price factors News

TD Cowen Index Shows Freight Market Shifts During Peak Season

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index reveals emerging trends in the freight market: LTL pricing impacted by Yellow's closure, fuel surcharges rebound; Ground parcel discounts deepen, but demand surcharges loom; Truckload sees a short-term volume increase, peak season expectations are muted. The index provides shippers with valuable insights for informed decision-making. The LTL market is experiencing significant price volatility due to the disruption caused by Yellow's bankruptcy. Shippers need to carefully monitor these changes and adjust their strategies accordingly.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights

Tupperware Halts Production Amid Excess Inventory Market Shifts

Tupperware faces financial pressure due to inventory overstock resulting from misjudged demand during the early pandemic. The company is responding with measures like production halts, promotions, and price increases, while actively pursuing a strategic transformation. This includes expanding online channels, launching sub-brands, and strengthening brand marketing. Tupperware's case serves as a warning to businesses about the importance of accurate market demand forecasting, diversifying sales channels, and continuous product innovation to avoid similar inventory issues and ensure long-term viability.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights

Global Supply Chain Disruptions Prolong Lead Times for Businesses

The global supply chain faces severe challenges, with lead times reaching record highs and accelerating due to port congestion, raw material shortages, and labor shortages. Companies are actively responding by exploring alternative ports, using air freight instead of sea freight, and planning ahead. Labor shortage is the most significant challenge, with unsustainable price levels. It is recommended that companies strengthen risk management, diversify suppliers, optimize inventory, and embrace digital transformation to mitigate these disruptions and build resilience in the face of ongoing uncertainty.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights

Trucking Industry Adapts to Economic Challenges Amid Recovery Efforts

The US freight industry is facing its biggest challenge since the 1930s. Less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers are experiencing declining profits, while truckload (TL) carriers are grappling with overcapacity and price wars. Companies are seeking survival through diversification and service upgrades, but rising freight rates are inevitable. The industry is calling for attention to consumer spending and employment rates, hoping for economic recovery. The current situation demands innovative solutions and strategic adaptation to navigate the evolving landscape of freight and logistics.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights

STB Probes BNSF Acquisition Amid Freight Rate Concerns

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) held a hearing regarding Berkshire Hathaway's acquisition of BNSF Railway, focusing on whether the acquisition premium should be included in BNSF's cost base, thus impacting freight rates. Shippers expressed concerns about potential rate increases, while BNSF emphasized market-based pricing. The STB's decision will influence the competitive landscape of the rail freight market and companies' operating costs. The core issue is whether the acquisition price will unfairly inflate freight rates for shippers using BNSF's services.

01/22/2026 Logistics

Freight Industry Adopts 3D Market Strategy for Growth

The freight industry is entering a three-dimensional market era, with spot, forward, and futures markets interconnected, increasing information transparency, and intensifying rate fluctuations. Companies need to understand market dynamics and utilize forward contracts and futures instruments to hedge risks, optimize price discovery, and develop three-dimensional execution strategies. This approach is crucial for gaining a competitive edge in the new market landscape. Effective risk management and strategic planning are essential for navigating the complexities and capitalizing on opportunities within this evolving environment.