US Inflation Persists As Consumer Spending Stays Strong

US Inflation Persists As Consumer Spending Stays Strong

Jared Bernstein, Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers, analyzed the US economic situation during a media call at the Port of Los Angeles. He emphasized the importance of intermediate goods trade, highlighting consumer spending as a key economic driver. Bernstein acknowledged that inflationary pressures persist. He argued for balancing growth with stability, addressing structural challenges to ensure steady economic progress. The administration is focused on navigating these complexities to foster a resilient and sustainable economy, while closely monitoring global economic trends and their potential impact on the US.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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UPS to Add Air Conditioning to 5000 Delivery Trucks

UPS to Add Air Conditioning to 5000 Delivery Trucks

UPS is actively advancing its labor agreement with the Teamsters, including the installation of air conditioning in 5,000 existing delivery vehicles and testing cargo area air conditioning. This initiative aims to improve the working conditions for frontline employees and address the challenges posed by high temperatures. Despite previous friction between the two parties regarding network restructuring and other issues, the progress on this air conditioning plan demonstrates a shared commitment to improving employee welfare. This represents a significant step towards creating a safer and more comfortable environment for UPS workers.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Shrinks Unexpectedly Ending 10month Growth Streak

US Service Sector Shrinks Unexpectedly Ending 10month Growth Streak

The US Services PMI unexpectedly fell below 50 in May, ending ten consecutive months of growth. A significant decline in new orders was primarily driven by trade friction and uncertainty. Sector performance was mixed, with slight employment growth. The future development of the service sector needs to address challenges related to trade, inflation, demand, and supply chains, while also seizing opportunities in technological innovation and consumption upgrades. The unexpected contraction raises concerns about a potential economic slowdown and the impact of ongoing trade tensions on the service sector's performance.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North America Sees Surge in Domestic Intermodal Transport

North America Sees Surge in Domestic Intermodal Transport

Amidst trade uncertainties, domestic intermodal transportation is becoming crucial for growth in the North American multimodal market. This analysis highlights the divergence between international and domestic markets, differences in cross-border transportation, and the phenomenon of early peak seasons. It emphasizes that domestic intermodal is key to future success, requiring a breakthrough of the 'donut effect.' Furthermore, attention should be paid to global shipping, truck supply, and other uncertainties to facilitate market share recovery and growth. The report analyzes how these factors collectively shape the current and future landscape of North American intermodal freight.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Truckload Spot Market Slumps As Demand Rates Drop

US Truckload Spot Market Slumps As Demand Rates Drop

The US freight spot market experienced a decline in both volume and rates in late May, reflecting weak demand, excess capacity, and broader economic factors. The dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed markets all faced pressure. Experts describe the market as 'frozen' but suggest that potential opportunities remain. Carriers are advised to optimize operations, shippers to adjust plans flexibly, and industry analysts to enhance research in order to collectively address these challenges. The decline signals a need for strategic adaptation within the freight industry to navigate the current market conditions.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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ATA Urges FMCSA to Review Trucking Safety Ratings Over Data Bias

ATA Urges FMCSA to Review Trucking Safety Ratings Over Data Bias

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) is urging the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to reassess its fleet compliance review process and Safety Management System (SMS) to eliminate geographical bias and address data reliability concerns. The industry widely questions the fairness and accuracy of the current safety rating system, suggesting simplification and avoidance of reliance on CSA/SMS. FMCSA needs to consider all perspectives to improve the assessment system and ultimately enhance road safety. This requires a thorough review of existing methodologies and implementation of necessary changes to ensure a more equitable and effective system.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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