US Rail Freight Adapts to Pandemic Challenges

US Rail Freight Adapts to Pandemic Challenges

This paper analyzes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on US rail freight, highlighting challenges such as declining freight volumes, supply chain disruptions, and decreased demand. It explores how railway companies adjusted their operational strategies, enhanced customer communication, and ensured employee safety. The paper also looks ahead to post-pandemic trends in rail freight, including supply chain diversification, increased regional trade, and growing e-commerce logistics demands. The analysis provides insights into the resilience and adaptability of the rail freight industry in the face of unprecedented global disruptions.

East Coast Port Strike Threatens US Supply Chains

East Coast Port Strike Threatens US Supply Chains

US East and Gulf Coast ports face a potential strike by the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), prompting the National Retail Federation (NRF) and other industry associations to urge White House intervention in labor negotiations. The article analyzes the potential supply chain disruptions and price increases caused by a strike. Drawing lessons from past West Coast port strikes, it offers advice for businesses to mitigate risks. With time running out, all parties need to reach an agreement quickly to avoid global economic repercussions. The urgency of the situation demands swift action to prevent significant disruptions.

Crossborder Ecommerce Optimizes Air and Sea Freight Mix

Crossborder Ecommerce Optimizes Air and Sea Freight Mix

Cross-border e-commerce logistics choices require a comprehensive consideration of cost, timeliness, and risk. Air freight is suitable for high-value, time-sensitive goods, while sea freight is ideal for bulky, low-value items. Savvy sellers should establish a 'transportation mode decision matrix,' quantifying factors such as product value and sales cycle, and dynamically adjust strategies to maximize profits. Optimizing the balance between speed and expense is crucial for success in the global marketplace. Careful planning and analysis are key to selecting the most efficient and cost-effective shipping solutions.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Savannah Port Dredging Delay Reflects East Coast Infrastructure Woes

Savannah Port Dredging Delay Reflects East Coast Infrastructure Woes

The Savannah Harbor Expansion Project, delayed by two years due to cost overruns, highlights the challenges facing US infrastructure development. While the project is expected to improve economic benefits, the delay will weaken the port's competitiveness. Increased competition among East Coast ports, coupled with challenges faced by West Coast ports, underscores the urgency. Infrastructure is vital to the US economy. Increased investment, improved efficiency, and innovative financing are crucial to address global competition and maintain economic strength. The delays raise concerns about the nation's ability to execute critical infrastructure projects effectively.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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EZ Worldwide Express Expands Beyond Forever 21 Partnership

EZ Worldwide Express Expands Beyond Forever 21 Partnership

EZ Global Express, once reliant on Forever 21, faced bankruptcy due to the latter's decline. Post-reorganization, EZ diversified its clientele, securing partnerships with Disney, H&M, and Amazon, while maintaining a limited collaboration with Forever 21. This case serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the risks of over-dependence on a single client. It underscores the importance of proactive risk management, carefully crafted contract terms, strategic market expansion, and sound financial management for achieving sustainable business growth and resilience. Diversification proves crucial for mitigating risks associated with customer concentration.

Blackberry Moves Manufacturing to Indonesia Amid Regulatory Changes

Blackberry Moves Manufacturing to Indonesia Amid Regulatory Changes

BlackBerry's outsourcing of hardware production to Indonesia's PT TSM marks a strategic shift towards software and IoT. This aligns with the Indonesian government's localization production policy, highlighting the impact of regulatory policies on supply chain decisions. BlackBerry's move aims to reduce costs, expand its presence in the Indonesian market, and focus on higher-margin businesses. This reflects a broader trend of global supply chain restructuring, driven by factors like cost optimization and regulatory compliance. The transformation signals a new chapter for BlackBerry, prioritizing software development and IoT solutions over hardware manufacturing.

DHL Launches Datadriven Customs Clearance for Retailers

DHL Launches Datadriven Customs Clearance for Retailers

DHL Global Forwarding introduces comprehensive customs clearance services to help retailers navigate US import challenges. By integrating customs clearance, optimizing processes, reducing costs, and improving efficiency, DHL provides efficient, convenient, and compliant solutions. This offering empowers retailers to seize opportunities in the evolving trade landscape and achieve business growth. The service focuses on streamlining the often complex and time-consuming customs process, allowing retailers to focus on their core business and expand their reach in the US market. Ultimately, it aims to simplify cross-border trade and facilitate smoother operations for retailers.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Schneider Electric Exec Discusses Supply Chain Innovation in Freight

Schneider Electric Exec Discusses Supply Chain Innovation in Freight

Schneider Electric executive Erin van Zeland discusses the challenges and opportunities in today's freight market, highlighting the crucial role of multimodal transportation, nearshoring, and technological innovation in reshaping supply chains. She shares Schneider Electric's strategies in rail partnerships, technology investments, and customer solutions. Van Zeland also provides insights into the future trends of the freight market, emphasizing the need for adaptability and resilience in the face of ongoing disruptions. Her analysis underscores the importance of strategic planning and proactive measures to navigate the evolving landscape of global logistics.

Ebay 2024 Tips for Crossborder Sellers to Succeed

Ebay 2024 Tips for Crossborder Sellers to Succeed

This article provides a comprehensive operational guide for cross-border e-commerce sellers on the eBay platform. It covers platform rules, tax compliance, logistics efficiency, fee structures, account protection strategies, and store exposure techniques. Addressing frequently asked questions, this guide aims to help sellers succeed in the global eBay marketplace. It offers insights into navigating the complexities of selling internationally and maximizing profitability while minimizing risks associated with platform policies and regulations. The goal is to empower sellers with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive on eBay.

Amazon Expands Brickandmortar Presence in Omnichannel Push

Amazon Expands Brickandmortar Presence in Omnichannel Push

Amazon plans to open its largest physical retail store in the U.S., spanning 229,000 square feet, aiming to explore a new retail model integrating online and offline experiences. The store will sell groceries, daily necessities, and prepared foods, and support in-store pickup for online orders. This move is a significant step in Amazon's omnichannel strategy, designed to enhance customer loyalty and market share, and potentially bring new changes to the global retail industry. It signifies Amazon's commitment to bridging the gap between its online dominance and the enduring appeal of brick-and-mortar shopping.