Intermodal Transport Faces Postpandemic Congestion Capacity Crunch

Intermodal Transport Faces Postpandemic Congestion Capacity Crunch

Larry Gross highlighted the challenges facing multimodal transportation at the RailTrends conference, including congestion and capacity shortages, leading to market share decline. He emphasized the need to reshape the supply chain, focusing on resilience and capacity. Gross also predicted a future shift in freight volume from west to east. He urged the industry to avoid repeating past mistakes and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The presentation underscores the critical need for innovation and strategic planning within the multimodal sector to navigate current and future supply chain disruptions.

Ecommerce Sellers Face Freight Delays Rising Costs

Ecommerce Sellers Face Freight Delays Rising Costs

The cross-border freight forwarding industry is experiencing frequent collapses, leading to issues like cargo detention and freight loss. This article exposes the chaotic state of the industry, analyzes the challenges faced by small shippers, and provides practical advice for cross-border e-commerce sellers to mitigate risks. Recommendations include avoiding blindly pursuing low prices, understanding freight forwarder backgrounds, and signing compensation agreements. The aim is to help sellers choose reliable freight forwarders and ensure the safe delivery of goods.

Mississippi River Drought Threatens US Supply Chains

Mississippi River Drought Threatens US Supply Chains

Drought conditions have lowered the Mississippi River to its lowest level in a decade, causing waterway closures, hundreds of stranded vessels, and hindered agricultural product transport, leading to soaring freight costs. Concurrently, US imports are projected to fall to a near two-year low, reflecting weakened demand and ongoing supply chain challenges. The combination of extreme weather events and slowing global demand is exacerbating economic uncertainty. The low water levels are severely impacting the ability to move goods along this vital waterway.

12/29/2025 Logistics
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US Ocean Freight Rates Surge Prompting Costcontrol Strategies

US Ocean Freight Rates Surge Prompting Costcontrol Strategies

Soaring US shipping rates pose significant challenges for importers and exporters. This paper analyzes the causes of these price hikes, including supply chain bottlenecks, geopolitical conflicts, and high demand. Short-term forecasts predict continued upward pressure on shipping costs. The paper offers strategies for businesses to mitigate these challenges, such as optimizing supply chains, securing long-term contracts, and diversifying transportation methods. These measures can help businesses effectively control costs and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

02/05/2026 Logistics
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Global Supply Chains Disrupted by Suez Panama Canal Crises

Global Supply Chains Disrupted by Suez Panama Canal Crises

The Suez and Panama Canals are facing concurrent challenges. Droughts are restricting passage through the Panama Canal, while geopolitical conflicts force ships to detour around the Suez Canal. This could trigger a global supply chain storm, leading to shipping delays, soaring freight rates, and rising prices. Global trade participants need to closely monitor and actively respond to the situation. Governments should also strengthen cooperation to maintain international shipping order and mitigate potential disruptions to global commerce.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Logistics Cost Mapping Eases Supply Chain Disruptions

Logistics Cost Mapping Eases Supply Chain Disruptions

Facing frequent global supply chain crises, companies need to meticulously manage logistics costs to overcome challenges. This webinar focuses on 'Logistics Cost Services', sharing best practices for building a 'Logistics Cost Map'. Technology companies like aThingz are helping businesses achieve supply chain digital transformation through data integration, cost allocation, and continuous optimization. This empowers them to improve profitability and resilience, proactively turning passive reactions into active strategies during crises.

Suez Canal Reopens Amid Global Supply Chain Challenges

Suez Canal Reopens Amid Global Supply Chain Challenges

The Suez Canal reopening eased some pressure, but the backlog of ships will impact global supply chains. Companies should pre-book slots, optimize transport routes, strengthen supply chain collaboration, and, in the long term, diversify, digitalize, regionalize, and green their operations to enhance resilience and address future challenges. The congestion caused by the incident highlights the fragility of global trade and the need for businesses to proactively manage potential disruptions to their supply networks. This proactive approach is crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring business continuity in an increasingly volatile global landscape.

US House Approves Rail Strike Bill Pushes for Paid Sick Leave

US House Approves Rail Strike Bill Pushes for Paid Sick Leave

The US House of Representatives passed a legislative package aimed at averting a nationwide railroad strike. The package includes resolutions to enforce the existing agreement (containing pay raises and healthcare benefits) and add seven days of paid sick leave. The passage of this package in the Senate remains uncertain, directly impacting the lifeline of the American economy. The potential strike could cripple supply chains and significantly disrupt various industries, making the Senate vote crucial for preventing widespread economic damage.

US Rail Strike Avoided As Talks Extended to December

US Rail Strike Avoided As Talks Extended to December

A potential US railroad strike has been temporarily averted as negotiations extend to December. The central dispute revolves around paid sick leave, with railroad companies maintaining a firm stance. Unions are seeking a united front, awaiting crucial voting results. Congressional intervention remains a possibility, but ongoing negotiations continue. While the immediate threat of a strike has subsided, the potential economic repercussions should not be underestimated. The core issue of paid sick leave remains unresolved, leaving the possibility of future disruptions on the table.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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