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.

US Container Imports Drop Sharply Amid Excess Inventory

US Container Imports Drop Sharply Amid Excess Inventory

S&P Global data indicates a year-over-year decline in U.S. container imports for October, with a projected significant drop in the fourth quarter. Asian imports are expected to be most affected. Key drivers include inventory glut and tariff policies. Businesses should focus on optimizing inventory management, diversifying sourcing strategies, and closely monitoring evolving trade policies to mitigate potential risks and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Long Beach Port Cargo Declines Amid Economic Headwinds

Long Beach Port Cargo Declines Amid Economic Headwinds

The Port of Long Beach reported a 15.4% year-over-year decline in cargo volume for August, marking the 11th consecutive month of decrease. This is attributed to shifting consumer spending, inventory glut, a global economic downturn, and increased competition. The port is addressing these challenges through infrastructure upgrades, digital transformation, and diversification efforts, aiming to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. The throughput decline may lead to lower freight rates, shorter delivery times, and optimized inventory management.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Decline Signaling Trade Slowdown

US Container Imports Decline Signaling Trade Slowdown

S&P Global data reveals a year-on-year decline in US containerized freight imports for October, with further decreases expected in the coming months. Key factors include trade policy uncertainties, inventory glut, and a global economic slowdown. Despite the overall downturn, imports of auto parts and appliances saw growth. Experts express cautious optimism regarding future trade policies but anticipate challenges in early 2026. Businesses need to remain adaptable to navigate the evolving trade landscape.

Amazon Reverses Brand Licensing Policy Disrupts Sellers Before Holidays

Amazon Reverses Brand Licensing Policy Disrupts Sellers Before Holidays

Amazon's sudden termination of the third-party brand licensing program has left many sellers facing inventory glut. This decision may be related to antitrust investigations, controversies surrounding Amazon's own brands, and the platform's ecosystem balance. While this presents opportunities for ordinary sellers, they need to strengthen brand building, diversify operations, and pay close attention to platform policies to thrive in cross-border e-commerce. The change emphasizes the importance of independent branding and adaptability for sellers navigating the evolving Amazon marketplace.

Trucking Tonnage Index Drops Signaling Freight Market Weakness

Trucking Tonnage Index Drops Signaling Freight Market Weakness

The American Trucking Associations reported a significant drop in the Truck Tonnage Index for September, both month-over-month and year-over-year, marking the largest decline in recent years. Experts attribute this to factors such as economic slowdown and inventory glut. Businesses should closely monitor market trends, optimize operational efficiency, diversify their customer base, strengthen risk management, flexibly adjust pricing strategies, and improve service quality to survive and thrive in this uncertain environment. Proactive adaptation is key to navigating the current challenges.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Drop Amid Inventory Surplus Signaling Trade Slowdown

US Container Imports Drop Amid Inventory Surplus Signaling Trade Slowdown

S&P Global data reveals a year-over-year decline in U.S. container imports for October, a trend projected to persist until 2026. The primary driver is an inventory glut, particularly impacting consumer electronics imports. Despite short-term headwinds, the global trade environment is showing signs of positive development, prompting companies to reassess their long-term strategies. The decrease in imports reflects current economic conditions and adjustments within the supply chain as businesses adapt to changing consumer demand and market dynamics.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Fine Control of Inventory LCL Logistics Helps Businesses Balance Inventory Management

Fine Control of Inventory LCL Logistics Helps Businesses Balance Inventory Management

This article explores how LCL logistics helps businesses balance inventory management through five key advantages: precise control over shipping volumes, improved inventory turnover rates, enhanced flexibility and responsiveness, optimized costs, and support for just-in-time inventory management. By leveraging these advantages, companies can effectively respond to demand fluctuations, maximize resource utilization, and reduce overall operational costs, thereby gaining a competitive edge in a challenging market environment.

09/04/2023 Logistics
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Breaking the Inventory Bottleneck Collaborative Inventory Management for Supply Chain Optimization

Breaking the Inventory Bottleneck Collaborative Inventory Management for Supply Chain Optimization

Collaborative Inventory Management is an innovative strategy that effectively integrates upstream and downstream inventories in the supply chain, enhancing information transparency and cooperation efficiency, and significantly reducing inventory fluctuations and risks. This paper explores the core value, implementation conditions, and pros and cons of collaborative inventory management, revealing its importance in modern supply chain management.

07/23/2025 Warehousing
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Amazon Revamps Inventory Reporting System

Amazon Revamps Inventory Reporting System

Amazon is replacing six existing inventory reports with the new Inventory Ledger. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the new report's structure, types, and data logic. It also offers strategies for finance professionals to adapt to the changes. The goal is to help sellers better manage their inventory, improve operational efficiency, and gain a clearer understanding of their stock levels through enhanced data insights. The new ledger aims to streamline inventory tracking and provide a more comprehensive view of inventory performance.

12/31/2025 Logistics
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