Karl Zimmer

Major flooding on the Upper Mississippi is beginning to subside, with Lock & Dam 17 expected to open on the evening of the 15th to get barges sailing again. OpenTug is integrating critical data sources into our situationally aware cost estimating and voyage planning technology to help logitsics professionals make the decisions needed to move the nation's critical goods as efficiently as possible. What inland river data would you like to see next?  

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Lisa DeNight, Managing Director of National Industrial Research at Newmark, joined CNBC to discuss the implications of the East and Gulf coast port strike, which started today. DeNight emphasizes that the duration of the strike will likely amplify the impact on the global economy. Watch the full interview to learn more. https://nmrk.re/3Y2tmC5 #Newmark #CRE #Industrial #Logistics #SupplyChain #PortStrike

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As we approach the peak of hurricane season, record-high water temperatures across the Atlantic Basin and Gulf of Mexico are setting the stage for potentially significant storm activity in September and October. In my recent interview with Timothy Dooner on FreightWaves, we explored why our team at WeatherOptics and the broader weather community are particularly concerned about the upcoming months. If disturbances begin to form in the Main Development Region (MDR), Caribbean, or Gulf of Mexico, the current conditions could lead to rapid intensification and the development of high-intensity hurricanes. The longer this quiet period lasts, the more energy will be available for these storms to draw upon later in the season.

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The US Navy has only 4 major shipyards in the US, which is 1/2 of the shipyards we had in 1989. That does not include the yard at Subic Bay in the Philippines, where the US had a major repair facility. There are 154 private shipyards actively building ships, but only a handful build military vessels for the US Navy. There are 300 private shipyards that have the ability to build ships but are choosing not to do so. The US Navy and Merchant Marine are desperately short of ships and qualified sailors. Shipyards are equally short of qualified workers. Both parties in Congress must allocate budget and resources to resolve this problem. Moreover, Congress, the Executive branch, State governments and private industry need to develop a plan to fast track solutions for both of these problems.

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Heads Up...DoD News related to Architect - Engineering (AE) Services! (1) FINAL RULE Effective 8/26/2024 - DFARS Case 2024-D019 Architect and Engineering Service Fees. This rule changes DFARS to implement Section 2881 of the FY24 NDAA to increase the limitation of the contract price (i.e., "fee") for A-E services for the preparation and delivery of designs, plans, drawings, and specifications from 6% of the project's estimated construction cost to 10%. It is applicable to Army, Navy, and Air Force projects (references in 10 U.S.C. 7540,8612, and 9540). The new 10% limit replaces the 6% fee limitation on contract modifications for work not initially included in the contract and redesign, and applies only to that portion of the contract (or modification) price attributable to the preparation of designs, plans, drawings, and specifications. If a contract or modification also includes other services, the part of the price attributable to the other services is not subject to the fee limitation. (Personally, I've been waiting since the early 1990's for this percentage to change (and yes, I've been doing this THAT long). This makes it easier for small AE businesses to participate in the Federal space. So, YEA!) Permalink: https://lnkd.in/g7vF95R6 (2) PROPOSED RULE Comments due 9/27/2024 -- DFARS Case 2023-D007 Task Order and Delivery Order Contracting for Architectural and Engineering Services. This rules proposes a corresponding change to DFARS Subpart 216.5, Indefinite-Delivery Contracts, to require DoD Contracting Officers (KOs) to use qualification-based selections when awarding task orders and delivery orders for AE services that was previously implemented procedurally under FAR Subparts 16.500, 16.505, and 36.6 procedures in 2005 under the final rule for FAR Case 2004-001 Improvements in Contracting for Architect-Engineer Services. This proposed rule adds DoD-specific statutory guidance (10 U.S.C. 3406(h)(2)) to DFARS directing KOs not to request additional info regarding qualifications unless necessary to determine qualifications for a particular task order or delivery order under a multiple-award contract. There should be little to no impact from this proposed rule since there are no procedural changes, new clauses or provisions, and no new applicability in terms of thresholds or types of contracts. Permalink: https://lnkd.in/gwh2_38J

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📣“We need more ships": a call to action📣 This week, the 🇺🇸President elected D.J.Trump gave an interview emphasizing the critical need for increased #shipbuilding. Key statements included: ⚓️"We need ships. China’s building, from what I’m hearing, every four days, they’re knocking out a ship. And we’re sitting back watching”; ⚓️“I’m a person that believes in the beauty of a ship”; ⚓️“We need more ships”. On Jan. 6th, these statements resonate deeply with the findings of the 🇺🇸Congressional Budget Office's "An Analysis of the Navy's 2025 Shipping Plan." This in-depth report examines the Navy's ambitious plan to increase battle force ships from 295 to 390 by 2054. The report underscores the #strategic challenge of achieving the required shipbuilding output, demanding a significant increase compared to recent production rates. It's time to invest in our industry: this year promises to be a pivotal one for the US ( and not only) shipbuilding industry. https://lnkd.in/dcnPuiw4 #Geopolitics #Shipbuilding #Defense #Strategy #Navy #NationalSecurity #USNavy #industry #Fincantieri

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Amaero International Ltd (ASX:3DA) has taken bold actions to address critical gaps in the U.S. domestic industrial production and supply chain base. For national security and economic independence, it’s imperative that the U.S. re-shore and scale advanced materials, advanced manufacturing and supply chain capabilities. The effort requires public-private partnerships with properly aligned incentives. Very excited about the opportunity to collaborate with President-elect Trump’s Transition Team and Administration. More free market, less government. More accountability, less bureaucracy. Make America Strong Again Make More in America for America (and its allies)

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2025 NRC ANNUAL CONFERENCE & NRC-REMSA EXHIBITION Date & Location: Luxurious JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in Marco Island, Florida, from January 5 through January 8, 2025. 🏆FTS Tools will be Featured at NRC 🏆 Come visit our team at BOOTH 812 Learn: Delve into the latest advancements in railroad technology with a special focus on FTS Battery-Operated Tools. Discover how these tools are transforming track maintenance with their environmental benefits, reduced operational costs, and enhanced worker safety. Additionally, explore the latest in Railroad Innovative Technologies. ✅ Sustainable Rail Solutions: Insights into how railroads are adopting green technologies to reduce carbon footprints. ✅ Advanced Communication Systems: Discussions on the integration of new monitoring technologies for improved efficiency and safety. ✅ Network: Connect with industry leaders, technologists, and innovators. Come visit our team at BOOTH 812 and exchange ideas, form strategic partnerships, and explore business opportunities in the evolving rail sector. ✅ Class 1 and Regional Railroads ✅ Rail Projects of National Significance: Get insights into projects that are pivotal for the national rail infrastructure. ✅ Railroad Construction Safety: Enhanced safety protocols with the adoption of battery-operated tools and innovative tech. ✅ Innovations in Battery Tech for Rail: A deep dive into how FTS tools are setting new standards in rail maintenance. Kick off the year on the right track by attending the railway construction's premier event. Here, you'll not only learn about the future of rail technology but also actively participate in shaping the industry's direction. Peter M. Bartek, GMP

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"2024 Naval Science and Technology Strategy" for those wanting the Cliffs notes version of this recent strategy developed by the Honorable Carlos Del Toro SECNAV. I have provided the key points outlined in this forward thinking and comprehensive strategy for advancing maritime science and technology to enhance the capabilities of the U.S. #Navy and #MarineCorps in response to global competition. Summary provided by Gary (ChatGPT)..I will provide a link to the full download should you want to read for your own knowledge. Here are the key highlights: 1) Technological Innovation Focus: The strategy emphasizes strengthening technological dominance in maritime contexts, enhancing a culture of warfighting excellence, and building stronger strategic partnerships. 2) Collaborative Efforts: Encourages collaboration across academia, industry, and government to solve naval challenges and maintain freedom and security. The strategy aims to harness collective expertise for rapid technological delivery. 3) Research Priorities: Sets clear priorities for research and development, focusing on critical areas like AI, Quantum technologies, biotechnology, and autonomy. These areas are identified as having potential transformative impacts on naval capabilities. 4) Implementation of S&T: Calls for quicker realization of technology gains to maintain a competitive edge and reduce warfighter risks through improved S&T tradecraft and collaboration with allies and partners. 5) Education and Workforce Development: Highlights the importance of fostering a skilled S&T workforce through STEM education and outreach, aiming to nurture future naval problem-solvers. 6) Global and Domestic Partnerships: Advocates for increased partnerships both domestically and internationally, recognizing the need for a global S&T community to support naval objectives and enhance interoperability. 7) Long-Term Research Investment: Emphasizes the need for sustained investment in basic and applied research to develop capabilities that address unique maritime challenges. This strategy represents a proactive approach to maintaining and enhancing the U.S. naval forces' technological edge in an era of rapid and significant global technological advancements. TotalTek is always looking for companies to partner with in this collaborative environment specific to #maritime #engineering.

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West Coast 52% Gulf Coast 33% East Coast 15%

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What a way to start off the week with this gem from an Equipment Provider: “There are plenty of appointments to return these container before or on the LFD per attached daily dispositions.” The most entertaining part about this response (despite the fact there were NO APPOINTMENTS) is the fact that many #OceanCarriers will also give the “we don’t control the terminals” reply when it comes to appointment availability, even when they have a direct relationship with the #Terminal in question…in this instance I have seen the proof that there wasn’t any availability before #LFD…so, are they cherry picking or just don’t care? Hard to get a read here since this billing department is so far removed from the actual transaction… #Shippers will no doubt have a deeper glimpse (and better leverage) into the kind of mumbo-jumbo their #VOCC partners have been up to on #PerDiem billing for the last several years (dare I say decades) in the next couple of weeks… If you can believe it, here in the #drayage community we are still fighting over #PerDiem invoices that are showing up from months if not YEARS ago all tinged with the threat of shut out….No doubt these “Billing Parties” are scraping together anything they can find and sending to anyone they think they can bill prior to the May 28 start date of the Federal Maritime Commission #DND rule… Lately, a disturbing trend is developing where Ocean Carriers and #MTOs are seeking to limit the use of outside software providers to demonstrate the lack of appointments….#BCO customers should be pushing back at every level to stave off these efforts….if anyone can do it, they can… There has been an uneven playing field for decades with many #EPs dictating terms to the #Drayage community with little if any willingness to be held accountable for lack of #MTY return locations…ideally, shippers should now be able to “flip the script” primarily due to their direct commercial relationship with the Carriers…(at least one would think)… Either way, come May 28th the jig is up!

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East and Gulf Coast ports face uncertainty as the January 15 contract deadline approaches. A coalition of 267 trade associations urges employers and union workers to resume stalled negotiations. What’s at stake? ✅ Avoiding another costly strike, like October’s 3-day shutdown. ✅ Balancing port automation and job security. ✅ Keeping U.S. ports globally competitive. Delayed agreements and uncertainty ripple across the global supply chain, forcing companies to implement costly mitigation strategies. With weeks left to negotiate, all eyes are on port employers and union leaders to avoid another disruption. More details 👉 https://lnkd.in/evM5nuBr . . #PortNews #SupplyChainUpdate #Logistics

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The tentative labor deal at U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports is a step in the right direction, but the long-term challenges remain. I recently joined the MDM Podcast to discuss how these unresolved issues could impact the #distribution industry and what we need to do to keep supply chains resilient. Catch the full conversation in the link below.

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I recently read an article about the Southeast’s booming economy, even outpacing the rest of the U.S. during the pandemic. Here are some key points: - The Southeast's growth rate has significantly sped up since 2019. - Population growth is a major factor, with more people moving to the region. - Businesses in the Southeast have more pricing power due to high demand. - Companies are struggling to find enough workers due to a tight labor market. - Future growth hinges on addressing labor and infrastructure challenges. Check out the full article in the comments. #EconomicDevelopment #SoutheastEconomy #CRE #BusinessTrends #LaborMarket

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Longshoremen union’s demand for total ban on automation questioned as port strike looms: ‘From Maine to Texas’ https://lnkd.in/en_C4AnH #strike #union #automation #labor #marine #terminals #usa #shipping #ocean #imports #exports #freightforwarding

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Hurricane Francine has been upgraded to a Category 2 hurricane and is approaching landfall further east than expected, putting New Orleans directly in the storms eye-wall later this evening and tonight. 🌬 WeatherOptics AI HYPERR model now shows wind gusts may reach 70-90 mph, especially closer to the coastline. A more impactful storm surge, higher rainfall totals, and stronger winds gusts will likely increase power outages and damage to infrastructure. Cleanup efforts could be extended longer than anticipated. 📊 Leverage real-time data and insights to improve situational awareness on your key business operations and to better protect your people: https://lnkd.in/eawt9jwx

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PORT STRIKE and A.I., What does October 1st look like? Well with most countries implementing A.I. to manage costs, the idea of America 🇺🇸 being one of last places that has unionized workers seems like that era will be over. Long term impacts of the strike would be higher prices of goods and shortages of goods. How would this impact food deserts and health deserts in mostly black and brown communities across the country? I believe we will have a serious crisis on our hands. In this podcast they do a deep dive critical analysis of the shipping industry and its interconnectedness to our economy.

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