AFS Logistics Expert Analyzes Freight Industry Challenges

AFS Logistics Expert Analyzes Freight Industry Challenges

The 'Logistics Management' podcast features AFS Logistics expert Tom Nightingale discussing challenges and opportunities in the freight logistics market. Topics include peak season outlook, capacity rates, nearshoring, and the impact of the Baltimore bridge collapse. Nightingale advises businesses to plan ahead, diversify their supply chains, and leverage technology for optimized management. He emphasizes proactive strategies to mitigate risks and capitalize on emerging trends in the evolving logistics landscape, ultimately ensuring greater resilience and efficiency in their operations. This includes exploring alternative sourcing options and streamlining processes.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

Descartes' latest report reveals a slight month-over-month increase in US container imports for June, but a year-over-year decline. Imports from China continue to fall, while Southeast Asia is gaining prominence. West Coast ports are regaining market share, with the Port of Los Angeles showing strong performance. The report emphasizes the importance for businesses to monitor policy changes, optimize supply chains, enhance digitalization, strengthen risk management, and embrace innovation to navigate the evolving trade landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Import Demand Overwhelms Supply Chains During Peak Season

US Import Demand Overwhelms Supply Chains During Peak Season

Panjiva data indicates that US imports remained high in May, showing significant year-over-year growth, albeit at a slower pace. Consumer goods demand is robust, while raw materials face pressure. Imports from China experienced notable growth, but face challenges due to the pandemic. Experts attribute the growth to demand, congestion, and shifting consumption habits. Looking ahead, the import market is expected to adjust as the pandemic eases and consumption patterns evolve, requiring businesses to adapt flexibly.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Packaging Industry Boosts Automation Amid Pandemic Ecommerce Demand

Packaging Industry Boosts Automation Amid Pandemic Ecommerce Demand

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the automation transformation in the packaging industry, with companies facing labor shortages and surging e-commerce demands. Secondary packaging is becoming a key area for automation, and technologies such as collaborative robots and remote maintenance are increasingly prevalent. Human-machine collaboration will be a major trend in the future of the packaging industry. This shift aims to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance resilience in the face of evolving market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chewy Boosts Automation Amid Rising Ecommerce Demand

Chewy Boosts Automation Amid Rising Ecommerce Demand

Pet e-commerce company Chewy is accelerating the automation upgrade of its logistics network. By building new warehouses and renovating existing facilities, the company aims to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize the customer experience. This move comes at a time of surging e-commerce demand, reflecting retailers' emphasis on efficient logistics systems to cope with market competition and achieve sustainable growth. Chewy's investment highlights the increasing importance of automation in modern supply chains for maintaining competitiveness and meeting evolving customer expectations.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Ports Boost Storm Resilience to Safeguard Supply Chains

US Ports Boost Storm Resilience to Safeguard Supply Chains

Ports are increasingly vulnerable due to the growing frequency of extreme weather events. This paper analyzes the impacts of hurricanes like Sandy and Katrina on ports and supply chains, comparing the responses of the Port of New York and New Jersey with the Port of Los Angeles to highlight the disparities in climate resilience efforts among US ports. It emphasizes the importance of inter-port collaboration and calls for stronger federal guidance and incentives to collectively address the risks posed by climate change, ensuring the smooth flow of global trade.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Usmexico Trucking Strains Under Driver Shortage As Nearshoring Grows

Usmexico Trucking Strains Under Driver Shortage As Nearshoring Grows

The US-Mexico trucking market in 2026 presents both opportunities and challenges. Nearshoring drives trade growth and foreign investment, but capacity shortages, security risks, and policy changes create a 'triple pressure'. Rates are expected to rebound, but driver shortages and customs reforms require attention. Technology enablement and regional cooperation are key to overcoming these obstacles. Companies need to be proactive and adaptable to navigate this evolving landscape, leveraging innovation and strategic partnerships to capitalize on growth while mitigating risks.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Retailers Curb Imports Amid Consumer Demand Uncertainty

US Retailers Curb Imports Amid Consumer Demand Uncertainty

The National Retail Federation reports a modest 1.1% growth forecast for June retail imports, signaling retailer caution towards back-to-school and holiday season sales. Influenced by inflation and geopolitical factors, retailers are adopting conservative import strategies to avoid overstocking. The retail sector is transitioning from pandemic-driven surges to a more normalized environment. Retailers are managing inventory and optimizing supply chains to mitigate potential market risks. This approach reflects a shift towards careful planning and adaptation in response to evolving consumer behavior and economic uncertainties.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Global Supply Chains Tracked by CAGTC in New Study

Global Supply Chains Tracked by CAGTC in New Study

CAGTC's "Freight Matters" series illustrates the workings of global supply chains by focusing on specific consumer goods. It emphasizes the crucial role of freight infrastructure and calls for collaborative attention to freight development. The series advocates for building efficient and sustainable global supply chains. By highlighting the journey of everyday products, the reports demonstrate the interconnectedness of global trade and the importance of robust logistics networks in ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery to consumers worldwide. Ultimately, the goal is to foster a more resilient and reliable global trading system.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Dockworkers Talks Stall Raising Cargo Disruption Fears

West Coast Dockworkers Talks Stall Raising Cargo Disruption Fears

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) have paused labor negotiations for West Coast dockworkers. Despite the contract expiration, both parties are committed to maintaining cargo flow. Businesses should monitor negotiation progress, diversify supply chains, build inventory in advance, and develop contingency plans to address potential risks. The outcome of these negotiations will impact West Coast port operations and global trade stability. It is crucial for companies to prepare for potential disruptions and mitigate the impact on their supply chains.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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