Three Strategies to Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience

Three Strategies to Strengthen Supply Chain Resilience

A joint study by APICS and MSU reveals that supply chain complexity stifles corporate growth. The report proposes three solutions: first, strengthen collaboration and build a community of value; second, empower with technology and create a smart engine; and third, drive with leadership and build an agile culture. Companies should actively embrace change to reverse the situation in complex markets. By focusing on these key areas, businesses can navigate challenges and achieve sustainable growth despite increasing supply chain complexities.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Revamps Logistics Procurement Boosting 3PL Sector

US Revamps Logistics Procurement Boosting 3PL Sector

The U.S. Department of State is shifting from traditional logistics procurement to a 'collaborative contracting' model, presenting new opportunities for 3PL providers. This change emphasizes long-term partnerships and value creation, fostering innovation and shared risk. The State Department has announced a $2 billion logistics contract covering global embassy and consulate supply chain management. This requires 3PL companies to enhance comprehensive service capabilities, embrace technological innovation, and build cooperative relationships with the purchaser to jointly create value.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Target Overhauls Supply Chain for Retail Innovation

Target Overhauls Supply Chain for Retail Innovation

Target invested $7 billion to reshape its supply chain, building an efficient fulfillment network centered around stores. Investments in sortation centers optimize last-mile delivery, and deeper integration with Shipt enhances delivery flexibility. Emphasizing customer centricity, Target drives supply chain decisions with the customer in mind, empowers partners to simplify processes, and leverages automation to improve efficiency. Moving forward, Target will continue to embrace change, maintain agility, and deliver an exceptional retail experience for its customers.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ecommerce Sellers Face Rising Shipping Costs During Peak Season

Ecommerce Sellers Face Rising Shipping Costs During Peak Season

This paper analyzes the impact of container freight rate volatility on specific routes from late 2023 to early 2024 on e-commerce logistics. Fluctuating freight rates challenge companies' cost control, requiring optimized inventory management, diversified transportation methods, and strengthened collaboration. Geopolitical factors and climate change exacerbate uncertainty, urging businesses to establish risk warning mechanisms and embrace digital transformation. Proactive measures are crucial for navigating these challenges and maintaining supply chain resilience in the face of unpredictable market conditions.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Rebounds in August with Volume Growth

US Rail Freight Rebounds in August with Volume Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic experienced year-over-year growth in the first week of August, with both carload and intermodal volumes increasing. Metallic ores and coal led carload shipments, while continued growth in intermodal freight reflects a recovery in consumer demand. Year-to-date cumulative data shows solid growth, but the industry still faces challenges such as labor shortages and aging infrastructure. Embracing change is crucial for a successful future.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Truck Tariffs Stir Debate Over Domestic Manufacturing Costs

US Truck Tariffs Stir Debate Over Domestic Manufacturing Costs

The 25% US tariff on imported trucks aims to boost domestic manufacturing, but may increase cost pressures for fleets, OEMs, and suppliers in the short term. In the long run, it could drive the upgrading and transformation of the US truck manufacturing industry. Businesses need to actively adjust their strategies to cope with the new market landscape. This policy change necessitates careful planning and adaptation within the automotive sector to mitigate potential negative impacts and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO Supports Gambia Revenue Authoritys HR Modernization

WCO Supports Gambia Revenue Authoritys HR Modernization

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting the modernization of human resource management at the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) through the West Africa Customs Administration Modernization Project. This project assisted the GRA in finalizing key tools such as the competency directory, job directory, service charter, and job descriptions, laying the groundwork for future communication and change management. The WCO will continue to support the GRA in improving its management level, promoting regional trade facilitation and economic development.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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IATA Simplifies Bank Updates to Speed Up Airline Refunds

IATA Simplifies Bank Updates to Speed Up Airline Refunds

This document guides IATA users on how to easily change bank account information for negative remittances. Users can access the bank beneficiary form via the provided link, complete it, and submit it to update their account details. This ensures smooth and timely negative remittance processing, preventing unnecessary delays or failures. The process outlined helps maintain accurate account information, facilitating efficient financial transactions within the IATA framework. Proper completion and submission of the form are crucial for successful account updates.

02/03/2026 International Settlement
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Supply Chains Adapt to Geopolitical Shifts and Digital Demands

Supply Chains Adapt to Geopolitical Shifts and Digital Demands

Global supply chains face multiple challenges, including geopolitical tensions, climate change, and labor shortages. This paper emphasizes the importance of supply chain visibility and explores strategies such as digital transformation, diversified sourcing, and risk management to build a more resilient supply chain ecosystem, moving away from a reactive 'rolling apocalypse' scenario. Key technologies include RFID, 2D barcodes, as well as data standardization and interoperability. These approaches enable proactive adaptation and mitigation of disruptions, ensuring business continuity in an increasingly volatile world.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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UPS Teamsters Agree on Surepost Package Size in Tentative Deal

UPS Teamsters Agree on Surepost Package Size in Tentative Deal

UPS and the Teamsters union have reached a tentative agreement, adjusting SurePost package size limits, potentially shifting more packages to union drivers for delivery. This move could impact UPS's operational costs, union member benefits, and consumer service experience. The agreement also sparks discussion about automation in the logistics industry and the future of labor relations. The change in SurePost dimensions aims to bring more volume under the union contract, influencing delivery efficiency and potentially affecting the competitive landscape within the package delivery sector.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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