Global Trade Slump Drives Export Drop Inventory Rise Fourkites

Global Trade Slump Drives Export Drop Inventory Rise Fourkites

FourKites' Glenn Koepke analyzes the triple threat facing global trade: economic downturn, inventory glut, and supply chain shifts. He attributes the sharp decline in Chinese exports to a confluence of factors and predicts a muted peak season in 2023, suggesting the freight recession has bottomed out. Furthermore, he examines the impact of tariff policies and West Coast port labor negotiations on global trade dynamics. These factors contribute to the current state and future outlook of global commerce and logistics.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Warehouse Demand Surges Amid Ecommerce Boom

US Warehouse Demand Surges Amid Ecommerce Boom

US industrial real estate availability continues to decline, hitting a two-decade low. E-commerce growth and the macroeconomy are the primary drivers. Regional markets are showing varied performance. Future growth is projected to slow but remains promising. Investors, developers, and tenants need to closely monitor market changes to seize opportunities and address challenges. This includes understanding the interplay of supply chain dynamics, evolving consumer behaviors, and the impact of rising interest rates on development costs and investment decisions.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Intermodal Volume Drops Raising Logistics Concerns

US Intermodal Volume Drops Raising Logistics Concerns

US intermodal data declined in September, with trailer transport experiencing a significant drop. Domestic containers saw slight growth, while international containers presented mixed results. Experts suggest that inflation and oil prices have a complex impact. To address these challenges and achieve sustainable development, businesses should optimize their supply chains, invest in technology, and strengthen collaboration. The decline highlights the need for proactive strategies in a volatile economic environment, emphasizing resilience and adaptability within the logistics and supply chain sectors.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Surge Amid Tariffs Seasonal Demand

US Container Imports Surge Amid Tariffs Seasonal Demand

A new Descartes report indicates that U.S. container imports reached the second-highest level in history in August, totaling 2,519,722 TEU, a 1.6% year-over-year increase and a 3.9% month-over-month decrease. Import volumes are influenced by both tariff policies and seasonal factors. China's import share decreased to 34.5%. East Coast ports gained market share, while West Coast ports experienced a slight decline. Overall, the distribution of throughput across the coastline remained relatively stable.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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West Coast Imports Boost Intermodal Growth in Q4

West Coast Imports Boost Intermodal Growth in Q4

The US intermodal market saw solid growth in early Q4 2023, driven by West Coast imports and consumer spending, according to IANA data. International container shipping performed strongly, while trailer volumes continued to decline. Looking ahead, infrastructure development, technological innovation, and supportive policies will be crucial for the intermodal market's future development. The rise of container shipping indicates a shift in freight transportation preferences, highlighting the importance of adapting to evolving market dynamics and optimizing intermodal networks.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Industrial Real Estate Faces Rising Vacancies Slowing Rent Growth

US Industrial Real Estate Faces Rising Vacancies Slowing Rent Growth

A Colliers International report indicates a surge in inventory across the top 25 U.S. industrial markets, fueled by ongoing development. However, new supply is decreasing, potentially accelerating market recovery. Rental growth is slowing, and future trends remain uncertain, with rising vacancy rates and softening demand. Rental rates are projected to continue growing in the coming years, and vacancy rates are expected to peak and then decline. The market is facing a complex interplay of factors influencing its trajectory.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply Amid Demand Concerns

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply Amid Demand Concerns

North American Class 8 truck orders experienced a significant decline in November, raising concerns about demand pull-ahead and future market trends. Experts attribute this drop to factors like demand pull-ahead and seasonal effects, but emphasize the need to monitor key indicators such as economic growth, freight volume, and capacity utilization. Order fluctuations impact logistics capacity, equipment manufacturers, employment, and the overall economy. Businesses should carefully navigate market changes and develop flexible strategies to mitigate potential risks.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply on Trade Uncertainty

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply on Trade Uncertainty

North American Class 8 truck orders plummeted in February, falling over 30% year-over-year, significantly below expectations. This decline is largely driven by trade policy uncertainty, tightening emission regulations, and slowing economic activity. Businesses should closely monitor policy developments, optimize supply chains, strengthen technological innovation, and flexibly adjust production plans to navigate these market challenges. The steep drop highlights growing concerns about the economic outlook and the impact of external factors on the trucking industry.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply in November

North American Class 8 Truck Orders Drop Sharply in November

North American Class 8 truck orders experienced a sharp decline in November, raising concerns in the industry. Experts attribute this drop to factors such as front-loaded demand, economic uncertainty, and excess capacity. Despite these challenges, infrastructure development, e-commerce growth, and technological innovation are expected to drive future market growth. Truck manufacturers and transportation companies need to closely monitor market trends, invest in technological innovation, and optimize supply chain management to navigate these changing market conditions.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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OOCL Leads Agtc Survey Amid Ocean Carrier Performance Review

OOCL Leads Agtc Survey Amid Ocean Carrier Performance Review

The Agriculture Transportation Coalition (AgTC) annual survey reveals outstanding ocean carriers, with OOCL taking the top spot. The survey covers eleven key indicators, including documentation, quotations, rates, and claims, reflecting shipper satisfaction with ocean transportation services. Industry satisfaction continues to decline, highlighting the importance of excellent service. The survey provides valuable benchmarks for carriers and service providers to improve and understand shipper needs in the agricultural export sector. It serves as a crucial reference point for the industry.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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