Alixpartners Advises on Freight Logistics Amid Supply Chain Strains

Alixpartners Advises on Freight Logistics Amid Supply Chain Strains

AlixPartners expert Marc Iampieri provides insights into key factors impacting freight and logistics, including peak season challenges, consumer expectations, port labor dynamics, potential Fed rate cuts, rate pricing, and tariff policies. He emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, inventory optimization, monitoring policy changes, and fostering strong partner relationships to navigate the complex environment and achieve sustainable growth. Businesses should prepare in advance to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities within the evolving landscape.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Businesses Adapt Supply Chains Amid Hurricanes Pandemics

Businesses Adapt Supply Chains Amid Hurricanes Pandemics

Reports from Resilience360 and Riskpulse highlight the severe challenges posed to supply chains by the combined impact of the pandemic and hurricane season. Companies need to map their supply chains, assess risks, develop contingency plans, implement data monitoring, and adopt diversification strategies. These measures are crucial to enhance resilience, withstand potential storm impacts, and ensure business continuity. Proactive planning and robust risk management are essential for navigating this complex and volatile environment.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Liberia Pilot Project Enhances Trade with Datadriven Customs

Liberia Pilot Project Enhances Trade with Datadriven Customs

An evaluation of Liberia's tariff pilot program reveals that the data-driven ASYPM system significantly improved decision-making, transparency, and tax revenue efficiency. The program's success highlights the potential of data-driven approaches to enhance customs operations and improve revenue collection in developing countries. By leveraging data analytics and performance monitoring, the system facilitated better resource allocation and reduced opportunities for corruption, ultimately leading to a more effective and accountable customs administration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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AI and Regionalization Boost Supply Chain Resilience

AI and Regionalization Boost Supply Chain Resilience

A Prologis report reveals that global supply chain leaders are undergoing a "Great Reconfiguration" through AI, regionalization, and energy resilience to address future challenges. The report emphasizes a balance between resilience and efficiency, urging companies to actively deploy new technologies, establish risk monitoring systems, and increase safety stock. Regionalization strategies and AI applications are key trends. Simultaneously, attention must be paid to energy reliability, infrastructure upgrades, and diversification of energy supply sources.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

In the third week of January 2024, US rail freight and intermodal volumes both declined. Rail freight volume plummeted by 22.4% year-over-year, while intermodal volume decreased by 4.5%. Coal, nonmetallic minerals, and grain shipments experienced the largest declines. A similar trend was observed in North America. The decrease in freight volume may indicate an economic slowdown. It's recommended to strengthen economic monitoring, optimize supply chain management, and actively participate in policy development.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in October

US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in October

U.S. rail freight volume increased in October, with both carloads and intermodal traffic rising. Year-to-date carloads saw a slight increase, while intermodal experienced a minor decrease. Experts express cautious optimism, highlighting the continued importance of rail freight in the overall economy. The growth suggests a potential strengthening of the economic recovery, though the mixed year-to-date performance calls for careful monitoring of future trends and market conditions impacting the rail industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Volumes Drop Amid Economic Slowdown

US rail freight volume declined in April, with carloads and intermodal traffic under pressure. While automotive and farm products saw growth, commodities like coal decreased. Year-to-date, total carloads are slightly up, but intermodal volume is down. The overall decline highlights potential disruptions in the supply chain and shifts in transportation patterns affecting the broader economy. This trend warrants monitoring to understand its long-term impact on freight transportation and related industries.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Small Business Confidence Falls on Inflation Policy Fears

US Small Business Confidence Falls on Inflation Policy Fears

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index unexpectedly fell to 98.8 in September, below expectations, primarily driven by inflationary pressures, declining sales expectations, and labor market challenges. The Uncertainty Index surged to the fourth highest level in 51 years, reflecting small business owners' concerns about future economic policy direction. Small business owners are closely monitoring policy changes, and future confidence will depend on inflation control, labor market improvements, and the stability of the policy environment.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Index Shows Economic Slowdown As Shipments Drop

Freight Index Shows Economic Slowdown As Shipments Drop

The August Cass Freight Index report reveals a continued decline in both freight volume and expenditures, mirroring the downturn observed in July. Analysts attribute this to factors such as weakened demand, inventory adjustments, and excess capacity, potentially signaling an impending economic downturn. Close monitoring of subsequent data is crucial for businesses to formulate effective operational strategies in response to these evolving economic conditions. This downturn highlights the importance of proactive planning in a volatile market.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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New Technologies Enhance Forklift Safety in Warehouses

New Technologies Enhance Forklift Safety in Warehouses

This paper explores how to improve forklift safety by leveraging forklift operation assistance technologies combined with a comprehensive training system. It details eight key technologies, including intelligent speed limiting, distance monitoring, and vision assistance. The paper emphasizes the importance of integrating technology with training to help companies reduce accident risks, improve logistics efficiency, and ensure personnel safety. The aim is to provide insights into creating a safer and more productive forklift operation environment.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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