Three US Rail Unions Reach Tentative Labor Deal

Three US Rail Unions Reach Tentative Labor Deal

Three major US railway unions have reached a tentative labor agreement with freight rail companies, offering hope to avert a potential nationwide railroad strike on September 16th. The agreement includes wage increases and lump-sum payments. However, the final agreement still faces challenges, and all parties need to continue working to ensure the stability of the US economy. This averted strike would have had significant impacts on supply chains and the transportation of goods across the country.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Fourkites Expert Highlights Key Supply Chain Trends for Businesses

Fourkites Expert Highlights Key Supply Chain Trends for Businesses

FourKites experts highlight the importance of supply chain visibility in helping businesses navigate logistics challenges, optimize transportation, enhance customer experience, and support sustainability. Lane Connect fosters collaborative partnerships and mutual success within the logistics ecosystem. By providing real-time insights and proactive alerts, FourKites empowers companies to make data-driven decisions, improve efficiency, and build more resilient and agile supply chains. Ultimately, this leads to reduced costs, improved service levels, and a stronger competitive advantage in today's dynamic market.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Logistics Firms Boost Hiring to Manage Peak Season Demand

Logistics Firms Boost Hiring to Manage Peak Season Demand

To address peak season labor shortages, logistics companies need to build a long-term talent strategy, highlighting technological advantages and focusing on employee career development. Developing a technology-enabled 'Plan B' is crucial to ensure sufficient manpower during demand surges and confidently navigate challenges. This includes leveraging technology to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on manual labor, ultimately ensuring smooth operations even during peak periods. A proactive approach to talent and technology is essential for success.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Sector Shows Signs of Economic Slowdown ATA

Freight Sector Shows Signs of Economic Slowdown ATA

The US freight economy faces challenges, with ATA and Cass data indicating declining freight volumes and inventory glut. Businesses need to closely monitor market dynamics, optimize inventory management, diversify operations, improve operational efficiency, strengthen partnerships, and embrace digital transformation. By proactively addressing market challenges and seizing opportunities, companies can achieve sustainable growth in a volatile freight environment. The current market weakness and inventory backlog necessitate strategic adjustments to navigate the downturn and position for future recovery.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Mexico Emerges As Key Hub in Global Supply Chain Shift

Mexico Emerges As Key Hub in Global Supply Chain Shift

Moody's Analytics analyst Alfredo Coutino provides an in-depth analysis of the nearshoring trend, examining its driving forces, Mexico's unique advantages, and potential benefits and challenges. He emphasizes the need for companies to comprehensively assess risks, select suitable partners, establish effective communication mechanisms, and enhance employee training to capitalize on nearshoring opportunities and gain a competitive edge in the global supply chain reshaping. Coutino highlights the importance of a strategic approach to successfully navigate this evolving landscape.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing and Services Show Uneven Growth ISM

US Manufacturing and Services Show Uneven Growth ISM

The latest ISM report reveals inconsistent supply chain growth signals across manufacturing and service sectors, urging businesses to tailor strategies based on industry specifics. The report emphasizes the need to monitor evolving supply chain dynamics and adjust plans accordingly. It also provides valuable market trend insights for businesses, helping them navigate the current economic landscape and make informed decisions. Companies should pay close attention to these sector-specific variations to optimize their supply chain operations and mitigate potential risks.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Slows As ISM Reports Weak Demand

US Manufacturing Slows As ISM Reports Weak Demand

The latest ISM report indicates continued expansion in US manufacturing, but at a slower pace, signaling a structural shift. The PMI fell to a two-year low, with weak new orders, inventory buildup, and falling prices. Businesses are concerned about declining demand and a potential recession. Experts point to the emergence of a buyer's market, requiring companies to proactively adapt. The slowdown suggests manufacturers are facing headwinds and need to adjust strategies to navigate the changing economic landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Services Sector Expands Rapidly in July Amid Economic Concerns

US Services Sector Expands Rapidly in July Amid Economic Concerns

The ISM report indicates robust growth in non-manufacturing activity for July, with the NMI reaching 60.4. However, the employment index declined, and inflationary pressures intensified. Experts are cautiously optimistic about the future, emphasizing the need to monitor potential risks, with autumn being a crucial observation period. The report highlights the impact of fuel costs and underscores the importance of businesses adapting flexibly to market changes. Companies need to be agile in the face of evolving economic conditions.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Expands Boosting Economic Growth

US Manufacturing Expands Boosting Economic Growth

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) report indicates the US manufacturing sector has expanded for 33 consecutive months. The PMI rose, with increases in new orders, production, and employment. Most industries experienced growth, but companies expressed concerns about oil prices and the situation in Europe. Manufacturing expansion benefits the logistics industry, but challenges remain, including global economic uncertainties, labor shortages, and technological changes. The report suggests continued, albeit potentially volatile, growth in the US manufacturing sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Recession Worsens As Cass Index Points to Economic Slowdown

Freight Recession Worsens As Cass Index Points to Economic Slowdown

The Cass Freight Index reveals a decline in both freight volume and expenditures in March, signaling challenges for the logistics industry. Increased demand differentiation, difficult inventory management, and potential price wars are anticipated. Logistics companies should optimize operations, expand services, strengthen risk control, and embrace digitalization to navigate these challenges and seize future opportunities. The report suggests a cautious outlook and highlights the need for adaptability and strategic planning within the logistics sector during this economic downturn.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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