Oakland Port is a key container terminal on the U.S. West Coast, strategically located and equipped with modern facilities. Over years of development, it has become a critical hub connecting North America with Asia-Pacific trade, dedicated to meeting intermodal transport needs and continually playing an important role in global trade.
TikTok Shop is accelerating its "fully managed" model in North America, aiming to challenge Amazon. Success hinges on optimizing supply chain, logistics, and user experience. Breaking through in the North American e-commerce market still presents significant challenges. While the fully managed approach simplifies selling for merchants, TikTok Shop needs to ensure efficient operations and competitive pricing to gain traction against established players like Amazon. The platform's ability to address these hurdles will determine its long-term viability in the region.
Cross-border e-commerce sellers, especially those in Class 25, should be aware of the risk of malicious trademark registration of "100%" marks. Immediate self-inspection and modification of product listings are crucial to avoid Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) risks. Furthermore, this information shares tips for rapid store expansion in North America, aiming to help sellers improve their operational capabilities. This includes strategies for efficient listing optimization and effective marketing techniques to quickly scale up business operations in the North American market.
Amazon's new NARF Deal feature allows US sellers to extend eligible ASIN promotions to Canadian and Mexican marketplaces. This simplifies cross-border operations, reduces costs, and increases product visibility, helping sellers quickly expand into the North American market and achieve sales growth. Sellers need to ensure NARF is enabled, products meet Deal submission requirements, and the price including tax is below $50 USD. This streamlined process aims to boost sales and facilitate easier access to a broader customer base within North America.
Strong demand in the North American RV market presents new opportunities for Chinese manufacturers. Xiamen Wodo Outdoor, specializing in RV and yacht accessories, may become the first RV/yacht stock. "Made in China" is transitioning towards higher quality and added value. Businesses need to pay close attention to market changes and potential risks. The robust demand in North America offers a significant opening for Chinese RV component suppliers and manufacturers looking to expand their reach through cross-border e-commerce channels.
Union Pacific Railroad has significantly reduced transit times for its cross-border intermodal service with Canadian National and Grupo México Transportes through operational improvements, particularly on the Eagle Pass to Chicago route. This initiative aims to enhance North American trade efficiency, address market competition, and capitalize on nearshoring opportunities, solidifying its market position. The optimized operations are expected to provide faster and more reliable service for customers, strengthening Union Pacific's role in facilitating seamless international trade flows within North America.
Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) engaged in a fierce competition to acquire control of Kansas City Southern (KCS). CN initially took the lead, but the situation has shifted. This acquisition battle is crucial for reshaping the North American railway transportation landscape. The final outcome will impact industry efficiency, costs, and service coverage, making it a situation worth continued monitoring. The fight highlights the strategic importance of rail networks in connecting key markets and facilitating trade across North America.
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.
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.
North American intermodal volumes rebounded in August, signaling a potential recovery, according to the Intermodal Association of North America. Domestic containers and international ISO containers led the growth, though year-to-date figures remain challenging. Experts suggest a flattening peak season, with inflation and diesel prices presenting both opportunities and challenges. Companies should optimize their supply chains, enhance services, and embrace digitalization to capitalize on the upcoming peak season. The rebound indicates a positive trend despite ongoing economic uncertainties affecting freight transportation.
