US Retail Sales Rebound Annually Despite Minor Monthly Decline

US Retail Sales Rebound Annually Despite Minor Monthly Decline

US retail sales in May showed a significant year-over-year increase, with a slight month-over-month decrease, but the long-term growth trend remains solid. The apparel sector rebounded strongly, and the restaurant industry continued its recovery. The NRF revised its full-year retail sales growth forecast upwards. Experts emphasize the importance of long-term trends over short-term fluctuations. Data analysts should delve deeper into the data to uncover valuable insights and provide retailers with actionable recommendations. This analysis is crucial for understanding the ongoing economic recovery and its impact on the retail landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
New Initiative Aims to Boost SME Global Trade Access

New Initiative Aims to Boost SME Global Trade Access

The report calls on customs administrations worldwide to simplify procedures and remove barriers hindering SMEs' participation in global trade. This aims to promote their integration into the global trading system and build a more resilient future for trade. Streamlining processes and reducing complexities will empower SMEs to engage more effectively in international commerce, fostering economic growth and diversification. The report emphasizes the importance of creating a level playing field where SMEs can compete and contribute to a robust and inclusive global economy. The AEO program is highlighted as a key tool for facilitating trade and enhancing security.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chains Retailers Seek White House Aid

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chains Retailers Seek White House Aid

The National Retail Federation (NRF), along with 177 industry associations, has sent a letter to the White House urging government intervention in the labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX). They are seeking to avert a potential port strike on October 1st, emphasizing the devastating economic impact it would have. The letter highlights the urgency of the situation and implores retailers to proactively address supply chain risks in anticipation of potential disruptions. The NRF underscores the need for a swift resolution to avoid further exacerbating existing supply chain vulnerabilities.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
WCO Boosts Global Trade with New Performance Metrics

WCO Boosts Global Trade with New Performance Metrics

The World Customs Organization has launched the second round of its Performance Measurement Mechanism, aiming to empower member customs administrations to improve strategic decision-making and overall effectiveness through a standardized assessment framework. This mechanism covers key areas such as trade facilitation, revenue collection, and security, promoting global customs modernization and contributing to trade facilitation and economic security. A call is made for active participation from all members to jointly build an efficient and secure global customs system. This initiative will help customs administrations enhance their performance and contribute to a safer and more prosperous global trade environment.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Trucking Industry Struggles in Q4 Projects 2026 Recovery

Trucking Industry Struggles in Q4 Projects 2026 Recovery

RXO's report forecasts weak trucking demand in Q4, but anticipates a potential turnaround in 2026. Market pressures stem from evolving trade policies, driver regulations, and language requirements. Manufacturing weakness is a key constraint. A potential Federal Reserve interest rate cut could stimulate the economy. To navigate these challenges, businesses should optimize operations, expand services, strengthen risk management, and enhance talent competitiveness.

01/08/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Strong Consumer Demand Fails to Lift Freight Sector

Strong Consumer Demand Fails to Lift Freight Sector

At the SMC3 Jump Start 2024 Conference, Armada's Prather pointed out a "decoupling" between the positive macroeconomic indicators and the cooling freight market. This is attributed to various factors including shifts in consumption patterns, adjustments in inventory management strategies, regionalization of supply chains, and technological advancements. Consequently, it's no longer reliable to solely rely on macroeconomic indicators to predict the performance of the freight market. These structural changes necessitate a more nuanced approach to understanding the dynamics of freight demand.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Freight Market Diverges from Broader Economy Analysts Say

Freight Market Diverges from Broader Economy Analysts Say

Armada analyst Prather highlighted a 'decoupling' between the freight market and macroeconomics at the SMC3 J conference. Analyzing historical data, he found they don't always move in sync. Changes in inventory management, supply chain structures, and consumer habits contribute to this divergence. Logistics companies need to analyze the market deeply and develop appropriate strategies to navigate this disconnect.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Trucking Industry Rebounds After July Slowdown

US Trucking Industry Rebounds After July Slowdown

According to the American Trucking Associations, U.S. truck tonnage in July, after seasonal adjustment, experienced a slight month-over-month decrease, but year-over-year growth remained robust. Experts believe that short-term fluctuations do not alter the long-term positive trend, and the second half of the year is expected to benefit from growth in heavy freight sectors such as energy and automotive. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the key factors influencing truck tonnage and looks ahead to the challenges and opportunities facing the industry in the future.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Rail Freight Sees Coal Oil Gains Amid Container Decline

US Rail Freight Sees Coal Oil Gains Amid Container Decline

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic showed mixed results for the week ending March 4th. While total carloads decreased year-over-year, shipments of commodities like coal and petroleum increased. However, container traffic experienced a significant decline, weighing down overall freight volume. Year-to-date, both U.S. and North American rail freight volumes have slightly decreased. The future trajectory remains uncertain, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the rail freight industry.

01/20/2026 Logistics
Read More