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Shipping

June 25, 2026 / By / Logistic • Shipping • Trucking /

If your freight costs feel higher than they should this year, you’re not imagining it. New data confirms what shippers have been feeling on the ground: inflation is accelerating, fuel remains stubbornly elevated, and trucking costs in particular are climbing at a pace that outstrips the broader economy.

 

Transportation Cost Increases We Have All Felt

The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) released the change in the costs faced by producers purchasing transportation services and industries producing them.

The report revealed that the Producer Price Index (PPI)—a measure of inflation from the perspective of producers of goods and services—showed an overall rise in freight transportation and equipment costs.

From May 2025 to May 2026, the transportation services PPI changed, by mode:

  • Air: +5.7%
  • Rail: +0.3%
  • Truck: +17.3%
  • Water: +11.0%
  • Arrangement of freight and cargo: +1.7%

Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics

 

The Root Cause: A Severe Supply/Demand Mismatch

While macroeconomic factors play a role, the staggering 17.3% spike in trucking costs and 11.0% jump in water freight are primarily driven by a widening gap between supply and demand. The logistics industry is currently facing a sharp capacity shortage.

A major catalyst for this capacity crunch is ongoing tariff issues and geopolitical uncertainty. To get ahead of impending U.S.-China tariff deadlines, importers drastically front-loaded ocean cargo earlier this year. This massive influx of early goods has caused an immediate downstream ripple effect—spiking drayage demand at the ports and severely tightening domestic truckload and LTL capacity ahead of schedule. With freight volumes surging and available trucks limited, carriers hold the leverage, resulting in accelerated rates for shippers across the board.

 

Inflation Accelerates From Energy Volatility

The broader economy continues to exert pressure on supply chains. According to the June 2026 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the annual consumer inflation rate in the United States accelerated for the third consecutive month, reaching 4.2% year-over-year in May. This marks its highest level since mid-2023.

While Core CPI (which excludes volatile food and energy costs) edged up slightly to 2.9%, the primary driver of headline inflation has been an energy shock triggered by geopolitical instability in the Middle East. Energy costs jumped 23.5%year-over-year, heavily influencing consumer spending power and industrial production costs.

 

Fuel Instability Continues

While recent consecutive weekly declines provide a temporary reprieve for motor carriers, fuel costs remain significantly higher than prior-year benchmarks. Following a multi-week stretch of elevated prices, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported that the national on-highway diesel average dropped to $4.832 per gallon for the week ending June 22, 2026. That is still up $1.057 from this time a year ago.

With inflation holding over 4% and fuel costs hovering near historic averages, operational resilience is the theme for the remainder of 2026. Reach out to our logistics professionals for strategies on how to navigate your shipping needs.

 

About Westgate

You can always count on Westgate Global Logistics to keep you up-to-date on industry news. Our passion for delivering exceptional logistics services continues to be at our core and is why we have thrived in this constantly changing industry. CONTACT US today to experience how we can improve your shipping efficiencies.

 

 

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Sources:

https://www.chase.com/personal/investments/learning-and-insights/article/inflation-june-2026-why-are-prices-still-high

https://www.bts.gov/newsroom/transportation-producer-price-index-may-2026

https://www.eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/#:~:text=U.S.%20On%2DHighway%20Diesel%20Fuel,%2D

March 3, 2025 / By / Cargo • Logistic • Packaging • Shipping • Storage • Warehouse /

Less than truck load (LTL) shipping can be an extremely efficient way to move shipments when you don’t need to fill an entire trailer. However, if the LTL shipping process is not implemented well, it can have some potential disadvantages, costing the company more time and money than necessary.

Packing pallets correctly for shipment is a serious safety issue as well and could be full of risk if the business isn’t careful. If your pallet isn’t stacked properly, you risk damaging the product, injuries from toppling pallets or workers tripping over the overhang, and time lost trying to fix the improperly packed pallet.

In this guide, we explain how you can avoid injuries, damage, and claims with a few industry proven tips.

It’s important to consider the following:

    • Pallet, skid, or crate?
    • Proper stacking
    • Shrink wrapping technique
    • Thinking you don’t need help

 

 

PLUS!

We included some ways to avoid common LTL shipping mistakes you could be making that hinder productivity and negatively impact the bottom line…

 

DOWNLOAD your free copy now!

 

Reach out to us for a complimentary review of your packaging to see how we can help optimize your freight processes.

October 9, 2024 / By / Drivers • Shipping • Transport • Trucking /

By Mark Fiorini, President of Westgate Global Logistics

 

I was privileged to represent Westgate and other TIA members as we gathered in Washington, D.C. at the Annual Policy Forum. We participated in an important day of meetings where we met with members of Congress and their staff to ask for help with ongoing issues and concerns, while offering alternative suggestions for improvement.
It was a successful effort in obtaining co-sponsors for H.R. 8505, which will be a huge step in the right direction toward the continued fight against fraud in our supply chain.

H.R. 8505, also known as the “Household Goods Shipping Consumer Protection Act” would restore and codify the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s authority to issue civil penalties against scammers. This legislation supported by TIA tackles the issue of freight fraud head-on.

 

The three primary provisions are:

• Restores the FMCSA’s authority to assess civil penalties for violations of unauthorized brokerage activities.
• Enforces the existing regulations of the principal place of business and barring companies from using P.O. Boxes or other locations where the business is not physically domiciled.
• Requires the FMCSA to examine the commonality of companies that are registering for authority.

Fraud was just one of the key issues we discussed with Representatives. Fraud within the freight world continues to grow rapidly each day, making us vulnerable to the risk of financial loss, theft, a damaged reputation, or worse…the loss of a customer. In my opinion, combatting fraud in our industry is the most important topic.

Ways to Advocate For Our Industry

You can ask your representatives to co-sponsor HR8505. TIA has a form to help you send a message to your representative: LINK

Being an active member of Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) has been a vital way to advocate for my business and our industry. If we aren’t the ones lobbying for the 3PL industry, who is? All of us work hard every day to provide great service to our customers, while attempting to build new customer relationships with the goal of establishing a reputation that will provide success for years to come. TIA sets the ethical standards for the 3PL industry, represents our interests before government bodies, and advocates for regulations that promote fair competition, safety, and efficiency in the transportation sector. I would highly recommend joining the TIA if you haven’t already or contributing to their PAC that raises funds to help build relationships with Members of Congress who can support our goals and initiatives.

The experience at the Annual Policy Forum was well worth the trip. Besides the amazing sites and tremendous history of our Nation’s Capitol…witnessing first hand how our government operates is invaluable. I look forward to participating again next year.

 

February 15, 2024 / By / Logistic • Shipping • Transport /

EASY TO WORK WITH?

A service-aware logistics provider understands your shipping needs and proactively takes steps to meet them without having to be asked. They anticipate problems and put emphasis on preventing mistakes before they happen at every step of the process. Does your provider act like a partner, pointing out ways to mitigate potential issues you or your customers might face? Are they knowledgeable and experienced enough to root our problems on your behalf? Do they offer creative solutions and stay involved through the whole transaction to ensure a seamless experience? More than just making you feel good, this approach makes you look good to your customers, makes your business more streamlined, and ultimately boosts your bottom line.

 

QUICK TO RESPOND? 

Fast delivery is essential … but so is fast response to communications and fast updates on load status. Can your current provider give you access to real-time analytics and the superior service that means for your customers? Does your logistics provider keep the communications lines open so that your client gets the quickest possible updates on their shipments? No one likes to be bounced around a call center. A quality provider gives you the personal attention you need to save time and meet the needs of your customers.

 

CONSISTENTLY ON TIME WITH PICKUP AND DELIVERY? 

This old-fashioned metric is still the clearest performance indicator we have. When facing a request that’s out of the ordinary, does your provider tell you it can’t be done, or do they work with you to create an extraordinary, customized solution? An experienced, dedicated logistics service provider will treat your business as their own, showing the kind of urgency and attention to detail that ensures your satisfaction.
A dependable partner provides a higher level of service, and good customer service is good business. If your logistics provider is helping your reputation while improving your processes, your company will shine.
Call Westgate Global Logistics. We’ll give you a complimentary review of your shipping needs and challenges, and discuss solutions we can provide. We are an experienced logistics service provider.

 

DOWNLOAD THE HIGH COST OF POOR SERVICE TODAY and learn how to stop profits from slipping out the door!

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February 6, 2023 / By / Logistic • Shipping • Transport /

We take a look at the history of the transportation industry and how Westgate Global Logistics evolved along with it.

 

A New Era in Transportation

The Motor Carrier Act of 1980 (MCA) was the beginning of deregulation in the trucking industry and the start of a new era in transportation. It promoted the introduction of a new entity to trucking… Freight Brokerage. The role of the broker was to serve as an intermediary between shippers and carriers, facilitating high levels of communication and customer service to move shipments faster and more efficiently. This opened up a new opportunity for businesses to meet this need and changed how goods are transported across the country.

While these industry changes from the MCA were taking place, our co-founder Tom Fiorini was a manager with IML Freight (a former LTL carrier based out of Salt Lake City). His boss at the time saw great potential in the brokerage business and began the process of leaving IML to start his own freight brokerage. Being a friend and mentor to Tom, he strongly encouraged Tom to consider the same opportunity.

Westgate Breaks Out

Meanwhile, a long-time freight salesperson and acquaintance of Tom’s in the Lehigh Valley, PA area, Don Hunsinger, had already secured a business license to start a brokerage firm. Tom joined him and together they formed Westgate Transportation Inc. in 1983. This partnership continued through the early 1990’s until Tom became the sole owner.

Westgate was founded on our core values – honesty, integrity and trust. This mindset coupled with our focus on remaining a small, streamlined company helped us remain flexible and able to provide personalized solutions to our customers. This structure and mission have allowed us to stand out in the industry as we are able to provide nimble solutions that are unique to our customers’ needs. In addition, both our carrier base and our employees enjoy working with a family owned company where their needs are valued and prioritized. As one of Tom’s ten children, Mark Fiorini joined the company in 2012 and became President in January 2017. Mark continues to focus on maintaining the tradition and culture that Tom built as the company grows.

40 Years Later

As we enter 2023, Westgate is celebrating its 40th anniversary year. Over the years we have witnessed many changes in the industry, including the move from paper to technology and ever-evolving tools. And while Westgate utilizes advanced technology to give their shippers the data and updates they need, they also have the focused support team to monitor it along the way. The newest, sleekest logistics technology is rendered useless if the company utilizing it doesn’t have an experienced team managing it. The highly-trained team utilizing the technology is what sets us apart.

In celebration of our 40th year, we are transitioning to the new company logo and look to reflect the growth and legacy of Westgate. Rest assured that our values, mission, dedication, and commitment to our relationships remain the same.

We dedicate this milestone to the customer base, the carriers, and the company’s trusted employees. We thank our customers for having the trust in us as a reliable partner to provide solutions to their shipping needs and challenges. Likewise, we thank our carrier base for allowing us to represent them, and for providing great transportation services for us and our customers. Most of all, we thank our employees for their dedication, hard work, and integrity in facilitating each and every move.

Remembering Tom Fiorini: a Founder, Father, and Mentor

 

It is with very heavy hearts we announce that Thomas A. Fiorini passed away on January 6th, 2022. Tom was more than just our Chairman and Co-Founder of Westgate Global Logistics. He was our dear friend, our mentor, and our family. Tom impacted each person he encountered with his incredible ability to connect with others and the integrity he upheld in everything he did. He was a hard worker in both his professional and personal life. He enjoyed fixing things and updated his entire home. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his large and ever-expanding family. He will be dearly missed and we will carry on his values and vision in how we work and how we live. You can read Tom’s full obituary here: https://www.cantelmifuneralhome.com/notices/Thomas-Fiorini

 

We are honored to announce that the Annual TIA Heritage Award was renamed after Tom this year to recognize his immense contributions to the organization and the relationships he fostered. Tom’s son, Mark Fiorini, had the privilege of presenting the Tom Fiorini Heritage Award at the Transportation Intermediaries Association’s 2023 Capital Ideas Conference in April.

We are deeply grateful for the firm foundation Tom established for us and look forward to many more years of fulfilling his vision.

CONTACT US

See for yourself why businesses are depending on Westgate to improve their shipping processes and to keep them informed of industry trends. Reach out to us to experience our boutique approach to streamlining logistics through an extensive network of resources, trained brokerage experts and unique personal service.

September 28, 2022 / By / Shipping • Transport /

While a provisional agreement to try and avoid a halt of service from railroad strikes has been announced, the impact of the struggling sector hasn’t fully dissipated. The nation’s supply chains have been extremely fragile since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the possibility of a complete railway strike would be a devastating hit to the already volatile economy.

So, what’s the deal?

Railway workers have threatened to strike over unfavorable working conditions such as being disciplined for taking time off – even if it is for doctor appointments and care. They also claim they are overworked and underpaid due to high inflation. The tentative deal was negotiated between the Labor Secretary and the union representing engineers and conductors. It would benefit the other rail union workers as well if the agreement takes effect. Though negotiations are still happening, the new contracts would provide rail workers:

  • a 24% wage increase during the five-year period from 2020 through 2024, with the average rail worker salaries will reach $110,000 by the end of this five-year deal in 2025
  • an immediate payout on average of $11,000 upon ratification and $5,000 in bonuses in the deal that is retroactive to 2020
  • an additional paid leave day a year plus unpaid time off for doctor’s appointments or medical procedures without being penalized under their attendance rules
  • workers will have to pay a larger share of their health insurance costs, but their premiums will be capped at 15% of the total cost of the insurance plan

 

What will this mean for the industry?

The unions are submitting the tentative deal to their members for a vote. And the result will likely be revealed closer to November around midterm elections. However, one of the other rail unions could still organize a work stoppage in the meantime. If the unions accept this proposed deal then we can avoid a strike.

Conditions are improving, such as the U.S. ports having cleared most of the back-logged ships. But there are still some serious supply chain disruptions to contend with, such as high fuel and food prices and a shortage of supplies. The economic issues, back-log, and staff shortages are still happening and causing the exhausting conditions the rail workers are contending with.

 

As always, Westgate Global Logistics will keep you informed on industry issues. We encourage you to evaluate your business and if you have any questions, CONTACT US to discuss your transportation needs.

 

 

 

SOURCES

https://www.npr.org/2022/09/16/1123239993/rail-stike-supply-chain-food-gas-retail-prices

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/railroads-unions-whats-next-why-strike-threat-isnt-over

 

July 14, 2022 / By / Packaging • Shipping • Transport /

Packaging is a critical step in shipping freight, unfortunately often overlooked.

Cutting corners by eliminating protective packaging on your freight is a short-sighted decision that can cost you in the long run.

Shipments that move via LTL carriers need to be packaged with even more care. Even the carriers that have the lowest claim ratios experience damage claims. That’s why it is so important to pack your shipments properly to avoid as much product damage as possible.

 

Here are some things to consider when reviewing your packaging:
  • Inner Packing: Interior cardboard dividers, custom form fit molds, simple peanuts, or bubble wrap will help keep your product secure and tightly packed.

 

  • Outer Packaging: More and more shipments are being sent ready to put on the shelves, and while it is tempting to just shrink wrap, it is not enough to protect your product during shipping. Outer packaging such as cardboard or corner boards will offer additional pallet strength and protection.

 

  • Stretch Wrap: Don’t skimp on the shrink wrap. When wrapping your pallet, start at the floor and use several layers all the way to the top. Add security film or tape for higher-value materials.

 

  • Pallet Overhang: Be sure to utilize good solid pallets. They may cost more but will be worth it. It’s crucial to avoid pallet overhang and confine your product to the footprint of the pallet. Plus, most LTL carriers will refuse freight that overhangs the pallets.

In efforts to reduce costs in shipping, decisions to cut back on packaging are at the forefront. And while this may save a little bit of money in the short run, this can be much more costly in the long run. Claims, breakage, collateral damage, and strained customer relationships take time and money to correct.

 

Westgate is here to help you with your shipping processes. CONTACT US! We will be happy to work with you to ensure the integrity of your packaging.

Call us: 800-637-8001

 

 

 

March 30, 2022 / By / Logistic • Shipping • Transport • Trucking /

Truck Tonnage is Up1

Compared to this time last year, truck tonnage is up over 2.5%. “Demand for trucking freight services remains strong, but for-hire contract carriers are capacity constrained due to the driver and equipment markets. The spot market has been surging as these carriers can’t haul all of the freight they are asked to move,” said Bob Costello, ATA’s chief economist. “So the fact that the tonnage index hasn’t fully recovered is a supply problem, not a lack of demand.”

In fact, demand has been on the rise since the beginning of 2021. According to the National Retail Federation, retail sales are expected to continue to rise in 2022. “NRF expects retail sales to increase in 2022, as consumers are ready to spend and have the resources to do so,” NRF CEO Matthew Shay said. “We should see durable growth this year given consumer confidence to continue this expansion, notwithstanding risks related to inflation, COVID-19 and geopolitical threats.”

Even though the expected growth rate for 2022 is lower than the 14% annual growth rate we saw in 2021, it is stronger than the 10-year, pre-COVID-19 pandemic growth rate of 3.7%.

 

Women in Logistics2

Many women are taking advantage of the opportunity to work in the logistics industry and contribute to a field that is often considered the backbone of American society. However, women’s presence in the industry is still lacking. In fact, men make up about 90% of the driving and warehouse positions and 70-80% of the positions in the 3PL space.

Are we lacking women in logistics? If so, we’ve come a long way, but what else can we do? How can we attract female talent to the industry? The TIA’s Women in Logistics (WIL) committee has a few plans in this regard, including speaking to high school and college-age students to introduce an industry they might not have ever considered.

 

Save Money with Expedited Shipping3

As shipping delays and supply chain issues continue to disrupt the logistics industry, a huge issue businesses are struggling with is shipping and receiving products on time. These disruptions can cause companies to miss deadlines, leading to the loss of valuable customers and vendors.

However, expedited shipping services can help mitigate these issues and save you money in the long run. Westgate has almost 40 years of experience as a freight broker. We can identify the quickest and most cost-effective transportation methods while also helping to prevent financial loss caused by absent or late shipments.

When you partner with Westgate, we save your account information, needs, and special requests in our customer database. That means that every time you ship with us, you’ll spend less time explaining your situation, getting your inventory on the road and on its way even faster.

 

When you have goods that need to be delivered, there’s no time to waste. LEARN MORE today to find out how we can help you with your shipping needs. CONTACT US today to request a quote!

February 11, 2022 / By / Delivery • Packaging • Shipping • Transport /

When a freight carrier delivers freight to your dock, whether LTL or Full Truckload, you should expect to receive the goods intact and in good condition.

 

Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Sometimes there is visible damage, or the count is over or short. Sometimes there is damage inside the container that is not visible from the outside, referred to as concealed damage.

It is important to take the time to inspect the shipment when it arrives and notate anything that is irregular. Documenting and taking pictures of damage is always helpful if a claim is to be filed with the carrier. Damages and shortages can be costly, so it is in your best interest to report the situation and sign the receiving documents accordingly.

 

Steps for Receiving Freight:

 

STEP 1: Anticipate Delivery

Know what is coming and be prepared to unload the freight.

  • Do you have the proper equipment to unload?
  • Is there a dock for delivery, or must freight be delivered to the ground?
  • Can you accommodate a load that is double-stacked?
  • Allow enough time to inspect whatever you’re receiving.

 

STEP 2: Inspect the Packaging

If there is any visible damage to the outside packaging, take a picture and check out the product inside.

 

STEP 3: Document Any Damage

Notate the damage or missing items on the POD (Proof of Delivery). Be specific. For example, in the case of a shortage write, “Order Incomplete, 2 of 3 pallets delivered (pallet containing XXX missing)”.

  •  If reasonable, the shipment should be accepted and steps should be taken to minimize the loss. If it is absolutely necessary to refuse a shipment, advise the shipper so they can work with the carrier to avoid further damage or loss.
  • When accepting damaged freight, take pictures and store the entire shipment in a secure spot to facilitate inspection. Retain all the packing material as well. Without all the material for inspection, the carrier may decline your claim in full.
  • Report the damage or loss to the carrier as soon as possible. Claims must be reported within 5 days of delivery and a formal notice of intent to file a claim must be issued.
  • Establishing this procedure as a standard protocol can help avoid additional fees or complicate claim resolution.

 

STEP 4: Review and Verify

Review the BL (Bill of Lading/ Delivery Receipt) to verify any accessorial being charged. If that service (Lift Gate, Inside Delivery, etc.) was not ordered or rendered, mark the Delivery Receipt / POD accordingly.

 

STEP 5: Sign and Date

Be sure the driver signs and dates both your copy and the driver’s copy of the Delivery Receipt / POD. Also, print and sign your name clearly on the Delivery Receipt / POD. Be sure to keep a copy of your Delivery Receipt / POD.

 

Have questions about the right way to receive a freight shipment or what to do if things don’t arrive as they should? CONTACT US today to speak with a shipping specialist. Work with Westgate Global Logistics to minimize complications caused by poor receiving procedures.

December 27, 2021 / By / Cargo • Logistic • Shipping • Transport • Trucking /

Less than truck load (LTL) shipping can be an extremely efficient way to move shipments when you don’t need to fill an entire trailer.

 

However, if the LTL shipping process is not implemented well, it can have some potential disadvantages, costing the company more time and money than necessary.

In order to ship smarter, a shipper needs to know how to get the most benefit for the cheapest price. Understanding common LTL shipping mistakes makes it much easier to avoid these issues. LTL shipping is a growing side of the freight industry and shippers need to know these common pitfalls in order to avoid a potentially costly shipping mistake.

 

Here are some ways to avoid common LTL shipping mistakes you could be making that hinder productivity and negatively impact the bottom line…

1] Know your dock delivery set up to plan for additional services needed.

2] Include proper labeling and documentation.

3] Train employees in OSHA regulations and the risks associated with not following them.

4] Provide correct load dimensions.

5] Provide accurate class designations.

6] Use the right equipment to weigh the freight correctly.

 

If you’re tired of dealing with the frustration that comes with shipping via LTL carriers, working with an experienced 3PL to manage your less than truckload shipping tasks is a smart idea that can save you a tremendous amount of money.

For more packing tips and tricks, download our free Freight Pallet Packing Guide HERE.

CONTACT Westgate today to speak with a shipping specialist about how to make your shipping more efficient!