COVID-19 Updates

Date: 10/27/20

Update: Zip Codes Impacted by Colorado Wild Fires

Below are zip codes of areas that have been evacuated due to wild fires in Colorado. Estes will not be servicing these zip codes until the all clear has been given, and it is deemed safe by state authorities to resume operations.

80482
80446
80447
80442
80478
80451
80459
80481
80545
80540
80510
80512
80515
80511
80517
80532
80535
80548
80536

Date: 09/28/20

Update: ODFL Restrictions Update

ODFL will now handle the Customer Specific pricing agreements currently in place and only volume shipments are restricted.

Date: 09/25/20

Update: ODFL Implementing Immediate Shipping Restrictions

Effective immediately, ODFL is no longer picking up shipments that are 12’ in length or 12,000 LBS in weight. This is temporary, but there is no set end date as of now. This applies to shipments that are 6 normal sized skids or more on one BOL.

Date: 08/26/20

Update: Hurricane Laura Could Bring ‘Unsurvivable’ Storm Surge

Article from Transport Topics

Date: 08/26/20

Update: Transportation, Logistics Sector Braces for Hurricane Laura

Article from FreightWaves.com

Date: 08/19/20

Update: US LTL Trucking Firms Prepare to ‘Push Price’

Article from JOC.com on LTL Performance

Date: 08/11/20

Update: Central Freight

Clients & Redwood may experience customer service delays with Central Freight. They are reporting a significant number of their Customer Service Team out of office due to COVID.

Date: 08/10/20

Update: XPO Logistics

XPO has put in a temporary Embargo in place for all IB shipments delivering into these 5 Service Centers:
- San Bernardino, CA
- Salt Lake City, UT
- Denver, CO
- Atlanta, GA
- Norcross, GA
Embargo expected to be lifted on Thursday, 8-13-20.

Date: 08/05/20

Update: General LTL

Hot spots experiencing delays include Fontana, Los Angeles, Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, St. Louis, Florida, Seattle, Portland, Southern Indiana, and PA.

Date: 08/05/20

Update: Saia Motor Freight

SAIA embargo for transactional shippers in Detroit, MI.

Date: 08/05/20

Update: Estes

Currently not publishing on time performance metrics.

Date: 08/05/20

Update: AAA Cooper

Experiencing delays in Dallas and Atlanta.

Date: 8/5/20

Update: From – YRC Motor Freight

As you know our industry is stretched for capacity. The good news is the economy has ratcheted up. We have experienced increased shipment volume since June 1. The bad news is we have not been able to keep pace with the increased volumes and provide a service product that pleasing to us and our valued customers. Our issue is two-fold. First, we furloughed across the entire YRCW enterprise immediately when COVID came into our lives. Unlike many of our customers who were deemed as nonessential and shut down or severely limited their staffing, we continued to provide service and we were very proud to do so. The economy absolutely depends on transportation companies to function. As the pandemic grew, so did our inventory of trailers that we had loaded for delivery but couldn’t deliver; some due to companies closed and others just didn’t have the staff available to receive the goods causing our trailers to be dropped at consignee locations unable to be unloaded. This caused an ever-intensifying capacity issue for YRC Freight particularly on the west coast but also in other areas of the country. This is 100% cause and effect in play. As economic conditions improved and our industry started to rebound the combined effect of employees self-quarantining, the two weeks as required, and improved unemployment benefits has slowed their return. Presently we have three different companies pre-qualifying drivers for us, and we are hiring as fast as we can to dig out, but it is a slow process.

We must do something different, organically, and expeditiously to push thru this. Bullet pointed below is our plan to right size YRC Freight.

We are implementing two changes; One is articles of extreme length – XCON and the other is an FSC change on shipments on the 10m line of rates.

- We must find a way to try to create capacity within YRC Freight. As you are aware, we took a firm stance on long article shipments the last 2 years. We view removing shipments containing a handling unit 12’ or greater from our network as the fastest way to create capacity and provide more reliable service to the many customers we service for you. We can commit to this being short term but cannot commit to a date of reinstatement. Tentative date is Labor Day to review. What I can tell you is that effective Monday August 10^th we will no longer be accepting shipments 12’ and greater at YRCF.
- For those clients on the current T-100 rules tariff, we are moving the FSC on the 10m line of rates to the truckload FSC rate, again, this change only affect you if you are presently using our current T-100 series of rules.

Date: 5/20/20 – 8:00am CST

Update: A Comprehensive Update for All States & Their Plans to Re-Open

For the full list as of today, 05/20, click here.

5/4/20 – 8:00am CST

A Comprehensive Update for All States & Their Plans to Re-Open

The following information details the current processes, restrictions and relaxed requirements for individuals, retail, manufacturing, public spaces, etc. for each state as of May 2, 2020. IF your business operates within any of these jurisdictions and you would like more clarity about your ability to re-open, please reach out to your Redwood Representative for assistance.

Alabama

Gov. Kay Ivey said the current stay-at-home order will not be extended beyond April 30.

Ivey says she will instead issue another order that will go into effect on April 30 at 6 p.m. ET and will expire on May 15 at 6 p.m. ET.

Under the order, all employers, retail stores and beaches will be allowed to open subject to good sanitation and social distancing rules, Ivey said.

Ivey says by no means is the state out of the woods with the coronavirus threat and encourages all Alabamians to stay home and follow good sanitation practices.

Alaska

Gov. Mike Dunleavy allowed personal services businesses and restaurants in most parts of Alaska to reopen April 24, but with restrictions.

Hair salons can only admit customers by reservation. Restaurants will have to keep distances between tables and can’t exceed 25% of their normal capacity.

The city of Anchorage delayed the new rules until April 27.

Dunleavy says Alaska is not in a rush to reopen but is responding to a low infection rate in the state and a belief that they can quickly isolate any future outbreaks.

“You’ll see the numbers go up,” he said, “but you want to look at the bed capacity, the numbers recovered, and a whole host of other metrics.”

Dunleavy has said that Alaskans can again schedule elective surgeries on or after May 4 and visit their doctors for non-urgent needs.

Arizona

Gov. Doug Ducey told reporters April 29 that he is extending his stay-at-home order until May 15 with modifications. Under the new order, elective surgeries can begin on May 1. Retailers can open to delivery, curbside and pickup orders on Monday, May 4. The governor said he hopes to be able to reopen restaurants May 12.

Navajo Nation extended the closure of their government until May 17.

Arkansas

Gov. Asa Hutchinson said April 30 that gyms, fitness centers, and indoor athletic facilities can resume operations beginning Monday, May 4.

But people who have been to New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and New Orleans cannot enter those places.

The governor announced Wednesday that his state will open restaurants for limited dine-in service May 11. Restaurants will only be able to operate at a third of their normal capacity and they must limit groups to no larger than 10 people.

Hutchinson added that if the state continues to see a downward trend of coronavirus cases, it will move into a second phase by allowing restaurants to increase to 67% of capacity.

California

Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a stay-at-home order on March 19 that has no set end date.

However, the state will begin allowing scheduled surgeries. Newsom emphasized the surgeries being phased back in are important medical procedures like heart surgery or removing cancerous tumors that should not be neglected. Elective procedures like cosmetic surgery are still not a priority.

This will begin the first phase of a return to normalcy in California.

However, California is pulling back on issuing permits for events and activities, including protests, at all state facilities, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Newsom said on Friday that he is “days, not weeks” away from beginning to lift some restrictions in the state’s stay-at-home order. On April 30, he ordered beaches in Orange County closed after beachgoers crowded the beaches during a hot weekend. His order was followed by a large protest in Huntington Beach.

Newsom announced a joint Western States Pact with Oregon Gov. Kate Brown and Washington Gov. Jay Inslee on April 13.

Colorado

Gov. Jared Polis issued a Safer at Home Order which took effect on April 27 and will be in effect for 30 days until May 27.

Starting April 27, retail businesses with curbside delivery can reopen and elective medical procedures can resume. Businesses such as personal training and dog grooming can reopen with social distancing. More retail businesses will reopen later this week, while people will be permitted to return to non-essential office work on May 4. The state also joined with Nevada and three West Coast states to coordinate their Covid-19 reopening plans.

Polis warned people not to think the coronavirus emergency is over, however. “It’s not going to be life as normal. We’re in this for the long haul, but it’s sustainable for the medium term,” Polis said in a press conference the day the order was lifted.

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock extended the city’s stay-at-home order until at least May 8.

Connecticut

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont extended the mandatory shutdown in the state until May 20.

But, Lamont said more testing is needed so the state can reopen by that date. He praised the federal government for loosening regulations on testing ingredients so they can expand testing more quickly.

The state has also ordered tens of thousands of “fever-meters” thermometers, which Lamont says will be “incredibly helpful” when folks go back to work at big manufacturers where temperatures can be taken before entering the buildings.

Connecticut has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a news release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office.

On April 30, Lamont outlined the industries that officials in the state are looking at for re-opening on May 20.

So far the list includes outdoor-only restaurants (no bar areas), outdoor zoos and outdoor museums, university research programs, hair and nail services, remaining retail that’s currently been deemed as non-essential, some offices — although individuals should be encouraged to work from home where possible.

Delaware

Gov. John Carney issued a statewide stay-at-home order that will remain until May 15 or until the “public health threat is eliminated.” Carney said the state will consider reopening its economy only after seeing 28 days of declining Covid-19 cases.

“By the end of the week, I think we’ll have a comprehensive testing plan that will require more than double the number of tests that we have now,” Carney said on April 29.

Delaware has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office.

The governor said April 17 that once the state reopens, social distancing, face coverings in public, washing hands, limited gatherings and vulnerable populations sheltering in place will remain.

District of Columbia

Washington, DC, Mayor Muriel E. Bowser extended a stay-at-home order until May 15.

“I don’t know if that means we will be open on May 16, but it will be a point for us to check in. And if we need to extend it beyond that, we certainly will,” Bowser said during an April 15 media briefing.

Florida

Florida will reopen certain businesses through much of the state on May 4 except in the counties of Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach, according to Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Starting May 4, restaurants may offer outdoor seating with six-foot space between tables and indoor seating at 25% capacity. Retail can operate at 25% of indoor capacity, and bars, gyms and personal services such as hairdressers will remain closed. Churches remain on “voluntary social distancing,” and movie theaters remain closed. The state’s stay-at-home order ends on April 30.

DeSantis defended the decision made by local leaders to reopen the beaches as he awaits recommendations from Reopen Task Force

The reopening of the beaches in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, generated criticism and also generated the Twitter hashtag #FloridaMorons.

“My hat’s off to the people of Jacksonville and Northeast Florida for doing a great job,” DeSantis said. “And for those who try to say you’re morons, I would take you over the folks who are criticizing you any day of the week and twice on Sunday.”

The Florida Keys will not reopen to visitors until at least June, county commissioners said April 24.

Georgia

Gov. Brian Kemp started to ease restrictions April 24.

Gyms, fitness centers, bowling alleys, body art studios, barbers, hair and nail salons, estheticians and massage therapists were able to reopen April 24, with certain rules. Theaters and restaurants were allowed to reopen April 27, also with caveats.

The caveats include social distancing and screening employees for illness.

Bars, nightclubs and music venues will remain closed, for now.

A shelter in place order for “medically fragile and elderly Georgians” is in place through June 12.

The shelter in place order for other Georgians ended April 30.

“However, moving forward, I am urging Georgians to continue to stay home whenever possible,” Kemp said in a statement. “I want to thank the people of our great state who heeded public health advice, afforded us time to bolster our health-care infrastructure, and flattened the curve. We were successful in these efforts, but the fight is far from over.”

Hawaii

The statewide stay at home order for Hawaii set to expire April 30 has been extended until May 31, Gov. David Ige announced. Ige said he has also extended the order that travelers quarantine for 14 days after their arrival to the state until May 31.

Beaches are now open for exercising such as jogging, running or walking but people cannot loiter on the beach and must maintain social distance, Ige said.

Groups of two people or more are now allowed to fish for subsistence or commercial purposes, Ige said. A previous restriction limited such gatherings to two people.

Elective surgeries are also allowed to take place as long as there is enough capacity although that could change should the state see a surge or increase in need, Ige said.

Idaho

After Gov. Brad Little’s “Order to Self-Isolate” expired on May 1, Idaho’s entered the first stage of the state’s recovery plan. Bars, gyms and theaters must remain closed and restaurants can continue carryout service, but some other businesses and places of worship could open with social distancing plans.

Little said that the measures were working and Idaho is “truly seeing a flattening of the curve.”

Under the second phase, restaurant dining and salons would be permitted to open, although gatherings would still be limited to fewer than 10 people.

Illinois

Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a modified stay-at-home order that went into effect on May 1 and extends through the end of the month. The order allows more flexibility “where it is safe” to do so, according to Pritzker.

This new order allows residents to leave their home for essential activities, including for health and safety, for necessary supplies and services, for outdoor activity, for certain types of work, to take care of others, and to engage in the free exercise of religion.

“All we were trying to do was to make more explicit that people do have the right to gather in a group of 10 or less,” he said. “As long as you are social distancing.”

State parks, golf courses, retail stores, and garden centers are some of the few places that are reopening with strict social measures.

Non-urgent surgeries that have been put off due to the crisis can also now be scheduled in surgery centers and hospitals, according to the governor.

Pritzker also announced guidance on the use of masks in public. He said, “Tomorrow will be the first day where adults and any children over the age of two and everyone medically able to tolerate a face covering will be required to wear one in public places where they can’t maintain a 6-foot social distance.”

Indiana

Gov. Eric Holcomb’s stay-at-home order expired May 1 and the state is currently in stage 1 of the its reopening plan. Critical businesses have opened but all other industries are closed.

Stage 2, which will roll out for most of the state on May 4, eases restrictions on essential travel, permits social gatherings of up to 25 people and reopens state government offices with limited public interaction. Retail and commercial businesses can open at 50% capacity, as can shopping malls, though indoor common areas are restricted to 25% capacity.

Restaurants and bars that serve food can open starting May 11 at 50% capacity, and personal services such as hair salons, barbershops, nail salons and tattoo parlors can open at that time by appointment only.

Indiana is part of a Midwest coalition of states looking at reopening possibilities.

Iowa

Gov. Kim Reynolds has not declared a stay-at-home order. Reynolds allowed 77 of Iowa’s 99 counties to reopen restaurants, fitness centers, retail stores and enclosed malls at 50% capacity beginning May 1. Reynolds also lifted the ban on religious gatherings of more than 10 people.

This approach takes “a targeted approach to loosening restrictions” and focuses on counties “where there is no virus activity or where virus activity has been consistently low and shown a downward trend,” Reynolds explained.

Counties where Covid-19 activity is higher will have their closures extended through May 15, the governor said. “It’s based on a stabilization and it’s based on virus activity and the amount of new cases over the past 14 days,” Reynolds said.

“Businesses and churches approved for reopening must also adhere to social distancing, hygiene, public health measures, and business guidelines from the department of public health to, of course, reduce the risk of transmission of Covid-19,” the governor said.

Reynolds also said that restaurants will have to keep tables at least six feet apart and limit the number of people that can be at a table.

The governor emphasized that the state limit on social gatherings of more than 10 people remains in place.

Kansas

Gov. Laura Kelly issued a stay-at-home order, which ends May 4.

Kelly said April 30:”If localities determined that the time is right, businesses that can maintain at least six feet of distance between consumers and adhere to industry-specific guidelines can begin to transition back to work.”

Businesses such as restaurants would be allowed to reopen, but they must maintain at least 6 feet of distance between customers. Childcare facilities and libraries may reopen.

Bars, nightclubs, casinos, gyms, and personal service businesses where close contact cannot be avoided must remain closed. Those might open in the second phase, which won’t begin until May 18, at the earliest. Bars and restaurants already operating curbside and carryout services can remain open.

Kentucky

Starting May 11, manufacturing, construction, vehicle or vessel dealerships; professional services at 50% capacity; horse racing without fans; and dog grooming and boarding will be allowed to reopen, according to Gov. Andy Beshear.

On May 20, retail and houses of worship will be allowed to reopen. As the final step in the state’s first phase of reopening, 10-person social gatherings will be allowed again, and barber shops, salons, cosmetology businesses and the like will be allowed to reopen starting May 25.

Restaurants, movie theaters, campgrounds, youth sports, summer camps and day cares will be part of a possible June reopening in Phase 2, Beshear said.

Customers and employees will be asked to wear a mask at every reopened and essential business.

Louisiana

Gov. John Bel Edwards issued new guidelines for the state and eased some restrictions while extending the stay at home order until May 15.

Beginning on Friday under the new order, malls in Louisiana will remain closed to the public, but stores can offer curbside delivery. Restaurants can still do takeout and delivery orders but can also offer outdoor seating. There will not be any wait staff, but customers will be able to sit outside and eat if they want, minding social distancing rules. Edwards also said that all employees in businesses interacting with the public are required to wear masks.

Churches can operate outdoors with tents as long as those tents don’t have flaps on the side, the governor said.

Businesses that were previously directed to close will remain closed, including salons, barbershops, bars and casinos.

Edwards said his decision to extend the order was based on data, science and the guidance from the White House.

Edwards said the state has not met the threshold where they need to be in hospitalizations, new cases and testing.

Maine

Gov. Janet Mills announced that while the state has started to flatten the curve, it is still not out of the woods. She extended the state’s stay-at-home order through May 31, allowing some businesses to reopen on May 1.

These include barber shops and hair salons, auto dealerships and drive-in stay-in-your-vehicle religious services but the businesses must comply with strict health and safety protocols. Residents must wear cloth masks in public places where physical distancing is difficult to maintain.

Maryland

Gov. Larry Hogan introduced his state’s reopening plan on April 24.

Hogan described the plan, “Maryland Strong Roadmap to Recovery” as “a safe, effective and gradual plan, which will allow us to reopen, to rebuild and to recover just as soon as it is safe for us to do so.”

The state has not yet hit their Covid-19 peak, cases are on the rise, and they are therefore not ready to open back up for business, Hogan said.

He had issued a statewide stay-at-home order with no end date on March 30.

Massachusetts

Gov. Charlie Baker announced that he is extending the timeline for the closure of nonessential businesses.

“We are extending the timeline for all nonessential businesses to keep the physical workplaces and facilities closed to all workers, customers and the public until May 18th and the state at home advisory also remains in place during this time,” Baker said, adding that gatherings of 10 or more are also banned until May 18.

Massachusetts has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Rhode Island to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office.

Michigan

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on April 24 has extended the state’s stay-at-home order through May 15 — but also relaxed restrictions so some businesses can reopen and the public can participate in more outdoor activities like golf and motorized boating.

The latest order allow landscapers, lawn-service companies, plant nurseries and bike repair shops to resume operating, subject to social-distancing rules.

Big-box retailers will no longer have to close off garden centers and areas dedicated to selling paint and carpet.

People also are allowed, under the latest order, to travel between their residences, though it isn’t encouraged. They will be allowed to use motorized boats and play golf (but not golf carts) in adherence with social distancing protocols. State parks, which have been accessible during the health emergency, will remain open.

Whitmer also announced on April 29 that she is signing an executive order to reopen both residential and commercial construction within the state by May 7.

Minnesota

Gov. Tim Walz extended the state’s stay at home order until May 18 but will allow retail businesses to offer curbside pickup and delivery beginning May 4.

Businesses are required to develop and post a plan on safe operation, use contactless payments, and follow social distancing and minimize contact with customers.

Walz said that this loosening will put 30,000 Minnesotans back to work.

Steve Grove, Commissioner for the Department of Employment and Economic Development, noted that salons and barbershops cannot provide services but may conduct retail sales.

Mississippi

Mississippi’s statewide stay-at-home order is scheduled to end on May 11.

“We are very closely monitoring what’s happening in places like Georgia, we’re monitoring multiple states,” Gov. Tate Reeves said on April 28. “We’ve got to give people the opportunity to go back to work, as soon as we make sure we can do it in a safe and responsible way.”

Reeves signed a new “Safer at Home” executive order that took effect on April 27 for two weeks and replaced the state’s shelter in place order.

The new order urges all Mississippians to stay home except for essential travel. The most vulnerable people — the elderly, people with pre-existing conditions, and those people with compromised immune systems — will have to shelter in place.

The Safer at Home order bans all social gatherings or non-essential gatherings of 10 or more people. Places of entertainment or amusement, movie theaters, bars, museums, spas, gyms, tattoo parlors, casinos and barber shops will remain closed.

Restaurants can continue to serve food via drive-thru or delivery.

Missouri

Gov. Mike Parson on April 16 extended the stay-at-home order through May 3.

Parson announced his Show Me Strong Recovery” plan on April 27, saying that the state will start reopening economic and social activity on May 4. There are no limitations on social gatherings as long as six feet of distance can be maintained between individuals.

All business will be able to reopen as long as six feet of social distancing can be maintained. Indoor retail businesses will also have to limit their number of customers to no more than 25% of normal capacity. Local communities will be allowed to have stricter rules if they choose.

Montana

Gov. Steve Bullock has announced a gradual and phased reopening of the state beginning April 26 for individuals and extending to businesses April 27.

Main street and retail businesses can become operational on or after April 27 if they adhere to requirements to limit capacity and maintain strict physical distancing.

Restaurants, bars, breweries, and distilleries can begin providing some in-establishment services beginning May 4.

Businesses where groups gather without the ability to social distance including movie theaters, gyms and other places of assembly will remain closed.

Montana’s travel quarantine will remain in effect, and out of state travelers and residents arriving from another state or country back to Montana for non-work-related purposes are required to quarantine for 14 days.

Nebraska

Gov. Pete Ricketts announced Friday that a number of coronavirus rules will be relaxed across the state starting on May 4. Nebraska is one of the states that has not issued a stay-at-home order to help limit the spread of coronavirus nationwide.

Restaurants will be permitted to allow customers inside at that time but must permit no more than 50% of their normal capacity. Salons, massage businesses and tattoo parlors will be limited to ten people at a time, with everyone wearing face coverings. Houses of worship will be able to meet in-person, but with six feet of separation.

Bars and indoor theaters will have to stay closed until May 31 in most of the state.

Nevada

Gov. Steve Sisolak said April 30 that the state’s stay-at-home order will be extended until mid-May.

But he signed a new directive that allows expanded outdoor and recreational activities as of May 1. All retail stores will be allowed to operate with curbside pickup (currently allowed for restaurants and eateries). Retail cannabis dispensaries will be included.

Golf courses and tennis courts can open with restrictions. Sisolak has explained that the reopening of Nevada’s casinos is still a long way off. Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman drew scrutiny after she called for casinos and most other local businesses to open immediately.

New Hampshire

Gov. Chris Sununu issued a modified stay-at-home order, called “Stay at Home 2.0” which in effect until May 31.

The governor said the state is looking to reopen based on facts, science and data. Sununu did clarify that the stay-at-home order is still in place.

“You are healthier at home, we want you to stay at home,” he said.

Elective surgeries can resume on May 4 if they are time sensitive. On May 11, barbers and hair salons may reopen as long as customers have reservations and there are no more than 10 people in the salon, including staff. Customers and employees must wear face masks.

Retail shops will open on May 11 to customers but will be limited to 50% occupancy and employees must wear face masks.

Restaurants will reopen on May 18, but only with outdoor seating options. Tables must be 6 feet apart, only six people can be seated at a table and servers must have cloth face coverings.

New Jersey

Gov. Phil Murphy issued a stay-at-home order on March 21 that has no specific end date. Beginning May 2, all state parks, golf courses and county parks will reopen.

New Jersey is a part of a coalition with the Northeastern states of New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts that said they would aim to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a news release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office.

“No one has given more thought or is more eager to restart our economy than I am, but if we don’t get the sequencing right, we put more lives at risk. The only path to a sustainable economic recovery is through a strong healthcare recovery,” Murphy said in his own news release. “A coordinated, regional approach, informed by a multi-state council of experts, will help us avoid a major setback with potentially disastrous consequences.”

On Monday, April 27, Murphy stressed that people need to know that their health will be safeguarded before anything can ultimately be reopened. Decisions will be driven by data science health progress and “common sense,” he said. The governor said that reopening will likely begin in workplaces and venues where the state has a “high degree of confidence” that social distancing and other related norms can be effectively executed.

While he did not have a clear picture of what would come back online first he mentioned the “food chain” and other essential elements. Murphy added that as much as he loves music concerts are not going to be coming back “anytime soon.”

New Mexico

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham extend ed the state’s stay-at-home order to May 15.

“I want to be crystal clear: While we’re making progress, we are not yet out of the woods. We will not be able to reopen everything on May 16. The virus will not be gone on May 16. The pandemic will not be over. There is no magical date,” the governor said.

“Between now & May 15 we will be in the preparation phase for a gradual & safe reopening of segments of our economy. The state will get direct input from business & employee groups in industries statewide — and we will make health-driven decisions about safe reopening procedures.”

On April 30, she eased restrictions on some businesses. Non-essential retail stores are being allowed to offer curbside pickup. Veterinarians can open, as can pet adoption places, groomers, daycare and boarding businesses. Golf courses can allow people to play.

New York

Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued a “New York State on PAUSE” executive order which took effect on March 22. Nonessential businesses are ordered to stay closed until May 15.

New York has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Rhode Island and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from Cuomo’s office.

“Now that we’ve shown we can flatten the curve and our efforts to control the spread of the virus are working, we must focus on a smart, effective plan to un-pause New York,” Cuomo said last week. “The first part of the plan is to do no harm – don’t let that infection rate go up to the best of your ability and don’t lose the progress that we have made. Second, now that we have some stability in our health care system after a weekslong overdrive, we continue to strengthen that system and ramp up testing and contact tracing to identify those who are sick and isolate them so they don’t transmit the virus to others. Then we can focus on phasing an economic return to the new normal — but we need all those activities going on at the same time for our plan to un-pause New York to work.”

The governor said April 16 there are factors for when a business can reopen, including how essential it is and what is the risk of catching the virus.

On April 27, Cuomo laid out a structure for reopening and noted that federal guidance from the CDC is that before you start reopening the state and regional hospitalization rate must be in decline for 14 days. The state is closely monitoring both and the governor says he thinks the CDC guidance “is right.”

“We’re going to reopen in phases,” he said, which will be based on a regional analysis, particularly economic regions. Cuomo said the first phase would include construction and manufacturing activities – and within that “those businesses that have a low risk” he said. Phase two would utilize more of a business-by-business analysis using a matrix that determines each businesses overall importance and risk in reopening.

“When we get there, we need businesses to do that analysis,” he added. They need to think about how they are going to open in the “new normal” the governor said.

Cuomo said the state would leave 2 weeks between phases so it can monitor the effects of what it has done. Two weeks is the intubation period of the virus, per experts.

North Carolina

Gov. Roy Cooper extended a stay-at-home order, now set to go through May 8.

On April 23, Cooper said the state could open in three phases after May 8, if coronavirus cases continue to trend downward:

In Phase 1, stay-at-home orders would remain, but some businesses would be allowed to open.
Phase 2 would lift stay-at-home orders, though vulnerable populations would be encouraged to stay home. Places of worship, bars and restaurants could operate with reduced capacities.
Phase 3 would ease restrictions for vulnerable populations, but also allow increased capacities at businesses and public gatherings.

North Dakota

Gov. Doug Burgum signed an executive order Wednesday allowing many businesses to open on May 1. Qualifying businesses include bars and restaurants, recreational facilities, health clubs and athletic facilities, salons, and tattoo studios, but they must maintain social distancing of six feet, inform all employees and customers that they should avoid entering the facility if they have a cough or fever, provide contactless payment systems and hand sanitizer, and encourage wearing face masks.

Movie theaters must limit admittance to 20% of normal operating capacity and keep at least two empty seats between guests.

Ohio

A statewide stay-at-home order will remain in place until May 29, the state health department said. Certain businesses, however, are expected to reopen in phases across May.

Starting May 1, health procedures that don’t require an overnight hospital stay can move forward, and dentist and veterinarian offices also may reopen, Gov. Mike DeWine said.

On May 4, manufacturing, distribution and construction companies may reopen. General offices also may open, but businesses should have people work from home when possible, DeWine said.

On May 12, consumer, retail and other services will be allowed to reopen, the governor said.

The state has outlined protocols for reopening businesses, including requiring face coverings for all staff and customers, conducting daily health assessments, and maintaining good hygiene, cleaning and sanitizing.

Oklahoma

Gov. Kevin Stitt allowed some businesses to reopen on April 24.

The plan involves three phases, and Stitt cautioned “we will not move to the next phase until the data tells us that it’s safe to do so.”

Starting on Friday, personal care businesses reopened for appointments.

Restaurants, dining rooms, movie theaters, sporting venues and gyms will reopen the following week, May 1, if they maintain “strict social distancing and sanitation protocols.”

Bars, however, will still be closed.

Oregon

Gov. Kate Brown issued an executive order directing Oregonians to stay at home that “remains in effect until ended by the governor.” Hospitals, surgical centers, medical offices, and dental offices that meet requirements for Covid-19 safety and preparedness will be able to resume non-urgent procedures on May 1.

Brown announced a joint Western States Pact with California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Washington Gov. Jay Inslee on April 13.

“This is not a light switch going on or off,” Brown told CNN’s Anderson Cooper on April 14. “This is going to be making a change, testing it, modeling it, seeing whether it works, and then if it does, you can make another change.”

Brown said she would not ease restrictions before seeing five components in place: declining growth rate of active cases, sufficient personal protective equipment, surge capacity in hospitals, increased test capacity, contact tracing and isolating positive cases, and strategies to protect vulnerable communities.

Pennsylvania

Gov. Tom Wolf wants to reopen the state in three phases beginning May 8th.

The phases will be broken down into three colors red, yellow and green, and will follow the data, according to Wolf. He had issued stay-at-home orders across the state until April 30.

On April 27, Wolf announced that golf courses, marinas, guided fishing trips and privately owned campgrounds could reopen statewide on May 1, provided they follow social distancing guidelines.

“Pennsylvanians have remained resilient throughout this COVID-19 crisis, and as we successfully continue to flatten the curve to protect our physical health, it is critical that we also focus on our physical and mental health during these extraordinary times. As the weather warms and daylight lengthens, enjoying time outdoors is an important way to manage stress,” Wolf said.

Pennsylvania had joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Rhode Island and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office.

Rhode Island

Gov. Gina Raimondo said if the number of new cases remains flat or declines and people continue to obey the rules of the stay-at-home order that lasts until May 8, she intends to “enter phase one of the reopening on May 9.”

“It’s my hope that we will be able to enjoy our parks and beaches in the month of May,” Raimondo said. “We’ll be reopening them, like everything else, in a staged fashion, slowly, with new restrictions, incrementally, leading up to an eventual complete reopening.”

Rhode Island has joined a coalition with the Northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts to coordinate the reopening of the economy, according to a press release from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office.

But Raimondo warned that if people rush out and the number of new cases rise, then the stay-at-home order cannot be lifted.

South Carolina

Gov. Henry McMaster announced that at 5 p.m. on April 20, some retail stores will be allowed to open, including those selling furniture, books, music, flowers, clothing and accessories, as well as department stores, sporting goods stores and flea markets. They will be allowed to open at 20% capacity, or 5 people per 1,000 square feet.

The state’s “Work-or-Home” order set to expire May 12 will be lifted and returned to voluntary status on May 4. Outdoor dining services can resume the same day.

Beaches were allowed to reopen to public access on April 21, though local governments are allowed to keep them closed.

McMaster’s state of emergency executive order has been extended to May 12.

South Dakota

Gov. Kristi L. Noem has not issued a stay-at-home order.

“We have seen such an outstanding call to action among the people of South Dakota that we actually have more people staying home than many of the other states that have put in shelter in place orders and have put together directives to tell people they can’t leave their homes,” she said at a town hall hosted by South Dakota Public Broadcasting on April 15.

Noem announced on April 13 that South Dakota would be the first state to conduct a hydroxychloroquine trial to test against Covid-19.

Tennessee

Gov. Bill Lee issued a new executive order to replace his previous stay-at-home order. The new order will expire on May 30.

“The order allows Tennesseans and businesses to return to work in all industries where that can be safely accomplished by following health guidelines, while urging employers to allow or require remote work/telework if possible,” according to the press release.

Restaurants, retail outlets, and gyms have been allowed to reopen in most counties in the state.

Close contact services like salons and barbershops will be allowed to reopen on May 6 in 89 of the state’s 95 counties, Lee announced on April 29.

Texas

Gov. Greg Abbott, who had ordered all Texans to stay home through April 30, announced on April 27 the first phase of the state’s plan to safely reopen Texas. Abbott’s stay-at-home order expired on May 1.

All retail stores, restaurants, movie theaters, malls, museums, and libraries were permitted to reopen on Friday, May 1, but must limit their capacity to 25% of their listed occupancy.

“This strategic approach to opening the state of Texas prioritizes the health and safety of our communities and follows the guidelines laid out by our team of medical experts,” Abbott said. “Now more than ever, Texans must remain committed to safe distancing practices that reduce the spread of COVID-19, and we must continue to rely on doctors and data to provide us with the safest strategies to restore Texans’ livelihoods,” he said.

Utah

Gov. Gary Herbert issued an executive order that places Utah under “moderate risk” protocols for Covid-19 beginning May 1 and will remain in effect until May 16.

Utah has not issued a stay-at-home mandate.

“We aren’t returning to business as usual yet,” Herbert said. “In fact, we will not return to ‘normal’ for a significant period of time. But Utahns’ diligence over the past month has given us time to build our healthcare capacity and PPE stores. We can now cautiously relax some requirements, and allow businesses that were closed to operate with safety measures in place.”

The state will allow restaurants to let customers dine in again “with extreme precaution” starting May 1.

Although in-person dining will be allowed as long as social distancing is maintained and the health of employees is monitored, the state still says takeout and delivery are preferable. Similarly, the state allowed gyms to reopen Friday, but says it is recommended that they remain closed.

Personal services businesses like hair salons can reopen with social distancing, according to the state’s moderate risk guidelines.

Vermont

Gov. Phil Scott issued a “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order that has been extended until May 15.

Scott said the state will be able to get thousands of its residents back to work on May 4.

“Manufacturing, construction and distribution businesses can operate with 10 or less employees beginning May 4 which is Monday if they meet certain safety requirements,” Scott told reporters in Montpelier. “Beginning May 11, the same businesses can restart full operations if they comply with additional stringent requirements.”

On April 27, Scott and the state’s health commissioner, Dr. Mark Levine, said that Vermont was not ready to reopen until it meets four main criteria: A sustained reduction in cases for at least 14 days; A health care system that is able to treat all patients without exceeding its capacity and without having to resort what are termed, ‘crisis standards of care’; The state is able to test all people who have symptoms, and; The state is able to implement and conduct active monitoring of confirmed cases and their contacts.

Addressing reopening businesses, Scott said that “the more businesses we open up, the more cases we’re going to see. I think that’s clear,” adding that “there’s no way to open up without creating opportunities for more transmission.”

“So the balance will be how many new cases we’re comfortable having,” he said.

Virginia

Gov. Ralph Northam issued a stay-at-home order effective until June 10. Northam extended another executive for two weeks, through May 8, that bans crowds of more than 10 people, closes recreation, entertainment, and personal care businesses, and limits restaurants to offering takeout and delivery services only.

Elective surgery and dental procedures in Virginia were allowed to resume on May 1.

“We will move forward, but in a way that prioritizes public health and builds public confidence,” Northam said. “Businesses know that customers will return only when they feel that it is safe to do so. Our blueprint for the path forward is data-driven and provides clear guidance, so Virginians will know what to expect and understand how we will decide to when to lift certain public health restrictions.”

Phase one of the “Forward Virginia” blueprint, which includes continued social distancing, teleworking, limits on travel and public gatherings, and recommended use of face covering, will begin no sooner than two weeks from now to allow for a 14-day downward trend in confirmed Covid-19 cases and hospitalizations.

Northam has made it clear that the state must make decisions based on “science, public health expertise, and data,” Secretary of Health and Human Resources Daniel Carey said.

Washington

Gov. Jay Inslee extended Washington’s stay-at-home order until May 31.

Most state parks and recreational areas will be reopened in May 5. The state also will allow to people to play golf again, but it will be limited to only two people playing together at a time, except when the players live in the same home. No overnight camping will be allowed on any public land.

Inslee announced a joint Western States Pact with California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Oregon Gov. Kate Brown on April 13.

Before deciding on when to reopen the state, Inslee said during an interview with Katy Tur on MSNBC that there would need to be an “enormous expansions” of coronavirus testing capabilities, a way to trace the spread in communities, and “for the president to recognize that these decisions really are going to be made by governors.”

West Virginia

The stay-at-home order for West Virginia will be lifted at 12:01 a.m. Monday, May 4 and be replaced with another order Monday, Gov. Jim Justice said April 30.

The new order still encourages people to stay at home but doesn’t require it, Justice said. Further guidance will be issued for areas considered hot spots.

Justice said in a press conference Tuesday, April 28 that his administration plans to reopen local businesses Thursday as previously announced.

Positive test result rate was under 3% (of all tests given) Monday and Tuesday and that was the case Thursday so certain health care-related businesses were allowed to open.

Those qualifying businesses include pharmacies, chiropractors, dentists, psychologists, physical therapists, social workers and others.

Daycare workers will be tested for the virus beginning this week and will reopen should all working personnel test negative.

All businesses reopening will require personnel to sanitize, physically distance and wear face coverings.

If this week continues on track, more businesses will be permitted to open Monday.

Wisconsin

Gov. Tony Evers has extended his state’s stay-at-home order to expire May 26, according to a statement from the governor’s office.

Wisconsin reopened 34 state parks and forests under special conditions to help minimize overcrowding and allow for social distancing requirements on May 1.

Some nonessential businesses like dog groomers, small-engine repair shops, upholstery businesses, outdoor recreational rentals like boats, golf carts, kayaks, ATVs and automatic or self-service car washes will be allowed to do curbside drop-off this week as long as they operate “free of contact with customers,” a press release from the governor’s office said.

Wyoming

Gov. Mark Gordon submitted a request asking for a federal disaster declaration for Wyoming on April 9. Wyoming is one of the states without a stay-at-home order.

Wyoming allowed gyms and personal services businesses like hair and nail salons to reopen on May 1 under tight restrictions.

“These new orders start our process of getting this part of Wyoming’s economy up and running again,” Gordon said.

Gordon extended statewide public health orders through April 30 and issued a directive requiring travelers to quarantine for 14 days.

Date: 4/17/20 – 8:30am CST

Update: Commercial Air Carriers Prioritize Supply of Cargo Space

For those of our clients that continue to leverage commercial airline cargo space for expedited shipments, its important to understand the updated policies of most major domestic airlines. As you know, most domestic airlines in an attempt to drive revenue while passenger traffic is significantly down, are increasing their push for air freight cargo. At the same time due to reduction in daily flights domestically and around the world, cargo capacity has become a premium.

In an attempt to protect that capacity, most major airlines are enforcing strict adherence for either late cancellations or failures to show within the lockout windows of any given planned flight. This effort is to assure that any/all space is utilized without waste to protect the capacity needed for much of their freight which is essential, life-saving medicines, equipment and other critical freight needed to help manage the pandemic.

Under the “fair booking” policies, customers that cancel up to 478 hrs prior to scheduled departure or ship the amount in the original booking will NOT be charged a fee. However, if these guidelines are not met, there can and will be cancellation fees or charges to reflect a late reduction in chargeable weight or failure to show.

If you have any further questions, or are seeking alternative solutions for your expedited or air freight needs, please reach out to your Redwood representative asap.

Date: 4/6/20 – 1:45pm CST

Update: Airfreight Rates Continue to Climb During COVID-19

For those organizations that use airfreight expedited services, you are continuing to see ongoing increases in the costs/lb/kg IF capacity is even available. At Redwood, we run a large number of expedited GROUND shipments to meet many of expedited needs for our clients. In fact, MOST domestic expedites actually take place over-the-road vs in the air. With our extensive and diverse carrier base providing team service throughout all North America, Redwood can meet expedite demands while containing costs. If you need diverse solutions to your expedited needs, please reach out to your Redwood representative asap.

Date: 4/6/20 – 1:30pm CST

Update: XPO Temporary Closing Specific Locations for Deep Clean

Due to the COVID-19 virus, the following XPO LTL terminals have been closed for an immediate deep cleaning. Upon completion of the deep clean, these terminals anticipate re-opening by tomorrow, 4/7/20. We will provide further updates as they are available. If you need alternative solutions for shipping your product from any of these areas with a multitude of other carrier options, please reach out to your Redwood representative.

Green Bay, WI

Des Plaines, IL

Hagerstown – Greencastle, PA

Youngstown, OH

Date: 4/2/20 – 10:35am CST

Update: UPDATED Listing of State-Issued “shelter-in-place”, and Non-Essential Businesses to Close

“Stay-at-Home” & “Shelter in Place” Orders by State

PA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

CA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

PR Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

Ohio Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

Canada Currently open for commerce.

Mexico Currently open for commerce.

IL Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

NY Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

NJ Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

CT Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

WA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

LA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

.DE Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

HI Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

IN Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

MA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

MI Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

NM Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

OR Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

WV Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

WI Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

NV Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

.RI Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

KY Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

MD Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

VT Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

ID Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

MN Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

CO Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

MS Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

NH Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

AK Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

.KS Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

MT Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

NC Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

TN Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

VA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

FL Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

UT Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

AZ Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

DC Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

GA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

ME Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

The following States issued less aggressive restrictions or partial “Stay-at-Home” orders…

TX Major populated cities and counties are under a Stay-at-Home order.

OK Major populated cities and counties are under a Stay-at-Home order.

MO Major populated cities and counties are under a Stay-at-Home order.

SC Major populated cities and counties are under a Stay-at-Home order.

WY Major populated cities and counties are under a Stay-at-Home order.

AL Major populated cities and counties are under a Stay-at-Home order.

The following sates DO NOT have any Stay-at-Home orders.

Shippers should check with their consignees to verify that they are open before shipping. As a general rule, if a business is open (for pick-up or delivery), the carrier will attempt to provide transportation services. However, remote areas, restricted deliveries, appointment deliveries and some other challenging circumstances can affect service

If a shipment is at a carrier terminal and the consignee is closed, storage charges will apply. Or, the carrier may want the shipment re-consigned back to the shipper. Please reach out to your Redwood Representative for more information and/or questions.

Date: 4/01/20 – 9:30am CST

Update: LTL Carriers are Tightening Restrictions for Available/Non-Available Deliveries

As you know, LTL carriers are considered an essential business and are all working very hard to deliver the food and supplies that America needs as most of us remain in either a quarantine or “shelter in place” status. We have consistently advised our clients to be sure that their consignees are open and available to receive shipments BEFORE they ship product to them.

Although we have not seen a broad announcement by all LTL carriers, we are beginning to see some announcements similar to the below from Dayton Freight Lines:

“In the last few weeks, we have all experienced many difficult decisions. Dayton Freight used good judgement when making these decisions for the health and safety of our employees and customers. We understand these times bring a lot of uncertainties, and our goal is to continue to transport your freight. In order to do this, we ask that you honor the following:

Please call the consignee before scheduling a shipment with us to make sure they are open. This is very important and will help operations continue to run smoothly.
If we cannot deliver due to the consignee being closed, we will have to return your shipment and a charge will occur.
Due to our capacity limitations, we cannot store freight until the ban is lifted. It’s very important that the shipper is aware of this restraint.

We apologize if the bullet points above seem too direct, but we MUST keep our operations running smoothly to better serve you! Your cooperation with these instructions will help us achieve this goal. This is crucial for the success of our business and yours!”

As you can imagine, LTL carrier facilities are not designed as large, long term storage options…and many locations are starting to hit critical mass and running out of room to store undeliverable product either in house, or in storage trailers. IF you have product out there where you need short-term storage options, please reach out to your Redwood Representative asap.

Date: 3/30/20 – 10:00am CST

Update: UPDATED Listing of State-Issued “shelter-in-place”, and Non-Essential Businesses to Close

“Stay-at-Home” & “Shelter in Place” Orders by State

PA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

CA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

PR Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

Ohio Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

Canada Currently open for commerce.

Mexico Currently open for commerce.

IL Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

NY Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

NJ Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

CT Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

WA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

LA Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.

DE Governor issued a Stay-at-Home order. All non-essential businesses should be closed.