AFS Cowen Launch Freight Index to Forecast Market Trends

AFS Cowen Launch Freight Index to Forecast Market Trends

The Cowen/AFS Freight Index provides forecasts for Less-Than-Truckload (LTL), Truckload (TL), and Parcel shipping rates. It empowers businesses to optimize costs and improve supply chain management through data-driven insights. The index offers valuable information for budgeting, negotiation, and strategic planning in the transportation sector. By analyzing historical trends and market dynamics, the Cowen/AFS Freight Index helps companies make informed decisions and gain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Index Shows Signs of Recovery Amid Q1 Market Struggles

Freight Index Shows Signs of Recovery Amid Q1 Market Struggles

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index Q1 report indicates emerging signs of recovery in trucking, although overcapacity persists. Parcel shipping pricing strategies are proving effective, but the risk of discounts remains a concern. Less-than-truckload (LTL) pricing discipline faces challenges, with growth slowing. The report highlights the current state and future trends across various transportation modes, providing valuable insights for market participants. It underscores the complexities of balancing demand, capacity, and pricing in a dynamic freight environment.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Rise Unexpectedly in September

US Container Imports Rise Unexpectedly in September

Descartes' latest report reveals a counter-seasonal surge in US container imports for September. The Ports of Long Beach and Tacoma performed strongly, increasing the West Coast's market share. China remains the top exporting country, while Italy experienced a significant decline. Port delays shifted westward. Factors driving this growth include holiday season preparations, consumer demand, supply chain recovery, and trade policies. Shipping companies and ports should closely monitor data and adapt accordingly to navigate the evolving market landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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Key Metrics to Optimize Distribution Center Performance

Key Metrics to Optimize Distribution Center Performance

This paper delves into 12 key performance indicators closely monitored by top-performing distribution centers, derived from the 2020 WERC report. By focusing on crucial metrics such as order accuracy, on-time shipping rate, and inventory turnover rate, and establishing a robust data analysis system, distribution centers can significantly improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge. These KPIs provide actionable insights for optimizing warehouse operations and achieving superior performance in the supply chain.

01/19/2026 Warehousing
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Ecommerce Growth in Mexico Tied to Postal Code Mastery

Ecommerce Growth in Mexico Tied to Postal Code Mastery

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the Mexican postal code system, offering a comprehensive guide from its structure and search methods to address writing standards and cross-border e-commerce applications. Mastering Mexican postal codes enables logistics optimization, enhances customer service, and empowers cross-border e-commerce businesses to tap into the Mexican market. It covers key aspects necessary for efficient shipping and delivery within Mexico, ultimately aiding businesses in streamlining their operations and improving customer satisfaction.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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China Posts Surface Mail Guide for Large Shipments

China Posts Surface Mail Guide for Large Shipments

This article provides a detailed guide to the China Post surface mail delivery process for large items. It covers aspects such as packaging preparation, information filling, post office procedures, optional services, special item considerations, and the signing process. The aim is to offer users a clear and practical guide to help them successfully send large items via surface mail. It provides essential information for a smooth and efficient shipping experience, ensuring the safe and timely delivery of their packages.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Retailers Adopt Secure Affordable Packaging for Large Shipments

Retailers Adopt Secure Affordable Packaging for Large Shipments

This article provides a comprehensive guide to packaging large items for shipping. It covers material selection (cardboard boxes, wooden crates, cushioning materials), packaging techniques (secure sealing, proper filling, center of gravity balance), and important considerations (clear labeling, fragile markings, regulatory compliance, insurance purchase). The aim is to help users safely, economically, and compliantly ship large and bulky goods. By following these guidelines, senders can minimize the risk of damage during transit and ensure a smooth delivery process.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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SF Express Expands Oversized Parcel Delivery Options in China

SF Express Expands Oversized Parcel Delivery Options in China

This article provides a comprehensive guide to SF Express's heavy freight service. It covers the types of items that can be shipped, size and weight restrictions, the shipping process, packaging tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. This guide helps you understand SF Express's heavy freight service and easily solve the problem of transporting large items. It aims to simplify the process and provide clarity for users looking to ship bulky or heavy goods via SF Express.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Fedex Averts Strike As UPS Labor Dispute Threatens Holiday Deliveries

Fedex Averts Strike As UPS Labor Dispute Threatens Holiday Deliveries

FedEx pilots and management reached a new six-year agreement, featuring pay raises, bonuses, and enhanced benefits, ensuring operational stability during the peak holiday shipping season. Conversely, UPS pilots are potentially initiating a strike, posing a threat to global supply chains. The labor relations dynamics between these two air cargo giants will impact industry competition and market stability. This contrast highlights the different approaches to labor negotiations and their potential consequences on service reliability and the broader economy.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Onbuy Expands Crossborder Logistics for Sellers

Onbuy Expands Crossborder Logistics for Sellers

This article focuses on cross-border logistics for the emerging e-commerce platform OnBuy, analyzing its characteristics and challenges. It provides practical guidance for sellers to efficiently and economically solve logistics problems and achieve success on the OnBuy platform. As a purely third-party platform, OnBuy offers a fair competitive environment for sellers, but a robust logistics system is crucial. This guide offers strategies to navigate OnBuy's logistics landscape and optimize shipping processes for increased profitability and customer satisfaction.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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