Furniture Industry Adopts Diversified Sourcing for Resilience

Furniture Industry Adopts Diversified Sourcing for Resilience

Supply chain resilience has gained significant attention in the post-pandemic era. Multi-sourcing strategies in the furniture industry, which aim to reduce reliance on single suppliers, may enhance supply chain stability. Flexport data indicates that some companies are willing to pay a premium for sourcing furniture from Vietnam, or from both China and Vietnam simultaneously. However, whether this trend represents a strategic shift or a temporary expedient remains to be seen and requires further observation.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Retailers Stock Up for Strong Holiday Sales Season

US Retailers Stock Up for Strong Holiday Sales Season

The National Retail Federation (NRF) CEO stated that retail inventory levels in the US have returned to pre-pandemic levels, preparing the industry for the holiday season. The inventory-to-sales ratio has normalized, indicating that retailers have overcome inventory backlogs and improved operational efficiency. Retailers are adapting to market changes and embracing challenges and opportunities by adjusting inventory strategies and optimizing logistics. This positions them well to meet consumer demand during the crucial holiday shopping period and beyond.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Cargill CHS Boost Houston Grain Exports to Mexico

Cargill CHS Boost Houston Grain Exports to Mexico

Cargill and CHS are expanding their joint venture grain export business, Temco, by adding a terminal at the Port of Houston. This move aims to enhance US agricultural export capabilities, particularly serving the Mexican market. The expansion seeks to bolster the international competitiveness of US agriculture, create more opportunities for farmers, and stimulate local economic growth. The Port of Houston's strong performance during the pandemic underscores its strategic importance in facilitating trade and supporting the agricultural sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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US Industrial Real Estate Surges on Ecommerce Demand in Q3

US Industrial Real Estate Surges on Ecommerce Demand in Q3

A JLL report reveals a boom in the US industrial real estate leasing market in Q3, driven by e-commerce and logistics. Leasing volume, new supply, pre-leasing rates, and rents all reached record highs. The pandemic accelerated e-commerce penetration, increasing demand for last-mile delivery. The market is expected to continue to thrive in 2021. Companies should seize opportunities and strategically position themselves. Investors should pay close attention to market dynamics to achieve long-term returns.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Vietnam Lockdown Strains Global Supply Chains Ahead of Holidays

Vietnam Lockdown Strains Global Supply Chains Ahead of Holidays

COVID-19 lockdowns in Vietnam have disrupted global supply chains, posing significant challenges for retailers who face product delivery delays and declining sales. Businesses are actively adapting strategies to mitigate these issues, including sourcing alternative suppliers, relocating production facilities, and optimizing supply chain management. These efforts aim to navigate the uncertainty caused by the pandemic and ensure sufficient supply during the holiday season. The disruptions highlight the vulnerability of global supply chains and the need for greater resilience.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Shipping Crisis Delays and Costs Surge Amid Supply Chain Woes

US Shipping Crisis Delays and Costs Surge Amid Supply Chain Woes

This article delves into the complex reasons behind shipping delays and soaring freight rates in the United States. These factors include pandemic-induced labor shortages, infrastructure bottlenecks and port congestion, surging and imbalanced demand, rising fuel costs, a vicious cycle of container shortages, and the impact of regulatory policies. The article emphasizes that addressing these issues requires a collaborative effort from the government, businesses, and industry associations, involving comprehensive and integrated solutions to alleviate the current crisis.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WHO WCO Update HS Codes to Speed Vaccine Clearance

WHO WCO Update HS Codes to Speed Vaccine Clearance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) jointly released the latest HS code reference list for vaccines and related goods. This initiative aims to standardize international trade, accelerate the cross-border flow of vaccines, improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, ensure vaccine quality, and promote international cooperation, ultimately contributing to the global fight against the pandemic. The unified HS codes will facilitate smoother and faster movement of essential vaccine supplies across borders.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Turkeys Customs Reforms Boost Postpandemic Supply Chain Resilience

Turkeys Customs Reforms Boost Postpandemic Supply Chain Resilience

Turkish Customs and businesses are strengthening cooperation to address the impact of the pandemic on global supply chains. Guided by the World Customs Organization and leveraging Turkey's strategic location, they are committed to modernizing customs reforms and facilitating trade. This includes deepening cooperation in information sharing and risk management to enhance supply chain resilience and promote economic recovery. The initiative aims to contribute to global trade development by fostering collaboration and efficiency within the Turkish customs system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Air Freight Costs Surge Threatening Higher Online Prices

Air Freight Costs Surge Threatening Higher Online Prices

International air freight rates have surged due to a combination of factors including booming cross-border e-commerce demand, the ongoing impact of the pandemic, and consumer spending downgrades in Europe and the US. Freight rates on routes from China to Europe and the US have increased by as much as 50%. This round of price hikes may affect the overseas shopping experience, and consumers should pay attention to market trends and make rational purchasing decisions.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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DHL Exec Shares Ecommerce Peak Season Logistics Strategy

DHL Exec Shares Ecommerce Peak Season Logistics Strategy

DHL's president shares strategies for e-commerce peak season preparation, focusing on demand forecasting, capacity assurance, and warehouse optimization under the influence of the pandemic. The strategies emphasize flexibility and risk management to navigate the challenges of fluctuating demand and potential disruptions. Key areas include leveraging data analytics for accurate predictions, securing diverse transportation options, and optimizing warehouse layouts for efficient order fulfillment. The overall goal is to ensure smooth and reliable delivery services during the high-volume period.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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