US Layoffs Rise As Job Market Shows Economic Strain

US Layoffs Rise As Job Market Shows Economic Strain

US layoffs in November decreased month-over-month but still rose year-over-year, reaching a new high since 2022. The total number of layoffs this year has surged, while hiring plans have shrunk dramatically to their lowest level since 2010. Macroeconomic factors, technological changes, and industry adjustments are the primary drivers. Individuals should enhance their skills, companies should prioritize employee development, and the government should introduce supportive policies to collectively address the employment challenges.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Freight Volume Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

US Trucking Freight Volume Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

According to data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), freight volume surged 5.5% year-over-year and 0.5% month-over-month in February, marking the largest monthly increase since July 1998. The recovery in manufacturing, retail, and real estate sectors fueled this growth. However, rising fuel prices and tight capacity remain potential challenges. Analysts believe that freight volume growth will outpace capacity growth slightly, highlighting the urgent need for reinvestment in the industry.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Holiday Retail Sales Surge After Strong November

Holiday Retail Sales Surge After Strong November

November retail data showed strong performance, suggesting potential growth for the holiday shopping season. Data from the Commerce Department and NRF indicated both month-over-month and year-over-year increases in retail sales. However, the post-Thanksgiving sales decline serves as a reminder against excessive optimism. Improved economic fundamentals and stable supply chains support holiday spending. Looking ahead to 2015, consumer spending faces both opportunities and challenges, requiring retailers to maintain cautious optimism.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Volume Decline Signals Economic Concerns

US Trucking Volume Decline Signals Economic Concerns

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) reported a slight month-over-month decrease in freight volume for August, but year-over-year growth remained. Economists attribute the slowdown to manufacturing weakness and inventory overhang. Logistics companies should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize operational efficiency, diversify services, strengthen customer relationships, and invest in technology to navigate the uncertainty. These strategies are crucial for maintaining competitiveness and adapting to evolving economic conditions in the freight transportation sector.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Volumes Reflect Mixed Economic Signals

US Trucking Volumes Reflect Mixed Economic Signals

October freight data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA) reveals a month-over-month decrease but a significant year-over-year increase, interpreted by experts as a sign of a potentially stronger-than-expected economy. While industry observers remain cautious, the growth in heavy freight and positive performance in dry van trucking suggest a future with both opportunities and challenges. The data indicates underlying economic strength, despite potential short-term fluctuations in demand.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Retail Sales Decline in Q1 Fueling Economic Worries

US Retail Sales Decline in Q1 Fueling Economic Worries

U.S. retail sales data for March was weak, declining 0.3% month-over-month and increasing 1.7% year-over-year, casting a shadow over the end of the first quarter. Slower consumer spending may drag down economic growth. Nevertheless, experts are cautiously optimistic about the retail sector's outlook, believing that innovation and adapting to consumer demands are key. The March figures suggest a potential slowdown, but the overall picture remains uncertain pending further economic indicators.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

A recent Descartes report reveals a significant increase in total U.S. container imports, driven by rising imports from China. January saw a 7.9% month-over-month and 9.9% year-over-year increase in U.S. import container volume. A 14.9% surge in exports from China to the U.S. was a key contributor. The report also highlights ongoing challenges to the global supply chain, including the Panama Canal drought and Middle East conflicts, both impacting transit times.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Recover Slightly Production Cuts Expected

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Recover Slightly Production Cuts Expected

North American Class 8 truck orders increased by 27% month-over-month in August, but remained the second lowest since 2010. FTR forecasts Q4 orders will be below current production levels, potentially requiring OEMs to adjust production strategies to align with market demand. Factors such as economic slowdown, overcapacity, fluctuating fuel prices, and technological advancements are impacting the market. Companies need to optimize operations, expand business, and strengthen innovation to address these challenges.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

US Container Imports Slow in June Amid Trade Shifts

Descartes' latest report reveals a slight month-over-month increase in US container imports for June, but a year-over-year decline. Imports from China continue to fall, while Southeast Asia is gaining prominence. West Coast ports are regaining market share, with the Port of Los Angeles showing strong performance. The report emphasizes the importance for businesses to monitor policy changes, optimize supply chains, enhance digitalization, strengthen risk management, and embrace innovation to navigate the evolving trade landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Rise in June As Trade Patterns Shift

US Container Imports Rise in June As Trade Patterns Shift

A Descartes report indicates that U.S. container imports increased by 1.8% month-over-month in June, but decreased by 3.5% year-over-year. Ongoing adjustments to trade policy with China continue to impact imports, with China's share reaching a four-year low, signaling accelerated supply chain diversification. West Coast ports are showing a strong rebound, indicating a rebalancing of trade flows. These shifts suggest evolving dynamics in global trade patterns and the increasing importance of alternative sourcing strategies.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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