US Manufacturing PMI Falls Amid Fiscal Cliff Fears

US Manufacturing PMI Falls Amid Fiscal Cliff Fears

The US ISM Manufacturing PMI fell below 50 in November, marking the fourth decline in six months. Uncertainty surrounding the "fiscal cliff" contributed to the downturn, with weak new orders, pressure on the job market, and cautious inventory management by businesses. The report highlights the need to address the potential risks posed by the "fiscal cliff" and implement measures to stimulate demand and promote manufacturing recovery. The slowdown suggests a potential economic recession if the fiscal issues are not resolved.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ecommerce Demand Drives Warehouse Rent Surge Prologis

Ecommerce Demand Drives Warehouse Rent Surge Prologis

Prologis' financial report reveals a surge in e-commerce leasing demand, driving up warehouse rents and signaling a new landscape in the warehousing market. With inventory rebounding and utilization rates increasing, rents have surpassed pre-pandemic levels. A decline in customer retention rates exposes the reality of a 'K-shaped recovery.' E-commerce businesses need to optimize inventory, improve utilization, and proactively address the challenges of rising rents. The increased demand highlights the continued importance of efficient logistics solutions for online retailers.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Factory Orders Unexpectedly Drop in September

US Factory Orders Unexpectedly Drop in September

US factory orders rose a less-than-expected 0.2% in September, with the data delayed due to the government shutdown. While durable goods and non-defense capital goods orders held steady, the overall figure suggests a potential slowdown in the manufacturing recovery. The market impact was limited, with investors focusing more on the latest economic indicators and Federal Reserve policy. The modest increase in factory orders reinforces concerns about the pace of economic growth and its implications for future monetary policy decisions.

01/28/2026 International Settlement
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Pwc Report Highlights Q1 Logistics MA Shifts Growth

Pwc Report Highlights Q1 Logistics MA Shifts Growth

A PwC report reveals the complex landscape of the logistics M&A market in Q1 2017. While deal value decreased, deal volume increased, indicating a shift from large-scale mergers to smaller transactions. Asia and Oceania led the market in activity, with strategic buyers dominating. Looking ahead, e-commerce development, technological innovation, and economic recovery are expected to create new opportunities in the logistics M&A sector. The report highlights the dynamic nature of the market and the factors influencing deal-making activity.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Lightbulbscom Boosts Peak Season Efficiency Without New Hires

Lightbulbscom Boosts Peak Season Efficiency Without New Hires

LightBulbs.com doubled its throughput during peak season without adding staff by integrating logistics operations and building an integrated shipping and dimensioning solution. Key strategies included: a multi-carrier platform to simplify shipping, automated dimensioning to optimize freight costs, real-time visibility to track progress, and identification and recovery of erroneous charges. This case offers valuable insights for e-commerce businesses facing logistics peaks. By streamlining processes and leveraging technology, LightBulbs.com achieved significant efficiency gains and cost savings in their shipping operations.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Lightbulbscom Boosts Peak Season Output with Logistics Upgrade

Lightbulbscom Boosts Peak Season Output with Logistics Upgrade

LightBulbs.com successfully doubled its shipping throughput during peak e-commerce seasons without increasing headcount by building an integrated shipping and dimensioning solution. Key initiatives included adopting a multi-carrier shipping platform, implementing automated dimensioning technology, achieving real-time visibility of shipping activities, and establishing a cost recovery mechanism. This case demonstrates the crucial role of logistics optimization in enhancing efficiency and controlling costs for e-commerce businesses. The integrated approach allowed for streamlined processes and maximized resource utilization, resulting in significant operational improvements.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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California Exports Rise Despite Global Slowdown on Highvalue Goods Demand

California Exports Rise Despite Global Slowdown on Highvalue Goods Demand

Despite a sluggish global economic recovery, California's export trade has bucked the trend, achieving year-over-year growth for 19 consecutive months. Key drivers include high value-added goods, innovation, and a weaker dollar. Moving forward, California needs to optimize its export structure, strengthen international cooperation, and pay attention to import trade to achieve sustained economic growth. This involves diversifying export markets and focusing on sectors with strong growth potential. Further investment in research and development will also be crucial for maintaining competitiveness.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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UKUS Craft Beer Trade Declines Amid Rising Costs

UKUS Craft Beer Trade Declines Amid Rising Costs

Close Brothers Brewery Rentals and MicroStar Logistics have partnered to launch beerQX, a transatlantic cold chain transportation service. This provides a steel keg round-trip solution for craft beer, addressing issues with exploding plastic kegs and the difficulty of steel keg recovery. beerQX ensures beer quality, reduces costs, and facilitates the globalization of craft beer by offering a reliable and temperature-controlled transport option across the Atlantic. It aims to streamline logistics and maintain the integrity of the product throughout its journey.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises in July Hinting at Economic Rebound

US Rail Freight Rises in July Hinting at Economic Rebound

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates robust rail freight and intermodal volumes in July, reaching record highs. Strong performance was observed in sectors like automotive, energy, and construction materials, with intermodal continuing its upward trend. This growth in rail freight volume potentially signals an ongoing economic recovery in the United States. However, the industry still faces challenges including aging infrastructure, labor shortages, and increased competition. The sustained growth needs to be carefully analyzed in light of these existing constraints.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Volume Rebounds Eyes Yearend Growth

North American Intermodal Volume Rebounds Eyes Yearend Growth

North American intermodal volumes rebounded in August, signaling a potential recovery, according to the Intermodal Association of North America. Domestic containers and international ISO containers led the growth, though year-to-date figures remain challenging. Experts suggest a flattening peak season, with inflation and diesel prices presenting both opportunities and challenges. Companies should optimize their supply chains, enhance services, and embrace digitalization to capitalize on the upcoming peak season. The rebound indicates a positive trend despite ongoing economic uncertainties affecting freight transportation.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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