LTL continues to grapple with how sustainability concerns are poised to reshape the industry in the coming years. Promising innovations from within the industry and stringent regulations imposed by state and federal agencies all but guarantee seismic shifts on the near horizon. The question on everyone’s lips: will these changes transform the industry for the better – or do they have the potential to destroy it?

Featuring two Leadership Series sessions and one panel discussion, the second day was chock-full of insights and pressing questions. Both Leadership Series sessions explored emerging industry trends, actionable business strategies, and the technologies driving the future of trucking and supply chain management. Sandwiched in between the two leadership sessions, a panel discussion featured three of the many giants in the third-party logistics (3PL) industry, leaders who are reshaping the space. Featuring an innovative playbook of strategies and trends, the panel addressed the relentless pace of emerging technologies—and how to keep up.

Technology plays a central role in the Less-than-truckload (LTL) industry. While the trucking industry as a whole has been slower to adopt new technology, it’s apparent today that technology solutions are where to turn to optimize freight spend, achieve shipment visibility and streamline transportation planning.

A recent report by McKinsey & Company revealed a concerning statistic. If emissions stay on their current trajectory, net zero would not arrive even by the end of the century, the firm reported. Considering that the trucking industry hauls 72 percent of the nation’s freight and travels 300 billion miles annually, it’s essential to put a spotlight on its contribution to the carbon footprint.

Managing operations for less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping involves a complex network of transportation options and decision-making. The bill of lading comes into focus as accuracy helps ensure the best rates and minimizes the potential for unexpected charges. Shipments need to be ready to go when the driver arrives at the dock for pickup. And not all truckload (TL) carriers offer LTL transportation, so shippers need a robust network of carriers at their disposal to keep products moving.

Shippers have a new list of expectations, while carriers desire greater differentiators. As digital commerce continues to explode, many final-mile and reverse logistics providers are rethinking and redefining their roles and navigating new opportunities as they start the push toward the next peak season.