US Retail Imports Hit Record High Ahead of Summer

US Retail Imports Hit Record High Ahead of Summer

The National Retail Federation reports that U.S. retail container imports are projected to reach record highs this summer, signaling strong consumer demand. The report analyzes data from major ports, indicating that import growth reflects retailers' confidence in the future market. However, uncertainty in trade policies and the risk of a global economic slowdown also pose challenges. Retailers need to closely monitor market changes and flexibly adjust their strategies.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Carloads Rise As Container Volumes Decline

US Rail Freight Carloads Rise As Container Volumes Decline

According to the Association of American Railroads, for the week ending January 17th, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 0.3% year-over-year, while container traffic decreased by 2.4%. Grain and chemical shipments were the primary drivers of carload growth. The decline in container traffic may indicate weakening consumer demand. The full-year trend remains to be seen, and the rail freight market faces both challenges and opportunities.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Nonmanufacturing Sector Expands Steadily in May ISM

US Nonmanufacturing Sector Expands Steadily in May ISM

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) reported robust growth in the U.S. non-manufacturing sector for May, with the NMI index reaching 56.9, marking the 112th consecutive month of expansion. Eleven industries experienced growth, with a notable increase in the employment indicator. Experts suggest that despite challenges like trade tensions, consumer confidence and low inflation are providing tailwinds for the economy. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector is outperforming the manufacturing sector.

Jim Beam Pauses Production Amid Whiskey Industry Slump

Jim Beam Pauses Production Amid Whiskey Industry Slump

Jim Beam's announcement to halt main line production reflects the multiple challenges facing the American whiskey industry: declining consumption, trade barriers, and inventory buildup. The industry needs to proactively address shifting consumer trends, overcome trade obstacles, innovate brand strategies, and strengthen industry collaboration to navigate the crisis and rebuild its former glory. This includes adapting to changing tastes, finding new markets, and managing existing stock effectively to ensure long-term sustainability.

CH Robinson SAS Partner to Optimize Retail Supply Chains

CH Robinson SAS Partner to Optimize Retail Supply Chains

C.H. Robinson and SAS collaborate to offer end-to-end dynamic supply chain solutions for retail and consumer goods companies by integrating inventory, demand signals, and real-time transportation data. This partnership aims to break down the silos between demand planning and transportation execution, building a more agile and intelligent supply chain. The goal is to help businesses respond to market changes, optimize inventory management, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Black Friday Tests Supply Chains Spurs Port Strategy Shifts

Black Friday Tests Supply Chains Spurs Port Strategy Shifts

The National Retail Federation reported record-breaking Black Friday retail sales, highlighting the crucial role of logistics and material handling. Amidst evolving trade patterns, US ports are leveraging investments, data, and inland advantages to maintain efficient cargo flow. The future of logistics will increasingly emphasize intelligence, automation, and sustainability. These trends are essential for building supply chain resilience in the face of global disruptions and growing consumer demand.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Schneider Executive Highlights Logistics Growth Amid Industry Shifts

Schneider Executive Highlights Logistics Growth Amid Industry Shifts

Schneider National's Chief Commercial Officer, Erin Van Zeeland, discusses the current shifts in the logistics market, including overcapacity, changing consumer trends, and peak season planning challenges. She emphasizes the importance of intermodal transportation and shares Schneider's practices in technological innovation and customer needs insights. The goal is to help customers optimize their supply chains and seize new growth opportunities by navigating these dynamic market conditions and leveraging efficient transportation solutions.

Allegro Eyes Ecommerce Growth in Eastern Europe

Allegro Eyes Ecommerce Growth in Eastern Europe

Allegro, a Polish e-commerce platform, is one of the largest C2C platforms in Europe, boasting a vast user base and a wide variety of products. It offers cross-border e-commerce sellers an opportunity to enter the Eastern European market. To succeed on Allegro, sellers need to understand the platform's rules and local consumer habits, provide high-quality products and services, and carefully plan logistics and payment methods.

US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in Early August

US Rail Freight Volumes Rebound in Early August

US rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased, driven by commodities such as grain, coal, and motor vehicles. Year-to-date cumulative growth suggests an ongoing economic recovery. The rise in rail shipments indicates increased industrial activity and consumer demand, reflecting positive momentum in the overall economy. This growth highlights the importance of rail as a key transportation mode for moving goods across the country and supporting economic expansion.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Ontrac Shipstation Expand Ecommerce Logistics with 7day Delivery

Ontrac Shipstation Expand Ecommerce Logistics with 7day Delivery

OnTrac and ShipStation are deepening their partnership, integrating OnTrac's logistics network, covering 75% of US consumers, with ShipStation's e-commerce solutions. This collaboration aims to provide faster and more convenient 7-day delivery services, enhancing the competitiveness of e-commerce sellers and improving the consumer shopping experience. The partnership is expected to drive the development of the e-commerce industry by streamlining shipping processes and expanding delivery options for online retailers.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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