Guide to Calculating LCL Shipping Costs

Guide to Calculating LCL Shipping Costs

This article provides an in-depth analysis of LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping billing rules, focusing on the calculation methods for volumetric weight and actual weight under the "chargeable weight is the greater of the two" principle. It offers practical tips to optimize freight costs, helping you accurately estimate expenses and choose the most suitable logistics solution. The guide clarifies how to determine the chargeable weight and provides strategies to minimize costs associated with LCL shipments.

Tighter HOS Rules Could Raise Seasonal Trucking Rates FTR

Tighter HOS Rules Could Raise Seasonal Trucking Rates FTR

FTR reports that the new HOS regulations may lead to capacity tightening, potentially driving seasonal increases in truckload rates. The report analyzes changes in the TCI index, the impact of HOS regulations, and freight demand trends. From a data analyst's perspective, it suggests strategies for companies to cope with these changes, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making in optimizing operations and controlling costs. Businesses should actively embrace technological innovation to address market challenges and achieve sustainable growth.

Trucking Industry Index Signals Looming Market Downturn

Trucking Industry Index Signals Looming Market Downturn

The FTR Trucking Conditions Index (TCI) has turned negative, reflecting declining freight rates and softening demand in the US trucking market. Experts believe the market has returned to neutral, with future trends remaining uncertain. Trucking companies need to improve operational efficiency, expand service offerings, strengthen customer relationships, embrace technological innovation, and closely monitor market dynamics to address challenges and seize opportunities. The negative TCI signals a shift in the industry landscape, requiring proactive strategies for survival and growth.

DC Logistics Expands in Southwest with GLS Acquisition

DC Logistics Expands in Southwest with GLS Acquisition

DC Logistics integrates GLS US Freight and GLS US Solutions with the aim of becoming a leading Less-than-Truckload (LTL) carrier in the Southwestern United States. This integration is designed to enhance service offerings and improve overall competitiveness within the regional logistics landscape. The combined entity will focus on providing efficient and reliable LTL services to businesses throughout the Southwest, leveraging the strengths of both former companies to create a stronger, more customer-focused transportation solution.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Customer Focus Key to Supply Chain Success

Customer Focus Key to Supply Chain Success

The SMC3 Connections conference highlights customer connection as crucial for success in freight, supply chain, and logistics. The article explores enhancing customer experience through customer relationship management, technology enablement, and building supply chain ecosystems. It emphasizes that businesses should be customer-centric, continuously innovating and improving to adapt to the rapidly changing market environment. Focusing on customer needs and fostering strong relationships are key to navigating the complexities of modern supply chains and achieving sustainable growth.

Smart Logistics Boosts Business Efficiency Worldwide

Smart Logistics Boosts Business Efficiency Worldwide

This paper delves into the latest trends and challenges in logistics management, covering digital freight matching, distribution network optimization, market trend insights, workforce management, technological innovation, warehouse efficiency improvement, talent crisis response, and port resilience building. It aims to provide companies with a comprehensive perspective and practical strategies to help them achieve efficient growth in a highly competitive market environment. The study offers insights into leveraging digitalization to improve supply chain efficiency and navigate the complexities of modern logistics.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Raises Heavy Truck Tariffs Sparks Industry Cost Worries

US Raises Heavy Truck Tariffs Sparks Industry Cost Worries

The US imposed a 25% tariff on imported heavy trucks, aiming to revitalize domestic manufacturing. However, this could lead to higher truck prices, increased transportation costs, and potential trade wars. The impact on the trucking industry and freight carriers is significant, requiring businesses to closely monitor policy changes and take countermeasures. The future direction of the policy remains uncertain. This action has far-reaching consequences for the entire supply chain and could ultimately affect consumer prices as well.

Echo Global Exec Highlights Datadriven Logistics Strategies

Echo Global Exec Highlights Datadriven Logistics Strategies

Echo executive Hurst emphasized the importance of data-driven strategies to navigate logistics uncertainty at the SMC3 conference. He analyzed freight economics and pricing, highlighting the crucial role data plays in informed decision-making. Hurst also shared Echo's experiences with technological innovation, showcasing how their solutions leverage data to improve efficiency and resilience within the supply chain. The presentation underscored the necessity of embracing data analytics to proactively address challenges and optimize performance in today's dynamic logistics landscape.

Global Firms Adapt Strategies to Fragmented Markets for Growth

Global Firms Adapt Strategies to Fragmented Markets for Growth

With a slow and divergent global economy, companies expanding overseas should focus on demand structures rather than just countries. EU carbon compliance transforms data chains into productivity, while freight rate divergence requires institutionalized hedging against delivery risks. Businesses should build carbon data systems to improve European access, strengthen compliance documents to reduce investment uncertainty, and manage delivery risks through multi-corridor strategies. By developing structured capabilities to address the new normal, companies can achieve sustainable growth.

Experts Urge Supply Chain Resilience Amid Trade War Risks

Experts Urge Supply Chain Resilience Amid Trade War Risks

At the CSCMP EDGE conference, experts discussed the freight market downturn, the impact of tariffs, and supply chain strategy adjustments. Facing weak demand and policy uncertainty, companies need to focus on cost optimization, flexibly adjust procurement strategies, and conduct scenario planning to build a more resilient supply chain. This includes diversifying sourcing, nearshoring, and investing in technology to improve visibility and responsiveness. The key takeaway is proactive adaptation and risk mitigation in a volatile global trade environment.