LA Port Congestion Eases Amid Trucking Incentives

LA Port Congestion Eases Amid Trucking Incentives

To alleviate congestion at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) adjusted congestion fees to incentivize off-peak cargo pickup. CMA CGM offered cash rewards to encourage timely retrieval. The Biden administration established a Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force to coordinate efforts. However, an FMC commissioner urged collaboration to optimize appointment systems. Whether these multifaceted efforts will prove effective remains to be seen. The situation highlights the complex challenges and diverse approaches being taken to address ongoing supply chain bottlenecks.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran and Japan signed an agreement on mutual assistance and cooperation in customs matters. This aims to strengthen cooperation between the two countries' customs administrations in areas such as information exchange, document assistance, and technical cooperation. The goal is to improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, optimize the business environment, and promote bilateral trade and economic relations. The agreement, modeled after the World Customs Organization's Model Agreement, establishes a solid legal foundation for Iran-Japan customs cooperation, signaling a new era in bilateral trade.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Erps Drive Digital Transformation for Smbs

Erps Drive Digital Transformation for Smbs

This paper explores how ERP systems have transitioned from traditional 'back-office' solutions to key drivers of digital transformation for SMEs. Through case studies, functional interpretation, and trend analysis, it demonstrates how features like cloud ERP and integrated WMS can help SMEs optimize operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. The paper emphasizes the importance of ERP systems in supporting operational best practices, establishing process control, and enabling business growth. It highlights the role of ERP in fostering a more agile and competitive SME landscape.

01/19/2026 Warehousing
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Assessing Warehouse Operations to Boost Efficiency Competitiveness

Assessing Warehouse Operations to Boost Efficiency Competitiveness

Against the backdrop of booming e-commerce and increasing labor shortages, businesses urgently need to assess warehouse operations, optimize processes, upgrade technology, and strengthen personnel management to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and meet customer expectations. This paper delves into the core content and improvement directions of warehouse operations assessment, aiming to help companies build efficient, flexible, and intelligent warehouses for sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision making and continuous improvement strategies to maintain a competitive edge in the dynamic market.

01/19/2026 Warehousing
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Pepsico Adopts Wearable Tech to Cut Workplace Injuries

Pepsico Adopts Wearable Tech to Cut Workplace Injuries

PepsiCo piloted wearable devices at a Frito-Lay plant and found they significantly reduced employee injuries and lost work time. The company plans to expand the application, using data analysis to optimize the work environment and improve employee health and productivity. This initiative not only lowers workers' compensation costs but also promotes employee engagement and corporate culture change, providing a valuable reference for other industries considering wearable technology. This demonstrates the potential of leveraging data-driven insights to foster a safer and more productive workplace.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Suppliers Prioritize Relationshipbuilding Over Transactions

Suppliers Prioritize Relationshipbuilding Over Transactions

This paper explores how to become a more valuable customer in the eyes of suppliers. Through case studies, it identifies three key elements: abandoning arrogance, listening to suppliers, and paying invoices promptly. It also supplements these with strategies such as building long-term partnerships, sharing information, and collaborating on innovation. Furthermore, it touches upon different types of supplier relationships and the essential skills for procurement personnel. The aim is to help companies optimize their supply chains and achieve mutual benefit and win-win outcomes.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Retailers Tackle Lastmile Hurdles to Sustain Free Shipping

Retailers Tackle Lastmile Hurdles to Sustain Free Shipping

Collaboration between marketing and supply chain departments is crucial for achieving fast, free delivery. This article explores how to break down departmental silos through data sharing and establishing closed-loop feedback mechanisms to optimize promotional campaigns and enhance customer loyalty and profitability. It discusses aligning marketing strategies with supply chain capabilities to ensure seamless execution and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the article looks ahead to the future trends of intelligent collaboration, highlighting the potential for AI and automation to further streamline processes and improve overall efficiency.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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PLACI Expands Air Cargo Security with 71 Data Elements

PLACI Expands Air Cargo Security with 71 Data Elements

PLACI (Advance Cargo Information) is an aviation security enhancement initiative recommended by the World Customs Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization. It involves collecting 7+1 elements of cargo information in advance for regulatory risk assessment. PLACI is not a standalone security measure but a crucial component of a multi-layered security system. Its purpose is to provide early risk warnings, enable precise targeting, and optimize resource allocation, ultimately enhancing aviation security. It aims to proactively identify threats and improve the efficiency of security measures.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Global Customs Groups Boost Collaboration at Annual Meeting

Global Customs Groups Boost Collaboration at Annual Meeting

The Customs Representatives Association's online annual meeting celebrated its reconstruction. The Secretary-General of the World Customs Organization congratulated the association and emphasized the importance of cooperation. The meeting adopted measures to optimize the organization, improve services, and expand international cooperation. These efforts aim to strengthen the association's role in facilitating international trade and promoting effective customs practices worldwide. The focus was on building a more robust and responsive organization to meet the evolving challenges of the global trade landscape and foster stronger partnerships among customs administrations.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits Via WCO Remote Support

Uzbekistan Boosts Customs Audits Via WCO Remote Support

The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a follow-up remote technical assistance mission to the State Customs Committee (SCC) of Uzbekistan. This aimed to enhance the country's post-clearance audit (PCA) capabilities, optimize audit processes, and develop specific customs audit procedures. Through practical exercises, case studies, and expert guidance, the mission sought to improve the audit skills and knowledge of customs officers, promoting trade facilitation and increased revenue collection. The focus was on strengthening PCA practices to ensure compliance and efficiency in customs operations.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
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