Spartanburg Suffers Long-lasting Effects from Hurricane Helene
Well, folks, life in Spartanburg and surrounding areas in North Carolina has turned quite upside down thanks to the recent madness that was Hurricane Helene. The whole community, especially the shipping and logistics players, are feeling the pinch – the damage and disruption don’t look like they’re going away anytime soon.
The Big Traffic Snarl-Up and Shipping Delays
Here’s the scoop – approximately no one can zip across the beautiful lands of North Carolina to Tennessee via Interstate 40 or Interstate 26. Yes, you heard that right, these vital highways are blocked, thanks to the havoc wreaked by Helene. Now, if you’re thinking it’s not a big deal, wait until you hear from Igor Tekmenzhi, the big kahuna of a shipping company called Heavy Hauls Logistics.
With road closures all around, the orb-shaped traffic plan essentially means trucks must find new paths. Igor shared that this rerouting has led to a productivity drop of a significant 20-30% for shipping companies. “Every trucking company is affected, so you’ll see traffic,” Tekmenzhi said. Imagine, throngs of trucks causing a giant traffic worm along Interstate 85, which is used as a diversion, leading to nearly double the usual load. The ripple effect has hit Atlanta as well since each truck that used to traverse on Interstates 81 and 26 into Asheville have been rerouted down through 85.
The Rising Costs
The situation becomes particularly problematic when you factor in the added miles, about 100 extra for each truck. Not to mention that it adds an extra day for the truck drivers, implying more labor and higher costs. Yes, it’s a double whammy of more work and more expenditure. “Such a situation drives our operational costs and customer costs up,” explains Tekmenzhi. And sadly, all of these increased costs will eventually trickle down to you and me – the everyday consumers.
The Silver Lining
But the focus is not all on the obstacles. What is inspiring to see, at this challenging time, is how the community is stepping up to support each other. Igor stated that his primary concern currently is less about profit margins and more about the residents of Asheville and ensuring people in affected areas are taken care of. He’s even pitching in with his company’s resources. For example, Heavy Hauls is willing to transport, free of cost, any new or used food-grade totes people might want to donate. If anyone wishes to contribute, they’ve been advised to get in touch with Heavy Hauls Logistics directly.
For sure, the road to recovery after Hurricane Helene for communities and businesses like shipping companies is a long and challenging journey filled with unexpected detours and rising costs. The hope is that spirit and resilience will get everyone through it.
Chin Up, People!
Even though Helene made a dent, as always, the spirit of our communities remains unwavering. Let’s continue to stand together strong in the face of this adversity! And remember, you got your neighbors, friends, and entire community beside you.
