Global Trade Faces Key Trends and Challenges SP Expert

Global Trade Faces Key Trends and Challenges SP Expert

Chris Rogers, Head of Supply Chain Research at S&P Global, provides insights into global trade trends on a Logistics Management podcast, covering the U.S. import outlook, peak season forecasts, inventory reduction, and US-China trade relations. He emphasizes the importance of businesses staying informed about market dynamics and flexibly adjusting their supply chain strategies. Rogers highlights the need for data-driven decision-making to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities in the evolving global trade landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Hits Record High Hinting at Economic Rebound

US Trucking Hits Record High Hinting at Economic Rebound

American Trucking Associations data reveals a record high in trucking tonnage for January, up 6.5% year-over-year, potentially signaling economic recovery. Key drivers include inventory replenishment, a rebounding housing market, and early shipments of spring goods. Analysts suggest the non-seasonally adjusted index provides a more reliable gauge. The logistics industry faces the challenge of managing increasing demand and capacity constraints. It also needs to actively embrace technological innovation and talent development to thrive in this evolving landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Manufacturing Expands Boosting Economic Growth

US Manufacturing Expands Boosting Economic Growth

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) report indicates the US manufacturing sector has expanded for 33 consecutive months. The PMI rose, with increases in new orders, production, and employment. Most industries experienced growth, but companies expressed concerns about oil prices and the situation in Europe. Manufacturing expansion benefits the logistics industry, but challenges remain, including global economic uncertainties, labor shortages, and technological changes. The report suggests continued, albeit potentially volatile, growth in the US manufacturing sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Outpost Lands 1B from Greenpoint to Grow Truck Stop Network

Outpost Lands 1B from Greenpoint to Grow Truck Stop Network

Outpost secures $1 billion in funding to accelerate the expansion of its truck stop network. This investment aims to optimize transportation, improve efficiency, and create a smart logistics ecosystem. The funding will be used to develop and deploy advanced technologies, including gate automation, to streamline operations and enhance the driver experience. Outpost's network of strategically located truck stops will provide essential services and amenities to truck drivers, contributing to a more reliable and efficient supply chain.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Drone and Robot Delivery Advancements Target Lastmile Challenges

Drone and Robot Delivery Advancements Target Lastmile Challenges

This article explores how drones and robots are addressing the challenges of the logistics "last mile." Drones are suitable for emergencies and remote area deliveries, while robots are better suited for short-distance urban deliveries. Daimler's mobile delivery center model combines the advantages of both. Despite challenges such as airspace regulations and safety concerns, with technological advancements and policy improvements, drone and robot delivery are expected to experience explosive growth and reshape the last-mile delivery landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Businesses Adopt Climateresilient Supply Chains to Combat Flood Risks

Businesses Adopt Climateresilient Supply Chains to Combat Flood Risks

Extreme weather events are increasingly frequent, posing significant challenges to supply chains. The Port of Virginia's experience highlights the importance of robust emergency plans. Companies should develop customized flood emergency response plans, invest in flood control technologies, and conduct regular drills to minimize losses. Furthermore, logistics managers should monitor federal flood maps and plan alternative routes to ensure supply chain resilience. Proactive measures are crucial for mitigating disruptions and maintaining operational continuity in the face of escalating climate risks.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Autozone Expands Megahubs to Boost Inventory Efficiency

Autozone Expands Megahubs to Boost Inventory Efficiency

AutoZone's implementation of the 'Mega-Hub' strategy, which involves increasing inventory at select stores to act as regional parts transfer stations, has effectively boosted sales and profits. This strategy embodies the 'forward stocking' trend in retail, utilizing a model of small warehouses combined with large hubs to meet consumer demand for immediacy. This approach offers new insights for the logistics industry, demonstrating how strategic inventory placement can improve efficiency and customer satisfaction in the automotive parts sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amsterdam Tests Autonomous Boats for Urban Water Transport

Amsterdam Tests Autonomous Boats for Urban Water Transport

The Amsterdam 'Roboat' project aims to develop autonomous watercraft for urban logistics, public transport, and infrastructure construction. Led by the Amsterdam Institute for Advanced Metropolitan Solutions (AMS Institute) and supported by various research institutions, the project introduces automation to transform urban waterway transportation, improve efficiency, and unlock new opportunities for urban development. The Roboat initiative envisions a future where autonomous vessels contribute to a more sustainable and efficient urban environment by optimizing the use of waterways.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Senate Excludes Selfdriving Trucks From AV START Act

Senate Excludes Selfdriving Trucks From AV START Act

The US Senate passed an autonomous driving bill, prioritizing passenger cars but excluding autonomous trucks, disappointing the trucking industry. The bill allows automakers to sell self-driving cars and streamlines the approval process, but only for vehicles under 10,000 pounds. The industry is calling for regulations specifically addressing autonomous trucks to balance technological innovation with societal impact. This exclusion raises concerns about the future of autonomous trucking and the potential benefits it could bring to supply chains and logistics.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Businesses Boost Profits Using Weather Data Forecasting

Businesses Boost Profits Using Weather Data Forecasting

More and more companies are realizing that accurate weather forecasts are crucial for improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing revenue. Weather data has a significant impact on logistics, operating costs, and revenue growth. Businesses should leverage advanced weather analysis tools to integrate weather forecasts with business operations, thereby reducing operating costs, improving efficiency, and achieving revenue growth. Utilizing weather insights allows for better planning and resource allocation, ultimately leading to a more profitable and resilient business.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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