2025 Logistics Sector Faces Policy Shifts Demand Challenges

2025 Logistics Sector Faces Policy Shifts Demand Challenges

The logistics industry grapples with volatility, policy shifts, and uneven demand in 2025. *Logistics Management* presents a curated selection of its best annual articles, offering in-depth analysis of the challenges and opportunities facing tariffs, trucking, rail, and ocean freight. This provides strategic guidance for shippers navigating the 2026 market, empowering businesses to embrace change and meet challenges head-on. Learn how to adapt and succeed in this evolving landscape.

NRF Predicts Sustained Retail Growth Through 2025

NRF Predicts Sustained Retail Growth Through 2025

The National Retail Federation (NRF) forecasts a 2.7%-3.7% increase in retail sales for 2025, with online channels continuing to drive growth. The report analyzes the macroeconomic environment and consumer behavior, providing retailers with strategic recommendations such as omnichannel integration and product mix optimization. It also highlights the importance of monitoring potential risks associated with policy uncertainty.

Trucking Demand Rises As Rates Fall Amid Excess Capacity

Trucking Demand Rises As Rates Fall Amid Excess Capacity

DAT data shows truckload volumes increased 4% week-over-week in the last week of January, but an even greater increase in truck availability led to declining rates. Rates for dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed freight all decreased. Industry analysts suggest that the market outlook is uncertain. Companies should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize operational efficiency, expand business scope, strengthen risk management, and embrace technological innovation to navigate the uncertainty.

US Trucking Industry Struggles As Freight Demand Falls Rates Edge Up

US Trucking Industry Struggles As Freight Demand Falls Rates Edge Up

The US truckload freight market in September showed a divergence: freight volume declined, but spot rates edged up. DAT data indicated decreases in dry van and refrigerated volumes, while flatbed volumes saw a slight increase. Experts attribute the rate increase to freight imbalances and capacity shifts rather than demand, expressing pessimism about the peak season outlook. The market faces structural adjustments, requiring all parties to respond cautiously. Despite the spot rate increase, the overall trend suggests a weakening market due to lower volumes and underlying economic uncertainties.

US Container Imports Surge in September Amid Strong China Demand

US Container Imports Surge in September Amid Strong China Demand

The Descartes report indicates a surprising 0.3% increase in U.S. container imports in September, defying typical seasonal declines, with significant contributions from Chinese imports. Long Beach and Tacoma ports led the gains, boosting the West Coast ports' market share. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, diversify sourcing strategies, and enhance supply chain resilience to navigate these evolving trade patterns.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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Global Air Travel Growth Slows As Load Factors Peak in 2026

Global Air Travel Growth Slows As Load Factors Peak in 2026

The global air passenger transportation market is projected to experience slower growth by November 2026, despite record-high load factors. International markets are outperforming domestic ones, with Africa showing particularly strong growth. Airlines should proactively adjust capacity, strengthen cost control, explore emerging markets, enhance customer experience, and focus on sustainable development. These strategies are crucial for navigating market challenges and capitalizing on emerging opportunities in the evolving aviation landscape.

John Haber on Tackling Peak Season Logistics Challenges

John Haber on Tackling Peak Season Logistics Challenges

An interview with John Haber, President of Parcel at Transportation Insight, offers insights into the opportunities and challenges of the peak season parcel market. The article focuses on key issues such as demand forecasting, labor management, rate pricing, service levels, and the rise of Amazon Logistics. It provides logistics companies with strategies and recommendations for navigating the challenges of the peak season, helping them optimize operations and maintain profitability during this critical period.

US Commerce Dept Adds Members to Supply Chain Advisory Panel

US Commerce Dept Adds Members to Supply Chain Advisory Panel

The U.S. Department of Commerce announced the expansion of the Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness (ACSSC), adding 11 new experts in supply chain, logistics, and freight. This move aims to strengthen the committee's capabilities, provide more targeted advice for government decision-making, promote industry communication and cooperation, and help companies improve supply chain efficiency and competitiveness. The expanded committee will offer valuable insights into current challenges and opportunities within the supply chain landscape, informing policies that support American businesses.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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E2open CEO Advocates Resilient Supply Chains Amid Global Logistics Shifts

E2open CEO Advocates Resilient Supply Chains Amid Global Logistics Shifts

E2open CEO Michael Farlekas analyzes the current state of the global freight economy, the impact of declining US port throughput, and the importance of supply chain diversification and resilience. He advises businesses to closely monitor market changes, diversify risks, and leverage technology to enhance supply chain resilience and operational efficiency. Focusing on these factors is crucial for navigating current challenges and building a more robust and adaptable supply chain in the face of ongoing disruptions and uncertainties.

Global Aviation Growth Slows Amid Market Uncertainty

Global Aviation Growth Slows Amid Market Uncertainty

According to IATA data, global air passenger demand growth slowed in September, significantly impacted by hurricanes. The report reveals specific performance and challenges in global and regional markets, providing targeted strategic recommendations. The aviation industry needs to actively address rising costs and geopolitical risks while seizing opportunities in emerging markets and driving development through innovation. The slowdown highlights the need for adaptability and strategic planning within the airline sector to navigate current challenges and maintain sustainable growth.