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Louisville Switching Blog

How Hurricanes Affect the Trucking and Logistics Industries

Posted by Donald Robinson

Sep 14, 2017 11:22:43 AM

Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma Affect the Trucking and Logistics Industries

Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma devastated the southern and southeastern U.S. within weeks of each other. Destructive winds, heavy rain, and dangerous flooding have displaced thousands, left millions without power, and caused billions of dollars in damages. 

Victims of the storms and the flooding are in our thoughts and prayers. 

The impact of the hurricanes is far reaching, and the logistics and transportation industries are not exempt. As relief efforts begin, it is important to understand the effects that the storms and flooding will continue to have over the coming weeks and even months. 

Logistic and transportation businesses across the south and southeast have been affected, and recovery will be a nationwide effort.

Drivers hit the road as hurricane recovery begins

Truck drivers were among those stranded when flood waters rose and residents evacuated in Texas and Florida. The story of one truck driver's rescue has gone viral after a news anchor spotted the semi on a flooded Houston roadway. 

As the waters recede and people begin returning home, problems for the trucking industry will continue. Direct impact is expected to be seen for the next month at least, if not longer.

Analysis by FTR Transportation Intelligence predicts that about a quarter of trucking operations located in the Gulf Coast region will continue to be hindered over the next month. The trucking industry will face problems, including damaged equipment, hiked prices, and delayed shipment.

Infrastructure throughout the South has been affected by the storms. Standing water, downed trees, and debris still make roadways unsafe in some areas, though most interstates have been reopened. Drivers who must travel through the affected areas should exercise caution and avoid driving through standing water. As residents return home, drivers should prepare for congested traffic and the possibility of fuel shortages, especially now that those without power will be purchasing gas to fuel their generators as well. Heaviest traffic will be encountered around major cities including Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Houston. Before you begin your trip, make sure you check road closures and congestion in Florida and Texas.

Fuel prices have also been affected by the hurricanes. Thirty percent of the United State's oil refining industry is centered in Texas, including a large portion around the Houston area. On average, gas prices have jumped 30 cents and diesel prices have increase by about 16 cents.  

In the days and weeks following, relief and emergency supplies will take priority and the demand for relief vehicles will continue to be high. Both the Florida Trucking Association and Texas Trucking Association are posting requests for aid. If you're a carrier or driver, find out how you can help in Texas and Florida. 

Recovery and moving forward in the Logistics and Trucking industries

If your business was affected by Hurricane Harvey or Hurricane Irma, let Louisville Switching help you on the road to recovery. We understand the importance of yard trucks in your operation and we want to help you get your fleet running again.

We have a full inventory of Ottawa yard trucks to meet your needs. Contact Chris to find out more about our inventory and how we can help you.

Our parts department is also stocked with thousands of parts to help you repair. Use our parts search to find the parts you are looking for, or contact Chuck to get the order process started. We know time is of the essence for recovery, and being located near UPS' Louisville hub means we can have most parts shipped next-day.

The road to recovery after Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma may be long, but already support is pouring in from across the nation. If your logistics, manufacturing, or trucking business was affected, let us know how we can help!

Topics: Industry News

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