Explore the latest technology development trends in the logistics industry and understand how innovative solutions drive industry transformation
The U.S. Freight Transportation Services Index (TSI) decreased in December for the first time in four months, ending a streak of consecutive increases. The index showed an overall growth of 1.0% for the year. However, factors such as supply chain disruptions remain important considerations. This decline warrants attention as broader economic indicators are analyzed and the impact of ongoing supply chain challenges is assessed.
Flexport secured $110 million in Series C funding led by DST Global, with participation from existing investors. The company aims to connect the global supply chain through technological innovation, offering increased transparency, more accurate data, and superior service. Flexport envisions building a seamless global trade ecosystem and is actively addressing competition from players like Amazon. Investors are confident in Flexport's future growth potential, driven by its technology-focused approach to streamlining international logistics and providing better visibility into the complexities of global trade.
Damco is reshaping freight forwarding through digital services, aiming to be the 'orchestrator' of the global freight supply chain. Its core engine, the Twill platform, offers online booking, multi-carrier selection, real-time tracking, and data analytics, helping customers optimize their supply chains and reduce risks. While digital transformation presents challenges, the future trend of intelligence and collaboration is irreversible. Damco's practices set an example for the industry.
SEKO has secured investment from Ridgemont Equity Partners to accelerate its global expansion and technology upgrades. Greenbriar Equity Group will continue its participation. This investment will enable SEKO to further enhance its logistics capabilities, expand its international presence, and invest in cutting-edge technologies to better serve its customers worldwide. The partnership aims to strengthen SEKO's position as a leading global provider of end-to-end logistics solutions.
Schneider Logistics' sale of its freight forwarding and customs brokerage businesses in the US and China to Norbert Dentressangle signals a strategic shift towards its core trucking, logistics, and intermodal services. This move aims to optimize resource allocation, enhance profitability, and reduce operational risks. Industry analysts view this as a strategic retrenchment by Schneider Logistics, focusing on its areas of strength while continuing to serve customers through collaborative partnerships. This allows Schneider to concentrate on its core competencies and improve overall business performance.
FedEx Trade Networks has opened three new offices in Phoenix, St. Louis, and Milwaukee to meet growing customer demand. These offices will provide a comprehensive suite of services, including air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and value-added services such as online visibility and purchase order management. This expansion aims to enhance customer service capabilities, create synergies with other FedEx operating companies, and help businesses expand into international markets. The new locations will allow FedEx to better serve its clients' global shipping and supply chain needs.
Forward Air's acquisition of Chickasaw Container Services aims to expand its intermodal operations in the Mobile market and solidify its position in Memphis. This move highlights the growing importance of intermodal transportation as a key growth area in the logistics industry, foreshadowing accelerated industry consolidation, digitalization, green initiatives, and collaborative trends. Forward Air's strategic deployment warrants attention. The acquisition strengthens Forward Air's network and service offerings, positioning them for further growth in the competitive logistics landscape. This acquisition is a strategic move to capture a larger share of the intermodal market.
To address logistics challenges arising from global trade shifts, an industry-academia collaboration program will launch in 2026. It aims to cultivate future talent in material handling, supply chain, and logistics through practical learning and industry exchange, enhancing supply chain efficiency and resilience. Targeting high school students, university students, and educators, the program fosters continuous development within the logistics sector. The initiative seeks to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the evolving landscape and contribute to a more robust and adaptable supply chain ecosystem.
The Warehousing Education and Research Council (WERC) in the US is proactively addressing the logistics talent shortage through a combination of education and practical experience. It emphasizes early career guidance, skills enhancement, and industry collaboration. Drawing inspiration from the efficient operations of ports in 2025, WERC aims to provide talent assurance for future supply chain development. This proactive approach ensures a skilled workforce ready to meet the evolving demands of the logistics and supply chain sectors, fostering innovation and efficiency.
70% of forklift accidents in the US are preventable. Yale Reliant™ forklift operator assistance technology offers real-time automated support through intelligent speed limiting, precise lifting, blind spot detection, and overload protection. These features effectively reduce accident risks, ensure warehouse safety, and build a more efficient logistics environment. By proactively addressing potential hazards and providing operators with crucial assistance, this technology contributes to a safer and more productive material handling operation.
