Senate Passes Bill to Prevent Nationwide Rail Strike

Senate Passes Bill to Prevent Nationwide Rail Strike

The US Senate passed critical legislation to avert a freight railroad strike that threatened to cost the economy up to $2 billion daily. The legislation, based on recommendations from the Presidential Emergency Board, includes wage increases and benefit improvements. It aims to resolve the dispute between labor unions and railroad companies, ensuring supply chain stability and continued economic growth. This action prevents a potential economic crisis stemming from a nationwide rail shutdown, safeguarding businesses and consumers alike by maintaining vital transportation links.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
North American Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

North American Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Economic Challenges

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year in the week ending February 4th, though cumulative traffic still shows growth. Performance varies across sectors, with significant growth in automotive, parts, and petroleum, while coal and grain face challenges. Intermodal transportation faces transformation pressures, requiring optimized operations and strengthened collaboration. The North American rail transport industry faces both opportunities and challenges, necessitating continued innovation, cost control, and a focus on sustainable development.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Sweetwater CEO Phil Rich Tackles Peak Season Supply Chain Hurdles

Sweetwater CEO Phil Rich Tackles Peak Season Supply Chain Hurdles

Phil Rich, head of supply chain at Sweetwater, shares the company's strategies for tackling peak season challenges. These include placing orders early, optimizing the transportation network, increasing safety stock, strengthening information communication, and flexibly adjusting warehouse space. The aim is to ensure customer needs are met and business growth is achieved in a complex and volatile environment. By proactively addressing potential disruptions and implementing agile solutions, Sweetwater strives to maintain a seamless and efficient supply chain throughout the high-demand period.

Study Finds Shippers Carriers Align on Transport Industry Priorities

Study Finds Shippers Carriers Align on Transport Industry Priorities

A new Breakthrough study reveals three key areas of consensus between shippers and carriers in the next 12 months: reducing emissions, building mutually beneficial contract relationships, and navigating fluctuations in linehaul rates. The report emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and sustainability as crucial for industry advancement. It provides strategic insights for businesses to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities, highlighting the importance of working together to achieve shared goals in a dynamic freight landscape. This research offers valuable guidance for navigating the evolving transportation sector.

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Amid Cooling Demand

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Amid Cooling Demand

Recent data shows a decrease in North American Class 8 heavy-duty truck net orders for November, both month-over-month and year-over-year, indicating a cooling market demand. This decline is attributed to easing order backlogs, a high-interest rate environment, and concerns about economic growth. However, the market is not in full recession and retains potential for future growth. The order drop serves as an economic signal, suggesting a cautious outlook for the transportation sector and broader economy.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Edmonton Airport Boosts Economy with Sustainable Innovation

Edmonton Airport Boosts Economy with Sustainable Innovation

Edmonton International Airport (YEG), Canada's fifth busiest airport, is more than just a transportation hub; it's an engine for regional economic growth. YEG is committed to sustainable development, creating a green airport model while embracing innovative technologies to lead future aviation development. With a thriving cargo business, a diversified commercial ecosystem, and a people-centered service philosophy, YEG is becoming an ideal gateway connecting the world. It prioritizes environmental responsibility and aims to minimize its carbon footprint through various initiatives and partnerships.

STB Implements Reciprocal Switching Rule to Reduce Rail Freight Delays

STB Implements Reciprocal Switching Rule to Reduce Rail Freight Delays

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) proposes a reciprocal switching rule to address rail service challenges faced by shippers. The new rule would allow shippers to choose alternative rail carriers when existing carriers fail to meet service standards. It defines service evaluation metrics, simplifies the application process, and aims to break rail monopolies, improve service levels, and ultimately enhance freight efficiency. This initiative seeks to provide shippers with greater options and ensure reliable rail service by promoting competition within the rail industry.

Toy Giants Hasbro and Mattel Tackle Supply Chain Challenges

Toy Giants Hasbro and Mattel Tackle Supply Chain Challenges

Facing soaring ocean freight costs and port congestion, Hasbro and Mattel successfully navigated challenges by optimizing supply chain management, diversifying port selections, implementing flexible transportation strategies, and collaborating closely with suppliers. Both companies transformed their supply chains into a competitive advantage. Measures such as raising product prices were taken to mitigate cost pressures. The companies emphasized the strategic value of the supply chain in overall business development, demonstrating its crucial role in navigating disruptions and maintaining profitability in a volatile global landscape.

CH Robinson SAS Enhance Retail Supply Chains with Data Analytics

CH Robinson SAS Enhance Retail Supply Chains with Data Analytics

C.H. Robinson partners with SAS to deliver end-to-end supply chain solutions for the retail and consumer goods industries. This collaboration integrates demand forecasting with real-time transportation data, enabling agile planning and optimization. Addressing the issue of information silos in traditional supply chains, the partnership aims to help businesses respond to market changes in real-time, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. The integrated solution provides a holistic view of the supply chain, allowing for better decision-making and improved overall performance.

CN Abandons CPKC Merger Amid Regulatory Challenges

CN Abandons CPKC Merger Amid Regulatory Challenges

Canadian National Railway withdrew its bid, clearing the path for the merger between Canadian Pacific Railway and Kansas City Southern. The merged CPKC railway will be the only single-owner rail network connecting the US, Mexico, and Canada, reshaping the North American rail industry landscape. However, the deal still requires regulatory and shareholder approval, facing challenges related to competition, integration, and market dynamics. The successful completion of this merger will have significant implications for trade and transportation across North America.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More