Global Trade Guide Essentials of Freight Forwarding

Global Trade Guide Essentials of Freight Forwarding

International freight forwarders are crucial players in global trade, offering one-stop logistics solutions encompassing sea, land, and air transportation. This article delves into the core business of international freight forwarding, details the selection strategies for these three modes of transport, and provides essential considerations when choosing a freight forwarder. The aim is to assist businesses in optimizing their logistics plans, reducing transportation costs, mitigating trade risks, and ultimately enhancing their competitiveness in international trade. Understanding these aspects is key to efficient and cost-effective global supply chain management.

02/03/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Freight Tonnage Dips Amid Uneven Economic Recovery

US Freight Tonnage Dips Amid Uneven Economic Recovery

The American Trucking Associations reported a 0.9% seasonally adjusted tonnage decrease in US freight volume for August, but a 3.2% year-over-year increase. Weak manufacturing, inventory buildup, and slowing economic growth are key influencing factors. Businesses need to strengthen risk management, optimize operational efficiency, and expand into diversified markets to address these challenges. Freight data reflects the complexity of the economy, requiring in-depth analysis to navigate future developments. Understanding these trends is crucial for strategic planning and informed decision-making in the logistics and supply chain sectors.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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ASCM and Deloitte Outline Digital Supply Chain Resilience Plan

ASCM and Deloitte Outline Digital Supply Chain Resilience Plan

ASCM and Deloitte have jointly launched a digital capabilities model for supply chain networks, aiming to help companies address challenges such as market volatility, digital disruption, and evolving consumer expectations. The model emphasizes data-driven decision-making, agile response, collaborative cooperation, and continuous innovation. Looking ahead to 2026, supply chain management software will evolve towards intelligence, integration, and platformization, covering a wider range of operations, improving response speed, execution capabilities, and decision support. This evolution will be crucial for businesses seeking to optimize their supply chains in the face of increasing complexity.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Growth Slows on Supply Chain Policy Woes

US Service Sector Growth Slows on Supply Chain Policy Woes

The US Services PMI has grown for five consecutive months, but the growth rate is slowing, and industry divergence is evident. Supply chain challenges, policy uncertainty, and corporate risk management strategies have a significant impact. Experts predict continued moderate growth in the future, and businesses need to respond cautiously. The slowdown suggests a cooling in the services sector, requiring businesses to carefully navigate evolving economic conditions and proactively manage risks related to supply chains and policy changes. Focus on resilience and adaptability will be crucial for sustained success.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Grows in September Amid Supply Chain Challenges

US Manufacturing Grows in September Amid Supply Chain Challenges

The US Manufacturing PMI registered 55.4 in September, according to the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), marking the fourth consecutive month of expansion but slightly lower than August. The New Orders Index decreased but remained in growth territory. Supplier deliveries continued to slow down, and inventory contraction eased. ISM members indicated that COVID-19 and business growth were key themes, expressing concern about the absence of future economic stimulus policies. The report suggests continued growth in the manufacturing sector, albeit at a slightly slower pace than the previous month.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Airports Airlines Optimize Minimum Connecting Times for Efficiency

Airports Airlines Optimize Minimum Connecting Times for Efficiency

This article analyzes Minimum Connecting Time (MCT), including its development process, influencing factors, and importance. It elaborates on airport standard MCT, IATA benchmarks, airline strategies, and future trends. Understanding MCT is crucial for efficient airport operations and passenger satisfaction. The paper explores how various factors like airport layout, baggage handling, and security procedures impact MCT. Furthermore, it discusses how airlines optimize MCT to improve network connectivity and competitiveness while adhering to safety regulations. The analysis provides insights into the evolving landscape of MCT management in the aviation industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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3PL Growth Drives Industrial Real Estate Shift Amid Ecommerce Decline

3PL Growth Drives Industrial Real Estate Shift Amid Ecommerce Decline

A recent CBRE report highlights the dominance of 3PL providers in the industrial real estate leasing market, while noting a decline in retail e-commerce demand. Businesses should capitalize on 3PL outsourcing opportunities to optimize supply chain management and embrace a more specialized and efficient approach. Active industrial real estate leasing areas include Southern California's Inland Empire, the I-78/I-81 Corridor in Pennsylvania, and the Dallas-Fort Worth region. This trend underscores the growing importance of strategic partnerships and optimized logistics networks in today's dynamic business environment.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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LCL Shipping Who Bears Devanning and Distribution Costs

LCL Shipping Who Bears Devanning and Distribution Costs

This article provides an in-depth analysis of devanning and distribution charges commonly encountered in LCL (Less than Container Load) shipping. It clarifies the services included, calculation methods, and the parties responsible for these charges. By interpreting trade terms such as FOB, CIF/CFR, the article helps readers understand how to define cost responsibilities based on contractual agreements. This knowledge assists in avoiding unnecessary logistics costs and trade disputes, ensuring a smoother and more cost-effective LCL shipping experience. Understanding these charges is crucial for accurate budgeting and risk management in international trade.

02/04/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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California Ports Tackle Market Decline Plan Postpandemic Recovery

California Ports Tackle Market Decline Plan Postpandemic Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the crisis of market share loss for California ports. This article analyzes the multiple challenges faced by these ports, including aging infrastructure, labor issues, environmental regulations, increased competition, and the impact of the pandemic. It proposes strategies such as increasing infrastructure investment, deepening labor-management cooperation, optimizing environmental regulations, improving service quality, strengthening regional cooperation, embracing digital transformation, and seeking support from the federal government. The aim is to provide insights and recommendations for the recovery and future success of California's ports.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Confidence Hits Low Amid Economic Concerns

US Manufacturing Confidence Hits Low Amid Economic Concerns

A Grant Thornton LLP study reveals a sharp decline in U.S. manufacturers' confidence in the economic outlook, with only 13% expecting improvement in the next six months. This downturn is attributed to a combination of factors, including the looming threat of recession, policy uncertainty, labor shortages, and ongoing supply chain restructuring. To navigate these challenges, businesses need to diversify markets, improve efficiency, drive innovation, strengthen talent development, and enhance risk management strategies. These actions are crucial for manufacturers to remain competitive and resilient in the face of economic headwinds.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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