Ian Nairn / October 21, 2025

Keep an eye on your ELDs as device approvals are subject to continuous change

If your business operates a fleet that is subject to electronic logging device (ELD) usage, it’s important to keep an eye on regulatory updates and changes that may impact the solutions you’re using. To ensure you remain compliant with federal law, staying on top of all changes, or working with a third-party expert who can keep track for you, is key.

Changes to approved devices are frequent.

In September, 2025 alone, The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) removed four ELDs from its list of approved devices. Fleets were given a tight window of sixty days, during which time they were instructed to “discontinue using the revoked ELD and revert to paper logs or logging software to record required hours of service data,” and “replace the revoked ELD with a compliant ELD from the Registered Devices list.”

Sixty days may seem like a big window, but for large fleets and when approaching a busy season for many operations, this is a huge change that needs to be made quickly. Changing devices, contacting your provider, educating drivers, and potentially sorting through paper logs – these are all time-consuming feats. And that’s if you’re made aware of the device revocation right away. If you miss the memo, you might be racing to implement the necessary changes in time.

Why do devices get revoked?

The FMCSA doesn’t revoke devices to make life difficult for fleets. In September, the four devices removed – Robinhood ELD, TT ELD PT30, ELOG42 and RENAISSANCE ELD – were done so because they failed to meet technical requirements. They’re not the only devices to face this penalty. Eight other ELDs have also been revoked in 2025. The technical requirements are extensive but readily available, and all the device developers will have the opportunity to revise their ELDs to meet standards. However, that could be a time-consuming fix, and in the meantime, fleets must switch ELDs – and potentially service providers – to remain compliant.

In conclusion…

As a fleet manager, you have to be on top of current ELD regulations. Revoked devices can have a real consequence for your operations, and there may be less time than you’d like to make any changes. Working with an expert on current regulations can save a lot of headaches and buy you time when facing this sort of challenge.

Ian Nairn / October 7, 2025

How do interchange fees impact your credit card processing bill?

For every payment your business processes by card, your business pays a series of fees. One of these is an interchange fee, which is collected by the payment’s issuing bank. While interchange fees aren’t necessarily flexible on your provider’s side, they are something you can take steps to reduce. In this article, we take a look at interchange fees and how you can optimize your payments to lower the cost of this component.

What fees do you incur on every payment you make?

On each payment you accept, whether it’s in person, over the phone, or online, you pay the following fees:

  • Authorization fee, which is collected by the gateway – an encrypted platform that acts as an intermediary during your transaction
  • Transaction fee, which is collected by the processor – your merchant services provider
  • Assessment fee, which is collected by the card network – such as Mastercard or Visa
  • Interchange fees, which are collected by the issuing bank

Ultimately, these fees can amount around 2% of the total of every transaction.

What are interchange fees specifically?

Interchange fees are collected from you – the merchant – by the cardholder’s bank and cover the cost of the risk associated with approving a payment. While these fees are determined by the card brands and are non-negotiable, there are different levels of interchange fees based on key factors, including the information that you submit every time a payment is made. In fact, there are over 300 different interchange rate levels that could be applied to your payment processing.

What impacts your interchange fees?

Your interchange fees are going to be impacted by a variety of factors, not all of which are in your control. However, some decisions that you make, as a merchant, will determine what you’re charged.

Interchange fees can be determined by card type, and which types of cards carry more risk for the bank:

  • Debit versus credit
  • Corporate versus personal
  • Rewards and travel cards
  • Card brand

The fees are also determined by the way the card was used during the transaction:

  • In person, online, or over the phone
  • Inserted with a chip, tapped, or signed for with a cardholder signature

In this example, a cardholder signature would be seen as the least risky transaction, whereas a purchase made with card-not-present (CNP) carries the most risk.

Finally, the fees are also determined by the data sent along with the transaction. The fewer details sent, the higher the fees typically are. This is where your business has room to make decisions that can lower your fees without taking measures to limit your customers, such as reducing the card types you accept.

How do you optimize your interchange fees?

Depending on the nature of your operations, your business can qualify for a lower interchange rate by working with your payment processor to optimize the data you send every time a transaction is made.

Many businesses that accept basic retail transactions, as well as other CNP transactions, will only be able to send what is known as Level 1 (L1) data. However, organizations with larger corporate or governmental clients can often optimize the information they send to secure the best rates.

Standard L1 transaction data includes very basic information, the amount paid, the card number, and the date. However, there are two additional levels; L2 and L3, that include more data and reduce fees. L2 adds data like customer codes and sales tax amounts for a discount around 0.50% lower. L3 data includes details such as product quantity and item descriptions for a discount of up to 1.0% lower. In order to optimize your interchange rates, you must be working under a payment processing structure that allows for the capture of this information.

If you can optimize, you should.

Not every organization is eligible for submitting L2 and L3 three data. Unfortunately, these businesses may face higher merchant services fees than others.  However, if your business is in the position to optimize your interchange rates, you can expect to save significantly. With payment processing fees eating up a considerable amount of every transaction, you need every advantage that you can get.

Ian Nairn / October 1, 2025

Why Being on Time Matters More Than You Think

The dictionary defines punctuality as “the fact of arriving, doing something, or happening at the expected or correct time and not late”. But in the workplace, it means more than that. It says more about you than you realize.

Punctuality and Professional Image

Being punctual reflects discipline, responsibility, and respect for others’ time. It shows commitment not just to the task, but to the team and the company you are in. When you arrive on time, you signal that you value your colleagues’ time and the collective work. On the other hand, frequent lateness can give the impression of a lack of commitment and disrupt working dynamics.

Why Punctuality Matters?

Punctuality goes beyond just meeting a schedule. It shows reliability and a strong work ethic. While being punctual can set a positive tone for the day and build trust, tardiness can harm productivity, affect morale, and damage your professional relationships.

This is especially true for managers and leaders, as they must set the example for others. When a leader arrives late or doesn’t prioritize punctuality, it sends a message to the team that being on time isn’t that important. Leaders who model punctuality foster a culture of respect and professionalism, creating an environment where everyone understands the value of time.

The Risk of Appearing Tardy to Clients

Being tardy carries many risks, and appearing late to clients goes beyond a minor inconvenience. When a client is waiting for you, they trust that you value their time and are committed to the meeting. Arriving late, even by a few minutes, not only undermines that trust and damages your personal reputation, but it can also reflect poorly on the company as a whole, potentially jeopardizing deals or future opportunities. Punctuality demonstrates respect, reliability, and professionalism, all of which are essential for maintaining strong client relationships.

Tips for Improving Punctuality

Improving punctuality can be simple:

  • Plan ahead: Prepare for the next day in advance.
  • Use reminders: Leverage apps to track appointments or simply add more alarms to your list.
  • Create a routine: A consistent morning routine can save you time.

Conclusion

Being on time is a simple way to show you’re professional. It means you respect your coworkers and care about your team. When you make punctuality a habit, people will see you as reliable and committed. Try waking up a bit earlier, you’ll be glad you did!

Ian Nairn / September 26, 2025

Still using packing peanuts? You may be frustrating your customers.

Packing peanuts are a staple for businesses that need to send potentially fragile or breakable products to customers. They’re inexpensive, efficient, and lightweight. In today’s economic climate, those are some considerable pros. But what if the cost is customer satisfaction? In this article, we take a look.

People don’t like packing peanuts.

Whether it be the traditional kind or the newer, more eco-friendly versions, customers aren’t fans of packing peanuts. Below are a few reasons why:

They make a mess: They easily scatter and are difficult to clean up.

Hard to dispose of: Due to static cling, they stick to every surface, and their lack of recyclability makes disposal complicated.

Environmental impact: While some versions are biodegradable, the environmental cost is still significant. Non-biodegradable versions remain in the environment for a long time, generating a substantial amount of waste.

Health impact: Traditional foam peanuts production methods can release carcinogenic fumes that could be harmful to workers handling the material.

Increase in shipping costs: For businesses, the biodegradable option can also increase shipping costs since they have a higher weight than traditional packing peanuts.

The impact on customer experience

When a customer receives a package filled with packing peanuts, the unboxing experience, which for many is a highly satisfying moment, quickly turns into frustration. They may even need to spend more time than expected cleaning up the mess and getting rid of the peanuts. This doesn’t only affect the perception of the product but also the company’s image.
More than that, many businesses today are concerned about the environmental impact of their products and processes. If a customer encounters packaging that is harmful to the environment, it could affect their brand loyalty and even damage the company’s reputation.

Alternatives to packing peanuts.

The good news is, there are more modern, eco-friendly packaging alternatives available. Some options include:

  • Recycled paper fill (Kraft Paper): Recycled paper fibers are a popular choice as they are easily recyclable and biodegradable. Plus, customers may feel more satisfied knowing the material doesn’t pose a threat to the planet and is easy to dispose of.
  • Shredded paper: Another eco-friendly alternative, shredded paper is a good filler option that can be recycled and composted. It’s also easy to handle and dispose of.
  • Cornstarch foam: A biodegradable alternative that dissolves easily in water. While more expensive than traditional packing peanuts, this option has grown in popularity due to its lower environmental impact.
  • Air pillows: Some companies are opting for recyclable air bubbles or inflatable air bags. While lightweight and effective, they are also less likely to scatter or cause a mess.
  • Cardboard inserts: Custom-cut cardboard inserts are another sustainable option, as they securely hold products in place without the need for filler material. They can be recycled easily and offer a more structured and neat solution for packaging.
  • Custom fit solutions: Packaging made to measure for products ensures that the item doesn’t shift and doesn’t require extra filler material. Although they require a higher initial investment, custom solutions can be more efficient and provide a better unboxing experience.

The shift in consumer mindset.

As consumers become more aware of their purchasing choices, the demand for sustainable (and easy-to-handle) packaging is growing. They want to know their purchases aren’t contributing to a larger environmental problem. Companies that adopt eco-friendly practices not only gain in terms of brand image but can also stand out as leaders in innovation.
Furthermore, customer experience is becoming increasingly valued. Customers who have a positive unboxing experience are more likely to share their impressions on social media, influencing other potential buyers. A well-thought-out package can be an excellent competitive differentiator.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, while packing peanuts may be cheap and functional, the hidden costs to customer satisfaction and the environment are significant. Businesses that prioritize eco-friendly and user-friendly packaging not only reduce waste but also create a better experience, strengthen their brand, and show they care about the planet. Choosing smarter alternatives is an investment that pays off in happier customers and a stronger reputation.

Ian Nairn / August 25, 2025

Should your business use a VPN?

If you’re a casual internet user in your personal life, you may not feel the need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in your day-to-day use. However, for business purposes, a VPN might be a critical tool you could be missing out on. In this article, we take a look at VPNs and why you may want to consider investing in one if you haven’t already.

What is a VPN?

A virtual private network (VPN) establishes an “encrypted tunnel between a device or endpoint (like a laptop, mobile phone, or desktop) and one or more internet-facing servers.” This technology has been around since 1996, when it was created by a Microsoft employee. It assures businesses extra privacy and security when their employees connect to their Wi-Fi.

How do they work? As one security software developer explains it, when connected to the VPN ‘tunnel,’ “an end user sends their data through that tunnel where it’s encrypted, and at the end of the tunnel, the data is picked up and metaphorically wrapped in a blanket of an organization’s security measures (e.g., a firewall). Once the data is safely nestled in that blanket (a security blanket, if you will), it’s rerouted to wherever it needs to go.”

A business VPN differs from a VPN you might subscribe to for your personal devices at home. Though they both work by creating an encrypted connection between your devices and a remote network, there are some key differences to be aware of:

A business VPN:

  • Is meant to support many employees by securely connecting to a company’s internal network
  • Allows for the secure transfer of sensitive data over the internet
  • Allows a company to manage employee access levels
  • Supports multiple locations/offices by creating a secure tunnel for employees to connect to from several places
  • Isn’t primarily used to hide a user’s geographic location or protect oneself when using public Wi-Fi, like a commercial VPN is

Why are VPNs critical for businesses?

Cybersecurity is no small consideration in the increasing digital age. With ransomware and malware posing a real threat to many organizations, a VPN is an extra, often necessary step to protect your data.

A VPN helps secure your company’s data by:

  • Guaranteeing security even in a hybrid or remote working model
  • Guaranteeing security even when employees are traveling and using public or hotel Wi-Fi connections
  • Preventing malicious outsider activity from reaching your network
  • Allowing for more resources to be accessed from the cloud
  • Allowing multiple types of devices to connect, including mobile devices
  • Allowing for companies it utilize bring your own device (BYOD) policies safely
  • Meeting some industry compliance requirements, such as healthcare providers storing patient information in the cloud

Providers often offer customized solutions.

This isn’t just a solution for large enterprises. Organizations of all sizes, across all industries, should consider investing in a VPN, if they have any sensitive financial or client data that needs protecting. Some larger organizations can host VPN infrastructure themselves. However, providers also offer solutions and pricing models to fit different budgets and capabilities. For very small operations, there are limited, free or cost-effective VPNs out there that might suffice.

Things to keep in mind with business VPNs.

Not all VPN solutions are built equal, and the cost of employing a below standard option can be considerable. Not just in the monetary cost, but in employee productivity as well. A VPN that isn’t running with modern, expected speeds can create significant lag and frustration for users. In some cases, employees will resort to abandoning the VPN for productivity, which then compromises security.

Are you looking for cybersecurity insurance?

As mentioned, ransomware and malware are a rising threat. Many organizations are considering cybersecurity insurance to protect themselves, financially, in the case of an attack. However, many of these insurance providers will require your business to be using a VPN.

In conclusion…

A VPN, when using the right solution, is a critical tool for a business’ cybersecurity. Investing in one should be a serious consideration for any organization with sensitive data to protect or with employees who work remotely.

Ian Nairn / July 3, 2025

[Webinar] The Era of Tariffs – June 19, 2025

Tariffs continue to impact the cost structure and profitability of businesses across both the U.S. and Canada. With the right strategies, you can reduce exposure, maintain competitiveness, and protect your bottom line.

Watch Schooley Mitchell’s free, value-packed webinar where we’ll break down:

  • The current tariff landscape and what’s likely ahead
  • How tariffs are affecting supply chains and pricing
  • Actionable steps to mitigate cost impacts
  • Tools and services available to help you navigate these challenges

Who Should Watch: Business owners, CFOs, operations managers, procurement professionals, and decision-makers concerned with cost management and global trade.

Ian Nairn / June 17, 2025

The classifications for LTL shipments are changing – here’s what you need to know

The National Motor Freight Classification system has made some updates on how it classifies less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping. The changes go into effect on July 19th.  If your business or organization uses LTL services to move your product, here’s what you need to know about these new classifications.

Who is the National Motor Freight Traffic Association?

The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) is a nonprofit membership organization and the world’s leading organization representing the interests of LTL carriers. The association’s membership is comprised of motor carriers operating in interstate, intrastate, and foreign commerce. Meaning, their membership may include your LTL vendor. Therefore, their new classifications could impact your services.

The changes you need to be aware of.

Industry experts are expecting the NMFTA’s changes “to streamline classifying LTL Freight.” Its classification system – The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) – has been critiqued in the past for being very confusing, and the aim is to simplify it. Its goals are to:

  • Simplify the classification using a “standardized approach based on density, handling, stowability, and liability.”
  • Enhance user experience, by making the classifications easier to understand.
  • Increase efficiency, by making freight classifications more accurate.

This will be accomplished by introducing:

  • A standardized density scale for LTL freight with no handling, stowability, and liability issues
  • Unique identifiers for freight with special handling, stowability, or liability needs
  • Condensed and modernized commodity listings
  • Improved usability of the ClassIT classification tool

What does any of this actually mean for shippers?

If you’re not sure what any of this means, that’s okay. Industry jargon can be hard to understand from the outside. But if your business uses LTL for operations, here are the important things to keep in mind. NMFTA says that, for shippers, “identifying your freight class will be easier, but you may need to provide handling unit dimensions and weight.”

Meaning, that in the long run, this should make your life easier, however, if you fail to be proactive about the new classification systems, it may result in misclassified shipments, which could then cause unexpected charges, delays, and disputes. These changes are being implemented July 19th, so theoretically, charges and delays could begin as soon as then if you don’t take the time to review the new classifications and ensure all your shipments are in order.  It’s also a good idea to contact your provider and ensure all the classifications and changes are made on their end as well.

If your company uses LTL providers that operate in the United States, NMFTA recommends reviewing all the changes on their bulletin, found here.

In conclusion…

Proactivity is key. If you’re a business that ships products with LTL providers, be aware of the new classification changes, and ensure you’re not accidentally misclassifying your goods come July 19th.