West Coast Port Labor Dispute Threatens Supply Chains

West Coast Port Labor Dispute Threatens Supply Chains

This article delves into the ongoing negotiation deadlock between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA), uncovering the potential core demands of the ILWU and exploring its potential impact on the global supply chain. The article also provides recommendations for businesses to manage supply chain risks, emphasizing the importance of transparent demands and calling for collaborative efforts to ensure the smooth flow of global trade. It highlights the critical need for proactive measures to mitigate disruptions and maintain stability in the global logistics network.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Procurement Shifts from Cost Center to Growth Driver

Procurement Shifts from Cost Center to Growth Driver

A report indicates that procurement professionals aspire to play a more significant role in corporate innovation, eager to embrace new technologies, drive supply chain upgrades, and even lead product innovation. However, risk aversion and departmental silos are major obstacles. Companies should encourage procurement innovation, elevate its strategic importance, and foster cross-functional collaboration. Suppliers and logistics companies should also proactively offer innovative products and services. By overcoming these hurdles, procurement can become a key driver of growth and competitive advantage, leading to more efficient and resilient supply chains.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ocean Freight Rates from Shenzhen to Chicago Surge Amid Demand

Ocean Freight Rates from Shenzhen to Chicago Surge Amid Demand

This article provides a detailed analysis of the sea freight process from Shenzhen to Chicago, covering aspects like cargo receiving, customs declaration, transportation, and customs clearance. It delves into the various factors influencing shipping costs and offers practical advice on selecting shipping companies, scheduling shipments, and purchasing insurance. Furthermore, it includes a FAQ section. The aim is to help businesses and individuals better understand and utilize sea freight services for efficient international trade. This guide provides insights into optimizing logistics and navigating the complexities of China-US trade via ocean freight.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Key Factors Driving 40foot Shipping Container Prices and Freight Costs

Key Factors Driving 40foot Shipping Container Prices and Freight Costs

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the price structure of 12-meter sea freight containers, covering used container prices, influencing factors, transportation cost components, and calculation methods. Through case studies and market trend interpretations, it aims to provide businesses with clearer cost references to help optimize their transportation plans. The analysis includes factors affecting container prices like supply and demand, material costs, and economic conditions. Furthermore, it breaks down the components of sea freight costs, such as port charges, fuel surcharges, and handling fees, offering a comprehensive understanding of overall logistics expenses.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Global Supply Chains Face Labor Shortages Rising Freight Costs

Global Supply Chains Face Labor Shortages Rising Freight Costs

A report by ASCM and KPMG reveals that labor shortages and high freight costs are the primary pressures on the US supply chain. While geopolitical events have some impact, these two factors account for the majority of supply chain strain. The report highlights the tight labor market, rising logistics costs, and reliance on overseas supply. It advises businesses to take measures to address these challenges. The findings underscore the urgent need for companies to adapt to the evolving landscape and build more resilient and efficient supply chains to mitigate the impact of these persistent pressures.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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COSCO SHIPPING Opens Gulf of Mexico Express Route to Boost Usasia Trade

COSCO SHIPPING Opens Gulf of Mexico Express Route to Boost Usasia Trade

COSCO SHIPPING Americas has launched the Gulf Mexico Express (GME) route, connecting Asia with the US Gulf Coast to meet shippers' demands for diversified sourcing channels. The route travels from major Chinese ports, transits the Panama Canal, and directly reaches Houston, shortening transit times and reducing costs while providing one-stop logistics services. This initiative is expected to promote US-China trade development and optimize the global supply chain layout. The GME offers a faster and more efficient option for cargo movement between Asia and the US Gulf region.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Industrial Property Vacancies Hit Record Low As Rents Surge JLL

Industrial Property Vacancies Hit Record Low As Rents Surge JLL

JLL reports that the US industrial real estate market hit a record low vacancy rate of 4.8% in Q2, with rents soaring to $6.62 per square foot, a 5.1% year-over-year increase. The logistics and distribution sector led leasing activity, accounting for 24.9% of total leased space in the first half of the year. Despite active construction projects, net absorption exceeded deliveries, potentially leading to a supply shortage in the long term. Businesses need to carefully select industrial space, and landlords should pay close attention to market changes.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Sameday Delivery Boosts Retail Loyalty Amid Demand for Speed

Sameday Delivery Boosts Retail Loyalty Amid Demand for Speed

Instant delivery has become a key competitive differentiator in retail. Consumers, especially millennials, increasingly demand fast and transparent logistics services. Retailers must address the 'last mile' challenge, optimizing costs and data security. Embracing technological innovation and omnichannel integration is crucial for success in the future of instant delivery. By meeting these demands, retailers can foster customer loyalty and gain a competitive edge. The ability to provide quick and reliable delivery is now a vital component of the overall customer experience and a key factor in driving retail success.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Fedex Boeing Partner on Sustainable Aviation Initiatives

Fedex Boeing Partner on Sustainable Aviation Initiatives

FedEx and Boeing are collaborating for the fifth time on the ecoDemonstrator program, focusing on reducing aviation emissions and noise while improving efficiency. FedEx has pledged to reduce emissions by 30% by 2020 through fleet upgrades and exploration of alternative fuels, aiming to create a green logistics system. This partnership reflects an industry trend, leading the aviation sector towards environmental protection and sustainability, and collectively building a green aviation future. The collaboration highlights the importance of innovation and partnerships in achieving ambitious sustainability goals within the aviation industry.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Big Data Transforms Supply Chain Efficiency

Big Data Transforms Supply Chain Efficiency

This paper explores the challenges of applying big data in supply chain management, emphasizing the importance of data filtering and insight extraction. It elaborates on the core principles of verifying authenticity and simplifying complexity, and analyzes the value of big data in supplier management, demand forecasting, and logistics optimization through practical application scenarios. Finally, the paper calls on enterprises to actively embrace big data technology to create an agile and efficient supply chain. The focus is on leveraging reliable data for informed decision-making and improved operational performance.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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