Packaging Industry Boosts Automation Amid Pandemic Ecommerce Demand

Packaging Industry Boosts Automation Amid Pandemic Ecommerce Demand

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the automation transformation in the packaging industry, with companies facing labor shortages and surging e-commerce demands. Secondary packaging is becoming a key area for automation, and technologies such as collaborative robots and remote maintenance are increasingly prevalent. Human-machine collaboration will be a major trend in the future of the packaging industry. This shift aims to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance resilience in the face of evolving market dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Shipping Crisis Delays and Costs Surge Amid Supply Chain Woes

US Shipping Crisis Delays and Costs Surge Amid Supply Chain Woes

This article delves into the complex reasons behind shipping delays and soaring freight rates in the United States. These factors include pandemic-induced labor shortages, infrastructure bottlenecks and port congestion, surging and imbalanced demand, rising fuel costs, a vicious cycle of container shortages, and the impact of regulatory policies. The article emphasizes that addressing these issues requires a collaborative effort from the government, businesses, and industry associations, involving comprehensive and integrated solutions to alleviate the current crisis.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
6 River Systems Upgrades Chuck Robot for Smarter Warehouses

6 River Systems Upgrades Chuck Robot for Smarter Warehouses

6 River Systems has significantly upgraded its Chuck collaborative mobile robot platform, enhancing capacity, safety, and ease of use. This aims to help warehouses improve efficiency, reduce costs, and address the challenges of e-commerce order growth and labor shortages. This upgrade solidifies Chuck's leading position in smart logistics, guiding the industry towards greater efficiency and intelligence. The improvements focus on optimizing workflows and providing a more user-friendly experience for warehouse staff, ultimately boosting productivity and streamlining operations.

01/26/2026 Logistics
Read More
Locus Robotics Partners to Expand Smart Warehouses

Locus Robotics Partners to Expand Smart Warehouses

Locus Robotics partners with SCS to deliver LocusBot robotic solutions to warehouses across the United States. This collaboration aims to improve picking efficiency, reduce operational costs, and accelerate the adoption of smart warehousing. By deploying LocusBots, warehouses can optimize their order fulfillment processes and gain a competitive edge in today's fast-paced market. The partnership highlights the growing demand for automation solutions in the logistics and warehousing sectors, driven by the need for increased productivity and reduced labor dependency.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Service Sector Hits Decade High Amid Economic Recovery

US Service Sector Hits Decade High Amid Economic Recovery

The US non-manufacturing Business Activity Index hit a ten-year high in February, driven by strong growth in business activity and new orders. However, employment growth remained sluggish. Rising prices and global economic uncertainties pose risks. Businesses need to optimize inventory management, control costs, and pay close attention to the labor market and macroeconomic situation to navigate market changes. The strong index suggests continued economic recovery, but companies should remain vigilant and adaptable to mitigate potential challenges.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Preferred Freezer Leads in Automated Cold Chain Logistics Innovation

Preferred Freezer Leads in Automated Cold Chain Logistics Innovation

Preferred Freezer Services (PFS)'s automated cold storage system achieves high throughput, reduced labor costs, and energy efficiency through optimized unloading processes, an automated double-deep storage system, and precise picking strategies. This system, integrating efficiency, energy conservation, and safety, represents the future direction of cold chain logistics and provides valuable insights for the industry. It streamlines operations, minimizes human intervention, and ensures optimal temperature control, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and cost-effective cold chain.

01/27/2026 Warehousing
Read More
Ecommerce Boom Strains Warehouse Management Systems

Ecommerce Boom Strains Warehouse Management Systems

Faced with four major challenges – labor shortages, e-commerce surge, digital transformation, and performance monitoring – warehouse and distribution center managers need to actively seek solutions. Introducing automation technologies, optimizing warehouse layout, upskilling employees, strengthening collaboration, and choosing a professional managed services partner are key to breaking through. These strategies can help improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall operational effectiveness in a rapidly evolving logistics landscape. Investing in these areas is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge.

01/29/2026 Warehousing
Read More
Mfolio Enhances Zerocontact Supply Chain Safety and Efficiency

Mfolio Enhances Zerocontact Supply Chain Safety and Efficiency

The pandemic has accelerated digital transformation in supply chains. M.Folio facilitates zero-touch goods handover through driver self-service kiosks and enterprise document management software, reducing the risk of virus transmission and improving efficiency. This solution also significantly saves on back-office labor costs, helping businesses build a safer and more efficient supply chain. By automating processes and minimizing physical contact, M.Folio empowers companies to streamline operations and enhance overall supply chain resilience in the face of evolving challenges.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Ports Face Strike Threat As Import Volumes Strain Supply Chains

US Ports Face Strike Threat As Import Volumes Strain Supply Chains

US East and Gulf Coast ports face potential strike action, contributing to a surge in imports. Retailers are stockpiling inventory and diverting shipments to alternative ports. Labor negotiations have stalled, raising the imminent threat of a strike. Businesses should diversify port options, build buffer stocks, enhance communication with suppliers, and closely monitor policy changes to mitigate supply chain risks. The situation demands proactive measures to avoid disruptions and ensure business continuity amidst potential port closures and increased shipping costs.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Manufacturing Expands Despite Inflation Inventory Challenges

US Manufacturing Expands Despite Inflation Inventory Challenges

The ISM's April manufacturing report shows the PMI above 50 for the second consecutive month, but highlights concerns like inventory shortages and soaring prices. While new orders and production continue to grow, employment continues to contract. Expert opinions diverge, suggesting a challenging path to manufacturing recovery. Key issues to watch include inventory levels, rising costs, and the ongoing employment situation. The report paints a mixed picture, indicating potential growth hampered by supply chain constraints and labor market difficulties.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More