hands of another explosive device on Wednesday hardly rated a mention outside his home country’s press.

Paradip Port Development Commences with Jetty Inauguration

INDIA – A meeting with Shipping Minister G.K. Vasan yesterday confirmed that the Paradip Port Trust was on target to meet its commitments with regard to development and that by March 2010 the port would be capable of a throughput of 100 million tonnes, rising to 134 million tonnes when all works are completed. Bulk cargoes will include coal and iron ore as well as oil.

Added Destinations Demonstrate Growing Confidence in Relatively Young Market

SOUTH AMERICA – After the news of Damco Logistics foray into the Amazonian regions of Brazil with their new barge service to Porto Velho, comes news of another AP Moller – Maersk group company showing renewed interest in shipping freight to and from the region.

Largest Exhibition Ever to be Staged

FINLAND – Finpro, the former Finnish Foreign Trade Association, has selected Kuehne + Nagel to handle the organisation's logistical requirements for their exhibition area at next years World Expo in Shanghai.

LHM 280 Takes Prize in Dutch Bulk Handling “Salute to Excellence”

NETHERLANDS - Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH, the multi national materials handling equipment group, had notable success on Monday when they were awarded “Crane of the Year” for the company’s LHM 280, a machine versatile enough to handle loads up to 84 tonnes and a reach of up to 40 metres. The units can cope equally well with shipping containers, bulk goods or conventional general cargo.

Survival of the Fattest may be the way to Survive Hard Times

US – EUROPE – The heavy truck and lorry market has been suffering more than most sectors in the recent downturn. The future for the industry depends on modernisation and reform and the production of lighter commercial vehicles looks a lot more hopeful and innovative than their bigger brothers of Class 8 (over 15 tonnes) and above. We have seen real inspiration by many manufacturers, both established and new players, in the drive to produce more efficient and cleaner electric and hybrid vehicles in these smaller classes.

Main Importer for Massive Production Complex

BRAZIL - Panalpina Brazil has been nominated by steel pipe manufacturer VSB as their logistics provider for all inbound cargo for their new plant which is under construction in Minas Gerais.

New Appointments for Improved Service

WORLDWIDE – Air Menzies International (AMI) – the world’s largest trade-only freight wholesaler – has created a new global IT function that unites the company’s IT and marketing activities for the first time, with the aim of further enhancing its service offering.

“Slow Season” prompts cut back by Major Lines

ASIA – US – Statements from K Line, Hanjin Shipping and partners, state that they will reduce container services between Asia and the North America due to the traditional slowing of traffic at this time of year. The reductions are believed to equate to around 20 percent for services to and from the US West Coast with the East Coast ports shedding 10%.

Faster Express Service for UK and Irish Customers

UK—FedEx Express has announced the launch of its new International Next Flight service, an expedited delivery service from the UK and Ireland to more than 220 countries and territories around the globe. FedEx claim that this is the fastest FedEx service for customs-cleared, door-to-door delivery of urgent international shipments and offers a new flexibility to its users.

Part of National Expansion Plans

UKRAINE – Ukraine’s deepest water port, Yuzhny, has had its plans to build a new handling complex for bulk cargoes endorsed by the Ukrainian government. The facility, due to start next year and complete in 2012, will be capable of handling 1.2 million tons of freight per annum and is expected to cost around $77 million.

Radical Design for the Future of Shipping

JAPAN - With shipping emissions and pollution very prominent in the news recently and the Copenhagen Climate Change talks upcoming all of the worlds shipping lines are under increasing pressure to introduce ‘greener’ ships. Now Japanese carrier NYK Lines, in common with other major shippers such as Toyota and Mitsui O.S.K Lines, has revealed its own concepts for a low emission container freight vessel that the company states it wishes to have in service by 2030.

Major Opportunities for Investment Predicted

CHINA – In a public speech an official from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce has emphasised that China wishes to expand its service industries to exploit the country’s burgeoning freight sector.

Dangers Not Just Limited to the Horn

BENIN – According to reports in the AFP a crewman has been killed in an attack on an oil tanker off the coast of the West African country of Benin.

RHA Welcomes Action

UK – The British Department for Transport today published both a report on the current situation for haulage drivers parking overnight whilst working in the country and its future strategy to meet the requirements of the road freight industry.

Start of the Consolidation?

USA – Third-party logistics provider Greatwide Logistics Services has announced that it is to acquire the Dedicated Contract Carriage (DCC) division of YRC Logistics, a subsidiary of YRC Worldwide. Greatwide will absorb the equipment and personnel from DCC Division as well as taking over its existing contracts, effective immediately.

New LCL network from Miami hub to 33 key Latin American destinations

AMERICAS – Logistics provider Damco has today announced the launch of its “Americas Bridge” service for the North and Latin American container markets which adds weekly sailings between the two regions to Damco’s worldwide network.

Responsible for Admin and Relocations

AUSTRALIA – Toll Transitions, the relocation branch of Australian logistics giant the Toll Group, has been awarded the contract by the Australian Department of Defence to supply removal services to members of the armed services. Toll will also be responsible for additional administration involved in such moves such as recipient’s reimbursement, flights and temporary accommodation.

East Coast and Canadian Service with Northern Europe gets Revamp

MARSEILLE – FRANCE – CMA CGM have announced some fine tuning to some of their services in line with their normal policy of re-appraisal of container routes. The services affected are the Liberty Bridge Loop, which adds Norfolk, Virginia to Loop One, adds Jacksonville, Florida as a direct call and confirms New York as the last port before transiting the Atlantic. The changes to Loop One take effect from 1st December.

Denies Any Wrong-Doing

USA / KUWAIT – Kuwati-based logistics provider Agility has said it is “surprised and disappointed” that the U.S. government has decided to join a lawsuit that has been launched against the company’s owning group, the Public Warehousing Company (PWC), over the prices of foodstuffs provided by the company to the United States military in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Lack of Cohesion in Approach to Abduction at Sea

SOMALIA – Everyone who ships freight through or near to the Gulf of Aden, whether container ship, bulk carrier, tanker or just private yacht, knows the ever escalating risk which comes from the lawless gangs of marine mercenaries who roam the waters on the lookout for prey. Different nations and even different companies take differing views as to the way the threat is dealt with and indeed how the unfortunate consequences of a successful attack should be handled.

Parts Management Deal “Delights” Boss

BRAZIL / WORLDWIDE – CEVA Logistics has signed a three year contract with Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer. The contract makes CEVA responsible for Embraer’s Middle Eastern spare parts logistical requirements and for additional support to the company’s North Africa and Indian operations.

“Absolutely Ridiculous Situation” – RHA Chief

UK – The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has attacked the cost of petrol and diesel in the UK, stating that the continuing escalations in costs are seriously threatening the recovery in the British economy.

Push to Rail from Road Truck Shipping means New Investment Available

INDIA – AUSTRALIA – FRANCE – As the drive to move more freight cargoes away from distance road haulage onto the rail tracks one industry at least seems to be turning the corner at last. The manufacture of rail freight wagons requires a lot of capital investment plus extensive raw materials so the news that Vadodara, an area of India traditionally viewed as essential territory for the coordination of railfreight, due to its location with Mumbai to the South, Madhya Pradesh to the East and its proximity to Ahmedabad, is being developed, has to be good.

Shipping Line Expected To Sustain Losses for Another Year

GERMANY – Troubled German shipping line Hapag – Lloyd will not return to profitability for another year according one of the major shareholders.

Not Everybody Pleased at Scheme to Reduce Truck Haulage Problem

MASSACHUSETTS –US – Our September report on the cooperation between the commonwealth authorities and the CSX rail group in an effort to streamline both passenger and freight traffic for the good of the community has not been greeted with open arms by all parties. The plans to raise bridge heights to accommodate double stack freight cars and reduce drayage requirements on the local highways is meeting with criticism from some sectors of the local community.

Money Available for Worlds Largest Causeway

UAE – The proposed high speed rail freight and passenger link between Qatar and Bahrain Island will proceed despite financial concerns, according to reports in from the area. The land – sea bridge should commence construction next year and will consist of a two lane highway with emergency lanes to run in each direction and a double railtrack system being constructed when the roadway is completed.

A Brief Look at Attempts to Remove Cargo from the Roads Around the World

UK – USA- INDIA – NEW ZEALAND – BALTIC STATES – Railfreight, often seen as an obvious solution to several types of transport problems is once again fighting to become the primary source of long distance freight carriage in many countries in the world. Without becoming embroiled in the “how green actually is rail” argument we take a look at different happenings around the globe as the industry faces the inevitable problems as it struggles for supremacy over long distance road trucks.

DOT Spends $2 Billion in Last Month

USA – The U.S. Department of Transport (DOT) has spent almost $6 billion on transport infrastructure projects that benefit the American freight industry by funding improvements and repairs to highways and roads under the Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Almost $2 billion was paid out in last month alone!

Climate Change Piece to be Transported to Copenhagen for Conference

LONDON / COPENHAGEN - Damco has been nominated as the logistics provider for the Ghost Forest project - the exhibition currently at Trafalgar square aiming to raise awareness of climate change and deforestation.

Brookfield Take Control from BBI after Extensive Negotiations

Following our report of 15th October news comes today that PD Ports, the Middlesbrough based port management and logistics business, has become the property of the Canadian group Brookfield Asset Management and will trade under the auspices of a new holding company, Brookfield Ports (UK) Ltd. The company has transferred from the Babcock and Brown Infrastructure group as part of a larger overall deal between the two.

Fury at ‘Buck-Passing’ by Irish Government

IRELAND – The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has reacted angrily to what it says is ‘buck passing’ and ministers refusal to meet with their representatives to discuss a proposed carbon tax on fuel that will heavily hit freight companies in the country.

Freight Company Will Absorb Many of Existing Workers

USA – Wisconsin-based truck and intermodal logistics provider, Schneider National, confirmed yesterday that it is to take over operations of the Emerson transportation division by the end of 2009. Schneider will provide Emerson with a dedicated fleet, including approximately 300 drivers

“Adapt or Die” Doesn’t Work in the Haulage Industry

UK – US – A survey by the Handy Shipping Guide over the past month has revealed an alarming trend for individual owner operators to simply move out of the industry, as it faces one of the toughest times ever. Whilst other trades can at least change strategy, farmers cultivate alternative produce or look to tourism, manufacturers simply lay off staff and reduce production, hauliers and drayage contractors usually have to sit and suffer.

Thousands of Lorries Queue for Days at a Time to Cross from UAE

SAUDI ARABIA – UAE – Just as happened in June a huge build up of trucks at the border once again grows daily as Saudi Authorities subject all manner of freight to more stringent inspection. Trucks sit in an ever increasing queue as pilgrims travelling to the annual Hajj are allowed past. At the Al-Ghuwaifat Emirati border control the numbers of stranded vehicles has reportedly reached 5000 in a line which reaches back fifteen miles causing a logistics nightmare.

Emirates Confirm Use of E Commerce Interface

DUBAI – Emirates Shipping Line have decided to utilise the services of GT Nexus, the on demand global trade and logistics portal. Integration into the system will enable Emirates to deal directly with the network of import and export customers allied to the system. The announcement comes a few days after Panalpina announced their intention to use the GT Nexus database as host for their global transportation rate management.

Fight on for Percentage of Smaller Market

US – RUSSIA – INDIA - Just a few weeks ago Goodyear announced their US truck tire facilities were only running at around 40% of capacity due to the slump in truck tire demand. Industry insiders say the duty penalties now imposed on Chinese light truck tire imports, as reported here last month, had caused a price rise on such items of up to 20%.

Losses Force Closer Ties

WORLDWIDE - The New World Alliance (TNWA) carriers - which includes APL, Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM) and Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) - today announced service and capacity changes in cooperation with the Grand Alliance (GA) lines, whose members are Hapag-Lloyd, Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK), and Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL).

A Quick Look at BIFA Announcements this Month

UK – Here is a précis of this month’s most relevant announcements from the British International Freight Association. A full schedule of training courses for forwarders during 2010 can been seen here. This year’s range is even more extensive than ever, and ranges between such matters as Air Cargo Security, through First Aid and Dangerous Goods Handling right down to Basic Competency in Shipping practices. Non BIFA members are welcome (at slightly elevated rates).

Bypassing of Depots Makes Service More Cost Effective

EUROPE – Dutch parcel carrier TNT Express has announced the launch of a new, cost effective road distribution solution in Europe called Direct Express. The new service offers customers that ship high parcel volumes a faster, more flexible and reliable service by means of a direct connection to TNT’s domestic network in the destination country.

Company Believes “Distressed state” of Industry gives Opportunities

ATHENS – GREECE – Just a day after announcing the signing of waiver terms for $117.5 of company debt with its bankers, Deutsche Schiffsbank, the dry bulk and contract oil drilling company DryShips Incorporated confirmed yesterday that it would proceed with the purchase of two Panamax vessels which should be delivered, charter free by March 2010.

New Optimism for French Freight Line

FRANCE – In a statement issued today the French shipping line has predicted that the group is expected to return to the breakeven point in December 2009. The company states that it’s new optimism is based upon a number of key measures and reforms that they have been carrying out as well as a recovery in tonnages.

Maersk Alabama Sees Off Pirate Attack

INDIAN OCEAN – The Maersk Alabama, the ship seized in April of this year by Somali pirates, has fought off another attack today according to the US Navy.

Fire Attack Apparently Mindless

UK – UK Hauliers are being asked to keep an eye out for a stolen trailer and Hyster forklift after they were stolen on Saturday night by thieves from AET Transport Services, an abnormal load and temperature-controlled cargo specialist of Holton Heath, Dorset. The criminals then went on an arson rampage, destroying another six trucks and five trailers, causing an estimated £1 million worth of damage.

Has Delivered ‘Significant Contribution’

GERMANY - Sigma-Aldrich Chemical Company, a leading life-science and high technology company, has awarded Swiss logistics group Panalpina for ‘Continued Global Excellence in Dangerous Goods Transport’. During a recent visit Panalpina's CEO Monika Ribar received the award from Peter Schüle, Managing Director of Sigma-Aldrich Germany and head of global logistics.

Shipping Agent for Afghanistan Thinks Safety Improving

PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN – For those hauliers who think they’ve got it bad, spare a thought for your fellow truckers and haulage agents in Afghanistan who not only have the savage winters of the Hindu Kush to deal with, they have the occasional insurgent intent on blowing their load up as well! Despite this things seem to be getting better.

From the US to China the Trade War gets less civil and more Civil

WORLDWIDE – Nobody in the industry can be unaware of the rising tension as the dreaded “P” word, Protectionism, gets to be heard more often. As usual in times of strife nation follows nation in trying to ensure the survival of its prime industries and beat off the threat of cheap imports. As the US and Chinese leaders circle the ring this week trade deficits are never far from their thoughts despite all the other pressing matters requiring their immediate attention.

Piracy Update - Spanish Pay Whilst Navy Curses

SOMALIA – News that the Spanish Government had stumped up the requested $3.3 million ransom in return for a trawler and her 36 crew will not aid those in the international community who wish to stem the increasing flow of attacks. Container ships, bulk carriers, tankers and even private yachts, all considered fair game in the fastest growing big maritime business.

Subcontractor “Must Go”

INDIA – The International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) has threatened to take action against Danish shipping giant Moller-Maersk due to allegations that one of its Indian subcontracting company’s has been threatening and attacking drivers at the port of Mumbai.

Highways Agency New Website a Must for The Big Boys

ENGLAND – England's Highways Agency has unveiled their new website which promises to make the transportation of outsize freight much simpler. Currently such loads require for the carriers to pre-notify police, highway and bridge authorities which involves vast amounts of cross-communication and, according to the Highways Agency, millions of faxes a year.

Last Years Example Shouldn’t be Forgotten

UK – As the winter rolls in, British drivers are being encouraged to be prepared and to pay more attention to weather and industry warnings so as to avoid some of the chaotic scenes that beset the UK last year.

Major Program for Better Haulage Hailed by Governor

PENNSYLVANIA / USA – American rail-and-intermodal freight giant CSX has started work with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to upgrade the rail corridor that runs through the state so as to allow double-stacked container traffic to operate on the line.

As Two Giants Attempt to Merge can it Succeed in Today’s Market?

UK – SPAIN – The most talked about airline merger for some considerable time will see BA and Iberian Airlines tie up to form a powerful alliance. Or will it? And how will it affect the air freight business the two carriers currently handle. The answer appears to be – who knows?

Major Repositioning for Greek Line after Poor Q3 Figures

ATHENS – GREECE – Aries Maritime Transport have announced a third quarter loss of over $111 million compared to last years loss a year ago of $4.3 million. The company is taking major steps to reorganise and this will include selling the lines last two container vessels, the MSC Saronikos Bridge and MSC Seine before the end of the year at an estimated $11.4 million.

UK Haulier Launches “Illegal” vehicle whilst RHA Gain International Road Transport Position

UK – A British haulage company intends to launch a “B Double” or Longer Heavier Vehicle (LHV) by December this year, without the Government assent which is officially required. The British Government shelved the permission schedule for this type of vehicle some years ago, probably because the public perception of bigger trucks is of some smoke spewing monster which will cause carnage on the highways and damage to every road surface it travels on.

New Hybrid Technology Promises Clean HGV’s

USA – FedEx Freight, a subsidiary of the global delivery giant, has announced they are to conduct trials with a zero emission plug-in electric/hydrogen fuel cell hybrid tractor. In an agreement with Vision Industries Corp of Florida, FedEx are to have one of their standard trucks converted to a Tyrano hybrid.

More Good News for Emirate Industry

DUBAI / UAE – Following on from this morning’s report on the growth of Hong Kong International’s year-on-year air freight tonnages comes news that Dubai International has experienced a 17.7 percent increase in cargo turnover during October against the same month last year, with 185,867 tonnes handled as compared to 157,968 tonnes.

Traditional Road Haulage Lobbyists Recognise Multi Modal Systems as Essential whilst Britvic Switch

UK – The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has nailed its colours to the mast with regard to the future of rail freight in Great Britain. On the same day they announced support for a new ports strategy, the organisation spoke out at a meeting of the National Assembly for Wales' Enterprise and Learning Committee to lay down the requirements for improved inter modal goods carriage in the province.

New Horizons for Russian Railways

RUSSIA - Speaking at a conference last week Vadim Morozov, First Vice-President of Russian Railways (RZD), laid out the company’s ambitious ideas for the future by expanding the use of containerisation on the Russia railway network and increasing their logistics business interests.

First Improved Figures Since August 2008

HONG KONG – Air freight tonnage handled by Hong Kong International Airport in October 2009 has actually increased from the same month last year. This is the first month since August 2008 that a year-on-year monthly comparison registered positive growth for the airports tonnage and is a good sign for stabilisation in the air cargo sector.

Tighter Immigration Rules for Officers in British Waters

UK – The UK’s union for maritime professionals, Nautilus International, has welcomed the decision by the British Home Office last week to remove ship and hovercraft officers from the ‘shortage occupation’ list.

MIdex Airlines UAE National Carrier Launches $500 million Cargo Plan

DUBAI – UAE – The national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, state owned Midex Airlines, used the prestigious Dubai Air Show to announce the launching of a locally financed scheme to invest half a billion dollars in air freight infrastructure and to further their airfreight business through whatever means are available, both locally and globally. Midex, holders of the prestigious Middle East Logistics Award (MELA) for best air cargo operator of 2009, believe that air freight in the region is due for expansion, as, unlike in many other parts of the world, it is often the simplest, fastest and most cost effective way of moving goods around local countries.

London Industrial Relations Meeting Sees $50,000 Donation via Mariners Organisations

LONDON – As detailed here before those in the maritime community are always amongst the first to step up when a disaster affects their global community. After the recent tropical storms Ketsana and Parma left hundreds dead and injured with thousands more evacuated the international community rushed to offer humanitarian aid.

Californian Hauliers Object to Way Clean Air Act Enforced – Ontarian Examiners to “Union Bashing”

US – CANADA – Hundreds of owner drivers, with their rigs, hit the street on Friday to complain about the way the new clean air legislation affecting the Californian Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach was being enforced. Drivers have complaints surrounding different aspects of the new rules but a major point made by the representatives of the National Port Drivers Association (NPDA) is that it appears unconstitutional.

Discounts on Bagged Goods Rates and Groupage Intended to Increase Profitability

INDIA – After our recent report on the investment opportunities being taken up by Western investors a major sub-continental rail freight group have moved to cut empty running time across India. Indian Railways, who as we reported last week boosted profits 16.5%, are offering discounts between 20 and 30% for bagged goods on popular commodities from fertilisers, cement, grain to urea and fly ash. These last two will receive the higher discount rate.

Climate Quotas Easier With Rail Not Road Haulage

The Rail Freight Group (RFG), the organisation that represents the interests of the UK’s rail haulage industry, has called upon the British government to make a commitment to changing current transport policy from road to rail freight a key part in the UK’s proposed plans to cut CO2 in the upcoming Copenhagen climate talks.

Revenues and Tonnages Starting to Recover

SOUTH KOREA - Hanjin Shipping, Korea’s largest shipping company, is the latest of the big freight lines to announce that it has, unsurprisingly, made further losses in the third quarter of this year.

Shippers Must Include Inclement Weather in their Calculations

US –New Jersey – North Carolina – Virginia - Hawaii - India – UK – Storms swept across the world today and devastated much of the Eastern Seaboard as Hurricane Ida thrashed in her death throes taking other unfortunate lives with her. Many were blaming global warming for the continued turbulence and the world’s weather has served to demonstrate a fundamental weakness of one of our traditional forms of transport – the cargo barge.

Major New Business in Supporting Oil and Gas Companies

SWITZERLAND - Weatherford and Halliburton, two major global players in the oil and gas industry, have awarded significant new businesses to the Swiss-based forwarding and logistics group, Panalpina.

Further Recognition of Excellence for Thai Hub

THAILAND - CEVA Logistics has been certified by the Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA). Specifically, this certification is for CEVA’s Finished Goods Hub in Ayutthaya, Thailand.

Country to Hold Co-Chair on Cooperation Council

CHINA / SOMALIA – Following on from last week’s calling of an emergency meeting by the Chinese to discuss how to deal with the problem of piracy in the West Indian Ocean comes news that the conference seems to have created a new depth of cooperation within the international naval community to address the issue.

Chinese Demand Driving Recovery

LONDON - The Baltic Exchange’s Dry Index (BDI), which charts shipping rates for various dry and bulk commodities, jumped 5.5 per cent on Thursday to 3,954 points as the strong demand for iron ore and coal from China continues.

New Workhorse for the Air Freight Fleet Soon to Begin Flight Tests

USA – Boeing towed out the first of its 747-8 freighter’s on Thursday afternoon from its Everett factory. The aircraft shall now be painted, undergo flight testing and then be delivered to the inaugural customer, Luxembourg-based air freight operator Cargolux.

FTSI Figures Fall Against Both Previous September and Last Year

US – Just as heads had started to rise in the industry after seeing a month by month increase in the Bureau of Transportation’s Freight Transportation Services Index since June, the figures show a decline of around half a percent against August and a drop of almost 10% against 2008 when the September numbers were released yesterday. The index is an amalgamation of tonnage from road, rail, inland barge and domestic air freight and also pipeline tonnage, and combined with distance carried gives a figure showing the ratio made up from one tonne to each mile travelled.

New Anti-Vehicle Theft Idea?

GERMANY — A thief who stole a van in Wuppertal, Germany may well have got the shock of his life when he discovered the cargo he had stolen was in fact a circus lion.

Seeks Greater Slice of Bulk Shipping Pie

JAPAN - Japan's biggest shipping company, Nippon Yusen Line (NYK), has announced that it plans to raise $1.6 billion through a public share offering and to reform its services so as to expand its interests into a greater diversity of core markets.

Company on Schedule for First Ever Loss

DENMARK – A.P. Moller-Maersk, the Danish shipping giant, has reported that it has suffered a heavier than expected loss for the first three quarters of the year and has raised it projections for total losses for 2009 to $1 billion. This represents the company’s first yearly loss in its history.

Vessels Polluting Local Waters

MALAYSIA – Hundreds of ships that have been anchored in the Johor strait due to the economic downturn are on the point of wearing out their welcome, according to local fishermen and port officials.

Management Urges Caution on Calling Recovery

HONG KONG - Cathay Pacific Airways has reported its strongest cargo figures of the year with traffic reaching its highest level for 2009 in October. Though air freight tonnage fell by 2% compared to October 2008, this is the lowest year-on-year decline the airline has seen this year.

100 Grants for Business Travel and Free Air Freight Available

UK - British Airways World Cargo has launched an award that should appeal to freight forwarders with interests in the air freight market. In order to help the UK’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) BA is offering such companies the chance to win one of 100 Business Opportunity Grants.

Impressive year-end for Freightex

UK – In a year which has seen the global freight industry decimated by cut backs and closures one segment seems to be doing well. Freightex, a freight exchange which caters primarily for the UK-European backload market, has reported that it has seen a growth in turnover of 35% and profits rise by 21% this year.

NPS Should Clear Slow Planning Problems

UK – The British government’s National Policy Statements (NPS) for ports, which was released on Friday and is designed to provide a clear framework for both port developers and the new Infrastructure Planning Commission (IPC) for future infrastructure in England and Wales, has been warmly welcomed by a leading UK industry body.

Company Results Compare To Last Year

GREECE - Paragon Shipping Inc., a Greek-based global shipping concern that specialises in drybulk cargoes, announced today in its results for the third quarter ending in September that the company had performed surprisingly well considering the economic hardships besetting the sector.

Ships Manifest and Container Markings Point To Iran

ISRAEL – Following on from last Tuesdays seizure by Israeli commandos of an illegal arms shipment off of the coast of Cyprus the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has produced a series of documents and other evidence which it says confirms the weapons were being shipped by the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Line (IRISL).

New Giant For Asia – Europe Trade

FRANCE / SOUTH KOREA - CMA CGM Group has taken delivery in South Korea of the Christophe Colomb. The new vessel is now the flagship of the group’s fleet and at 365 meters long with a capacity of 13,300 TEU is one of the biggest container vessels afloat. The ship is to operate on the Asia / Europe trade routes.

Attribute Low Results to Downturn, Not Competition

AUSTRALIA – Air freight carrier Australian Air Express (AAE), the joint venture between Qantas Airways and Australia Post, has just released figures that indicate that to June of this year it has made a minimal profit.

New Technology For Addressing Smuggling Under Development

UK – British researchers are developing a potentially revolutionary new project that could radically improve the security of freight shipments. They are working to create a robot that will make it easier to detect drugs, weapons, explosives and illegal immigrants concealed in cargo containers.

Profits down but Mix of Services Steadies the Ship

IRELAND – Irish Continental Group, whose interests range from freight terminal management to European container feeder services, have just issued and interim management statement indicating profits in the third quarter. Compared to Q3 profits from 2008 they inevitably do not set pulses racing. However a closer analysis of the figures makes for interesting reading.

First Company to Win GDP

IRELAND - Kuehne + Nagel is the first company to receive the Good Distribution Practice Passport from Life Sciences Ireland, an industry grouping within the Irish Exporters Association. The award is recognition of the efforts K+N have made in their distribution system to improve training and handling standards for Life Science products which includes pharmaceuticals, chemicals, diagnostics, medical devices and biotechnology.

It seems Smart Money is Staying on the Ground

INDIA - East Central Railway (ECR) state they carried about 6.35 million tonne goods during October this year which is a record .They claim that makes 43.43 million tonne goods in the current year mostly bulk products like coal and oil with cement and foodstuffs forming the next most popular commodities. Indian Railways reported yesterday that they too had increased earnings, up over 16.5% against the same period, October 2008.

Bulk Carrier Already on Contract

GREECE / CHINA – Greek-based shipping line Diana Shipping Inc. has announced today that the company has taken delivery of the newly-built MV Houston, a 177,729 dwt Capesize dry bulk carrier which has been built jointly by Shanghai Jiangnan-Changxing Shipbuilding Co. Ltd. and Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co. Ltd.

Hyundai Merchant Marine and C Butt Launch New Freight Company

UK - One of the largest container carriers in the world has joined forces with a Northampton based haulier to form a new logistics company specifically crafted to suit customer demand. Peter Livey, Head of Logistics at Hyundai and now a director of Hyundai and C Butt Solutions Limited spoke to Handy Shipping Guide to confirm that the new company came about as a result of demand for Hyundai to venture more from their traditional role as container carriers.

Furthest Ever Raid and Seizure of Weapons Ship Indicate Worse to Come

INDIAN OCEAN – Recent developments in the behaviour of Somali pirates who prey upon shipping in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean has made the prospects for ocean freight that moves within the region even more hazardous.

Enhanced capabilities and reduction in carbon emissions with GE Locos

UK – British rail freight operator Freightliner Group today took delivery of its first new PowerHaul locomotives from GE Transportation. According to a joint press release the engines represent a new benchmark for the UK rail market with state-of-the-art technology that makes them greener for their power output.

Market Conditions Prompt Container Shipping Line to Participate

USA / ASIA - Maersk Line has announced that it has decided to apply for membership in the Trans-Pacific Stabilization Agreement (TSA) after a five year absence. With Maersk Line’s acceptance, there will be 15 members of this research and discussion forum made up of ocean shipping lines that carry cargo between Asia and the U.S.

Recognition of Company’s Flexible Response

USA / WORLDWIDE – Agility Defense & Government Services (DGS), a division of Agility Logistics that specialise in government contracts, has been awarded a contract to manage the receipt, warehousing and re-export of food aid and commodities for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

All Weather Road to Link North and South of Country

KYRGYZISTAN – A new road that is being funded by the Asian Development Bank is set to be completed in the next few months that will provide the first all-weather road link between the north and south of the country.

Extra Vigilance Needed but New Discovery may have Ramifications for Transport

Australia – India – US – UK When economic times start to take a toll on freight carriers of all types there is a tendency to cut corners and when this impinges on the transport of hazardous goods it can result in tragic consequences.

Operation Stammtisch Proving a Great Success

UK – A program that aims to encourage commercial vehicle drivers to air their concerns to the police is to be expanded to include more county forces due to the success of the project. Now a regular feature at services up and down the country the officers who conduct ‘Operation Stammtisch’ are available for drivers to talk over their problems and issues with their jobs.

Depressed Volumes and Overcapacity May Cost Some Drayage Carriers Dear

US – In common with haulage operators the world over the US truck operators are suffering in a reduced market after a prolonged period of growth and expansion. One mans problem is another’s opportunity however and several of the larger LTL fleets are casting avaricious eyes over the competition.

Tropical Shipping Acquire Deluxe Freight in Florida Deal

FLORIDA – US – LCL Caribbean specialists Tropical Shipping, have reportedly acquired their Miami neighbours Deluxe Freight in a move which tightens their control of the local Cayman Islands less than container load (LCL) import – export market. Deluxe have been among the strongest local players on the route since commencing operations in 1996 and add the market to Tropical’s menu of Caribbean destinations.

US Ban Demonstrates the Threat to Industry and Free Trade

US – CHINA – INDIA – UK – China is rapidly becoming the tyre supplier to the world. The ban this week by President Obama’s administration on “tubular goods” just two weeks before he visits China shows the serious nature of trade relations between the two. In the usual tit for tat exchanges over past months we have witnessed anti dumping and anti subsidy cases put before the World Trade organisation for an exotic range from auto and chicken parts from the US to China and audiovisuals and printed matter in the opposite direction.

No News as yet on Refinancing Arrangements for Shipping Giant

FRANCE – The five and a half billion dollar debt hanging round the neck of CMA CGM must resemble a mountain more than a millstone to CEO and group founder Jacques Saade at the moment. Despite the fact the company is still family controlled, the people holding the groups purse strings, its bankers, are likely to insist on major management changes before a rescheduling of debts is agreed.

DHL Relations with Union has Shades Of Royal Mail Dispute

WORLDWIDE – Today a joint press release from the International Transport Workers' Federation and the UNI Global Union was issued stating that next week, the 9th to 13th November would see what they are calling “a world wide week of action” to drive home their claims that DHL, the international parcel carriers, are not abiding by agreements to conform to elements of social responsibility previously agreed with the workforce.

China Looks to Strengthen Military Cooperation Ties Against Pirates

CHINA – In an attempt to further improve the cooperation of the various countries that have naval vessels taking part in anti-pirate patrols in the Gulf of Aden, China is staging a two-day conference in which delegates from NATO, the EU, Russia, Japan and India are to discuss how best to deal with the menace and protect shipping in the area.

PART Publish Test Results for “Boat Tail” Technology

EUROPE – An intensive programme of research undertaken by the Platform for Aerodynamic Road Transport (PART) has been published showing all the advantages of utilising technical advances in truck aerodynamics, tested in wind tunnel conditions, when brought out onto the open road.

Reliance on Diesel has Always made Drayage and Specialist Haulage Vulnerable

WORLDWIDE – Most of us have known what it’s like to live through a time when carbon based fuels of one sort or another have been in short supply or shot up in price. An OPEC crisis, refineries or tanker drivers on strike, war in the Middle East. As long as it happens intermittently it simply serves as a reminder as to how much we depend on carbon based fuels.

Adjustments To Be Made to Divisions and Management

GERMANY - DB Schenker Rail, Deutsche Bahn AG's European rail freight transport operator has announced that it intends to streamline its management and organisational structure at the start of next year.

New Barge Service Proving Highly Successful

BRAZIL – Damco’s new barge feeder service between the Amazonian ports of Porto Velho and Manaus is proving a huge success with local businesses that until now had major problems accessing the countries sea ports for the export of goods and have been penalised by high transport costs as a result.

Purchase of Freight Forwarder Part of Global Expansion

UAE / AUSTRLIA – Australian logistics company Toll Holdings Ltd has purchased a leading private international freight forwarding business based in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for an undisclosed sum.

CAI International Figures Demonstrate State of the Global Freight Industry

US – One of the largest freight container management companies wheeled out their third quarter figures and, unfortunately, they held no big surprises. CAI International Incorporated, the San Francisco based fleet provider and management company are a good barometer of industry conditions having, as they do, a network of global locations and shipping line customers ranging across the financial spectrum.

Strike Action Suspended whilst Rates Reviewed in Both Tough Markets

UK – US – Strike action has been suspended in the UK whilst the union and management deal during an agreed “period of calm” where a series of further stoppages had been threatened in the run up to Christmas in a dispute over modern working practices which has been ongoing for several months. Meanwhile the United States Postal Service have announced their rates review for 2010 including, for them, a revolutionary new tariff to include cubic capacity.

Additional Call Backs Groups Commitment to Pacific Routes

USA / SINGAPORE – French-based shipping group CMA CGM have announced that they will be adding the port of Singapore to its PEX 3 service from the 11th of November. The PEX 3 will be the only service with direct calls from Houston to Singapore.

State Ambitious to Promote and Develop New Commercial Vehicle Technology

CALFORNIA – US – The news this week that Electric Vehicles International, formerly of Austin, Texas was moving to Stockton will come as no surprise to watchers of electric truck development. The Golden State has always been the place most associated with both technological and environmental matters and the newest industry combines both in a neat package.

Hezbollah denies weapons for them

ISRAEL – Following on from yesterdays report concerning the seizure of the Antiguan-flagged vessel Francop by Israeli commandos comes news that the quantity of arms and munitions is actually far beyond any amount interdicted before.

Both Air-and-Sea Tonnages Up

SWITZERLAND – Swiss-based logistics specialist Panalpina has reported in that it has seen a significant increase in the freight volumes the group has transported in the third quarter of this year in comparison to the second.

Clarksons Optimistic for Future

UK - Clarksons, one of the world’s leading shipping services group, today announced in its results for the period from 1 July 2009 to 4 November 2009 that the group has seen its business grow in a number of key fields despite the problems in the wider shipping industry.

Asian Banks Reluctant to Comment on Funding Slowdown

SINGAPORE – LONDON - Having just returned from a trade mission to China, Singapore’s Second Minister for Finance and Transport, Mrs Lim Hwee Hua, spoke out at yesterdays inaugural DnB NOR Asian Investor conference and commented on the growing unwillingness of banks in the region to lend money for shipping projects. She told the gathering that ship owners are having to seek finance elsewhere and estimated an injection of around $350 billion would have to be found to finance foreseeable future shipbuilding projects. She understood that approximately half of Asia’s banks had stopped investing in shipping related projects.

Working Group Insist Freight Charges Must Rise

US – ASIA – The discussion group which forms the Westbound Transpacific Stabilization Agreement (WTSA) have announced their guidance for rate charges to be levied on the US – Asian services from 1st December with some increases not taking effect until January. Although the rates are subject to negotiation by the individual members, meaning they do not infringe any antitrust regulations, all are agreed that a rate rise is essential to make the service viable.

Accuses Iran and Syria of Attempting to Equip Militants

ISRAEL – An Israeli naval special forces team yesterday boarded and seized a ship carrying over sixty tons of weapons off of the coast of Cyprus which it alleges was destined to go to arming Hezbollah and Hamas for attacks to ‘undermine peace in the Middle East’.

Rail Freight Improvements to be Funded by Trucks

UK – The Liberal Democrats transport plans have come under fire today from a leading UK freight association. If elected the party propose to institute a system of emission-and-distance related road tolls on Britain’s motorway and trunk road network that would in essence penalise the road haulage companies but make additional funds available for extensive rail freight development.

Privatisation Seen as the Solution to Cargo Handling and Kenya Rail Development

KENYA – The ongoing congestion problems at Mombasa Port were the subject of a parliamentary survey when Government representatives toured the port this week. The chairman of the Committee however described the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) scheme as “piecemeal”. Meantime the Kenya Railways Corporation have posted a tender document for applications for a consultancy on upgrading the freight rail system in the country a study which they wish to have in place by March 2011.

Algerian port orders additional stackers for expansion plans

FINLAND / ALGERIA – Finnish handling equipment manufacturer Konecranes has received a follow up order for eleven of its reach stackers (RST) from DP World Djazair in Algeria. The order follows on from previous orders in May and June for six reach stackers and five empty container handlers to the same customer.

Upturn in Cargo Operations Encourages Investment in Industry

INDIA – According to reports the Airports Authority of India (AAI) have calculated the upturn in the country’s air freight market will continue to grow despite the recession and it would seem that a new airline, New Delhi based Aryan Cargo Express, may well launch their international services by February 2010. Simultaneously Deccan Cargo and Express Logistics, who started international flights in May say they plan to expand their fleet to eight aircraft.

UK Retailer Awards 3PL Contract

UK – Third Party Logistics (3PL) provider TDG are to take over the freight haulage and warehousing operations of the UK’s largest independent toy retailer, The Entertainer (TE), and provide logistical management and support for the company’s expansion plans.

Logue to Take Over Road Haulage Operator in December

US – Part of the FedEx Corporation will have a new boss from next month. FedEx Freight, the less than truck load (LTL) arm of the group have appointed William J Logue as the new president taking over from Douglas Duncan. Mr Logue will also be CEO from next February having served with Fedex for twenty years after they acquired the famous Flying Tiger group.

Buffett Bids for Burlington Northern and Sees the Future in Rail

US – Never since the time when the Iron Horse crossed the Western Plains has anyone invested what billionaire Warren Buffett has just put on the line in a bid to take over Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF), the second largest rail freight company in the world. In what he describes as, “An all-in wager on the economic future of the United States.” Mr Buffett launched his $34 billion bid, “ I love these bets,” he then said.

Minister reaffirms government’s commitment to industry

GREECE - In an announcement made yesterday Greece’s Minister for Shipping confirmed that the nation’s current policy on not charging income tax to shipping companies registered abroad but that have offices in the country shall be continued by the newly elected socialist government.

Online haulage source seeing greater use

UK – Following on from our report last month concerning the opportunities for haulage firms in the wake of the postal strikes affecting the UK comes news that one sector of the industry is experiencing a beneficial uplift.

Hopes for a Better Future After Depressing Shipping Company Results

TAIWAN – The nation’s container freight companies are looking toward the proposed Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) which is being discussed over the next two days with officials from China in Beijing. The agreement is designed to strengthen trade ties between the two nations after the establishment of direct transport links across the strait in late 2008.

Recognition for cargo carrier’s excellence

USA – Southern Air Inc. has become only the fifth U.S.-based all-cargo carrier to pass the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and be registered as an IOSA compliant airline.

Union and LTL Carrier Issue Statements as National Truck Week Begins

US - Following a particularly complex financial statement issued by YRC Worldwide two days ago, the less than trailer load (LTL) company announced today details of the exchange offer which will allow it to refinance in the short term allowing it access to a further $56 million of its “revolver reserve”. The exchange, for in excess of $530 million plus other outstanding interest, represents 95% of the company’s common stock value and includes a provision for the unions involved to take out options as agreed with the company.

Authorities Accused of Incompetence

SYDNEY – AUSTRALIA - Work on the new rail freight link, a A$300 million dollar federal project to separate the goods line from passenger services has been suspended until further notice, leaving several hundred workers unemployed in the run up to Christmas.

Public Meetings to Discuss Series of Flinders Transport Problems

AUSTRALIA – After the numerous problems which inhabitants of the Furneaux Island group have undergone preventing goods shipments between the islands and the mainland, the next two days will finally see them having a chance to express their views to officials face to face.

Current system leads to problems for truckers

AUSTRALIA - The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) has called for a more uniform system for public holidays to be adopted across the nation. The call comes as businesses and federal government departments in Canberra prepare to shut down for the Family and Community Day holiday tomorrow.

New technology opens markets for fruit growers

WORLDWIDE – Maerskline have taken new steps to improve the lot of the world’s banana growers. The company now offers a new Controlled Atmosphere (CA) container service that promises to allow the notoriously fickle fruit to remain fresh for longer.

Figures Down After Hopeful Statements

TAIWAN – The leaves of the Evergreen tree are looking extremely autumnal today as news comes in of an unaudited loss of circa $80 million for the quarter to September. The container carrier who we reported on just two weeks ago as hopeful of increasing its market share through acquisitions after an interview with founder Dr Chang Jung-fa, has proved to be in a worse situation than analysts predicted.

Discussions Aim to Develop Links with Several Nations

VIETNAM – A frenzied burst of diplomatic activity has seen the government’s leaders in talks with several world powers this past couple of weeks. As the country moves away from its unique position in foreign investors minds, the Prime Minister has demonstrated that he fully understands the lamentable logistics position within his borders. Speaking openly Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung said to the National Assembly that the state of the country’s infrastructure had not improved this past year and that improvements were essential to roads and drainage plus the upgrading of water and electricity supplies.

Sino – Indian Transport Projects Established in a Strong Market

INDIA – The news that the Suzuki Motor Corporation has raised its forward view of profits is a strong indication of where their marketing department have been concentrating their efforts. The figures just posted by the Transport Corporation of India also demonstrate that, in a world of oversupply, low rates and shrinking demand there is one market that can buck the trend.

Aviation and Other Industries Flock to the Provinces as “Father of Space” dies

CHINA – In the same week news comes in that China’s “Father of Space Technology” Qian Xuesen has died on Saturday aged 98, Airbus Industries have announced they are to switch the installation of wing parts for their A320 aircraft from the UK to Tianjin province. This is seen as a tightening of the grip the province is beginning to have on logistics in the country. Recently a number of Western countries have been attracted to this area, tempted by its proximity to Beijing, since the Olympics less than half an hour by train, and to the deep water harbour facilities.

Taxation “Highway Robbery”

SCOTLAND - The Scottish National Party (SNP) yesterday attacked diesel costs in Scotland as “highway robbery” after figures released by the UK’s Department of Energy revealed that diesel in Scotland is the most expensive in Europe.