STB Extends Deadline for Rail Switching Rule Amid Industry Debate

STB Extends Deadline for Rail Switching Rule Amid Industry Debate

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the deadline for comments on its reciprocal switching rule, intended to provide shippers underserved by freight railroads access to other rail carriers. The proposed rule introduces three performance metrics to quantify service quality, sparking industry debate about breaking up monopolies versus disrupting the market. Whether the rule can be effectively implemented to improve transportation efficiency and reduce costs remains a challenge and requires further observation. The rule aims to address issues faced by rail freight shippers and potentially improve competition within the industry.

Sherwinwilliams Invests 300M in NC Plant to Strengthen Resin Supply

Sherwinwilliams Invests 300M in NC Plant to Strengthen Resin Supply

Sherwin-Williams is investing $300 million to expand its North Carolina facility, boosting its coatings production capacity and resin self-sufficiency. This investment aims to address supply shortages and inflationary pressures within the coatings market. The expansion will create approximately 180 new jobs. By increasing internal resin production, Sherwin-Williams seeks to mitigate disruptions in the supply chain and control costs, ensuring a more stable and reliable supply of raw materials for its coatings manufacturing operations. This strategic move enhances the company's resilience in a volatile economic environment.

Lithiumion and Iot Boost Material Handling Efficiency

Lithiumion and Iot Boost Material Handling Efficiency

This press release focuses on the application of new energy technologies in the material handling equipment sector, particularly how lithium batteries and IoT technologies help companies improve efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve sustainable development. By introducing the advantages of lithium batteries and the IoT-enabled intelligent power platform, as well as highlighting the key content of the seminar, it aims to help companies understand the latest technology trends and seize development opportunities. The release emphasizes the potential of these technologies to revolutionize material handling and contribute to a greener future.

01/19/2026 Warehousing
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Firms Boost Supply Chain Efficiency with Labeling Upgrades

Firms Boost Supply Chain Efficiency with Labeling Upgrades

This report focuses on label strategy upgrades, revealing how to improve supply chain efficiency and productivity through optimized labeling processes. It includes a GSK case study, label requirements analysis, and packaging design process optimization. The aim is to help businesses identify the most suitable labeling solutions for their specific needs and maximize benefits. The report explores strategies for streamlining label creation, management, and application, ultimately leading to improved operational performance and reduced costs throughout the supply chain. It provides actionable insights for companies seeking to enhance their labeling capabilities.

Airlines Optimize Fleets for Postpandemic Profitability

Airlines Optimize Fleets for Postpandemic Profitability

The pandemic has accelerated transformation in the aviation industry, forcing airlines to optimize their fleet structure by retiring older aircraft and embracing new, more efficient models. North American airlines have focused on increasing seat capacity to improve efficiency, while European airlines have prioritized cost reduction. In the post-pandemic era, fleet optimization is crucial for enhancing profitability. Airlines must strategically manage their aircraft assets to navigate the changing market dynamics and ensure long-term financial sustainability. This includes considering factors like fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and passenger demand.

UPS Raises Peak Season Fees Squeezing Ecommerce Margins

UPS Raises Peak Season Fees Squeezing Ecommerce Margins

UPS's increased surcharges for large packages and residential deliveries aim to address peak season logistics demands, but this could intensify cost pressures for shippers, prompting them to seek alternatives. This move may accelerate the reshuffling of the logistics industry, pushing companies to optimize supply chain management and improve operational efficiency to cope with increasingly fierce market competition. The price hike could also impact e-commerce businesses reliant on UPS for deliveries, forcing them to re-evaluate their shipping strategies and potentially absorb higher costs or pass them on to consumers.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Tajikistan Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

Tajikistan Adopts WCO Study to Boost Trade Efficiency

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop for Tajikistan Customs to assist the country in launching a new TRS cycle and improving cross-border trade efficiency. By reviewing the TRS methodology, demonstrating the TRS software, and sharing experiences, the workshop laid the foundation for Tajikistan Customs to optimize clearance procedures, identify bottlenecks, and reduce trade costs. This initiative supports the country's economic development and enhances its international competitiveness. The workshop aimed to improve customs efficiency through practical application of the TRS methodology.

Selfdriving Tech Transforms Global Supply Chains

Selfdriving Tech Transforms Global Supply Chains

This paper delves into the application prospects of autonomous driving technology in the logistics industry, analyzing the challenges and opportunities it presents. It proposes how companies should reshape their operating models to embrace the era of autonomous driving. The article emphasizes that autonomous driving can not only reduce costs and improve efficiency, but also enhance safety and reduce carbon emissions. Ultimately, it reshapes the intelligent supply chain and creates new value growth points for enterprises. It offers a comprehensive view of how autonomous driving can revolutionize logistics and supply chain management.

Key Logistics Challenges for New Crossborder Ecommerce Sellers

Key Logistics Challenges for New Crossborder Ecommerce Sellers

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the differences between cross-border and domestic logistics in five key dimensions: geographical scope, regulations, links, compliance, and cost. It offers detailed guidance for new cross-border e-commerce sellers, helping them avoid risks and improve efficiency. The article also proposes targeted recommendations, including understanding target market regulations, selecting professional partners, conducting risk assessments, and optimizing costs. This aims to equip newcomers with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of international shipping and build a successful global e-commerce business.