US Container Imports Rise Unexpectedly in September

US Container Imports Rise Unexpectedly in September

Descartes' latest report reveals a counter-seasonal surge in US container imports for September. The Ports of Long Beach and Tacoma performed strongly, increasing the West Coast's market share. China remains the top exporting country, while Italy experienced a significant decline. Port delays shifted westward. Factors driving this growth include holiday season preparations, consumer demand, supply chain recovery, and trade policies. Shipping companies and ports should closely monitor data and adapt accordingly to navigate the evolving market landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Ecommerce Returns Spike As Supply Chain Strains Hit Retailers

Ecommerce Returns Spike As Supply Chain Strains Hit Retailers

The Reverse Logistics Association survey indicates a surge in e-commerce returns during peak season. Coupled with the ongoing supply chain crisis, retailers face increasing cost pressures. Strategies to mitigate these challenges include optimizing product information, simplifying return processes, strengthening return management, and leveraging data analytics. Fine-grained operation is crucial for retailers to break through the current situation and improve profitability. Effective reverse logistics management is becoming increasingly important for maintaining customer satisfaction and minimizing financial losses.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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USPS Under Pressure to Avoid Holiday Shipping Delays

USPS Under Pressure to Avoid Holiday Shipping Delays

The USPS Office of Inspector General recommends establishing an early warning system to notify customers of potential shipping disruptions two days in advance, preventing a repeat of the 2020 peak season issues. The report highlights challenges faced by USPS in 2020, including a surge in package volume and insufficient processing capacity. Embargoes and diversions impacted on-time delivery rates and marketing mail. Experts suggest shippers diversify carrier allocation, while USPS needs to improve communication and service delivery.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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3pls Capitalize on Rising Ecommerce Returns Through Reverse Logistics

3pls Capitalize on Rising Ecommerce Returns Through Reverse Logistics

The surge in e-commerce returns has made reverse logistics a new profit center for businesses. Third-party logistics (3PL) providers, with their specialized expertise, help companies efficiently manage return processes, reduce operating costs, and improve customer satisfaction. Effective reverse logistics operations can double profits, and the Asian market holds immense potential. Businesses should seize this opportunity to optimize their reverse logistics strategies and leverage 3PL partnerships for competitive advantage in managing the growing volume of e-commerce returns.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Multimodal Transport Struggles With Congestion Aims for Recovery

US Multimodal Transport Struggles With Congestion Aims for Recovery

Multimodal transport expert Larry Gross highlighted challenges facing US intermodal transportation at the RailTrends conference, including congestion, capacity constraints, and declining market share amid a surge in trucking. He argued that supply chain reshaping requires a focus on resilience and redundancy. Gross anticipates freight volumes to stabilize in 2022, presenting both challenges and opportunities. The need for improved infrastructure and more efficient operations is crucial to regain market share and mitigate the ongoing supply chain disruptions.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Container Volumes Rise As Traditional Cargo Slows

US Rail Freight Container Volumes Rise As Traditional Cargo Slows

The latest data from the Association of American Railroads shows a significant increase in container traffic, reaching a record high, while traditional freight volumes are mixed. Although cumulative year-to-date figures still face pressure, the industry remains confident about the future and is actively transforming and upgrading. It is embracing technological innovation to adapt to market changes. The surge in container shipments suggests a strengthening supply chain and potentially signals positive momentum in the broader economic recovery.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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Ecommerce Boom Strains Warehouse Management Systems

Ecommerce Boom Strains Warehouse Management Systems

Faced with four major challenges – labor shortages, e-commerce surge, digital transformation, and performance monitoring – warehouse and distribution center managers need to actively seek solutions. Introducing automation technologies, optimizing warehouse layout, upskilling employees, strengthening collaboration, and choosing a professional managed services partner are key to breaking through. These strategies can help improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall operational effectiveness in a rapidly evolving logistics landscape. Investing in these areas is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge.

01/29/2026 Warehousing
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Ecommerce Fuels Cold Chain Real Estate Boom Amid Trilliondollar Demand

Ecommerce Fuels Cold Chain Real Estate Boom Amid Trilliondollar Demand

A CBRE report indicates that fresh food e-commerce is driving a surge in demand for cold chain warehousing in the US, projecting a need for 100 million square feet over the next five years. While cold chain real estate faces challenges like high construction costs and specialized requirements, automation and the rise of smaller markets present new opportunities. Investors should pay close attention to market changes and seize the significant potential within cold chain real estate.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Shortage Spurs Rising Spot Rates Strains Supply Chains

Trucking Shortage Spurs Rising Spot Rates Strains Supply Chains

The trucking market faces persistent capacity constraints, leading to soaring spot rates. Strong demand growth clashes with limited truck availability, exacerbated by component shortages. Retail and capital goods spending drive the demand surge, while rail transportation emerges as a potential alternative. Businesses need to adapt flexibly, and government and industry associations should actively work to alleviate capacity pressures. The shortage impacts the entire supply chain, requiring innovative solutions and proactive measures to mitigate disruptions and maintain efficient freight movement.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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UK Scraps Ebike Tariffs Boosting European Outdoor Market

UK Scraps Ebike Tariffs Boosting European Outdoor Market

The UK's removal of anti-dumping duties on non-folding electric bicycles from China, coupled with the surge in outdoor activities across Europe, presents significant opportunities for Chinese businesses. This report analyzes the potential of the European outdoor market, including segmented demands and product selection recommendations, aiming to help cross-border e-commerce sellers seize market advantages. It highlights the favorable conditions and provides insights for capitalizing on the growing demand for outdoor gear and electric bicycles in Europe.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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