Pandemic Risks Longterm Damage to Global Economic Growth

Pandemic Risks Longterm Damage to Global Economic Growth

An IHS Markit report indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic not only caused an economic recession but also poses a threat to long-term growth. The labor market, capital stock, and total factor productivity have all been negatively affected. Real GDP in developed economies is projected to be lower than pre-pandemic expectations by 2030. Accelerated digitalization may partially offset these adverse effects, but the overall long-term economic consequences remain significant and concerning.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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California Truckers Challenge Independent Contractor Model Amid Regulatory Scrutiny

California Truckers Challenge Independent Contractor Model Amid Regulatory Scrutiny

The owner-operator model for independent truck drivers in the US faces challenges from California labor regulations and potential federal legislation. These could force independent drivers to become employees, increasing operating costs and impacting logistics efficiency. Industry associations and drivers are actively seeking solutions to maintain industry stability and protect driver rights. The core issue revolves around classifying independent contractors versus employees, with significant implications for the transportation sector's structure and operational costs.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bidens Infrastructure Plan Faces Ground Transport Challenges

Bidens Infrastructure Plan Faces Ground Transport Challenges

The Biden administration faces the significant task of reshaping US ground transportation infrastructure. This includes diversifying funding sources, streamlining approval processes, adopting technological innovations, ensuring supply chain resilience and security, and addressing labor shortages. Effectively tackling these challenges will directly impact US economic recovery and global competitiveness. The administration must navigate complex issues related to infrastructure financing, regulatory hurdles, and the integration of new technologies to modernize the transportation system and secure its supply chains.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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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.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Supply Chain Council Boosts Resilience Efforts

US Supply Chain Council Boosts Resilience Efforts

The Supply Chain Council (SCC), a bipartisan organization, aims to strengthen U.S. supply chains by uniting businesses and labor. Its mission is to protect jobs, invest in infrastructure, and address global instability. Emphasizing collaboration and advocacy, the Council promotes policies at all levels to enhance supply chain resilience and sustainability, tackling current global supply chain challenges. The SCC seeks to foster a robust and secure supply chain ecosystem for the United States.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Los Angeles Enforces Port Ban for Firms Misclassifying Truck Drivers

Los Angeles Enforces Port Ban for Firms Misclassifying Truck Drivers

Los Angeles is considering banning trucking companies with driver misclassification practices from operating at the port, aiming to combat long-standing labor violations in the industry. This initiative seeks to protect driver rights, regulate employment practices, and alert supply chain managers to the compliance of their suppliers, avoiding potential business disruption risks. Los Angeles's action could inspire other cities to follow suit, promoting a fairer and more sustainable development in the trucking industry.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Californias Gig Economy Disrupted by New Contractor Rules

Californias Gig Economy Disrupted by New Contractor Rules

The California Supreme Court adopted the ABC test, fundamentally changing the standard for classifying independent contractors. It presumes all workers are employees unless the hiring entity proves three stringent conditions are met. This significantly increases labor costs for businesses, elevates compliance risks, and may trigger transformations in business models and talent strategies. Companies must immediately assess existing workforce models, conduct compliance reviews, and adapt their strategies accordingly to navigate this evolving legal landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Extransportation Secretary Skeptical of US Infrastructure Bill

Extransportation Secretary Skeptical of US Infrastructure Bill

Former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood expressed concerns about the prospects of a long-term transportation bill in the US, citing the complexities of transportation and federal policy as hindering infrastructure progress. Insufficient funding and increasing partisan divisions exacerbate the difficulties. Factors such as environmental protection and labor rights further complicate policymaking. America's transportation infrastructure faces significant challenges, requiring innovative solutions and bipartisan cooperation to overcome these obstacles and ensure future development and sustainability.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Volumes Rise in March Hinting at Economic Recovery

US Trucking Volumes Rise in March Hinting at Economic Recovery

According to data from the American Trucking Associations, truck freight volume saw a slight increase in March. While it didn't fully offset February's decline, it's still a positive sign for economic recovery. Truck freight volume serves as a leading economic indicator, reflecting the activity levels of demand, production, and retail. Moving forward, it's important to monitor factors such as fuel prices, the labor market, and the impact of the global economic situation on freight volume.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Operators Under Persistent Scrutiny Amid Slow Service Recovery

US Rail Operators Under Persistent Scrutiny Amid Slow Service Recovery

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) has extended the requirement for the four major railroads to submit service recovery reports and added reporting metrics, aiming to address the issue that rail service has not recovered to pre-pandemic levels. Key challenges include labor shortages, infrastructure bottlenecks, and demand fluctuations. Service delays and increased costs negatively impact the supply chain. Collaborative efforts are needed, including increased investment, optimized operations, and strengthened cooperation, to revitalize rail transport.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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