Transportation and logistics costs are an unavoidable part of the supply chain process. These costs include purchasing, transporting, storing, and distributing goods. In 2009, transportation costs were easy to reduce due to lower fuel prices and carrier overcapacity. However, challenges were ahead for 2010 as the economy improved slowly, capacity tightened, and new legislation was on the horizon. Factors like fuel costs, rates, capacity, and safety regulations could all impact carriers and shippers in the coming years.