Alixpartners Expert Analyzes Freight Logistics Challenges

Alixpartners Expert Analyzes Freight Logistics Challenges

AlixPartners expert Marc Iampieri analyzes key factors impacting freight logistics, including peak season consumer trends, port labor negotiations, interest rate policies, freight rate volatility, and tariff policies. He emphasizes that companies need to strengthen risk management, optimize supply chain networks, improve operational efficiency, enhance collaboration with carriers, and embrace digital transformation to address challenges and seize opportunities. These strategies are crucial for navigating the evolving landscape and maintaining a competitive edge in the freight logistics industry.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Typhoon Muifa Disrupts Shipping at Key China Ports

Typhoon Muifa Disrupts Shipping at Key China Ports

Typhoon Muifa has strengthened into a severe typhoon, heading directly towards the East China coast. Zhejiang has raised its emergency response level. Ningbo and Shanghai ports may face another shutdown, disrupting shipping in the East China Sea and potentially triggering a domino effect on the supply chain. Businesses should closely monitor weather and port conditions, protecting goods and adjusting production. Experts recommend building a more resilient and diversified supply chain system to cope with future risks.

12/29/2025 Logistics
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Sea Vs Air Balancing Cost and Speed in Global Trade

Sea Vs Air Balancing Cost and Speed in Global Trade

This paper delves into the core differences between international sea and air freight, encompassing transportation carriers, transit times, costs, and suitable cargo types, while providing a selection guide. Businesses should comprehensively consider factors such as time sensitivity, cargo attributes and volume, cost budget, and destination port when choosing the most appropriate cross-border transportation method. The analysis helps businesses optimize their supply chain by making informed decisions regarding sea versus air freight based on their specific needs and priorities.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Key Factors Affecting Ecommerce Ocean Freight Transit Times

Key Factors Affecting Ecommerce Ocean Freight Transit Times

International shipping time efficiency is affected by multiple factors. Cross-border e-commerce sellers need to pay attention to route distance, vessel speed, direct/transit options, sailing schedule density, port efficiency, cargo flow, natural policies, and cargo type. Understanding these factors can effectively control logistics costs and improve customer satisfaction. By carefully considering these elements, sellers can optimize their shipping strategies and ensure timely delivery, leading to a better overall customer experience and a competitive edge in the market.

01/15/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Northwest Seaport Alliance Reports Surge in International Cargo

Northwest Seaport Alliance Reports Surge in International Cargo

The Northwest Seaport Alliance saw a 22% year-over-year increase in international cargo volume in September, its first growth in nearly 19 months, driven by stable vessel arrivals, rail transport, and optimized schedules. Auto volumes also experienced significant growth. Despite challenges like global economic downturn risks and weak demand, the port needs to diversify markets, improve service quality, and strengthen cooperation. Businesses should closely monitor market trends, optimize supply chains, and proactively respond to evolving conditions.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Shippers and Carriers Debate Responsibility for Container Weighing Fees

Shippers and Carriers Debate Responsibility for Container Weighing Fees

This article explores the current state and coping strategies for VGM (Verified Gross Mass) charges in the freight forwarding industry. It points out that VGM charges have become an industry-wide phenomenon, with freight forwarders in a weak position when dealing with shipping companies and port areas. Some freight forwarders avoid risks by shifting responsibility to customers. The article emphasizes the importance of freight forwarders balancing costs and ensuring profits while remaining compliant with regulations. It highlights the need for strategic approaches to navigate the challenges posed by VGM charges.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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New Container Return Rules Risk Hefty Fines for Importers

New Container Return Rules Risk Hefty Fines for Importers

A new container return rule for shipping containers will take effect on July 7, 2025, mandating that containers be returned to their original pick-up location whenever possible. Non-compliant returns will incur substantial fees, with port returns costing $300 per container and other depots charging up to $1200. This article provides a detailed interpretation of the new regulations, offers practical tips to avoid penalties, and analyzes the impact on shippers, freight forwarders, shipping companies, and container yards. It aims to help stakeholders prepare in advance and avoid unnecessary losses.

07/03/2025 Logistics
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US East Coast Ports Restrict Railtotruck Freight Amid Congestion

US East Coast Ports Restrict Railtotruck Freight Amid Congestion

To address the surge in import volumes at the US East Coast ports of Newark and Philadelphia and prevent potential congestion, cross-border freight has temporarily restricted rail-to-truck transport until week 28. Confirmed truck orders are unaffected, and exceptions can be requested for overweight containers. This measure aims to ensure supply chain stability and improve overall transportation efficiency. Freight companies are advised to plan ahead and monitor port updates. The restriction is intended to mitigate bottlenecks caused by the increased import traffic and maintain smooth cargo flow.

09/26/2025 Logistics
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Guide to Mitigating Risks in House Bills of Lading for Global Trade

Guide to Mitigating Risks in House Bills of Lading for Global Trade

This paper addresses the risks faced by foreign trade enterprises and cross-border e-commerce companies when using Forwarder Bills of Lading (HBL), such as forwarder qualifications, destination port agents, and property rights protection. It proposes a systematic risk management strategy, including strict forwarder selection, standardized contract signing, enhanced property rights control, monitoring cargo status, utilizing financial instruments, and establishing emergency plans. The aim is to help companies effectively mitigate HBL risks and ensure trade security. This approach provides a comprehensive framework for managing potential issues associated with HBL usage in international transactions.

11/03/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Essential Guide to Completing Air Cargo Export Customs Declarations in Beijing

Essential Guide to Completing Air Cargo Export Customs Declarations in Beijing

This article outlines the requirements for filling out the customs declaration form for air export goods from Beijing, including key items such as pre-entry number, export port, filing number, and transportation method. Typically, the owner does not need to worry about dates and numbers, focusing instead on the consistency between the operating unit and the shipping unit, as well as the provision of necessary documents. For trade methods and settlement methods, the owner can fill out according to actual circumstances. The article aims to assist owners in smoothly navigating customs declarations.

07/28/2025 Customs Knowledge
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