When Markets Shift, Control Matters: Why Asset-Based Transportation Delivers Stability

The ocean freight market is entering a period of recalibration as carriers refine their networks and shippers adjust to slower demand.

What Makes a Freight Partner Feel Like One? Finding a freight provider is easy. Finding one that feels like a true partner? That’s a different story. Most carriers pitch the same story — trucks, tech, and promises of “visibility.” But when things go wrong, it’s you chasing updates while they disappear behind automation and excuses. At ARL Network, we believe it takes more than trucks and tech to move freight effectively. That’s why we’ve built something different: a transportation network powered by real assets, a nationwide terminal system, and a people-first approach that puts your business at the center. Why “Trucks and Tech” Aren’t Enough Technology is a tool, not a solution. Freight still runs on people — people who listen, solve problems, and take responsibility when it counts. Most providers overpromise on tech but underdeliver on service. Real-time tracking means nothing if you can’t reach someone when you need answers. In addition, capacity means little if it can’t adapt to your specific needs. At ARL, we use tech to support better service, not replace it. You get visibility and control, yes — but you also get people who know your freight and care about getting it right. Agent-Based, Asset-Driven: A Different Model ARL operates as an agent-based, asset-backed network. That means local expertise, supported by nationwide resources. Our agents are deeply rooted in their markets — they understand regional needs and know how to get things done. Also, since they’re backed by ARL’s terminal network, they can solve problems fast and flex as your business grows. It’s personal service, with national reach. Built on Partnerships, Not Transactions What makes a partnership different from a service contract? It’s simple: accountability. At ARL, we take the time to understand your business, your goals, and your constraints. We don’t slot you into a standard process. We build solutions around you. That’s why our clients stick with us for the long haul — because we solve the tough problems, communicate clearly, and show up when it matters most. Transparency You Can Trust Yes, we have tech. But it’s there to make your life easier, not more complicated. You get real-time tracking, proactive updates, and customized tools that work with how you run your business. You won’t have to chase us for answers — you’ll get them before you need to ask. Our technology gives you visibility. Our people give you confidence. Why ARL? Here’s what you get when you work with us: Scalable nationwide capacity with equipment and terminals across the U.S. Custom freight solutions built around your business and backed by local agents who care. Clear, proactive communication powered by smart tech and smarter people. Long-term partnership not just transactional service. Ready for a Real Freight Partner? If you’re done dealing with excuses, delays, and one-size-fits-all providers — let’s talk. At ARL Network, we don’t just help you move freight. We help you move your business forward.

On April 2, 2025, the White House announced a major shift in trade policy under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). A new round of tariffs will affect nearly all imported goods entering the U.S. starting April 5 , with additional country-specific tariffs effective April 9 . At ARL Network , we’re here to help our partners and customers understand what’s changing, how it may impact your shipments, and what you need to do to stay compliant and avoid unnecessary costs. 1. What’s Changing? A. General 10% Tariff Effective April 5, 2025 – 12:01 a.m. EST A 10% tariff applies to all imported goods from all countries, except exempted items and goods from certain trade agreements. Applies to goods entered into the U.S. for consumption or withdrawn from a warehouse . Exemption : Goods that were loaded and in transit before April 5 are not subject to this tariff. B. Higher Country-Specific Tariffs Effective April 9, 2025 – 12:01 a.m. EST Certain countries will face tariffs higher than 10% , though the exact rates vary. Applies to goods not in transit before April 9 . Countries not listed with specific rates will remain under the 10% tariff. ARL Network Recommendation: If your sourcing includes multiple regions, now is the time to verify transit dates and determine which shipments may be subject to higher tariffs. We can assist you with compliance reviews and updated routing strategies. 2. Who Is Exempt? Canada & Mexico Compliant goods under USMCA : Remain duty-free (excluding autos and auto parts). Non-compliant goods : Continue to face a 25% tariff . The 10% tariff does not override USMCA or Section 232 rules. Exempt Product Categories The following items are not affected by the new tariffs: Goods already subject to Section 232 (e.g., steel, aluminum, autos and parts) Pharmaceuticals , semiconductors , copper , lumber Energy/minerals not available in the U.S. Bullion National security items under 50 USC 1702(b) Products on the April 3 exemption list (over 1,000 items) ARL Network can help you cross-reference your product classifications against the exemption list. 3. What About Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs)? For goods entering a U.S. Foreign Trade Zone on or after April 9 : They must be admitted as Privileged Foreign Status , unless they qualify for Domestic Status . This determines how duties will be assessed when goods are later entered for consumption. ARL Network clients using FTZs should connect with their account rep to review updated procedures and ensure compliance. 4. How Should You Prepare? Use this checklist to minimize disruption and control costs: ✅ Review Upcoming Imports Document shipment ETAs and vessel departure dates. Ensure goods in transit before April 5/9 are clearly identified. ✅ Check Country of Origin Determine whether sourcing countries fall under the higher tariffs . ✅ Confirm Product Classification Verify HS codes and review against the April 3 exemption list . ✅ Understand USMCA Compliance Confirm whether goods from Mexico/Canada are USMCA-compliant . Remember: Autos and auto parts are not exempt . ✅ Review FTZ Procedures Adjust FTZ admissions to meet Privileged Foreign Status requirements as needed. ✅ Coordinate With Your ARL Rep or Broker Share key shipment timelines and documentation. We can help ensure correct entries post-April 5 and April 9. 5. Still Have Questions? Now is the time to assess your imports, adjust your sourcing strategy, and ensure your documentation and classifications are up to date. ARL Network is here to support you. We can help you: Determine if your products are impacted Clarify FTZ or USMCA-related concerns Explore sourcing or routing alternatives Navigate documentation requirements for in-transit goods Connect with your ARL team to discuss how these changes affect your business and what steps to take now. We're committed to helping you stay ahead of regulatory shifts while keeping your supply chain running smoothly.

MODE Global, has announced ARL Network as their 2024 National Drayage Carrier of the Year! The carrier awards are based on specific performance criteria such as commitment to service quality, technological capabilities, customer service excellence, volume and revenue growth with MODE, as well as partnership criteria such as collaboration, communication and competitive enablement. Gene Welsh, Chief Transportation Officer and head of all transportation product lines for MODE Global, states, “We are honored to work with so many excellent partners across all modes and are thrilled to once again be awarding this recognition. While 2024 was another challenging year for the industry, our carrier partners did not waver in providing superior service and value to our customers despite a difficult backdrop. We thank you all for your tremendous support and look forward to our continued partnership in the year ahead.” The MODE Global annual carrier awards program underscores the pivotal role carriers play in MODE’s enterprise operations, commitment to service quality and setting a high standard for industry performance. www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mode-global-announces-annual-carrier-of-the-year-award-winners-302392976.html?tc=eml_cleartime

If you're a logistics agent looking for a new path to growth, we offer the resources, support, and infrastructure to take your business further. Our Logistics Agent Success Program is designed to empower independent agents with the tools, technology, and financial backing needed to expand their book of business and streamline operations. Supporting Your Entrepreneurial Drive We’ve grown from a steel-hauling operation into one of the largest intermodal drayage providers and 3PLs in the U.S., with over 50 agent-operated terminal locations serving domestic rail and ocean ports. Rooted in the entrepreneurial spirit since 1978, we are committed to empowering independent agents by providing the resources, support, and infrastructure needed to grow their small businesses. Under the leadership of President Ron K. Faherty, the company has built a vast network of independently owned terminal agents, working together to deliver freight safely, reliably, and efficiently across the country. We embrace our role as a true partner to agents, fostering a culture of collaboration, service excellence, and business growth. Why Become a Logistics Agent with ARL Network? Joining ARL Network means gaining access to an established and growing community of logistics professionals who are backed by decades of industry experience. Here’s what sets us apart: ✅ No Technology Fees Get access to our cutting-edge logistics platform without extra costs. ✅ Weekly Commissions Get paid every week so you can maintain steady cash flow. ✅ Sales Support Leverage our brand, resources, and network to close more deals and grow your business. ✅ Advanced TMS with API Integrations Our state-of-the-art transportation management system (TMS) simplifies carrier sourcing, pricing, and shipment tracking to enhance efficiency. ✅ Tech-Enabled Carrier Management Our dedicated team helps prevent fraud and ensure smooth carrier operations. ✅ Shipper Bankruptcy Protection Gain peace of mind knowing your earnings are protected, even in uncertain market conditions. ✅ Customizable Tracking Websites Offer your customers real-time shipment visibility with tracking solutions tailored to their needs. ✅ Access to Over 1,000 Agent-Operated Assets Strengthen your logistics capabilities with our extensive network of equipment and carriers. The Support You Need, From Someone Who Gets It When you join ARL Network, you won’t be navigating this journey alone. Derek Trohaugh, our Director of Agent Relations, is your direct liaison, providing personalized guidance and industry insights. As a former freight broker himself, Derek understands the challenges and opportunities agents face daily. His experience means you get the support of someone who truly understands your needs, goals, and processes. Your Success Starts Here – Join ARL Network’s Logistics Agent Success Program Today! If you're ready to take the next step in your logistics career, we’re here to help you thrive. ARL Network is more than just a platform—it’s a support system designed to help you grow and succeed. Click the link below to submit your information and take the first step toward a stronger, more profitable future: 👉 Join Now!

We pride ourselves on being a transportation provider that delivers not just freight, but reliability, resilience, and unwavering commitment—especially when it matters most. That commitment was put to the test in the wake of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton , two devastating storms that left a trail of destruction across the southeastern United States. In recognition of our efforts, ARL Network has been honored with the Recognition of Excellence Award for our vital role in hurricane relief support, working alongside Ardmore Logistics to assist Duke Energy in the rapid restoration of power to millions of people. Hurricane Helene & Hurricane Milton: A Critical Need for Transportation Support to Restore Power Grids On September 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm, unleashing 140 mph winds and leaving catastrophic flooding, widespread power outages, and significant infrastructure damage across Florida and the Carolinas. Just two weeks later, Hurricane Milton struck near Siesta Key, Florida, bringing 120 mph winds and compounding the devastation with additional flooding and power loss. Among the hardest-hit areas were Duke Energy’s electric distribution circuits , where thousands of utility poles were broken, substations were destroyed, and millions of customers were left without power . The road to recovery required a massive, coordinated logistics effort to transport critical materials and equipment where they were needed most—and fast. ARL Network’s Role in Rapid Power Restoration In the midst of this crisis, ARL Network mobilized our expertise and resources to safely transport essential materials from manufacturing and storage facilities to staging sites and distribution centers , ensuring that restoration crews had what they needed to rebuild and reconnect power as quickly as possible. Thanks to this joint effort between ARL Network, Ardmore Logistics, and Duke Energy , the results were nothing short of remarkable: ✅ Power was restored to nearly all affected customers just 10 days after Hurricane Helene— even in the most devastated areas. ✅ 99% of customers affected by Hurricane Milton had power restored within 7 days. This level of efficiency in back-to-back hurricane recovery efforts is a testament to the power of strategic logistics, rapid response, and collaboration . Honored to Make a Difference Receiving the Recognition of Excellence Award for our relief efforts is an honor, but the real reward was being able to make a difference when it was needed most. Our work in disaster relief logistics is about more than just moving freight—it’s about helping communities recover, supporting first responders, and ensuring that critical infrastructure is restored as quickly as possible.  We extend our gratitude to Ardmore Logistics for their partnership, to Duke Energy for their trust in our ability to deliver, and to our entire ARL Network team for their hard work and dedication. Prepared for the Next Challenge Natural disasters are unpredictable, but our commitment to reliability, safety, and efficiency remains constant. Whether it’s emergency response, power restoration, or delivering critical materials under extreme conditions, ARL Network is ready to rise to the challenge—no matter what comes next.

The furniture industry faces unique logistical challenges, from managing imports to ensuring damage-free delivery. As competition intensifies, having a reliable logistics partner can be the key to staying ahead. ARL Network excels in providing customized solutions to overcome these obstacles, ensuring your supply chain remains efficient, scalable, and cost-effective.

In the Building & Construction industry, time is money—and so is reliability. When construction timelines hinge on precise deliveries of essential materials, any disruption can lead to costly project delays, resource misallocation, and significant financial impact. At ARL Network, we understand that shippers in this sector face unique challenges, and we bring over 45 years of logistics expertise to meet those needs head-on. By providing flexible, dependable, and expert transportation solutions across our entire asset-based network, we help building and construction professionals keep their projects on schedule, their costs under control, and their operations running smoothly.

As freight fraud and theft become more sophisticated, shippers, carriers, and brokers are facing increasing risks. From fraudulent carriers to cyberattacks, the pain points are significant. But there’s hope! By leveraging advanced tracking systems and automated claims solutions, the industry can fight back. Collaboration and strong vetting processes are key to safeguarding global supply chains. Learn more about ways to help combat fraud & theft in this article.