US Trucking Market Faces Winter Challenges As Freight Index Fluctuates

US Trucking Market Faces Winter Challenges As Freight Index Fluctuates

The Cass Freight Index indicates sluggish shipment volume growth and decelerating expenditure growth in November, suggesting challenges for the freight market. Year-over-year shipment volume declined, with a sharp decrease in West Coast imports, potentially influenced by shifts in global trade patterns. Expenditure growth was primarily driven by changes in the transportation mode mix, indicating persistent cost pressures. Investors can use the index to assess freight companies, but a comprehensive analysis incorporating other data is crucial. The index points towards a softening freight market, requiring careful monitoring of evolving economic conditions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Port Throughput Faces Challenges Amid Maritime Freight Shifts

US Port Throughput Faces Challenges Amid Maritime Freight Shifts

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of US port throughput data, revealing the impact of the pandemic on maritime trade and forecasting trends for 2024. By reviewing historical data and analyzing key factors, it highlights the crucial role of port data in supply chain management. The paper also introduces a data tracker to assist in decision-making. Embracing data is essential for navigating the future effectively. The analysis underscores the significance of real-time data monitoring for optimizing logistics and mitigating potential disruptions in global trade networks.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Intermodal Market Grows Despite Challenges

North American Intermodal Market Grows Despite Challenges

North American intermodal transportation rebounded strongly in the second quarter, but the growth is partially due to a low base effect and asynchronous trends between international freight and import volumes. International container transport was driven by Canada, and IMC highway transportation saw a strong recovery. Future focus should be on economic, policy, and technological factors to optimize supply chains and capitalize on intermodal opportunities. While the rebound is positive, underlying issues need addressing for sustained growth in the freight market. Careful monitoring of these factors will be crucial for stakeholders.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Truckload Index Highlights Profit Tactics in July Freight Slump

Truckload Index Highlights Profit Tactics in July Freight Slump

The July DAT Truckload Volume Index indicates a freight market influenced by seasonality, with declining rates and excess capacity. Experts recommend monitoring market data, optimizing costs, implementing flexible pricing, and enhancing service quality. Proactive transformation is crucial to prepare for market recovery, seize opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. Focus on data-driven decisions and strategic adjustments to navigate the current challenges and position your business for future success in the evolving freight landscape. Staying agile and informed will be key to weathering the downturn and capitalizing on the eventual rebound.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Expired Inspection Certificates Disrupt Global Logistics Shipments

Expired Inspection Certificates Disrupt Global Logistics Shipments

This article delves into the impact of commercial inspection validity on shipping deadlines in international logistics, emphasizing the importance of commercial inspection in international trade. It analyzes the varying validity periods for different commodities and the risks associated with exceeding the shipping deadline. Furthermore, it provides practical tips, including advance planning, real-time monitoring, and selecting reliable freight forwarders, to help foreign trade practitioners mitigate risks and ensure compliant and timely delivery of goods. This helps businesses navigate the complexities of international trade and avoid costly delays and penalties.

01/26/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Smart Logistics Bolsters Winter Supply Chain Resilience

Smart Logistics Bolsters Winter Supply Chain Resilience

This paper analyzes the challenges posed to supply chains by severe winter weather, highlighting the role of smart logistics in enhancing supply chain resilience. Technologies like real-time monitoring, intelligent route planning, and digital operation platforms enable businesses to effectively address transportation delays and capacity shortages caused by adverse weather. UPS's winter safety assurance system provides a practical reference. Building diversified suppliers, optimizing inventory management, and strengthening risk assessment are crucial for improving supply chain resilience. These strategies help mitigate disruptions and ensure business continuity during extreme weather events.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Industry Sees Rising Driver Turnover in 2024

Trucking Industry Sees Rising Driver Turnover in 2024

American Trucking Associations (ATA) data reveals an increase in driver turnover rate for large truckload fleets in the first quarter of this year, ending a brief period of decline. This marks the fifth increase in the last six quarters, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of the driver shortage issue within the industry. High turnover rates contribute to increased operational costs for companies and may negatively impact transportation efficiency and service quality. Monitoring and addressing the factors contributing to driver turnover are crucial for maintaining a stable and effective trucking workforce.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Blackberry Outage Highlights Supply Chain Resilience Lessons

Blackberry Outage Highlights Supply Chain Resilience Lessons

This paper reviews the impact of the BlackBerry outage on supply chains, analyzing the underlying risks of being 'disconnected'. It proposes suggestions for enhancing supply chain resilience, including diversifying communication channels, data backup and recovery, cloud-based solutions, real-time monitoring and early warning systems, risk assessment and drills, and embracing new technologies. The aim is to remind businesses in the digital age to be constantly vigilant about potential risks and prepare in advance to build a more robust supply chain network. This proactive approach is crucial for mitigating disruptions and ensuring business continuity.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Logistics Firms Cut Costs with Labor Management Systems

Logistics Firms Cut Costs with Labor Management Systems

This paper explores the application value and future trends of Labor Management Systems (LMS) in the logistics industry. By accurately forecasting demand, monitoring real-time performance, and optimizing scheduling, LMS helps companies reduce labor costs and improve productivity. Experts emphasize that LMS is a “catalyst” for driving process improvement, creating market opportunities. The article also analyzes the challenges and innovative trends in LMS implementation, providing a reference for companies to choose and apply LMS effectively. The focus is on leveraging technology to enhance workforce optimization and overall operational efficiency.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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New UN Tool Targets Global Plastic Waste by 2028

New UN Tool Targets Global Plastic Waste by 2028

To more effectively manage the growing global plastic waste pollution problem, the World Customs Organization (WCO) will implement a new version of the Harmonized System (HS) in 2028. This revision introduces more specific subheadings for plastic waste, providing customs authorities and businesses worldwide with more precise tools for regulation and compliance. This enhancement aims to better implement the requirements of the Basel Convention, combat illegal plastic waste trafficking, and ultimately protect the global environment. The refined HS codes will enable improved monitoring and control of plastic waste movement across borders.

01/30/2026 HS Code Query
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