Long Beach Port Extends Free Storage to Reduce Congestion

Long Beach Port Extends Free Storage to Reduce Congestion

The Port of Long Beach extended the free demurrage period for import containers to 7 days, aiming to alleviate port congestion caused by the holiday shopping season and larger vessels. This measure is expected to reduce detention charges for shippers, but chassis shortages remain a challenge. Port congestion impacts the supply chain, increasing costs and delaying deliveries. The Port of Long Beach is actively exploring solutions, such as upgrading the PierPass program, to improve operational efficiency and address global trade challenges.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Decline Eases As Domestic Demand Holds Steady

North American Intermodal Decline Eases As Domestic Demand Holds Steady

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) reported a 4.3% year-over-year decrease in North American intermodal volume in Q2, although the decline narrowed. Domestic container demand remained robust, increasing by 4.0%, while international standard containers faced challenges such as port congestion and COVID-19 lockdowns, resulting in an 8.4% decrease. The peak season impact is expected to diminish, leading to a more stable trend for the year. Inflation and high oil prices may present opportunities for intermodal transportation.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Businesses Adapt to Persistent Supply Chain Disruptions

Businesses Adapt to Persistent Supply Chain Disruptions

SEKO Logistics experts point out that the e-commerce surge and port congestion have led to a global supply chain facing a 'never-ending peak season.' Businesses should plan ahead, optimize inventory, diversify their supply chains, strengthen collaboration, and adopt digital technologies to address the challenges and embrace the new normal of supply chains. Proactive planning and strategic adjustments are crucial for navigating the complexities of the current logistics landscape and ensuring business continuity during periods of high demand and potential disruptions.

Key Strategies for Optimizing Heavy Cargo Air Freight

Key Strategies for Optimizing Heavy Cargo Air Freight

Priority for loading heavy cargo in international air freight is determined by pallet position load capacity, aircraft characteristics, and cargo density, not solely by weight. Understanding weight distribution principles helps shippers avoid delays and improve loading rights during peak season. The core standard is cargo density, supplemented by destination concentration and aircraft compatibility. Balancing safety and efficiency requires adhering to principles of even weight distribution, centered gravity, and aircraft suitability. Optimizing cargo information, selecting standard packaging, and signing priority agreements can enhance loading priority.

Ocean Freight Costs Driven by Supply Demand and Seasonality

Ocean Freight Costs Driven by Supply Demand and Seasonality

Trade lane cost variations are influenced by supply and demand, General Rate Increases (GRIs), and seasonality. High-demand lanes tend to have lower freight rates, while GRI implementation increases them. Peak Season Surcharges (PSS), Chinese New Year, and port congestion also contribute to freight rate fluctuations. Businesses should leverage data analytics to optimize transportation strategies and reduce logistics costs. Understanding these factors allows for better cost management and improved supply chain efficiency. Proactive planning and data-driven decisions are crucial for navigating the complexities of international trade.

Rising Shipping Costs Squeeze Crossborder Ecommerce Profits

Rising Shipping Costs Squeeze Crossborder Ecommerce Profits

The peak season for cross-border e-commerce is approaching, with freight rates soaring across the board, reaching $2000 for the US West Coast. Shipping companies are announcing price adjustments, and reduced capacity is exacerbating the situation. Cross-border sellers face increased cost pressure and need to plan inventory in advance, optimize supply chains, increase product premiums, adjust pricing strategies, expand sales channels, and strengthen cost control to meet the challenges and maintain profits. Early preparation and strategic adjustments are crucial for navigating the rising costs.

01/04/2026 Logistics
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Amazon Cracks Down on Account Fraud Introduces Seller Health Ratings

Amazon Cracks Down on Account Fraud Introduces Seller Health Ratings

This article delves into Amazon's latest risk control measures, focusing on the impact of payment accounts in multi-account association suspensions and the challenges posed by the new Account Health Rating regulations. By analyzing seller cases and service provider perspectives, it provides sellers with coping strategies, emphasizing the importance of compliant operations. The aim is to help sellers reduce operational risks as the peak season approaches by understanding the nuances of account association and health metrics, ultimately promoting sustainable growth on the Amazon platform.

Amazon Sellers Struggle With Costs Stock Limits Ahead of Black Friday

Amazon Sellers Struggle With Costs Stock Limits Ahead of Black Friday

Amazon sellers experienced a mixed bag during Black Friday. While some saw order surges, many faced poor sales, inventory pile-ups, and storage capacity limitations. Even sellers paying $4 million annually struggled with insufficient storage. Inflation and rising FBA fees further intensified operational pressures. To navigate these challenges, sellers need to adapt their strategies, and Amazon should optimize its policies to collectively embrace the opportunities of the holiday shopping season. This requires a collaborative approach to address the issues and ensure a more balanced outcome for all.

Etsy Sellers Adapt Shipping for Lunar New Year Demand

Etsy Sellers Adapt Shipping for Lunar New Year Demand

Etsy sellers face shipping challenges during the Chinese New Year. This article provides two solutions: delaying shipment and setting up vacation mode. It analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of each option and offers operational suggestions for the Spring Festival period. This helps sellers make the best decisions to ensure smooth store operations and maintain customer satisfaction during this peak season where order fulfillment might be impacted due to factory and logistics closures. Consider these strategies to minimize disruption and keep your Etsy shop running effectively.

01/06/2026 Logistics
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Ocean Freight Rates Drop Easing Costs for Ecommerce Sellers

Ocean Freight Rates Drop Easing Costs for Ecommerce Sellers

Ocean freight rates have plummeted, with the West Coast US route hitting a two-year low, down by as much as 80%. Decreased demand from Europe and the US is the primary driver, presenting both opportunities and challenges for cross-border e-commerce sellers. Preparing for the peak season by capitalizing on favorable ocean freight conditions is crucial. However, sellers should be wary of the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act and flexibly adjust their business strategies to stand out in the fierce competition.