The U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) phase-out of the Other Regulated Materials-D (ORM-D) classification for small quantities of hazardous materials shipped via ground ended on Dec. 31, 2020. As of January 1, 2021, shippers must mark and label packages according to the new DOT regulations for limited quantities to avoid the rejection of their packages.

As the holiday peak season approaches, it is important to understand and plan in advance for accessorial fees. Accessorials, also known as surcharges, are fees that a carrier may need to charge for additional, specialized services such as lift-gate usage, inside pickup/delivery, or chassis rental, for example.

Holiday shopping is already underway with companies gearing up for record high online sales for the 2020 Holiday Season. COVID-19 has accelerated the growth of eCommerce and increased demand for Home Delivery goods. The uniqueness of the current landscape has resulted in both challenges and opportunities for businesses and logistics worldwide and the ability to adapt to the shifting market constraints continues to be key.