I learned today why a man who owns a small expedite carrier and a truckload brokerage business prefers to book big trucks on backhaul loads instead of headhaul loads. Learned by sitting with him at the dinner table at the Sylectus Annual Conference 2012, and listening as he explained it to me.
I also learned today how a Mexican carrier and freight forwarder is developing business in the United States by using the Sylectus network to put outbound freight from Mexico onto U.S. expedite trucks at the border and ship it straight-through to U.S. destinations. Learned by listening to him explain it to me while he and I sat together at lunch.
I also learned today how some of the provisions of the highway bill that is now making its way through Congress reach into the daily business of trucking companies and truck drivers in ways that seem far beyond the notions of free enterprise and due process that I learned in public school civics classes. Learned by listening to a presentation by a former DOT official, now a motor carrier consultant, and by talking with him later in the day.
I also learned today that Bradley Jacobs prefers to be called Brad. Learned when I addressed him as Mr. Jacobs and he let me know. And I learned why this multimillionaire who recently acquired Express-1 likes the expedite business. Learned when he answered the question I asked during the Q&A that followed his keynote address.
I also learned today how Landstar agents use the Sylectus network and how network members use Landstar agents. Learned by talking to someone from the Landstar office who explained it to me and by talking to the owner of a small carrier who sometimes does business with some of the same Landstar agents Diane and I work with (we are Landstar BCO’s).
I also learned today that Sylectus-networked carriers had 2011 revenue growth rates that greatly exceeded those of companies on Transport Topics Top 100 list. Learned by seeing the numbers displayed in a presentation.
I also learned today how trucking industry journalists gather information about Sylectus and other aspects of the trucking industry. Learned by being included with them in the media itinerary (breakfast and a private meeting with top Sylectus people) that the Sylectus conference organizers arranged, and by watching those journalists work.
