Material Handling Industry Adapts to Pandemic Embraces Microfulfillment

Material Handling Industry Adapts to Pandemic Embraces Microfulfillment

On the first day of ProMatDX, industry experts noted that the pandemic has accelerated the transformation of the material handling industry, with surging demand creating supply chain pressure. MRO service demand is rising, and micro-fulfillment is emerging as a new growth area. Robotics technology is evolving from individual products to comprehensive solutions, with mobile solutions like AMRs potentially replacing traditional conveyors. Experts will also lead a discussion on micro-fulfillment.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Asiapacific Nations Unite on Ecommerce Rules During Pandemic

Asiapacific Nations Unite on Ecommerce Rules During Pandemic

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online workshop for Asia-Pacific members, focusing on the effective implementation of the E-Commerce Framework of Standards (E-Commerce FoS) to address challenges arising from the pandemic-accelerated growth of e-commerce. The meeting covered topics such as advance electronic data, data exchange, tax collection, cooperation & coordination, and technology applications. The aim was to promote trade facilitation, ensure effective customs control and revenue collection, and foster the healthy development of cross-border e-commerce.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Top US Trucking Firms Grew Despite Pandemic Challenges

Top US Trucking Firms Grew Despite Pandemic Challenges

Despite the pandemic's impact, the Top 50 US trucking companies demonstrated remarkable resilience. Key success factors included agile adaptation, technological innovation, employee well-being, lean management, and risk control. These companies optimized operations, accelerated digital transformation, and strengthened contingency plans. By doing so, they achieved growth against the odds and solidified their position in the industry. Their experience provides valuable lessons for navigating future challenges and underscores the importance of proactive strategies in a volatile environment.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Autozone Overhauls Supply Chain Amid Pandemic Trade Strains

Autozone Overhauls Supply Chain Amid Pandemic Trade Strains

AutoZone is re-evaluating its supply chain due to the pandemic and trade war, incorporating geographic diversification into supplier selection. The company is exploring new sourcing locations such as India and Mexico. This reflects a global trend of businesses reshaping supply chains to mitigate risks and enhance flexibility. AutoZone is prioritizing the restructuring of its private-label supply chain, offering a valuable case study for building resilient supply chains.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Firms Transform Pandemic Inventory Glut into Strategic Advantage

Firms Transform Pandemic Inventory Glut into Strategic Advantage

In the post-pandemic era, inventory pile-up has become a new challenge for supply chains. A reader survey by *Logistics Management* reveals that companies face the dual dilemma of high and low inventory levels. Diversified procurement, enhanced communication, and accurate forecasting are key to resolving the inventory crisis. Lean inventory management will help companies improve supply chain resilience and embrace the new market normal.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Amazon Ends Thirdparty Delivery to Streamline Pandemic Operations

Amazon Ends Thirdparty Delivery to Streamline Pandemic Operations

Amazon suspended non-essential, third-party package delivery services to focus resources on surging first-party business during the pandemic and ensure timely delivery of essential goods. Experts believe this move poses little immediate threat to UPS and FedEx. However, Amazon's long-term potential as a powerful competitor in the logistics space remains significant. This action highlights the importance of adaptable logistics networks in responding to unexpected events and maintaining service levels during times of crisis.

01/21/2026 Logistics
Read More
West Africa Enhances Customs Risk Management During Pandemic

West Africa Enhances Customs Risk Management During Pandemic

Supported by the WCO/JICA joint project, West African Customs administrations continued to enhance their risk management and intelligence analysis capabilities during the pandemic through online training. The MTP project, involving six countries including Benin, aims to cultivate a team of experts proficient in these skills and has made significant progress. By adopting innovative training methods, the project overcame the challenges posed by the pandemic and injected new momentum into customs capacity building in West Africa. The online format allowed for continued learning and development despite travel restrictions and social distancing measures.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Customs Key to Asiapacific Trade Resilience During Pandemic

Customs Key to Asiapacific Trade Resilience During Pandemic

The Asian Development Bank and UNESCAP jointly held a webinar focusing on the critical role of customs in safeguarding trade and connectivity during the pandemic. The WCO Secretary General emphasized the need for customs to ensure supply chain transparency and shared WCO's response measures and recommendations for regional cooperation. These included coordinating border management, digitizing procedures, and building capacity. The meeting highlighted the importance of customs in facilitating trade and building resilient supply chains during global crises.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Australias Aviation Sector Faces Rising Competition Challenges

Australias Aviation Sector Faces Rising Competition Challenges

The Australian aviation industry balances regulation and protection. The allocation of international route capacity is becoming more market-oriented, leading to intense competition. Following the pandemic, the industry's development model is facing reflection and adjustment. Increased market liberalization has intensified competition, particularly on international routes. This necessitates a re-evaluation of the industry's structure and regulatory frameworks to ensure sustainable growth and competitiveness in the post-pandemic era. The future of Australian aviation hinges on adapting to these evolving market dynamics.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Airlines Adapt Networks Amid Market Recovery

US Airlines Adapt Networks Amid Market Recovery

The US aviation market is gradually recovering from the pandemic, with strong domestic performance but slow international recovery. Low-cost carriers are rising, and airline networks are constantly being adjusted, with Florida emerging as a winner in capacity growth. The pandemic has accelerated network transformation and innovation for airlines, bringing new opportunities and challenges to the industry. The domestic market is leading the recovery, while international routes are lagging behind. Airlines are adapting their strategies to navigate the evolving landscape and capitalize on emerging trends.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More