Lazada Southeast Asian Sellers Lag in AI Adoption

Lazada Southeast Asian Sellers Lag in AI Adoption

A Lazada report reveals a significant gap between awareness and application of AI among e-commerce sellers in Southeast Asia. While AI is widely understood, its actual adoption rate remains low. Sellers hold mixed views on AI's effectiveness and cost-benefit ratio. Lazada is actively bridging this gap by providing AI tools, technical support, and training to help sellers accelerate their AI transformation. This initiative aims to empower sellers to leverage AI effectively and overcome the challenges hindering its practical implementation in their businesses.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reported a mixed performance in U.S. rail freight for the week ending March 21. Traditional carload traffic saw a slight year-over-year decrease, but grain and automotive shipments performed strongly. Intermodal volume, however, bucked the trend and increased. Year-to-date figures show a small increase in carload volume, while intermodal volume experienced a slight decline. The U.S. rail freight market is undergoing a transformation and upgrade, requiring proactive responses to challenges and the seizing of opportunities.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Loses in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 3.3% year-over-year in late January, driven primarily by nonmetallic minerals and coal. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 6.7% year-over-year, suggesting weaker consumer demand. Year-to-date, carloads have increased by 3%, while intermodal traffic has declined by 8.4%. Overall North American rail traffic has slightly decreased, reflecting a complex economic outlook. The contrasting trends in carload and intermodal volumes highlight the mixed signals within the current economic landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Retail Sales Growth Slows in July Amid Economic Resilience

US Retail Sales Growth Slows in July Amid Economic Resilience

U.S. retail sales data for July presented a mixed picture, indicating a slowdown in growth. Both Commerce Department and NRF data showed decelerated growth, though still higher than the same period last year. Experts attribute this slowdown to factors like fading stimulus, inflation, and a shift in consumer spending priorities. Despite these challenges, a strong job market and healthy consumer finances are expected to continue supporting retail sector growth. Retailers need to optimize inventory, enhance customer experience, and embrace digital transformation to navigate the evolving landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Guide to Customs Compliance on Royalties and License Fees

Guide to Customs Compliance on Royalties and License Fees

The World Customs Organization has released new advisory opinions focusing on key customs valuation issues such as royalties, license fees, and trademark usage. The opinions clarify that royalty income tax should be included in customs valuation, emphasize that valuation of goods with own trademarks requires case-by-case analysis, and explain the principles for handling mixed royalties. Businesses should thoroughly understand the regulations, meticulously record transaction information, and consult with professionals to ensure customs valuation compliance. This helps avoid potential penalties and ensures accurate import/export declarations.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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ONE Releases Guide for Shanghai Port Container Pickup

ONE Releases Guide for Shanghai Port Container Pickup

This paper explores the issue of container pickup for ONE Ocean at Shanghai Port, specifically Waigaoqiao. It points out that the designated pickup location is typically determined by the shipping company. However, the possibility of picking up containers at Waigaoqiao Port may exist through transshipment or communication with the shipping line. Shippers should carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages based on their specific needs and choose the most suitable logistics solution.

08/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Freight Forwarding Basics Key Booking Steps for Beginners

Freight Forwarding Basics Key Booking Steps for Beginners

This article provides a detailed explanation of the booking process for freight forwarding newcomers, covering key steps such as finding booking channels, sending booking requests (shipping orders), obtaining SO (Shipping Order), and arranging subsequent matters. It also emphasizes the importance of familiarity with booking platform operations and information verification, aiming to help novices quickly master booking skills. Mastering these steps is crucial for efficient and accurate cargo transportation in foreign trade.

08/22/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Key Tips for Smooth Container Booking

Key Tips for Smooth Container Booking

To ensure smooth ocean freight container booking, a range of key information must be provided, including origin, destination, service mode, cargo details, container type and quantity, weight, pick-up information, and special requirements for refrigerated or dangerous goods. Clear information helps avoid delays and ensures transportation safety. Providing accurate and complete details is crucial for efficient and secure shipping. This facilitates proper handling and compliance throughout the entire shipping process.

09/28/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Japan Ranks Third in Global Shipownership As Imabari Grows

Japan Ranks Third in Global Shipownership As Imabari Grows

Japanese-controlled fleets now rank third globally, accounting for 12% of the world's total capacity. While Tokyo remains Japan's largest shipping city, Imabari has emerged as a significant hub, becoming Japan's second and the world's sixth largest maritime center. Despite limited growth in the Japanese fleet size, the shipping industry maintains a crucial position in the evolving global trade landscape and may benefit from opportunities arising from geopolitical factors.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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International Logistics Essentials: AMS & VGM Requirements Explained

International Logistics Essentials: AMS & VGM Requirements Explained

This article analyzes the differences in requirements between AMS and VGM in international cargo transportation. AMS does not require the tare weight, whereas VGM mandates the complete cargo weight, including the tare weight. In practice, the deadlines for both are often close, necessitating the simultaneous preparation of relevant data to avoid shipping delays. Shipping companies may not process VGM information at specific times, highlighting the importance of timely submission.

07/14/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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