US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

US Container Imports Surge on Strong China Demand Descartes

A recent Descartes report reveals a significant increase in total U.S. container imports, driven by rising imports from China. January saw a 7.9% month-over-month and 9.9% year-over-year increase in U.S. import container volume. A 14.9% surge in exports from China to the U.S. was a key contributor. The report also highlights ongoing challenges to the global supply chain, including the Panama Canal drought and Middle East conflicts, both impacting transit times.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Heavyduty Truck Orders Drop Amid Industry Uncertainty

Heavyduty Truck Orders Drop Amid Industry Uncertainty

Preliminary data shows another decline in North American Class 8 truck orders for November, suggesting a potential market correction. While October saw a month-over-month increase, year-over-year figures remain down. This downturn could be attributed to factors like pulled-forward demand, economic conditions, fuel prices, and emission standards. Heavy-duty truck manufacturers need to closely monitor market trends, adapt strategies, and embrace new technologies to navigate the changing landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Drop Hinting at Economic Slowdown

US Container Imports Drop Hinting at Economic Slowdown

Descartes' latest report reveals a significant drop in US import container volume, down 16.2% month-over-month and 25.0% year-over-year, but consistent with pre-pandemic levels. Multiple factors contribute to the decline, including increased port congestion, stabilization of East and West Coast port shares, and the rise of smaller ports. Experts advise businesses to diversify supply chains, strengthen inventory management, monitor policy changes, embrace digital transformation, and cautiously navigate global trade challenges.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Container Imports Stabilize in June Amid Trade Uncertainties

US Container Imports Stabilize in June Amid Trade Uncertainties

A Descartes report indicates a slight month-over-month increase in U.S. container imports for June, but a year-over-year decrease persists. China's import share has fallen to a four-year low, while West Coast ports are recovering. Trade policy shifts introduce uncertainty, requiring businesses to diversify sourcing and strengthen supply chain resilience to navigate these challenges. Companies need to adapt to the changing global trade landscape to mitigate risks and maintain operational efficiency.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Freight Volume Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

US Trucking Freight Volume Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

According to data from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), freight volume surged 5.5% year-over-year and 0.5% month-over-month in February, marking the largest monthly increase since July 1998. The recovery in manufacturing, retail, and real estate sectors fueled this growth. However, rising fuel prices and tight capacity remain potential challenges. Analysts believe that freight volume growth will outpace capacity growth slightly, highlighting the urgent need for reinvestment in the industry.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Six Principles for Safe Furniture Export Container Loading

Six Principles for Safe Furniture Export Container Loading

This article addresses common problems in furniture export container loading and proposes six principles: heavy over light, light over heavy, stability first, dense filling, similar items grouped together, and safety first. Through case analysis, it aims to help companies improve loading efficiency, ensure cargo safety, and reduce logistics costs. These principles guide the proper distribution of weight, prevent damage during transit, maximize space utilization, and minimize potential hazards, ultimately leading to a more streamlined and secure export process.

09/26/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven As Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

The latest US rail freight data reveals a year-over-year increase in carload traffic, driven by strong demand for nonmetallic minerals, coal, and motor vehicle parts. However, intermodal container and trailer volumes declined year-over-year, reflecting easing supply chain bottlenecks and cooling consumer demand. Overall North American rail freight volumes show a similar diverging trend. Moving forward, railway companies need to improve operational efficiency and expand their business areas to address challenges and seize opportunities.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Fall in January Outlook Steady

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Fall in January Outlook Steady

Recent data indicates a slight month-over-month decrease in North American Class 8 truck orders for January, but a year-over-year increase, suggesting continued strong overall demand. Experts believe that short-term fluctuations are inevitable, but in the long term, the heavy-duty truck market still has growth potential, driven by economic recovery, infrastructure development, and the expansion of e-commerce. The market shows resilience and positive long-term prospects despite the recent dip in monthly orders.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Containers Fall

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Containers Fall

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight performance in late January showed divergence: carload volume increased by 3.3% year-over-year, primarily driven by increased shipments of nonmetallic minerals and coal. Container volume decreased by 6.7% year-over-year, reflecting macroeconomic uncertainty and supply chain adjustments. Total North American rail freight volume experienced a slight decrease. Looking ahead, economic recovery, supply chain resilience, sustainable development, and technological innovation will be key factors influencing rail freight trends.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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