US Ends De Minimis Rule Imposes Tariffs on Ecommerce Imports

US Ends De Minimis Rule Imposes Tariffs on Ecommerce Imports

The US is set to eliminate the de minimis exemption in 2027, significantly impacting cross-border e-commerce businesses, especially those relying on low-price strategies like Shein and Temu. Companies will need to adjust supply chains, improve product quality, and expand markets to cope with increased tariffs and a changing competitive landscape. This policy change will also affect US domestic manufacturing, consumers, and customs enforcement, potentially leading to increased costs and scrutiny for imported goods. Businesses need to proactively adapt to mitigate the negative consequences.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Rail Freight Rebounds Despite Economic Challenges

US Rail Freight Rebounds Despite Economic Challenges

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year for the week ending August 30th. Increased shipments of chemicals and metallic ores suggest a potential economic rebound. Rail freight growth serves as an economic bellwether, creating jobs and offering environmental benefits. However, the industry faces challenges such as aging infrastructure and labor shortages. These positive trends in rail freight volume provide a valuable signal regarding the current state and potential recovery of the broader U.S. economy.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 3.3% year-over-year in late January, driven primarily by nonmetallic minerals and coal. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 6.7% year-over-year, suggesting weaker consumer demand. Year-to-date, carloads have increased by 3%, while intermodal traffic has declined by 8.4%. Overall North American rail traffic has slightly decreased, reflecting a complex economic outlook. The contrasting trends in carload and intermodal volumes highlight the mixed signals within the current economic landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Logistics Shows Steady Recovery in August Cass Index

US Logistics Shows Steady Recovery in August Cass Index

The Cass Freight Index's August report reveals signs of a steady recovery in the US logistics industry. While shipments and expenditures are down year-over-year, they have significantly increased month-over-month, indicating a rebound in economic activity. Increased imports at West Coast ports are a key driver, and tight capacity is leading to higher freight rates. The index is an important indicator for assessing the US freight market and forecasting economic trends, but it's crucial to consider the influence of seasonality, economic cycles, and specific events when interpreting the data.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Index Rises for Fifth Month Amid Economic Growth

US Freight Index Rises for Fifth Month Amid Economic Growth

The US Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports that the Freight Transportation Services Index (FTSI) rose for the fifth consecutive month in January, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Strong performance in waterborne, pipeline, and trucking reflects rebounding consumer demand and business inventory rebuilding. The logistics industry faces both opportunities and challenges, requiring increased investment in technology and expanded service offerings. Freight growth is a positive sign of economic recovery, but continued attention is needed regarding the global economic situation and supply chain issues. The index suggests a strengthening economy driven by increased freight activity.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads but Loses in Intermodal

For the week of November 29, 2025, U.S. rail freight showed a mixed performance. Carload traffic increased by 4.3% year-over-year, driven by higher demand for coal, nonmetallic minerals, and grain. Intermodal traffic decreased by 6.5% year-over-year, potentially due to port congestion and increased competition. Year-to-date figures indicate overall growth in rail freight, but structural adjustments pose ongoing challenges. The increase in carload traffic suggests strong demand in specific commodity sectors, while the decline in intermodal volume warrants further investigation into contributing factors.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Chinas Textile Exports Defy Global Economic Challenges

Chinas Textile Exports Defy Global Economic Challenges

Data from the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Textiles shows that China's textile and apparel trade increased by 2.3% year-on-year in the first quarter, with stable exports. Despite facing challenges from slowing external demand, the recovery of the domestic economy, increased business confidence, and the development of new business models such as cross-border e-commerce are creating opportunities for textile and apparel export companies. Businesses need to accelerate transformation and upgrading, optimize supply chains, and embrace digitalization to meet challenges and achieve sustainable development.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US 3PL Demand Drives Industrial Real Estate Boom Over Retail

US 3PL Demand Drives Industrial Real Estate Boom Over Retail

A CBRE report indicates that 3PL logistics dominated the US industrial real estate leasing market in the first half of 2025, surpassing retail and e-commerce in leased square footage. Increased outsourcing demand and rising supply chain complexity are key drivers. Retail e-commerce companies need to reassess their logistics strategies and collaborate with 3PLs to enhance competitiveness. The 3PL market share is projected to continue growing, potentially leading to increased demand for large warehouses. This shift highlights the evolving landscape of industrial real estate driven by the need for efficient and scalable logistics solutions.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Pinduoduos Q3 Profit Jumps Sixfold Amid Temu Global Push

Pinduoduos Q3 Profit Jumps Sixfold Amid Temu Global Push

Pinduoduo's Q3 earnings report reveals a nearly 6-fold surge in net profit, primarily driven by growth in online marketing services and transaction services revenue, coupled with reduced losses in Duoduo Maicai. Pinduoduo has significantly increased its investment in marketing and R&D, particularly substantial investments in its overseas platform, Temu, demonstrating its global expansion ambitions. While Temu is not focused on profitability in the short term, its future performance will directly impact Pinduoduo's overall financial results. The report highlights Pinduoduo's strategic shift towards global markets and increased investment in technology.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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