Cass Freight Index Shows Economic Slowdown As Inflation Rises

Cass Freight Index Shows Economic Slowdown As Inflation Rises

The Cass Freight Index report indicates a year-over-year increase but a month-over-month decrease in freight volume and expenditures for November, signaling a potential economic slowdown. Growth is driven by consumer demand, but tariffs and oil prices pose potential risks. Capacity expansion and declining fuel costs may alleviate inflationary pressures. Businesses should pay close attention to market changes and maintain a cautiously optimistic outlook.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Growth Slows but Remains Resilient in May

US Services Sector Growth Slows but Remains Resilient in May

The ISM report indicates continued expansion in US non-manufacturing activity in May. The NMI registered 56.9, slightly below the previous month but still above the 12-month average. The employment index showed significant growth, with businesses generally optimistic. However, a decline in the new orders index and labor shortages remain concerns. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector provides important support for US economic growth.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Tonnage Rises Slightly As Inventory Woes Persist

US Freight Tonnage Rises Slightly As Inventory Woes Persist

American Trucking Associations data shows a slight rebound in freight tonnage in September, but it remains below historical highs. High inventory levels are a major concern, potentially impacting future freight volumes. The report emphasizes that businesses need to pay attention to the inventory-to-sales ratio, consumer confidence, and the global economic situation. Strengthening data analysis and optimizing supply chain management are crucial to navigate market challenges.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Grows Modestly Amid Employment Worries

US Service Sector Grows Modestly Amid Employment Worries

The July ISM Non-Manufacturing Index edged up to 52.6, signaling continued expansion in the service sector. However, the Employment Index sharply declined to 49.3, raising concerns about the economic outlook. The report indicated robust business activity, but challenges persist due to weak business confidence and rising prices. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector faces multiple pressures including technological changes, globalization, and labor shortages, requiring careful navigation.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shanghai Tightens Rules for Exporting Energy Storage Cabinets

Shanghai Tightens Rules for Exporting Energy Storage Cabinets

This article provides a detailed interpretation of the Dangerous Goods Packaging Certificate (Dangerous Goods Certificate) application process and related documents required for exporting energy storage cabinets via Shanghai Port by sea. This includes MSDS, UN38.3 test report, and cargo transportation appraisal. It also explains the documents required for sea freight booking, dangerous goods declaration, and customs declaration, helping companies compliantly and efficiently expand their overseas energy storage market.

05/24/2024 Logistics
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How The Fashion Industry Leverages Logistics To Achieve Net-zero Goals

How The Fashion Industry Leverages Logistics To Achieve Net-zero Goals

On October 22, 2024, the Global Fashion Agenda hosted an online masterclass focused on how logistics can contribute to the sustainable development of the fashion industry. The event featured insights on using logistics to reduce carbon emissions, based on a collaboratively released report titled "Reverse Logistics in Circular Fashion Systems: Exploring Untapped Potential." The conference aimed to provide actionable guidance and tools for the industry to advance towards net-zero goals.

10/29/2024 Logistics
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Exploring Key Elements of the New Customs Declaration: The Significance of Consignors and Production Sales Units

Exploring Key Elements of the New Customs Declaration: The Significance of Consignors and Production Sales Units

In the new customs declaration form, the definitions and reporting requirements for consignees, consignors, and production and sales units are crucial. The consignee and consignor must be legally registered entities, ensuring they are party to the foreign contract. In special cases, the contract executing entity must be specified. The production and sales unit must report the organization that actually participates in the production or sale of goods to ensure accurate information.

07/21/2025 Customs Knowledge
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UPS: Sea Freight Overloaded, Shippers Turn to Air Freight to Meet Rising Demand

UPS: Sea Freight Overloaded, Shippers Turn to Air Freight to Meet Rising Demand

As the issue of overcapacity in sea freight becomes more severe, shippers are turning to air freight to meet market demands. The backlog of cargo and slow sailing strategies implemented by shipping companies have sparked concern and anxiety among shippers. A report from UPS indicates a significant increase in international parcel volume and cargo revenue, prompting shippers to adopt more flexible logistics strategies to tackle peak season challenges.

07/18/2025 Logistics
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Ethiopia Boosts Customs Efficiency with WCO Audit Program

Ethiopia Boosts Customs Efficiency with WCO Audit Program

A WCO assessment report highlights challenges faced by Ethiopia's Post Clearance Audit (PCA). Recommendations include strengthening legal frameworks, improving risk management practices, and enhancing IT infrastructure. These improvements aim to increase the efficiency of customs control and facilitate trade. Addressing these areas is crucial for Ethiopia to optimize its customs operations and contribute to regional and global trade competitiveness. Successful implementation will require sustained commitment and strategic resource allocation.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Middle East Ecommerce Surges As Digital Payments Rise

Middle East Ecommerce Surges As Digital Payments Rise

Checkout.com's latest report reveals a high-growth phase for the e-commerce market in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). 91% of consumers are frequent online shoppers, with a significant preference for digital payments. The rise of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) and social commerce is also evident. Merchants need to keep pace with these trends and innovate their products and services to seize opportunities and succeed in the market.

01/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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