Port of Portland Struggles with Megaship Capacity Issues

Port of Portland Struggles with Megaship Capacity Issues

The Port of Portland faces stagnation in its container business due to its inability to accommodate mega-container ships, labor disputes, and hinterland transportation bottlenecks, resulting in job losses and economic losses. West Coast ports generally face challenges from the Panama Canal expansion and a crisis of confidence. To achieve transformation and upgrade, the Port of Portland needs to upgrade infrastructure, rebuild labor relations, expand diversified businesses, strengthen economic linkages with the hinterland, and strive for policy support.

01/29/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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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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Mexico Emerges As Top Global Manufacturing Hub Amid Nearshoring Boom

Mexico Emerges As Top Global Manufacturing Hub Amid Nearshoring Boom

Moody's Analytics Director Alfredo Coutino analyzes the nearshoring trend, highlighting cost reduction, shorter supply chains, and risk mitigation as key drivers. Mexico emerges as a prime destination due to its geographical proximity, lower labor costs, and free trade agreements. While nearshoring offers benefits to all parties involved, infrastructure limitations, labor force challenges, and regulatory hurdles pose potential risks that require effective management. The trend is reshaping global supply chains, with Mexico poised to capitalize on the shift.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon Tightens Supply Chain Rules Safeguards Reporting Rights

Amazon Tightens Supply Chain Rules Safeguards Reporting Rights

Amazon is updating its supply chain standards, effective January 19th, with stricter requirements for labor protection, grievance mechanisms, child labor, working conditions, natural resource use, and information security. Sellers should be aware that improper attempts to remove follow sellers might result in losing the right to report infringement. This article details the impact of the new regulations and the correct steps to remove follow sellers, helping sellers operate in compliance. The new rules emphasize ethical and sustainable practices within the Amazon ecosystem.

01/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Canada Post Strike Threatens Deliveries Amid Government Intervention

Canada Post Strike Threatens Deliveries Amid Government Intervention

Canada Post's labor negotiations are at an impasse, with the government mandating a vote for employees to decide the future direction. Unions are resisting, while employers welcome the move. The vote's outcome will directly impact the Canadian economy, small businesses, and consumers. The vote is being closely watched in hopes that labor and management can reach an agreement, bringing a turnaround to Canada Post. The results will determine the next steps in this ongoing dispute and potentially avert a strike.

01/08/2026 Logistics
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Oakland Port Strike Disrupts West Coast Shipping Risks Cargo Diversion

Oakland Port Strike Disrupts West Coast Shipping Risks Cargo Diversion

The Oakland dockworker strike exacerbated congestion at West Coast ports and accelerated the trend of cargo diversion. A combination of labor disputes, efficiency bottlenecks, and market downturns has presented significant challenges to West Coast ports. Unions and terminals need to weigh the pros and cons and seek mutually beneficial solutions to restore the competitiveness of West Coast ports. The strike highlights the need for improved labor relations and infrastructure investments to ensure the long-term viability of these crucial trade gateways.

12/30/2025 Logistics
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DHL Canada Workers Ratify Contract Ending Strike After Antiscab Law Test

DHL Canada Workers Ratify Contract Ending Strike After Antiscab Law Test

Canadian DHL workers have ended their nearly three-week strike, ratifying a new four-year contract with a 72% approval rate. This agreement marks the first test of new anti-scab legislation. The collective bargaining agreement addresses key issues such as wages and benefits. The strike and subsequent agreement highlight the ongoing negotiations and power dynamics within the supply chain and the impact of labor relations on logistics operations. The ratification brings an end to the disruption caused by the labor dispute.

01/07/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Strike Threatens Supply Chain Disruptions

US Rail Strike Threatens Supply Chain Disruptions

The largest U.S. rail union rejected a labor agreement, raising the imminent threat of a strike that could paralyze national freight transport. Sticking points between labor and management include paid sick leave. Congress may intervene. A strike would severely disrupt supply chains and cause significant economic losses. All parties need to work together to find a solution and avoid a lose-lose situation. The potential economic impact is substantial, highlighting the urgency of reaching a resolution before a national rail shutdown occurs.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Supply Chain Disruptions Prolong Lead Times for Businesses

Global Supply Chain Disruptions Prolong Lead Times for Businesses

The global supply chain faces severe challenges, with lead times reaching record highs and accelerating due to port congestion, raw material shortages, and labor shortages. Companies are actively responding by exploring alternative ports, using air freight instead of sea freight, and planning ahead. Labor shortage is the most significant challenge, with unsustainable price levels. It is recommended that companies strengthen risk management, diversify suppliers, optimize inventory, and embrace digital transformation to mitigate these disruptions and build resilience in the face of ongoing uncertainty.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ecommerce Warehouses Adopt Flexible Forklifts and Automation

Ecommerce Warehouses Adopt Flexible Forklifts and Automation

In the e-commerce era, warehouse operations face challenges including space constraints, labor shortages, and fluctuating order volumes. Innovative technologies like narrow aisle forklifts optimize space utilization, while flexible automation enhances picking speed and caters to personalized demands. Companies should carefully select automation solutions tailored to their specific business needs to achieve efficiency gains and cost optimization. The key is to find the right balance between automation and human labor to maximize productivity and adapt to the dynamic demands of e-commerce fulfillment.

01/19/2026 Warehousing
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