ISM Report Shows Split Supply Chain Tactics in Manufacturing Services

ISM Report Shows Split Supply Chain Tactics in Manufacturing Services

The latest report from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) indicates a diverging outlook for supply chain planning in the manufacturing and service sectors in the US. Businesses need to develop refined strategies tailored to specific industry characteristics, emphasizing data-driven decision-making, and strengthening supply chain management capabilities to navigate market uncertainties. This divergence highlights the need for a nuanced approach to forecasting and planning, taking into account the unique challenges and opportunities presented by each sector. Addressing these differences is crucial for maintaining resilience and optimizing performance.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Greenpoint Invests 1B in Outpost for Truck Terminal Expansion

Greenpoint Invests 1B in Outpost for Truck Terminal Expansion

Outpost secures a significant investment from GreenPoint, scaling its truck terminal network to $1 billion. This funding will accelerate Outpost's network expansion, broaden its service offerings, and further develop its gate automation platform. The initiative aims to improve trucking efficiency, reduce operational costs, and drive positive change within the logistics industry. Outpost plans to leverage the investment to enhance its technology and infrastructure, ultimately providing a more streamlined and efficient experience for carriers and shippers alike, solidifying its position as a key player in the modern logistics landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Pilot Freight Acquires DSI to Boost Ecommerce Lastmile Delivery

Pilot Freight Acquires DSI to Boost Ecommerce Lastmile Delivery

Pilot Freight Services has acquired DSI Logistics to enhance its last mile delivery capabilities, particularly for heavy and hard-to-handle goods. This acquisition will expand Pilot Last Mile's service coverage, making it the second-largest provider of last mile delivery services for oversized items in the US. The move aims to improve customer satisfaction, drive business growth, and lead industry development. The strategic acquisition strengthens Pilot's position in the e-commerce logistics landscape and allows them to better serve the growing demand for specialized last mile solutions.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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CSX Names New COO to Address Operational Challenges

CSX Names New COO to Address Operational Challenges

CSX Transportation is undergoing a high-level personnel change, with James Foote, a former colleague of Harrison, appointed as Chief Operating Officer. The focus is on whether he can quell the operational chaos caused by the implementation of Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR). This adjustment may indicate that CSX will continue to adhere to the PSR reform path. However, the challenge remains: how to balance efficiency improvements with the quality of customer service. The success of Foote's appointment will hinge on navigating this delicate balance and restoring stability to CSX's operations.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Halt Chassis Fee Amid Cost Dispute

West Coast Ports Halt Chassis Fee Amid Cost Dispute

West Coast terminal operators' suspension of chassis service fees has sparked a dispute between leasing companies and terminal operators regarding land cost allocation. Leasing companies filed a complaint with the Federal Maritime Commission, temporarily halting the fees. The solution lies in strengthening industry cooperation, exploring new business models, and improving laws and regulations to achieve a win-win situation for all parties and ensure supply chain stability. This dispute highlights the complexities of port operations and the need for collaborative solutions to maintain efficient and reliable supply chains.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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CSX Reforms Spark Resistance Customer Losses

CSX Reforms Spark Resistance Customer Losses

CSX faced difficulties during CEO Harrison's implementation of 'Precision Scheduled Railroading' (PSR), leading to plummeting customer satisfaction and significant customer churn to competitors. The reform sparked strong employee discontent, prompting increased regulatory scrutiny from the STB. This analysis delves into the challenges and limitations of the PSR model and the impact of Harrison's assertive leadership style on CSX. It also considers CSX's future development, emphasizing the need for railway companies to strike a balance between efficiency, flexibility, and service quality to retain customers and maintain a positive operational environment.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Pushes Shipping Firms to Ease Farm Export Delays

US Pushes Shipping Firms to Ease Farm Export Delays

The U.S. Department of Transportation and the Department of Agriculture jointly sent a letter to shipping companies urging them to improve agricultural export services or face FMC scrutiny. The letter highlights container shortages, service disruptions, and uneven port utilization. It calls for the restoration of Oakland port calls, utilization of other West Coast port capacity, and restoration of reciprocal trade principles. This increased government oversight aims to protect U.S. agricultural interests, potentially posing risks for shipping companies. The focus is on addressing current supply chain issues impacting agricultural exports.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Chinas Logistics Sector Booms with Investment and Innovation

Chinas Logistics Sector Booms with Investment and Innovation

The logistics industry at the end of the year shows three major trends: capital inflow, model innovation, and service upgrades. Ant Financial led the investment in logistics technology companies, and express delivery companies competed to launch "free delivery upstairs." Innovative models such as JD Cold Chain Trucking, SF Express's "Fengsu GO," and Cainiao's "Same-Day Delivery" emerged. In addition, the Chongqing-Singapore ASEAN shuttle bus line test was launched, HNA Logistics promoted high-quality assets, Shaanxi Province eliminated high-emission old vehicles, and DHL launched a global digital strategy.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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Rail Industry Grapples With Safety Labor and Sustainability Pressures

Rail Industry Grapples With Safety Labor and Sustainability Pressures

Leaders from the Association of American Railroads (AAR) and the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association (ASLRRA) addressed key issues such as railroad safety, labor relations, and operations at the RailTrends conference. The discussion included progress in labor negotiations, the need for railroad safety legislation, and the advantages of short line railroads in customer service. The article analyzes these points and offers a glimpse into the future direction of the railroad industry, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation for sustained growth and improved safety across the network.

02/11/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Declines in May As Coal Petroleum Demand Wanes

US Rail Freight Declines in May As Coal Petroleum Demand Wanes

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a decline in both U.S. rail carloads and intermodal units for the week ending May 21. Significant decreases were observed in coal and petroleum products shipments, while miscellaneous carloads, nonmetallic minerals, and motor vehicles & parts saw increases. The article analyzes the multiple factors contributing to the freight volume decline, including economic slowdown and shifting consumer demand. It suggests strategies such as diversifying business operations, improving service quality, and embracing technological innovation to address the challenges and maintain competitiveness in the rail freight industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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