Shippers Face Ongoing Freight Market Struggles

Shippers Face Ongoing Freight Market Struggles

FTR's Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) indicates that despite a rebound, shippers still face significant challenges as it remains in negative territory. The analysis covers influencing factors such as fuel costs, freight volume, capacity utilization, and freight rates. It suggests strategies for shippers to navigate these challenges, including optimizing supply chains, diversifying transportation modes, strengthening collaborations, and leveraging technological innovations. The aim is to help shippers find opportunities amidst the difficulties in the current freight market.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed negotiations to avert a potential port strike on January 15th. Automation remains a central point of contention in the talks. Failure to reach an agreement could significantly disrupt global supply chains, impacting trade and potentially leading to economic consequences. The outcome of these labor negotiations is crucial for maintaining the stability and efficiency of port operations across the United States.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Shrinks Stoking Economic Worries

US Service Sector Shrinks Stoking Economic Worries

The US Services PMI unexpectedly contracted in May, ending a ten-month growth streak. A sharp drop in new orders highlighted weakening demand and declining confidence. Increased industry divergence was observed, with experts warning of uncertainty due to trade tariffs. Businesses should closely monitor the market, optimize supply chains, improve efficiency, and strengthen risk management. Actively seeking policy support is also crucial for navigating the challenges and opportunities ahead and ensuring sustainable development.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Diesel Prices Fall Easing Costs for Logistics Sector

Diesel Prices Fall Easing Costs for Logistics Sector

The average diesel price in the United States continues to decline, offering cost relief to the logistics industry. Analysis indicates that diesel prices are influenced by multiple factors, including crude oil prices, supply and demand dynamics, and geopolitical events, suggesting a potentially volatile future. Logistics companies should proactively manage fuel price fluctuations by optimizing transportation routes, adopting energy-saving technologies, and gradually investing in new energy vehicles to mitigate risks and enhance sustainability.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Retailers Logistics Firms Compete for Holiday Workers

Retailers Logistics Firms Compete for Holiday Workers

As the holiday season approaches, the logistics and retail industries face labor shortages. Giants like UPS and Amazon are launching large-scale recruitment drives, increasing wages and benefits to attract talent. Companies need to optimize their staffing structure, plan ahead, and focus on employee experience to win the 'talent grab', ensure smooth supply chains, and improve the consumer shopping experience. Early planning and competitive compensation are crucial for success in this competitive hiring landscape.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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TD Cowen Analyzes Shifting Freight Market Trends

TD Cowen Analyzes Shifting Freight Market Trends

TD Cowen expert Jason Seidl shared insights on the freight market at the SMC3 JumpStart 2025 conference, covering the current economic situation, tariff impacts, AI applications, nearshoring trends, and the LTL/TL market outlook. He emphasized the importance for businesses to monitor market dynamics, embrace new technologies, optimize supply chains, and adopt rational pricing strategies to address challenges and seize opportunities. Companies need to stay informed and proactive in this evolving landscape.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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LTL Freight Sector Rebounds As Rates Climb

LTL Freight Sector Rebounds As Rates Climb

The LTL freight market is experiencing a recovery with continuously rising rates and significantly improved profitability. Shippers should proactively respond to market changes by optimizing their supply chains, selecting suitable carriers, and adopting technology to reduce costs and improve efficiency. The digital transformation of the LTL freight market is accelerating, with service differentiation and green logistics becoming key trends. Shippers need to adapt to these changes to maintain competitiveness and control transportation expenses.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Malaysian Durian Export Costs to China Rise by Sea and Air

Malaysian Durian Export Costs to China Rise by Sea and Air

This article provides an in-depth analysis of sea and air freight costs for transporting Malaysian durian to China. It details key factors influencing these costs, including volumetric weight, destination, seasonality, supply and demand dynamics, and exchange rate fluctuations. Furthermore, the article outlines other relevant expenses such as customs clearance fees, inspection and quarantine fees, and warehousing costs. This comprehensive cost reference assists importers in selecting the most cost-effective transportation solution.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Uschina Trade Eases Boosting Crossborder Ecommerce

Uschina Trade Eases Boosting Crossborder Ecommerce

Easing US-China trade relations, with the US suspending Section 301 investigations against China for a year, presents opportunities for cross-border e-commerce. Businesses should seize this window, diversify their strategies, optimize supply chains, and refine operations. Leveraging cross-border e-commerce ERP systems is crucial for improving management and navigating future market uncertainties. This period allows companies to strengthen their positions and prepare for potential challenges in the evolving global trade landscape.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Shipping Faces Summer Crisis As Freight Rates Soar

Global Shipping Faces Summer Crisis As Freight Rates Soar

The global freight market faced severe challenges in May 2021. Trans-Pacific routes experienced congestion, leading to increased freight rates and tight capacity. Equipment shortages in Asia and port congestion in Europe impacted the repositioning of empty containers. Air freight demand surged, resulting in a capacity crunch and soaring prices. The ongoing pandemic continued to disrupt global supply chains. It is recommended to book space in advance and choose quality services to mitigate potential disruptions.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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