Trucking is an Important Part of the Freight Industry

Transportation companies in Michigan offer intermodal modes of transportation to save clients on cost and time. They own the container freight stations where Intermodal containers can wait to be transferred between ships, trains, and trucks.

The trucking industry directly affects the economy of the country. It has been a part of the political and economic history of the United States since the invention of automobiles. Train, steamers, and horse-drawn vehicles were earlier used to transport goods from one place to another.

The first extensive use of trucks was made during the First World War. In the 1930s the construction of paved roads resulted in an increase in the use of trucks to haul goods. In the late 1950s and 60s, the Interstate Highway System was made and the use of trucking became more common. The highway linked major cities and states and shippers that were far from train terminals benefitted from using the highways.

The price of fuel directly affects the trucking business. When there is a price hike the truckers go on strike as was seen during the energy crises of 1973 and 1979. By the late 20th century trucking dominated the shipping industry as more nationwide department stores such as Wal-Mart and Target relied on it for its cost saving benefit. Before trucks, most freight was moved using trains. Horse drawn carriages were used to move freight to the urban centers. There were only a few trucks that were mostly used for advertising purposes and were used for short haul only.

After the combustion engine and improvement in transmission came along in the 1910s the tractors and semi-trailer combination was developed. Truck shipment weights were limited to protect the condition of roads. Truck drivers were allowed to drive at only 15 miles per hour. By 1920 there were over a million trucks used for short haul on America's roads.

After 1920 the diesel engine was introduced and it was more gas efficient. Power brakes and power steering were introduced. After the Interstate Highway System was developed in the 50s and 60s, the interstate network of freeways allowed bigger trucks to travel at higher speeds. Businesses were able to reach both the rural and urban areas more quickly and without much expense. After the trucking industry became an important part of the shipping industry, companies started using the intermodal modes of transportation to get the greener miles. Moving time-sensitive shipments without any risk of decomposition became possible and more profitable.

The movement of goods from one city to another increased the demand for warehousing. Modern warehouses have functional spaces for specific storage needs. They are temperature controlled and offer 24/7 security. Manufacturers and distributors are able to enter markets located throughout the country.

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James Sullivan has been associated with the logistics and transport industries for a number of years now. He is considered by many to be a supply chain guru who is in his own element around trucks and 18 wheelers.