Global Shipping Costs Rise Amid Hidden Fees Supply Chain Strains

Global Shipping Costs Rise Amid Hidden Fees Supply Chain Strains

International shipping prices are complex, consisting of base freight and various surcharges like port fees, customs clearance fees, and other potential costs. This article provides a detailed analysis of these surcharges, offering reference prices and key considerations. It aims to help foreign trade practitioners fully understand shipping costs, accurately quote prices, and ultimately improve profit margins. The article covers the different components of international ocean freight pricing beyond the basic freight rate.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Fortune 500 Firms Turn to 3PL for Supply Chain Efficiency

Fortune 500 Firms Turn to 3PL for Supply Chain Efficiency

According to an Armstrong & Associates report, 90% of U.S. Fortune 500 companies rely on 3PL services. By outsourcing logistics and supply chain functions, businesses can focus on core competencies, optimize resource allocation, reduce costs, and enhance competitiveness. Selecting the right 3PL partner is crucial for companies seeking to upgrade their supply chain efficiency. This allows businesses to leverage external expertise and technology for improved performance and streamlined operations.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Exhomeland Security Chief Ridge Touts Supply Chain Risk Management Value

Exhomeland Security Chief Ridge Touts Supply Chain Risk Management Value

Former Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff emphasized at ProMat that supply chain security is not just asset protection, but also value creation. Companies should focus on the consequences of risks rather than the events themselves, building resilient supply chains, strengthening risk monitoring, and enhancing security awareness. By leveraging technology and fostering collaborative partnerships, businesses can address supply chain security challenges and achieve sustainable development. Focusing on resilience and proactive risk management is key to unlocking value and ensuring long-term success.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Logility Acquires Halo BI to Enhance Aidriven Supply Chain Solutions

Logility Acquires Halo BI to Enhance Aidriven Supply Chain Solutions

Logility's acquisition of Halo Business Intelligence aims to integrate AI technology into supply chain management, breaking traditional experience-based decision-making and enabling data-driven intelligent operations. By leveraging data integration, visualization, machine learning, and AI, the acquisition enhances supply chain visibility, accelerates decision-making, and enables predictive and prescriptive analytics. This empowers businesses to gain a competitive edge in the dynamic market landscape.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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IDC Forecasts Decade of Disruptive Change in Manufacturing Supply Chains

IDC Forecasts Decade of Disruptive Change in Manufacturing Supply Chains

IDC predicts disruptive changes in the manufacturing supply chain over the next decade, driven by consumer upgrades and technological innovation. Ten predictions cover digitalization, intelligent logistics, data-driven decision making, planning collaboration, and workforce transformation. Companies should actively embrace new technologies, optimize operating models, and cultivate innovative talent to win in this era of change. Focusing on these key areas will be crucial for maintaining competitiveness and achieving sustainable growth in the evolving manufacturing landscape.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Turmoil Spurs Insurance Industry to Address Supply Chain Risks

Global Turmoil Spurs Insurance Industry to Address Supply Chain Risks

Global supply chains are facing multiple risks, including geopolitical tensions and extreme weather events. The insurance industry needs to innovate actively, strengthen cooperation with all parties in the supply chain, and establish risk assessment models. Developing new insurance products and leveraging new technologies can improve risk management efficiency. Businesses should establish diversified supply chains, strengthen collaboration with suppliers, and invest in supply chain visibility technologies. By working together, we can build a secure and reliable global supply chain.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Debt Ceiling Deal Eases Supply Chain Strains Amid Economic Uncertainty

Debt Ceiling Deal Eases Supply Chain Strains Amid Economic Uncertainty

The US debt ceiling agreement averted a potential economic crisis, offering a respite for supply chains. However, challenges like inflation, labor shortages, geopolitical risks, and insufficient supply chain resilience persist. Businesses should diversify suppliers, strengthen inventory management, invest in supply chain digitalization, enhance risk management, and focus on sustainability. By improving supply chain resilience and adaptability, companies can thrive in future competition. Addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial for long-term stability and mitigating future economic shocks.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Usmexico Border Rail Shutdown Disrupts Supply Chains Businesses Demand Action

Usmexico Border Rail Shutdown Disrupts Supply Chains Businesses Demand Action

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection's closure of rail crossings along the U.S.-Mexico border has triggered a supply chain crisis. Industry associations are urging a swift reopening, highlighting its crucial role in North American trade. The disruption threatens to cause agricultural product spoilage, damage to the automotive industry, increased consumer prices, and overall economic downturn risks. Recommendations include strengthening cooperation, increasing patrols, and diversifying transportation methods to ensure supply chain stability. The impact of the closure is far-reaching and requires immediate attention to mitigate further economic consequences.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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East and Gulf Coast Port Labor Talks Threaten Supply Chains

East and Gulf Coast Port Labor Talks Threaten Supply Chains

Labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) are progressing, but the risk of potential port disruptions remains. This article analyzes the demands and bargaining positions of both parties, explores the potential economic impact, and provides recommendations for businesses to mitigate potential risks. The outcome of these negotiations will have a profound impact on the global supply chain. Companies should monitor the situation closely and prepare contingency plans to minimize disruptions to their operations.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Industrial Real Estate Stays Strong in Q2 Despite Supply Woes

Industrial Real Estate Stays Strong in Q2 Despite Supply Woes

Cushman & Wakefield reports that the US industrial real estate market remained stable in Q2, driven by strong logistics demand, though regional variations were significant. Reduced new supply and declining rents contributed to stability. Demand is projected to surpass supply by 2027. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Key factors include adjusting to regional performance differences and understanding the impact of supply constraints on future lease negotiations. This proactive approach is crucial for success in the evolving industrial landscape.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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