US East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Backing Automation

US East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Backing Automation

A new six-year labor agreement has been reached between port labor and management on the US East and Gulf Coasts, averting potential supply chain disruptions. The agreement includes record wage increases and automation protections. It has garnered widespread support from both ILA members and USMX members, providing a significant boost to the stability of the US economy. This deal ensures continued operations and avoids costly delays, offering reassurance to businesses reliant on efficient port activity. The agreement addresses key concerns regarding technological advancements and worker security.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal With Wage Automation Terms

East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal With Wage Automation Terms

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a new six-year agreement covering 36 ports along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement includes record wage increases and automation protections, averting a potential port shutdown. This provides a significant boost to labor relations and is important for the stability and development of the U.S. supply chain. The deal addresses concerns about job security in the face of increasing automation, ensuring a balance between technological advancement and workforce stability.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Global Ecommerce Firms Adopt Smart Shipping for Crossborder Growth

Global Ecommerce Firms Adopt Smart Shipping for Crossborder Growth

Selecting international ocean shipping routes for cross-border e-commerce requires a comprehensive consideration of product characteristics and market demand. Quantitatively assess factors like transit time, cost, port efficiency, and risk. Establish a closed-loop decision-making process encompassing demand quantification, route comparison, multi-dimensional evaluation, small-batch testing, and long-term partnerships. This approach aims to achieve a dynamic balance between transit time, cost-effectiveness, and security. Careful planning and execution are crucial for optimizing the supply chain and ensuring customer satisfaction in the global marketplace.

Global Ecommerce Logistics Avoiding Pitfalls for Crossborder Sales

Global Ecommerce Logistics Avoiding Pitfalls for Crossborder Sales

This article provides an in-depth analysis of common challenges in cross-border e-commerce logistics, covering aspects such as logistics method selection, key points of customs clearance, logistics tracking and customer communication, and packaging and cargo security. It offers practical advice for sellers, helping them navigate the complexities of cross-border logistics and tap into the global market. The aim is to equip cross-border e-commerce sellers with the knowledge to avoid logistical pitfalls and maximize their opportunities for success in the international arena.

Bolivia Adopts WCO Program to Strengthen Customs Oversight

Bolivia Adopts WCO Program to Strengthen Customs Oversight

The Switzerland-WCO Global Trade Facilitation Programme (GTFP) supports Bolivian Customs in enhancing its risk management capabilities. Through workshops, progress is reviewed, recommendations are provided, and continuous technical assistance, capacity building, and experience sharing are offered. The aim is to assist Bolivian Customs in establishing a scientific, efficient, and sustainable risk management system. This system will help safeguard national economic security and promote legitimate trade development. The project focuses on building a robust framework for identifying and mitigating potential risks in cross-border trade.

Teamsters Oppose Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

Teamsters Oppose Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

The proposed $850 billion merger between Union Pacific (UP) and Norfolk Southern (NS) faces strong opposition from unions and industry groups. Concerns revolve around reduced railroad competitiveness, lower service quality, threatened job security, and potential safety hazards. While UP pledges to protect jobs and improve efficiency, the merger requires stringent review by the Surface Transportation Board (STB). The future of the merger remains uncertain due to these significant concerns and regulatory hurdles. The opposition highlights the potential negative impacts on workers and the overall transportation landscape.

Shipping Industry Grapples With Manifestbill of Lading Discrepancies

Shipping Industry Grapples With Manifestbill of Lading Discrepancies

This paper analyzes the risk of inconsistencies between manifest and bill of lading information in international maritime transport from a data analyst's perspective. It quantifies the cascading effects of these inconsistencies across export, transportation, and import stages. The study provides data-driven strategies to help companies mitigate risks and improve operational efficiency. It emphasizes the importance of source control, process monitoring, and emergency response. Furthermore, it explores the potential of blockchain technology in document collaboration within the maritime industry, suggesting future directions for enhanced security and transparency.

US House Passes CORCA Act to Tackle Retail Crime

US House Passes CORCA Act to Tackle Retail Crime

The House Judiciary Committee passed the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2025 (CORCA), aiming to strengthen federal law enforcement, establish crime coordination centers, increase penalties for cargo theft, and enhance public-private partnerships. This legislation addresses the growing problem of organized cargo and retail theft, seeking to protect supply chain security and consumer interests. CORCA aims to provide better tools and resources to combat these crimes and deter future offenses by improving collaboration and increasing accountability for those involved in organized retail crime.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Japan Funds Wtos COVID19 Aid for Developing Nations

Japan Funds Wtos COVID19 Aid for Developing Nations

The Japanese government is providing financial support to the World Customs Organization's 'COVID-19 Project,' aimed at strengthening the capacity of customs administrations in developing countries to respond to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The project will develop guidelines for business continuity planning, enhance risk management capabilities, promote paperless trade, strengthen international cooperation, and provide training and technical support to ensure the security and facilitation of global trade. This funding will help developing nations maintain essential trade flows during and after the pandemic.

World Customs Organization Balances Crisis Response and Global Opportunities

World Customs Organization Balances Crisis Response and Global Opportunities

At the 7th Annual Conference of International Organizations, the Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) shared WCO's strategies for responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring the stability of the global supply chain. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation and called for strengthened collaboration in areas such as digital transformation, e-commerce development, and disaster management to jointly address global challenges. The WCO's efforts highlight the crucial role of customs organizations in facilitating trade and ensuring security during times of crisis.