Purdue University Wins 5M Grant for Truck Platooning Research

Purdue University Wins 5M Grant for Truck Platooning Research

The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Purdue University a $5 million grant to research truck platooning, focusing on improving fuel efficiency and communication between vehicles. The project aims to enhance the fuel economy of heavy-duty trucks by 20%. This initiative explores the potential of coordinated driving strategies to reduce aerodynamic drag and optimize fuel consumption within a convoy of trucks. The research will also address the challenges of maintaining safe following distances and reliable communication in real-world platooning scenarios, contributing to advancements in smart logistics and sustainable transportation.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Washington Potato Industry Struggles with Truck Shortage Delays

Washington Potato Industry Struggles with Truck Shortage Delays

Washington State potato growers are facing a truck shortage crisis due to a combination of factors including the ELD mandate, natural disasters, and long-standing industry issues, hindering product transportation. Farmers are actively seeking alternative solutions. Addressing the shortage requires improving driver compensation and working conditions, promoting technological innovation, and strengthening industry regulations. The potato industry needs to enhance collaboration, plan ahead, diversify market risks, and improve product quality to overcome these challenges. The situation highlights the fragility of the agricultural supply chain and the need for proactive measures to ensure efficient distribution.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Washington Considers Mileage Tax for Evs to Fund Road Repairs

Washington Considers Mileage Tax for Evs to Fund Road Repairs

Washington State is piloting a mileage-based user fee (MBUF) to address declining fuel tax revenues due to the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. MBUF, charging based on actual miles driven, aims to more equitably distribute road maintenance costs and provide a sustainable funding source for the future of autonomous and electric vehicles. Challenges include privacy concerns, technology costs, and public acceptance. However, Oregon's successful experience and advancements in autonomous driving technology suggest its potential. The system offers a way to ensure fair contribution to road upkeep regardless of vehicle type or fuel source.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Seattle Port Terminal Faces Congestion As New Alliance Begins

Seattle Port Terminal Faces Congestion As New Alliance Begins

Seattle's Terminal 18 (T18) is experiencing congestion due to a surge in new shipping alliance operations, leading to longer truck turnaround times. This article analyzes the causes of the congestion, including the complexities of alliance restructuring, port infrastructure bottlenecks, delayed information communication, and external factors. It proposes strategies to address the issue, such as optimizing terminal operations, enhancing information sharing, and investing in infrastructure, with the aim of building a more resilient supply chain. The analysis emphasizes the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of these challenges.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Costco Struggles to Boost Ecommerce Growth

Costco Struggles to Boost Ecommerce Growth

Costco, a membership-based warehouse retail giant, faces challenges in e-commerce despite its active efforts. Constrained by its traditional model, it lags behind competitors like Sam's Club in BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In Store) and website traffic. To succeed in its e-commerce transformation, Costco needs to optimize its product mix, explore new delivery methods, experiment with BOPIS, and strengthen member engagement. Addressing these areas will be crucial for Costco to effectively compete in the evolving online retail landscape and leverage its membership model for digital success.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Firms Upgrade CRM Systems to Boost Supply Chain Efficiency

Firms Upgrade CRM Systems to Boost Supply Chain Efficiency

This report explores how CRM system upgrades can empower supply chain management and enhance multi-tier visibility. It analyzes the crucial role of CRM in supply chain operations, identifies challenges in current integrations, and proposes strategies such as building a unified data platform, adopting standardized interfaces, and optimizing business processes. The report emphasizes the importance of leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to help companies build a more efficient and agile supply chain. The goal is to provide insights for businesses looking to improve their supply chain performance through CRM integration.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Big Data Transforms Supply Chain Efficiency

Big Data Transforms Supply Chain Efficiency

This paper explores the challenges of applying big data in supply chain management, emphasizing the importance of data filtering and insight extraction. It elaborates on the core principles of verifying authenticity and simplifying complexity, and analyzes the value of big data in supplier management, demand forecasting, and logistics optimization through practical application scenarios. Finally, the paper calls on enterprises to actively embrace big data technology to create an agile and efficient supply chain. The focus is on leveraging reliable data for informed decision-making and improved operational performance.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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HSBC and Cargill Pilot Blockchain for Trade Finance

HSBC and Cargill Pilot Blockchain for Trade Finance

HSBC and Cargill's successful blockchain trade finance transaction signals the immense potential of blockchain technology in trade finance. This article analyzes the significance of this transaction, exploring how blockchain empowers trade finance and its future applications in areas like supply chain management. Despite the challenges, blockchain technology is poised to reshape the business landscape and drive economic development. The transaction highlights improved efficiency, transparency, and security in international trade through the use of distributed ledger technology. It represents a significant step towards wider adoption of blockchain in global commerce.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Regulator Blocks Shipping Merger Stirring Global Maritime Uncertainty

US Regulator Blocks Shipping Merger Stirring Global Maritime Uncertainty

The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) rejected the merger plan of Japan's three major shipping companies (K Line, NYK, and MOL) citing jurisdictional issues, raising concerns about the future of consolidation in the shipping industry. While the merger faces challenges like scrutiny from the Department of Justice, a smaller market share might offer a glimmer of hope. Shipping companies need to closely monitor regulatory policies and adjust their development strategies to adapt to market changes. This decision highlights the complexities and potential obstacles in global shipping consolidation efforts.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Women Leaders Drive Change in Logistics Industry

Women Leaders Drive Change in Logistics Industry

This article explores the opportunities and challenges women face in the logistics sector and analyzes how they can achieve career success while balancing their personal lives. Using the San Francisco Women in Logistics Forum as a case study, it showcases the outstanding contributions of female leaders in the industry and proposes recommendations for enhancing the status of women in logistics. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and creating inclusive workplaces to support women's advancement in this traditionally male-dominated field, ultimately fostering a more diverse and equitable industry.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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