Commerce Express Weekly Road Map:
February 11th, 2025
Keeping you informed on the latest news/insights in our industry.
Key Changes to LTL Freight Classification Coming in July?
Last Thursday, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association published a docket detailing over 90 proposed changes to the LTL freight classification system.
The system will continue to focus on four key transportation factors – density, handling, stow ability, and liability – but density will now be the main factor assessed when there are no issues with the other three. Per the NMFTA, “it will also have unique identifiers for freight with special handling, stow ability, or liability needs. Condensed and modernized commodity listings and improved usability of the ClassIT Classification tool.”
Shippers will now be required to more precisely measure the dimensions and weight of each pallet, per the JOC. For many, this will require adjustments to their pallet-building and freight-handling procedures.
NMFTA says the current NMFC system is “complex and outdated”, hence why these changes are being made. Their hope is to simplify the system, enhance the user experience, and increase efficiency. The NMFTA will review feedback on the proposed changes and hold a public meeting on March 3rd. The final changes will take effect on July 19th.
Questions? Let’s chat.
Commerce Blog
U.S. business interests continue to deepen their roots in Mexico as cross-border (between U.S. and Mexico) shipments flourish. While it’s not the case with all U.S. shippers, sooner or later, the next move could be Mexico.
That said, despite the country’s proximity to one another, the complications inherent in international shipping still exist for trade between the U.S. and Mexico. As this partnership grows, it’s important for U.S. shippers to familiarize themselves with cross-border shipping and its best practices.
If there’s interest in determining whether Commerce Express Inc. can be a viable partner to deliver cross-border transport and customs clearance services, let’s start with a 15-minute introductory meeting with Commerce Express Inc.’s Strategic Development Manager Owen Campbell. Start the conversation today.
Tariffs: As we noted last week, President Trump signed Executive Orders on February 1st, introducing new tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. However, on February 3rd, the tariffs on Canada and Mexico were postponed for 30 days. Meanwhile, the 10% additional tariffs on Chinese imports took effect on February 4th. [In Case You Missed It: Tariff Updates].
Yesterday (February 10th), President Trump announced new 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports but according to various news reports, those would not go into effect until March.
Infrastructure: CPKC railway has opened a new cross-border bridge linking Laredo, Texas, to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. As reported by Freightwaves, this bridge is projected to increase the volume of goods transported by CPKC between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, potentially doubling current traffic.
Diesel Update: Another week of a small increase (up 0.5 cents a gallon) in the average price of diesel, putting the average price of diesel at $3.665 – per the U.S. EIA.
FMCSA Waiver: This past weekend the FMCSA issued a waiver that eases hours-of-service regulations for motor carriers and drivers that transport live chickens away from areas impacted by the avian flu.
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