freight industry News

US Freight Rail Faces Labor Shortages Monopoly Concerns

STB Chairman Martin Oberman sharply criticized US freight railroads, particularly the 'Big Four,' at the RailTrends conference for prioritizing profits over service by excessive workforce reductions. He emphasized the critical role of railroads in the US economy, calling the labor shortage a 'self-imposed embargo.' Oberman urged railroads to reassess their role and address the issues, warning of stricter regulations if they fail to do so. He highlighted the detrimental impact of their actions on service reliability and the overall economy, emphasizing the need for a shift in priorities from short-term gains to long-term sustainability and service quality.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights

Freight Costs Rise As Dimensional Weight Gains Importance

This article elaborates on the concepts of dimensional weight and actual weight in international freight. It provides an in-depth analysis of calculating actual weight, volume weight, and billable weight. Furthermore, it offers practical identification guidelines and billing difference analysis for air and sea freight, highlighting their distinct characteristics. The aim is to help readers better understand international freight rules and optimize logistics costs. Understanding these calculations is crucial for efficient shipping and avoiding unexpected charges. This knowledge empowers shippers to make informed decisions.

01/16/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia

US FBA Ocean Freight Guide for Ecommerce Sellers

This article provides an in-depth analysis of FBA shipping to the US, covering its advantages, detailed processes, cost structure, and control strategies, as well as key considerations. It aims to offer comprehensive guidance for cross-border e-commerce sellers, helping them efficiently and economically transport goods to US FBA warehouses and seize market opportunities. The article explores the entire shipping journey, from preparation to delivery, providing practical insights to optimize logistics and minimize expenses for a competitive edge in the US market.

01/16/2026 Logistics

Datadriven Strategies Optimize Global Ocean Freight Risk Management

International shipping booking requires attention to key aspects like market supply and demand, cargo information, carrier selection, cost confirmation, contract terms, and loading preparation. Utilizing digital tools and data analysis can improve booking efficiency and risk management, ensuring the safe and timely delivery of goods while reducing costs. Strategic booking considers factors such as vessel schedules, port congestion, and potential delays to optimize the supply chain and maintain competitive advantage. Effective communication and collaboration with carriers are also vital for a smooth booking process.

01/16/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia

AI Transforms Freight Payment Experts Drive Global Integration

The freight payment landscape is transforming, with AI and expert knowledge converging to enhance audit accuracy, reduce fraud, and optimize transportation spend. Deeper ERP integration, multimodal capabilities, and emerging digital payment solutions are reshaping freight payment, shifting it from a back-office function to a strategic, data-driven one. This evolution allows for better cost control, improved efficiency, and enhanced visibility into global logistics operations. The integration of AI streamlines processes, leading to significant cost savings and improved decision-making within the supply chain.