Hurricane Hillary Threatens West Coast Supply Chains and Infrastructure Amid Intensifying Conditions

As the ominous core of Hurricane Hillary edges closer to California, not only is the region’s infrastructure in jeopardy, but the potential disruption to critical supply chains is also causing growing concern. With just a few hours until landfall, the situation is growing increasingly dire, amplifying the challenges posed to California’s economic arteries.

Impending Supply Chain Disruptions: Beyond the immediate threat of flash floods and damaging winds, the looming hurricane’s impact could deal a significant blow to the supply chains that underpin the nation’s economy. As Hillary’s approach intensifies, the risk to California’s 14 refineries becomes more pronounced. The refining facilities, responsible for a considerable portion of the country’s fuel production, are at risk of operational disruption, which could reverberate across the energy market and lead to nationwide supply chain interruptions.

The Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, handling an extensive share of the nation’s imports and exports, now face a dual threat. While the ports are naturally vulnerable to the storm’s harsh conditions, the potential for cargo delays or cancellations due to port closures could create a backlog, impacting the flow of goods throughout the nation and causing a domino effect on supply chains.

The Inland Empire, lauded as one of North America’s pivotal warehousing and distribution hubs, finds itself at the epicenter of the storm’s potential impact. With torrential rain and powerful winds on the horizon, the risk of damaged warehouses disrupted roadways, and transportation infrastructure hangs heavily. Any disruptions in this logistical stronghold could bottleneck supply chains, causing delays in product movement and exacerbating national distribution challenges.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), a crucial conduit for air cargo trade between the US and Asia, faces a tumultuous period ahead. With Hurricane Hillary’s strongest winds set to sweep through, air cargo operations could be seriously impacted. Flight cancellations, delays, and potential damage to cargo facilities may hamper the flow of goods between continents, further straining the global supply chain network.

As Hurricane Hillary inches closer to California and conditions continue to worsen, the impending impact on critical supply chains and vital infrastructure grows more palpable. The threat to the state’s 14 refineries, the vulnerability of the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, the pivotal role of the Inland Empire, and the challenges faced by LAX collectively underscore the complexity of the situation. The nation holds its breath, hopeful that strategic planning, swift action, and resilient response efforts can mitigate the damage and safeguard the integrity of these crucial economic lifelines.

Source: Craig Fuller, CEO at FreightWaves / nooa.gov

 

By: itrucker.com

Robotics in Supply Chain, logistics, and smart warehousing powered by artificial intelligence, 5G, and industrial IoT.

Robotics is revolutionizing the way warehousing, logistics and supply chains operate by automating repetitive and physically demanding tasks, improving accuracy, speed, and efficiency. The use of robots in the supply chain has numerous benefits, including reduced costs, increased productivity, and improved customer satisfaction.

Robots can perform tasks such as picking and packing, material handling, and quality control. They can work 24/7, reducing the need for overtime pay and allowing companies to meet high demand without sacrificing quality. Robotics can also be programmed to handle various product sizes and shapes, making them more versatile and flexible than manual labor.

https://twitter.com/PawlowskiMario/status/1615837629446070291

The video shows ‘Dill Pickle‘ robot built by picklerobot.com unloading a truck at the warehouse.

 

Robots in the supply chain, warehousing and trucking operations can also enhance safety by reducing the risk of workplace injuries. Many dangerous or physically demanding tasks, such as heavy lifting, can be automated, reducing the risk of strain injuries or other physical damage to workers.

In addition to increased efficiency, the use of robotics in the supply chain can also improve accuracy. Robots can be programmed to perform repetitive tasks with a high degree of accuracy, reducing the risk of human error. This increased accuracy can result in fewer returns, reduced waste, and improved customer satisfaction.

The use of robotics in supply chain is not without challenges, however. The cost of implementing robotics can be significant, and companies must carefully consider the return on investment. Additionally, there is a shortage of skilled workers capable of programming and maintaining robots, which can result in increased costs and reduced efficiency.

Despite these challenges, the use of robotics in the supply chain and logistics is likely to increase in the coming years. Companies that invest in robotics can expect improved efficiency, increased productivity, and reduced costs. As technology continues to advance, robots will become even more sophisticated and capable, offering even greater benefits to companies in the supply chain.

In conclusion, robotics is transforming warehousing, logistics and supply chain, automating tasks, improving accuracy and efficiency, and enhancing safety. Companies that invest in robotics can expect to reap significant benefits, including increased productivity, reduced costs, and improved customer satisfaction.

Story by: Mario Pawlowski /iTrucker  / iTrucker.com with the help of openai.com/blog/chatgpt

Credits: Pickle Robot Company

 

Video shows artificial intelligence (AI)-powered security robo-dog checking on the truck and its  driver at the cheese factory

 

AI-powered robo-dog, also known as quadruped robots, are becoming increasingly popular in a variety of industrial settings, including factories, warehouses, and the trucking industry. These robots are designed to navigate complex environments and perform tasks that are too dangerous or difficult for humans, such as carrying heavy loads, inspecting equipment, and monitoring inventory.

https://twitter.com/PawlowskiMario/status/1618384486441562112

 

One of the key advantages of robot dogs is their ability to move around easily in confined spaces and navigate rough terrain. They can also be programmed to work alongside human employees, completing tasks that are repetitive or physically demanding. This can help companies to increase efficiency, reduce labor costs, and improve safety in the workplace.

In the trucking industry, for example, robo-dogs could be used as security in and around warehouses, truck parking, truckstops, and loading docks.

Despite their benefits, there are also some concerns about the use of robo-dogs in the workplace. One of the main concerns is the potential for job loss as these robots become more prevalent. Additionally, there are concerns about the safety of these robots, especially if they are not properly maintained or if they malfunction.

Overall, the use of AI-powered robo-dogs in factories, warehouses, and the trucking industry is expected to become more common in the coming years, as companies look for ways to increase efficiency and reduce labor costs. However, it’s important that their implementation is done in a way that takes into account the potential impact on human workers and society as a whole.

 

Video Credits: tiktok.com/@the_ugly_trucker_

 

Story by: Mario Pawlowski

 

iTrucker  / iTrucker.com 

 

 

 

AI, robo dog, robots artificial intelligence, robotics robo-dogs, supply chain, logistics, robotic

 

 

While searching for the most recent tech news in the trucking world, a new app caught our eyes – TruckerGuide. After taking a closer look, we were impressed with the features and capabilities it offered.

 

TruckerGuide is a comprehensive and user-friendly app designed specifically for truck drivers. It allows them to easily plan routes, check fuel prices, and even gain live access to national road cameras. The app’s user interface is intuitive and user-friendly, making it a breeze for truckers to use. The app’s attention to detail is evident in the simplistic icons provided on the map, allowing drivers to pick and choose what they want to view. For those looking for a faster experience, the app also has a smart search feature.

While using the app, truck drivers can access weigh stations, rest areas, truck stops, repair shops, and road assistance companies. And to make things even better, this app provides a birds-eye view of these places, including parking availability, status update times, working hours, and business details such as amenities and fuel prices.

 

One of the things that set this app apart from other apps is its real-time road cam feature. This allows truckers, dispatchers, and fleet managers, to get an understanding of road conditions in tough climate areas such as Wyoming and Colorado or anywhere else. 

In comparison to other trucking apps, TruckerGuide is a unique, easy-to-use, powerful, and versatile tool that can greatly benefit drivers and trucking companies. With new features being added in the near future, it’s a great choice for any truck driver and trucking operation looking to improve efficiency while on the road. 

 

And the best part… It’s completely free for truckers!

You can take a look at this cool app and download it HERE

 

iTrucker  / iTrucker.com / Michael Gavin

 

Keywords: APP, Trucker Guide, trucking, mobile app, trucker app, truckers, trucker guide app

 

HALF MOON BAY, Calif. (AP) — “Seven people were killed in two related shootings Monday at a mushroom farm and a trucking firm in a coastal community south of San Francisco, and a suspect was in custody, officials said.

San Mateo County Board of Supervisors President Dave Pine says four people were killed at the farm and three at the trucking business on the outskirts of Half Moon Bay, a city about 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of San Francisco.

The police have arrested 67-year-old Chunli Zhao in connection with the shooting, Pine said.

Pine said the suspect worked for one of the businesses. He called the suspect a “disgruntled worker.”

The shooting was the nation’s sixth mass shooting just 23 days into the new year and followed the killing of 11 people late Saturday at a ballroom dance hall in Southern California.

The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office first received reports of a shooting just before 2:30 p.m. and found four people dead from gunshot wounds and a fifth injured person at the first scene. Shortly thereafter, officers found three more people dead from gunshot wounds at a second location about five miles (8 kilometers) away, Capt. Eamonn Allen said in a news release.

The office did not share any information about the connection between the two locations.

The motive for the shooting is not known, Allen said.

About two hours after first responding, a sheriff’s deputy found the suspect, Zhao, in his car at a sheriff’s station in Half Moon Bay. He was taken into custody and a weapon was found in his vehicle. The sheriff’s department believes he acted alone, Allen said.” – according to the article in denverpost.com

Read the full and original story here: HERE

Source and credits: apnews.com /  Denver Post

 

iTrucker  / iTrucker.com 

 

Tags. Mass shootings, shooting, gun violence

CBP Officers “Stone” the Night and Seize Over $4 Million Worth of Cocaine Concealed within a Shipment of Decorative Stone

 

Wed, 01/18/2023 – 12:00

Tecate, Calif., – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers assigned to the Tecate Cargo Facility in San Diego found over $4 million worth of cocaine concealed within a shipment of decorative stone.

On January 11, at approximately 10:23 p.m., CBP officers encountered a 36- year-old driver of a tractor-trailer with a shipment manifested as a decorative stone.  During the inspection, a CBP officer referred the driver along with the tractor-trailer for a more intensive examination.

During the exam, CBP officers randomly offloaded one of the commodities within the trailer and observed an anomaly on one of the stones. A CBP K-9 team screened the shipment and received a positive alert from the detector dog. Officers discovered 57 cellophane-wrapped packages of cocaine. The packages of cocaine were concealed within a plaster-like material designed to appear like stones.

CBP officers extracted approximately 256 pounds of cocaine worth an estimated street value of about $4.1 million.
“It is evident from the immense efforts to conceal these narcotics that our officers are effective in the jobs that they do,” said Jennifer De La O, CBP Director of Field Operations in San Diego. “The men and women of CBP are relentlessly working together to stop the negative impacts that narcotics have in the communities.”

CBP officers seized the narcotics, tractor, and trailer.

The driver was detained for the alleged narcotic smuggling attempt.  CBP officers turned the driver, a Mexican citizen, over to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for further disposition.

 

Source and credits: cbp.gov

 

 iTrucker  / iTrucker.com 

 

Tue, 01/17/2023 – 12:00

LAREDO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers assigned to the World Trade Bridge seized marijuana worth over $7,500,000 hidden in a Freightliner tractor trailer.

“World Trade Bridge officers have maintained a robust enforcement posture and seized this significant marijuana load in the cargo environment,” said Port Director Albert Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “CBP remains committed to advancing CBP’s priority border security mission while effectively facilitating lawful trade and travel.”

Bundles containing 3,373 pounds of marijuana seized by CBP officers at World Trade Bridge

The seizure occurred on Saturday, Jan. 14 at the World Trade Bridge, when a CBP officer referred a 2004 Freightliner tractor-trailer manifesting a commercial shipment of cotton candy for secondary inspection. Following a canine and non-intrusive inspection system examination, CBP officers discovered a total of 3,373.51 pounds of alleged marijuana within the commodity.

The narcotics had a street value of $7,546,946.

CBP seized the narcotics. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents are investigating the seizure.

Source and credits: cbp.gov  / iTrucker  / iTrucker.com

 

Story by: Michael D. Elkin, Esq., MBA

 

While pay for trucking services has declined on the spot market, expenses have increased — especially for fuel, which reached $5.41 per gallon across the U.S. last November. This is an increase of nearly 50% from the previous year, according to Freightwaves.

The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) describes the current times as “the most chaotic and unpredictable time period in many decades.”

The top reasons for Trucker Industry’s biggest challenges are:

 

 

We are all witnessing the trucking industry face great difficulties, with many indicators pointing to a freight recession. This means that many trucking companies may struggle with debt and find ways to stay afloat.  The good news is that debt options are available.  Help is available to guide you through this process and help you determine the best path forward for your trucking business. 

It’s a very sad sight to see truckers feeling demoralized and drowning in debt. Truckers who had the courage and grit to start their own businesses should hold their heads high and know that they are not alone, and that help is within reach.

A lot of truckers have great small trucking companies or they are owner-operators,  and all they need is to put a pause on some financial obligations, examine company finances, and create a reorganization plan.  In these types of instances, lawyers will advise their clients to file for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection.  

How Lawyers Can Help

 

The first thing lawyers should do when they meet clients is to look at the finances of the business — together.  The lawyer and the client need to examine whether it makes sense to keep the doors open and operating.  In a lot of instances, lawyers can help those doors stay open.  

A lot of truckers have great companies and all they need is to put a pause on some financial obligations, examine company finances, and create a reorganization plan.  In these instances, lawyers will advise their clients to file for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection

What is Chapter 11 Protection?

 

A Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, also known as a reorganization bankruptcy, allows you to reduce and reorganize your debt, enabling you to keep your doors open and your trucks on the road!  

Automatic Stay

A Chapter 11 Bankruptcy will put a stop to all collection efforts and repossessions — giving you breathing room to continue working!  Often, lawyers can even get trucks returned to their clients that were already repossessed.  During this period, the lawyers will work with the trustee assigned by the court to create a reasonable and affordable repayment plan that will last three to five years.   

Negotiation 

A Chapter 11 bankruptcy will give lawyers the opportunity to negotiate a client’s debt with their creditors.  Because clients are in bankruptcy court, lawyers have great leverage to negotiate very favorable terms.  It’s very likely that the court will agree to lower the amounts clients owe to their creditors, even if creditors object that the payback amounts are too low.  Good lawyers often use these proceedings to lower monthly finance payments and cut interest rates going forward.

 

What is Chapter 7 Protection? 

 

If keeping your business open is not an option, lawyers assist their clients by filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.  Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, also known as liquidation bankruptcy, can help owners liquidate their businesses and minimize their personal financial liability.   Most truckers had to sign personal guarantees to purchase their equipment.  With a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, owners get to walk away with a completely fresh start.

 

Michael Elkin

Michael D. Elkin, Esq., MBA, a Bankruptcy Attorney at The Freydin Law Firm, PC, contributed to this story. 

Licensed in Illinois. Attorney Advertising.

Source and credits:  iTrucker  / iTrucker.com / freightwaves.com  /  ATRI / truckingresearch.org

 

 

On Wednesday, a tractor-trailer hauling a 50k lb. load lost its brakes headed down E. Main in Manchester. The driver of the out-of-control truck decided his safest course of action was to aim for the boat ramp, where he ended up underwater. The driver was able to escape safely. The truck had to be hauled out of the bay. – According to the Facebook post from Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office

 

Source and creditskitsapcountysheriff

 

 

iTrucker  / iTrucker.com 

 

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