Solutions that allow users to tactically plan transportation routes and optimize backhauls enable significant efficiencies, says Sara Curtis, principal consultant at Peak 5. She explains how Peak 5 works with clients to implement and leverage these applications.

JDA Software recently formed a new global 3PL business unit to focus on sales and product development for this market sector. Unit leader Peter van Merode discusses the strategy behind this move and shares views on the global 3PL market.

CarrierDirect works with many transportation and logistics companies to develop business strategies. President Joel Clum shares his bullish outlook on the U.S. domestic freight market and on the companies that he thinks are best positioned to take advantage of an improving market.

After spending a decade working with lean processes at Menlo Worldwide Logistics, Jeff Rivera is now leading the lean implementation at Con-way Freight, a major LTL company. He discusses the challenges and opportunities of Con-way's lean journey.

James Welch, CEO of YRC Worldwide, one of the largest LTL carriers, discusses his views on technology, pricing and other issues and challenges facing the industry.

XPO Logistics has grown dramatically, both organically and through acquisitions, including most recently those of Pacer and NLM. CEO Brad Jacobs talks about the integration of these companies and XPO's overall growth strategies.