OCTOBER, 2021LOGISTICSTRANSPORTATIONREVIEW9 definite challenges within the transportation industry and for companies like Universal is continued developments with Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs). These Hours of Service (HOS) tracking devices, which are intended to keep the roads and its travelers safer,were first mandated in late 2015 and have caused some definite transitions for drivers, transportation companies, and shippers alike. "Whenever you have widespread, mandated changes such as the use of ELDs, it's certainly reasonable to expect some growing pains along the way as the technology is adopted and integrated," Phillips said. "New processes typically create a learning curve as ELDs have for the transportation industry. Fortunately, at Universal, we have never been the kind of company to promote a, `but we've always done it this way,' mentality. Rather, we have been using robust training and communication programs to accelerate adoption of these changes."This year, further implementation continues with the ELD mandate requiring all AOBRDs to be transitioned to the new devices by mid-December. Universal anticipates some additional work to be done in getting the word out and also in helping drivers still using the AOBRD technology to make the move to ELDs.Because transportation is an industry that is subject to regulation, Phillips said that the election year in 2021 could likely have some additional changes for Universal and other transportation companies to manage. "From potential new legislation, to possible changes in tariffs, and economic and foreign policies, either a second-term existing or brand new administration can certainly have much impact on our industry." Phillips added, "We continue to monitor all of our environments, including political and regulatory, so that we are proactive and not reactive to changes." In addition to all of these current and anticipated future changes, Universal is experiencing other industry issues, including increased competition from digital brokers and large retailers becoming their own intermodal transportation providers. But according to Phillips, with increased challenges, come opportunities. "Change can be a great thing, especially when you have built an organization that knows how to navigate it and can seek out new and better ways to be a resource to its customers. When you put people first, offer solid products and services, build the right technology-based infrastructure, and truly listen to the needs of the marketplace, then you are in a great position to manage whatever new challenges come your way. That is what we continue to do at Universal as we bring transportation and logistics to our customer partners...we adapt and keep moving ahead."
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