short takes

The EPA's SmartWay voluntary emissions-reduction program has awarded YRC Worldwide Inc. its highest ranking for the fifth consecutive year. YRC was recognized for its fuel efficiency and environmentally sustainable operations. ... Landstar System has purchased two Michigan-based supply chain transportation firms that focus on transportation technology systems. The two firms are Detroit-based Premier Logistics, which provides freight management services through its Web-based software, and Ann Arborbased A3 Integration, which offers Web-based transportation and supply chain management technologies. …Maersk Group is merging three of its subsidiaries into a single company that will operate under the Damco brand. The subsidiaries are Maersk Logistics (the company's supply chain management division), Maersk Customs Services (its custom brokerage arm), and the current Damco freight forwarding unit. ... Chicago-based Echo Global Logistics, a transportation management outsourcing company, has acquired Raytrans Distribution Services, a transportation brokerage firm based in Matteson, Ill. ... The Port of Virginia will be the first U.S. East Coast port of call for a reconfigured service that connects the Caribbean with the eastern United States. The service will be operated by French steamship line CMA CGM. ... DHL is launching weekly direct less-than-containerload (LCL) service from Tokyo and Yokohama to Chicago. DHL says the new guaranteed service will reduce transit times by at least three days compared to current offerings. …Sick USA, a manufacturer of controls, sensors, and safety systems, has published Guidelines for Safe Machinery – Six Steps to a Safe Machine. The 116-page illustrated guide, which also provides a brief outline of North American laws, regulations, and standards, can be downloaded for free at www.sickusa.com.