Archives: Press Releases

Alexandria, Va. – December 21, 2023 – The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) released the following statement following the introduction of legislation that would finally allow Department of Transportation (DOT) licensed property brokers to participate in the Custom Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program. Since the program’s inception in 2006, TIA members have not been allowed to participate not because of their merits but because of a bias against DOT-licensed property brokers.

H.R. 6876, the “CTPAT Pilot Program Act” is bipartisan legislation introduced by Reps. Elissa Slotkin (D-7^th/Mich.), Morgan Luttrell (R-8^th/Texas), Rob Menendez (D-8^th/N.J.), and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-1^st/Iowa).

“For years TIA members were purposefully omitted from a program that was developed in the aftermath of 9/11,” said Anne Reinke, TIA president & CEO. “C-TPAT does a great job securing our homeland and defending our supply chain. 3PL’s add value to this effort and we look forward to doing our part to ensure that freight being transported cross-border is done to the highest safety standards.”

The “CTPAT Pilot Program Act” will grant 10 previously neglected companies an opportunity to join a pilot program that will enable the applying company C-TPAT certification, if they meet the minimum requirements.

“This is a common-sense approach to a problem that never should have taken place,” says Chris Burroughs, TIA vice president of Government Affairs. “The status quo is contrary to legislative intent. Our members play an integral role in national security. This legislation is about national security, jobs and fairness.”

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TIA is the professional organization of the $232 billion third-party logistics industry.  TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce.  TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. To learn more about TIA, visit www.tianet.org.

Contact: Melanie Hinton                                                                 

Email:  [email protected]

Website: www.tianet.org

[Alexandria, VA, December 20, 2023] — The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is excited to welcome Curtis Garrett, founder of Understand LTL, as the primary instructor for TIA’s Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) education course. With nearly two decades of experience in the freight industry, Curtis brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to TIA’s educational courses and initiatives. 

“TIA’s Institute for Research & Education embraces a mission to advance the careers of TIA members, to help make them truly the best in the 3PL industry. That is why we are so delighted to add such a renowned LTL expert like Curtis Garrett to teach our LTL course,” said Anne Reinke, TIA President and CEO. “Having expert instructors provide superior education helps our members succeed and grow their businesses.”

TIA’s LTL course teaches members how to define LTL, describe the types of LTL carriers, classify types of commodities and prohibited articles, recognize basic loss and damage claims, and recognize when it’s time to expand their services. Understand LTL offers a wide range of engaging courses, resources and content for the LTL community, which Curtis will integrate with TIA’s LTL education course. 

“As one of the most critical organizations in the US freight brokerage world, the Transportation Intermediaries Association has been key in driving community, education, and network across the industry for a long time. With LTL on the rise as an essential service that many 3PL’s look to provide to their customers, I am honored to have Understand LTL (ULTL) partnered with TIA in advancing their LTL education, training, and capabilities,” said Garrett. “I am looking forward to a long partnership between ULTL and TIA that ultimately ends up with the freight market becoming better equipped at navigating the LTL mode.” 

The 2024 Q1LTL educational course kicks off with its first module on January 8. Learn more about each module, view the full schedule and register here.  

“We are excited to welcome Curtis Garrett as the TIA LTL Instructor. Curtis has the personal experience and hands-on knowledge of the LTL world,” said Cori Eckley, TIA Foundation Board Chair. “His expertise will further our growth and education material in the area of LTL.”

Visit our website to learn more about all of TIA’s educational courses and offerings.

About TIA:

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is the professional organization of the $232 billion third-party logistics industry. TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce. TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Melanie Hinton
+1 703-202-7558

[email protected] 

Hope Barrón

OnWrd & UpWrd, on behalf of TIA

+1 915-256-6772

[email protected]  

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (December 4, 2023) —  The freight industry showed signs of life according to third quarter 2023 data, bucking a trend of weak performance that began in the second quarter of 2022. However, sluggish freight volumes and trucking overcapacity will likely keep future results tepid until at least the back half of 2024, according to the latest data from the Transportation Intermediaries Association’s 3PL Market Report, Third Quarter 2023.

“Our forward-looking data has had us bracing for continued weakness in the freight economy,” said TIA President and CEO Anne Reinke. “However, the surprising strength we saw during the third quarter goes to show that the market can still outperform forecasts. Our members continue to be incredibly resilient and have made the most of less-than-stellar conditions in recent quarters.”

The freight economy, which the report calls the GDP Goods Transport Sector, rose 6.5 percent quarter over quarter, breaking a 5-quarter streak of negative or nearly negative quarter-over-quarter growth. That growth aligned with a 4.9 percent increase in U.S. real gross domestic product (GDP) during the third quarter.

TIA Members saw quarter-over-quarter declines in total shipments (-2.2 percent) and total revenue (-0.2 percent), but an increase in invoice amount per shipment (2.1 percent). Members saw double-digit percentage declines in all three metrics year over year.

“We’re looking at tough year-over-year comparisons for brokers given that the third quarter of 2022 was a strong one for members,” said Mark Christos, TIA Chair and Chair of the Market Report. “That being said, the positive results detailed in this most recent report are encouraging for members as we brace for further headwinds until mid-2024.”

In terms of sector performance, intermodal (IM) and less-than-truckload (LTL) recorded quarter-over-quarter gains in total shipments, while truckload (TL) saw a decline in total shipments. All three segments posted mid-single-digit to double-digit year-over-year percentage declines in total shipments.

TIA’s 3PL Market Report is released on a quarterly basis and uses data collected from 50+ participating TIA members to analyze shifts in broker activity, which is largely dominated by the truckload sector. FTR Transportation Intelligence prepared this quarter’s report.

More Takeaways and Trends Include:

· A key driver of the freight economy’s slowdown is trucking capacity, which grew significantly between 2020 and year-end 2022, even as freight demand began to stall in 2022. Several small carriers created during the past three years have since failed. However, capacity hasn’t declined enough to tighten the market.

· Consumer spending continues to be a metric to watch, given its strong influence on the freight economy. The most recent data indicate the levels of consumer spending that have kept freight demand solid, if not growing, could continue for some time. One factor that could undermine consumer confidence is further weakness in job growth.

· Motor vehicles and parts output has boosted the broader manufacturing sector throughout 2023. Strong output during the first two quarters may be due to a production increase in anticipation of the United Auto Workers’ strikes at three major U.S. automakers between mid-September and the end of October. It’s uncertain whether output will resume at pre-strike 2023 levels or return to weaker pre-pandemic levels.

The full report “3PL Market Report, Third Quarter 2023, Issue 60” is available for free to media upon request.

Please note: The 3PL Market Report is intended for TIA subscribers and the full report is not meant to be reproduced or redistributed by any recipients.

About TIA

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is the professional organization of the $214 billion third-party logistics industry. TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce. TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Tanvi R.

+1 703-299-5700

[email protected]

Keaveny Hewitt

OnWrd & UpWrd, on behalf of TIA

+1 919-622-5276

khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com

Alexandria, VA (November 20, 2023) — The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), the premier organization for third-party logistics professionals, is proud to announce that the American Council on Education (ACE) has recommended the Certified Transportation Broker (CTB) course for 6 undergraduate semester hours under the following course topics: Business Fundamentals and Transportation Delivery Systems. This significant recognition highlights the quality and value of TIA’s educational offerings for the transportation industry.

“While we know that our CTB course is best in class, it is incredibly rewarding to have the American Council on Education recognize the top caliber CTB designation as well. We could not be more pleased and excited to work with ACE on this credit recommendation effort,” said TIA President & CEO Anne Reinke.

ACE, a prominent membership organization, plays a pivotal role in shaping effective public policy and fostering innovation and high-quality practices in higher education. With a diverse membership of over 1,700 colleges and universities, ACE represents all types of degree-granting institutions in the United States.

“The CTB designation has historically been recognized within the industry as the highest professional certification among 3PL’s, however achieving this undergraduate credit recommendation will provide additional credibility to the certification.  Offering students the opportunity to put their hard work towards Supply Chain Management programs to supplement their current studies with specific subject matter related to the 3PL industry. This will also offer value and appeal to employers looking to hire interns and recent graduates in the field of study,” said TIA CTB Committee Chair Mark Fiorini, CTB.

To learn more about the CTB courses, visit the TIA website.

About TIA

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is the professional organization of the $232 billion third-party logistics industry. TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce. TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Tanvi R.

+1 703-299-5700

[email protected]

Meghan Henning

OnWrd & UpWrd, on behalf of TIA

+1 301-642-6660

[email protected]

Decision marks huge step forward for combating fraud in the supply chain

Alexandria, VA (November 16, 2023) — The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced the release of a Final Rule on Broker and Freight Forwarder financial responsibility. Through this Final Rule, the FMCSA is amending five separate areas: “assets readily available,” immediate suspension of broker/forwarder authority, surety or trust fund responsibilities in cases of broker/forwarder financial failure or insolvency, enforcement authority, and entities eligible to provide trust funds for brokers and forwarders.

“TIA applauds the agency for moving forward on this long overdue rule. 3PLs and brokers are in the midst of a fraud epidemic and a significant aspect of that fraudulent activity centers around trust fund providers and fraudulent entities in the marketplace,” said TIA President & CEO Anne Reinke. “The FMCSA’s efforts to increase the barrier of entry into the brokerage industry through the elimination of fraudulent trust fund providers will make it more challenging for criminals and scammers to establish a presence in the marketplace as easily.”

In 2012, Congress passed the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act or MAP-21, which contained requirements for the financial security of brokers and freight forwarders. The law directed the Secretary to issue regulations to implement and enforce these provisions. In 2014, TIA petitioned the agency to move forward with this rulemaking, which has now finally been accepted. The Agency notes that the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), which was published on January 5, 2023, received 340 comments from the public and industry stakeholders.

“TIA has been a leader in combating fraud for over 12 years, led by the passage of the Fighting Fraud in Transportation Act that was incorporated into MAP-21 over a decade ago. Those provisions are now finally being implemented and enforced, which will have a tremendous impact on our industry,” said Reinke.

About TIA 

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is the professional organization of the $232 billion third-party logistics industry. TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce. TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Tanvi R.

+1 703-299-5700

[email protected]

Keaveny Hewitt

OnWrd & UpWrd, on behalf of TIA

+1 919-622-5276

khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com 

Alexandria, VA (November 8, 2023) – The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), the premier organization for third-party logistics professionals, is pleased to announce that it is now accepting applications for Media Day. This inaugural press event will showcase the latest breaking industry news and is scheduled to take place during the 2024 Capital Ideas Conference, April 10-13, in Phoenix, Arizona.

TIA 2024 Capital Ideas Conference exhibitors will have the opportunity to unveil their breaking news, innovations or announcements in a press-conference style event featuring back-to-back announcements.

“We’re delighted to announce the launch of Media Day at the TIA 2024 Capital Ideas Conference. This event marks a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering innovation and knowledge-sharing within the industry,” said Anne Reinke, TIA President and CEO. “We look forward to connecting professionals in the third-party logistics sector with the media for a dynamic exchange of ideas.”

TIA’s Media Day will take place on Wednesday, April 10 at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge. TIA exhibitors can apply to participate here. Applications are due by February 29.

Media registration is complimentary for credentialed journalists—please email [email protected] to register. Exhibitors with questions may reach out to Valerie Sumner at [email protected].

About TIA 

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is the professional organization of the $232 billion third-party logistics industry. TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce. TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Tanvi R.

+1 703-299-5700

[email protected]

Keaveny Hewitt 

OnWrd & UpWrd, on behalf of TIA

+1 919-622-5276

[email protected]

Alexandria, VA (September 28, 2023) — The Transportation Intermediaries Association Institute for Research and Education (TIAIRE) has been honored with the esteemed Great Things Award by Advanced Solutions International (ASI) in recognition of their innovative use of TopClass LMS. This achievement highlights the team’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in leveraging technology that enhances the educational experiences of the third-party logistics community.

“Our education resources at TIAIRE stand in a class all by themselves, and it is gratifying to have them recognized,” said Anne Reinke, TIA President & CEO. “We are grateful for this award, and I want to thank our tireless TIA education team for all their hard work.

The Great Things Award celebrates organizations and their solution provider partners who demonstrate dedication and excellence in using iMIS, TopClass LMS, and OpenWater platforms to advance their missions. The award underscores the importance of thriving for continuous performance improvement to better serve members, donors and the community.

“We are thankful for the hard work and dedication of the TIA education team,” added TIA Foundation Chair Cori Eckley, CTB. “The programs within TIAIRE continue to grow and evolve. We are honored to receive this award.

To learn more about TIA’s education offerings, visit this webpage.

About TIA

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is the professional organization of the $232 billion third-party logistics industry. TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce. TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Tanvi R.

+1 703-299-5700

[email protected]

Marianne Varkiani

OnWrd & UpWrd, on behalf of TIA

+1 301-642-6660

[email protected]

Winners will represent and lead the 3PL community in DC next week

Alexandria, VA (September 21, 2023) – The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), the premier organization for third-party logistics professionals, today announced the recipients of its 2023 Policy Forum Scholarships. The scholarships, which are sponsored by Tai Software, cover registration and travel to TIA’s upcoming Policy Forum for five individuals. 

“We are so delighted to award these five recipients with the inaugural TIA/Tai Software Policy Forum Scholarship,” said Anne Reinke, TIA President and CEO. “Thanks to the generosity and civic-mindedness of Tai Software, five 3PL professionals will have the opportunity to come to DC and talk to their Members of Congress about the critical role the 3PL industry plays in the supply chain. We appreciate so much that Tai Software understands how important advocacy is for TIA for its members.”

TIA’s 2023 Policy Forum is set to take place from September 25-27 in Washington, DC and brings together TIA’s members to shape the future of the industry in the nation’s capital. Over 100 TIA Members are expected to participate in the 2023 Policy Forum During the event and will meet with over 160 members of Congress and their staff to advocate for the third-party logistics (3PL) industry, combat fraud in the industry, promote supply chain functionality and sustainability, and more. The agenda and speakers for this year’s forum can be found here.

“As a member of the logistics community, Tai recognizes the importance and impact that government policy and regulation has on our industry. We are proud to contribute with these scholarships to further promote the voice of fellow logistics professionals,” said Walter Mitchel, CEO of Tai Software. 

The recipients of this year’s TIA/Tai Software Policy Forum Scholarships are:

• Chevon Breckenridge, Administrative Assistant, Shipping Connections Inc.
• Audrey HESTER, Owner, Hester Diversified Investments, LLC dba Hester Logistics Consulting & Brokerage HLC-B
• Jennifer Jensen, Owner – Chief Financial Officer, Cadillac Freight Enterprises LLC
• Ashlyn Morse, Carrier Setup Asst Manager, MegaCorp Logistics
• Brian Woods, Vice President, HR & Risk Management, ODW Logistics & Transportation Services, LLC.

Click here to learn more about TIA’s 2023 Policy Forum

About TIA

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is the professional organization of the $232 billion third-party logistics industry. TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce. TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Tanvi R.
+1 703-299-5700

[email protected] 

Keaveny Hewitt

OnWrd & UpWrd, on behalf of TIA

+1 919-622-5276

[email protected]  

Alexandria, VA (September 20, 2023) — The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), the premier organization for third-party logistics professionals, is proud to launch three new educational courses for freight brokers.

“These newly introduced courses represent TIA’s unwavering commitment to empowering professionals in the logistics and transportation industry with the latest knowledge and skills they need to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving landscape,” said TIA President & CEO Anne Reinke. “TIA continues to be the foremost leader in providing education and training for logistics professionals.”

The association obtained their certification from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) in March 2023, underscoring their commitment to delivering high-quality education and training to the industry.

Drayage 101: Introduction to Drayage

Freight brokers can unlock the potential to serve clients more effectively and expand their expertise. This online course provides brokers with essential knowledge and skills to thrive in the drayage segment of freight brokerage. This introductory level course empowers participants with expertise in handling drayage logistics, effective stakeholder communication, and efficient cargo transportation for ports and rail yards to final destinations.

Insurance 101: Protecting Your Cargo, Business, and Bottom Line

Insurance knowledge is paramount for safeguarding a freight brokerage business and ensuring the smooth flow of goods. TIA’s online course provides a solid foundation in insurance principles, regulations, and best practices tailored to the needs of freight brokers. This introductory course covers everything a broker needs to know about insurance, including the Carmack Amendment, broker and carrier liability, general liability insurance, property and casualty insurance, certificates, policy structures, and more. This course is applicable to both seasoned brokers and brokers new to the industry.

Technology 101: Intro to Brokerage Technology

In today’s fast-paced logistics industry, technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency, optimizing operations, and staying competitive. This comprehensive online course equips freight brokers with foundational knowledge and practical skills to thrive in the digital landscape of freight management. Success in brokerage hinges on the right tools and technology, and this course guides brokers through selecting the right systems, understanding technology essentials, and creating a strong technological platform. Designed for beginner brokers, the Technology 101 course guides them through the types of technology available to support operations from Tender to Invoice.

To learn more about these new offerings, visit the TIA website.

About TIA

The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is the professional organization of the $232 billion third-party logistics industry. TIA is the only organization exclusively representing transportation intermediaries of all disciplines doing business in domestic and international commerce. TIA is the voice of transportation intermediaries to shippers, carriers, government officials, and international organizations. Learn more about TIA at www.tianet.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Tanvi R.

+1 703-299-5700

[email protected]

Marianne Varkiani

OnWrd & UpWrd, on behalf of TIA

+1 301-642-6660

[email protected]