LMI Report Soaring Logistics Costs Strain Supply Chains

LMI Report Soaring Logistics Costs Strain Supply Chains

The latest LMI report reveals continued expansion in the logistics industry, but rising costs and warehousing constraints present challenges. Inventory buildup is driving up costs, while transportation utilization is declining. Trade policy uncertainty further exacerbates the situation. Slower consumer spending and weakened business confidence are also noted. The report cautions for a prudent approach, emphasizing the importance of monitoring tariff policy trends. LMI aims to assist the industry in navigating these challenges. The increasing costs and warehousing pressure are significant factors affecting the industry's overall performance.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Shifts Under Tariffs and Demand TD Cowenafs Index

Freight Market Shifts Under Tariffs and Demand TD Cowenafs Index

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index report indicates that tariff policies, declining consumer confidence, and changes in carrier pricing strategies are impacting the freight market. In trucking, front-loading of inventory is driving up rates, but increased short-haul shipments are lowering overall costs. For parcel, carriers are adjusting prices more frequently, and fuel surcharges are rising, but sales growth faces challenges. In LTL, pricing remains strong despite economic headwinds. The report highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing freight costs and volumes across different transportation modes.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Industrial Real Estate Deals Drop Sharply As Market Cools

Industrial Real Estate Deals Drop Sharply As Market Cools

CBRE research reveals a significant 36% drop in U.S. industrial real estate leases exceeding one million square feet in the first half of 2023, with overall leased area declining by 18%. Economic uncertainty and inventory normalization are key drivers. Renewal rates are up, with retailers and third-party logistics (3PL) providers being the primary tenants. Experts anticipate increased leasing activity from 3PLs and a continued trend of companies renewing existing leases. The market is experiencing a slowdown compared to the previous year's booming activity.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Entrepreneur Builds Milliondollar Business from Ewaste Recycling

Entrepreneur Builds Milliondollar Business from Ewaste Recycling

This article tells the inspiring story of Chen Yang, who transformed from a poor electronics factory worker, dumped by his girlfriend, into a multi-millionaire entrepreneur. Driven by unwavering perseverance, he navigated the challenging electronic product recycling industry and ultimately achieved success. His journey demonstrates the potential for ordinary individuals to change their destiny through relentless effort and determination. He built his wealth from the ground up, proving that even from humble beginnings, significant accomplishments are possible with hard work and a strategic approach to business.

01/23/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Comoros Boosts Customs Skills with WCO Training

Comoros Boosts Customs Skills with WCO Training

Comoros, with the support of the African Development Fund, successfully hosted a national workshop on the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System. The workshop aimed to enhance the legal and technical capabilities of customs officers, equipping them with commodity classification skills to facilitate international trade. Participants were provided with Harmonized System tools. Follow-up training sessions are planned across the islands to ensure customs personnel master the latest classification techniques and integrate into the global trading system. This initiative strengthens customs capacity and promotes efficient trade practices.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Sales Teams Boost Customer Ties with Automation Tools

Sales Teams Boost Customer Ties with Automation Tools

This paper explores how Sales Order Automation (SOA) can enhance sales team effectiveness. It emphasizes that SOA frees up sales representatives to focus on customer relationship management. The article also suggests that companies should restructure their sales teams based on customer buying behavior, building a customer-centric sales organization to stand out in the fierce market competition. By automating repetitive tasks and streamlining processes, sales teams can dedicate more time to building relationships and closing deals, ultimately improving overall performance and driving revenue growth.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Growth Slows As Economic Concerns Mount

US Services Sector Growth Slows As Economic Concerns Mount

The US non-manufacturing index edged down in April but remained in expansion territory. Key indicators saw a broad decline, suggesting slightly weakened growth momentum. Supplier deliveries slowed, order backlogs increased, and the price index fell sharply. Company feedback was mixed, with rising oil prices pushing up costs. The future direction hinges on economic activity in May and June. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector remains resilient, but the economic outlook remains uncertain. While still expanding, the deceleration and mixed signals suggest caution regarding future growth prospects.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Antitrust Bill Stirs Debate As Freight Costs Climb

US Rail Antitrust Bill Stirs Debate As Freight Costs Climb

The US Senate has reintroduced a railroad antitrust bill aimed at breaking up "captive shipping", promoting competition in the rail industry, and lowering freight rates. The bill is welcomed by shippers and the American Chemistry Council but strongly opposed by the Association of American Railroads, which argues it will negatively impact investment in rail infrastructure. A heated debate ensues regarding whether the rail industry should be subject to antitrust laws. The core issue revolves around balancing competition and the need for infrastructure investment in the rail sector.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Rebounds Strongly ISM Shows Vshaped Recovery

US Service Sector Rebounds Strongly ISM Shows Vshaped Recovery

The ISM report indicates strong growth in the US services sector in March, with the PMI reaching a new high and all 18 industries showing expansion. Experts attribute this to vaccine distribution, pent-up demand, and relaxed restrictions, though future growth may slow. Despite challenges from COVID-19 variants, the services sector is expected to lead the US economy towards recovery. This robust performance signals a positive outlook for the overall economic rebound, driven by increased consumer spending and business activity within the service industries.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Defy Supply Chain Woes

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Defy Supply Chain Woes

North American Class 8 truck orders in October retreated from September's record high but remained robust, indicating strong market demand. Key drivers include pent-up demand and fleet profitability. However, supply chain bottlenecks and capacity constraints continue to be limiting factors. While order volumes may decline in the short term, long-term market demand remains healthy. Nevertheless, the risk of economic recession warrants attention. The strong order activity suggests continued confidence in freight demand and economic activity, despite ongoing challenges in the global supply chain.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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