WCO Ensured Global Trade Stability During Pandemic

WCO Ensured Global Trade Stability During Pandemic

Amidst the global pandemic, the World Customs Organization (WCO) actively coordinates its member customs administrations to address the impact on international trade. This is achieved through information sharing, trade facilitation measures, enhanced international cooperation, and protection of frontline customs officers. The WCO established a dedicated COVID-19 information webpage, simplified customs clearance procedures for essential medical supplies, promoted the revised Kyoto Convention, and provided capacity building support. These efforts significantly contribute to ensuring global trade stability and fostering economic recovery during these challenging times.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Freight Slump Defies Strong Macroeconomic Data

Freight Slump Defies Strong Macroeconomic Data

This article explores the divergence between freight logistics and macroeconomic data, analyzing the impact of factors such as the consumption shift towards services, inventory cycle fluctuations, supply chain reshaping, and high interest rates on freight logistics. It suggests strategies for the freight logistics industry to transform and adapt, including embracing digitalization, expanding service offerings, focusing on sustainability, and strengthening collaborations. The article highlights the need for the industry to proactively respond to these evolving economic and consumer landscapes to maintain competitiveness and drive future growth.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Service and Cost Drive 2024 Forklift Purchasing Trends

Service and Cost Drive 2024 Forklift Purchasing Trends

The 2024 forklift application survey reveals that service quality and total cost of ownership are surpassing price as key factors in forklift procurement decisions. Companies are placing greater emphasis on reliability, service support, safety, and energy efficiency during evaluation. Economic conditions are influencing purchasing intentions, and regular replacement of parts is a primary maintenance focus. This shift indicates a growing awareness of the long-term value and operational efficiency offered by superior service and reliable equipment, rather than solely focusing on initial purchase price.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Firms Adjust to New English Rules Labor Costs Rise

US Trucking Firms Adjust to New English Rules Labor Costs Rise

The US government's stricter English proficiency requirements for truck drivers have a limited impact on capacity, failing to significantly alter market supply and demand. Factors like international trade and tariff policies exert a greater influence on demand. Shippers should focus on actual market changes and adjust their strategies accordingly, as the English proficiency rule alone is unlikely to cause major disruptions. The analysis suggests that broader economic forces are the primary drivers of trucking rates and capacity, overshadowing the impact of this specific regulation.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Imports Rise 2017 Trends and Outlook

US Imports Rise 2017 Trends and Outlook

This article provides an in-depth analysis of US import data released by Panjiva, revealing the growth trend of US seaborne imports in the first half of 2017. It explores the impact on major trading partners, tariff-sensitive industries, and the consumer goods market. Furthermore, it forecasts the import situation for the full year, highlighting geopolitical risks such as trade protectionism and global economic slowdown, and offers coping strategies for businesses. This analysis aims to provide insights into the evolving trade landscape and potential challenges ahead.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in June As Intermodal Offsets Coal Decline

US Rail Freight Rebounds in June As Intermodal Offsets Coal Decline

U.S. rail freight data for June 2011 presented a mixed picture. Total freight volume increased year-over-year, but coal shipments declined. Intermodal transportation was a bright spot, although its growth rate slowed. Metallic ores and forest products showed strong performance. Railroad employment increased, and capacity was sufficient. Future trends will depend on economic recovery, supply chain stability, and energy policies. The data suggests cautious optimism with potential headwinds in the coal sector and a need to monitor intermodal growth for sustained positive impact.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Intermodal Volumes Rebound As Domestic Containers Grow

US Intermodal Volumes Rebound As Domestic Containers Grow

US multimodal freight volume decreased by 4.0% year-over-year in September 2023, although the decline narrowed, with domestic container shipments increasing by 5.0%. Full-year cumulative data still indicates pressure due to economic slowdown, high inventory levels, and increased competition. Experts suggest the market remains weak with a muted peak season. Recommendations for businesses include focusing on the domestic market, optimizing operations, strengthening customer relationships, embracing technological innovation, and seizing opportunities to overcome challenges. The overall market remains soft and requires strategic adjustments.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Intermodal Decline Eases in September Signaling Possible Rebound

US Intermodal Decline Eases in September Signaling Possible Rebound

U.S. intermodal volume decreased by 4.0% year-over-year in September 2023, though the decline narrowed, with domestic container shipments showing growth. Economic weakness, high inventories, and truck competition are key challenges. The Intermodal Association of North America anticipates improvement in the second half of the year, but experts believe intense market competition makes recovery challenging. Intermodal transportation needs to enhance services, optimize networks, strengthen technology applications, and deepen cooperation to address challenges and seize opportunities. The market remains competitive, and the path to recovery is uncertain.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Intermodal Declines Ease As Domestic Demand Rises

Intermodal Declines Ease As Domestic Demand Rises

Despite continued declines in intermodal volumes in September, the rate of decrease narrowed, with domestic container volumes showing a positive trend. According to the IANA report, economic weakness and high inventory levels are the primary constraints, but a turnaround is expected in the second half of the year. Experts believe that intense market competition requires companies to optimize operations and seize opportunities for growth. The resilience in domestic container volume suggests underlying strength in certain sectors, warranting further investigation and strategic adjustments by industry players.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Freight Market Rebounds Despite Ongoing Challenges Bofa Index

Freight Market Rebounds Despite Ongoing Challenges Bofa Index

Bank of America's Q2 Freight Payment Index indicates a continued decline in freight volume and spending, but with a narrowing margin, suggesting the market may be bottoming out. Regional performance is divergent. Experts highlight shifting consumption patterns, rising debt, and cost pressures as the triple challenges. Companies should refine operations, expand diversified businesses, and embrace digital transformation to navigate market changes. The index provides valuable insights into the current state and potential future direction of the freight market and broader economic trends affecting the industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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