UPS Strike Threatens Supply Chains As Contingency Plans Emerge

UPS Strike Threatens Supply Chains As Contingency Plans Emerge

UPS and the Teamsters' labor negotiations have stalled, increasing the risk of a strike. UPS has initiated contingency plans to address a potential work stoppage. The Teamsters are demanding higher wages, improved benefits, and better working conditions. A strike could disrupt supply chains, increase transportation costs, and slow economic growth. Businesses and consumers need to adopt alternative solutions and coping strategies. Both parties need to negotiate rationally to avoid a strike and maintain economic stability.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

The FTR Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) fell below zero in August, the first time since October 2022, indicating a worsening environment for shippers. Soaring diesel prices were the primary driver, offsetting the benefits of ample capacity. Shippers face challenges such as increased transportation costs and reduced bargaining power. Strategies for shippers include optimizing routes and building long-term partnerships. Data-driven decision-making is crucial for enhancing freight resilience. The index suggests shippers need to proactively adapt to the changing market dynamics to mitigate potential negative impacts.

01/18/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Releases Guide to Strengthen Supply Chain Disaster Resilience

WCO Releases Guide to Strengthen Supply Chain Disaster Resilience

The World Customs Organization (WCO) released the 'Disaster Management and Supply Chain Continuity Guidelines' to enhance customs' ability to respond to emergencies and ensure global supply chain stability. Covering the phases of preparedness, response, and recovery, the guidelines address key areas such as risk management, AEO, CBM, NII, and Single Window. It provides practical methods and a comprehensive framework for businesses and customs administrations to navigate crises and ensure smooth global trade flow. The guidelines aim to help mitigate disruptions and maintain the flow of goods during and after disasters.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Vietnams Manufacturing Boom Amid Trade War Supply Chain Shifts

Vietnams Manufacturing Boom Amid Trade War Supply Chain Shifts

The escalating US-China trade friction puts companies under tariff pressure. This paper analyzes key strategies for dealing with the new September tariffs, explores the opportunities and challenges of 'Made in Vietnam' as an alternative, and reviews the impact of the November 2018 tariff policy. Companies need to respond proactively and adjust flexibly to survive and thrive in the trade war. Diversifying supply chains and exploring alternative manufacturing locations like Vietnam are crucial considerations for mitigating risks and maintaining competitiveness.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Import Surge Strains Supply Chains Amid Tariff Uncertainty

US Import Surge Strains Supply Chains Amid Tariff Uncertainty

The National Retail Federation reports that potential tariff increases are driving a surge in U.S. imports. While the port labor agreement provides some relief, retailers are stocking up early, further increasing import demand. Businesses should diversify sourcing, optimize inventory, enhance supply chain visibility, and closely monitor policy changes to turn challenges into opportunities. This proactive approach can mitigate risks associated with tariff fluctuations and import surges, ensuring a more resilient and adaptable supply chain.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Semiconductor Demand Rises Amid Smart Tech Supply Chain Shifts

Semiconductor Demand Rises Amid Smart Tech Supply Chain Shifts

Smart technologies are transforming supply chains, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the semiconductor industry. The long-term growth trend remains positive, with favorable policies supporting green and smart technologies. Increased R&D collaboration is crucial to embrace the intelligent era. The semiconductor industry needs to adapt to the evolving demands of smart technology applications and navigate potential disruptions in the global supply chain. Investing in innovation and fostering partnerships will be key to success in this dynamic landscape. Focus on sustainable practices and talent development will also be essential.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Apex Zebra Tech Partner to Enhance Smart Supply Chains

Apex Zebra Tech Partner to Enhance Smart Supply Chains

Apex partners with Zebra, integrating Zebra technologies to provide smarter supply chain solutions for industries such as retail and manufacturing, accelerating intelligent transformation. This collaboration aims to enhance visibility, efficiency, and agility within the supply chain by leveraging Zebra's expertise in data capture, mobile computing, and printing solutions. The integrated solutions empower businesses to optimize operations, improve inventory management, and enhance customer experiences, ultimately driving growth and competitiveness in the digital era.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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DC Logistics Expands Southwest Operations Amid Supply Chain Strains

DC Logistics Expands Southwest Operations Amid Supply Chain Strains

DC Logistics integrates GLS Freight and Solutions USA, aiming to become a leading Less-than-Truckload (LTL) transportation provider in the Southwestern United States. The integration focuses on optimizing its network to effectively address anticipated trade challenges in 2025. This strategic move positions DC Logistics to enhance its service offerings and strengthen its position within the competitive logistics landscape, specifically targeting the growing demands and complexities of the LTL market in the region.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Birdsong Peanuts Wins Supply Chain Award for China Exports

Birdsong Peanuts Wins Supply Chain Award for China Exports

This *Logistics Management* magazine case study on Niaoge Peanuts highlights the immense potential of supply chain collaboration. Through multimodal transportation, technology adoption, and close partnerships, Niaoge Peanuts successfully expanded in the Chinese market, reducing costs, shortening lead times, and improving efficiency. The case emphasizes the importance of trust, sharing, joint responsibility, and continuous improvement, offering valuable lessons for businesses. It also envisions future trends in digitalized, platform-based, ecosystem-driven, and sustainable collaborative supply chains.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bargain Hunt Boosts Growth with Averitts Supply Chain Efficiency

Bargain Hunt Boosts Growth with Averitts Supply Chain Efficiency

Bargain Hunt successfully addressed its logistical challenges stemming from expansion by partnering with Averitt Express to optimize its supply chain, reduce transportation costs, and improve store service levels. This collaboration laid a solid foundation for future business growth. Key initiatives included reducing fleet size, optimizing route planning, implementing an integrated TMS system, and enabling real-time data exchange. These efforts streamlined operations and improved overall efficiency, allowing Bargain Hunt to better manage its expanding network and meet increasing customer demands.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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