1. The service considerations of carriers are considered by some shippers to be as important as or even more important than the freight rate. Discuss the various service characteristics for freight demand. Do you agree with the statement that they may be as important as or even more important than the freight rate? Why or why not? How does an emphasis on supply chains factor into this?

2. How do regulatory powers of the U.S. Constitution affect transportation? What are the differences between state and federal regulations in regards to transportation?

3. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of increasing (or decreasing) regulations relating to freight transportation safety and security. Do you believe that there are too many regulations? Why or why not? Be sure to include both transportation providers and transportation users in your discussion.

4. What are the major forces that affect carrier pricing strategies? How does transportation pricing differ when we think of high and low value products and differential pricing?

5. The cost structure of the motor-carrier industry is affected by its physical and human infrastructure, (such as highways and terminals and drivers). Discuss the cost structure of motor carriers and how it is affected by the infrastructure. Should there be changes made in public policy with respect to the motor carriers’ use of public highways? What are the alternatives? What does the Door to Door author think should be done? See the following article in addition to help answer this question.https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/26/nyregion/congestion-pricing-new-york.html

6. What factors have contributed to the success of intermodal rail service in the U.S.? What factors have contributed to the problems of passenger rail service in the U.S.? What barriers exist to future expansion? What should (or should not) be the role of the government be in promoting new developments in rail such as high speed rail?

7. What are the major issues that the air industry faces? What would be the challenges of introducing changes into this industry?

8. The global supply chain has produced an abundance of goods for consumers. How will the growth of e-commerce continue to change logistics?

Bonus Question- Answer only if you completed all of the above. What is your perception of Amazon’s entrance into freight operations?https://logistics.amazon.com/https://motherboard.vice.com/en_us/article/wnxkmm/blink-and-youll-miss-amazon-transforming-into-a-logistics-company