STB Probes BNSF Acquisition Costs in Rail Rate Fairness Review

STB Probes BNSF Acquisition Costs in Rail Rate Fairness Review

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) held hearings regarding Berkshire Hathaway's acquisition of BNSF Railway, focusing on the impact of the acquisition premium on rail freight rates. Shippers expressed concerns that the premium would be passed on to freight rates, while BNSF argued the impact would be minimal. Experts pointed out that BNSF is the only railroad allowed to value its assets at market prices, which differentiates its cost basis from other companies. The debate centers around whether this unique accounting practice allows BNSF to justify higher rates compared to its peers.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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New IATA Directory Enhances Dangerous Goods Transport Safety

New IATA Directory Enhances Dangerous Goods Transport Safety

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) publishes a directory of UN packaging suppliers and testing facilities to provide compliance guidance for companies transporting dangerous goods. This aims to simplify the search process, reduce compliance costs, and improve safety levels. The directory includes information on packaging manufacturers and suppliers that meet UN specifications, as well as packaging performance testing organizations. IATA emphasizes that the directory is for reference only and companies should exercise caution in their selection. IATA will continue to update the directory to promote the safe transportation of dangerous goods.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Intermodal Rise

US Rail Freight Sees Carload Drop Intermodal Rise

Data from the Association of American Railroads reveals a divergence in the U.S. rail freight market for the week of August 8th. Traditional carload traffic plummeted 15.6% year-over-year, with only grain shipments showing growth. Conversely, intermodal container and trailer traffic increased by 1.9%. Year-to-date figures also indicate a smaller decline in intermodal volume compared to carload. This reflects the transformation of the U.S. economic structure, changing consumption patterns, and the influence of global trade. Railroad companies need to actively innovate and transform to adapt to the evolving market.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Rail Merger Worth 85 Billion Hits Regulatory Delay

Rail Merger Worth 85 Billion Hits Regulatory Delay

The $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern has been delayed, sending shockwaves through the industry. Competitor BNSF has seized the opportunity to challenge the deal, while labor unions have also voiced concerns. This merger is not only crucial for the two railroad giants but will also profoundly impact the US rail transportation landscape and potentially reshape the national supply chain. The delay raises questions about regulatory hurdles and the potential for increased industry consolidation. The outcome will significantly affect shipping costs and efficiency across the country.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Considers Xinjiang Product Ban Threatening Supply Chains

US Considers Xinjiang Product Ban Threatening Supply Chains

The US Senate passed a bill aiming to comprehensively ban imports from Xinjiang, China, based on a "presumption of guilt" principle. This impacts not only cotton and tomatoes but the entire supply chain. The bill is expected to pass the House and be signed by Biden. Businesses must immediately assess risks, reshape supply chains, and address the challenges posed by rising trade protectionism. The ban will force companies to provide clear and convincing evidence that their products are not made with forced labor, placing a significant burden on due diligence and compliance.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Food Delivery Startups Face Lastmile Delivery Challenges

Food Delivery Startups Face Lastmile Delivery Challenges

Catering delivery companies face multiple challenges including supply chain management, competitive landscape, and profitability, leading to the failure of many startups. This article analyzes core concepts like just-in-time production and the last mile, explores key issues such as supply chain management and competition from food delivery platforms, and proposes a path to success through refined operations and differentiated competition. Only companies that truly solve the 'last mile' problem can survive in the fierce market competition. Focusing on efficient delivery and optimized logistics is crucial for long-term success.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Top Performers Exit First Amid Workplace Dynamics Shift

Top Performers Exit First Amid Workplace Dynamics Shift

This article analyzes common reasons why high-performing employees tend to leave their jobs, including leadership's 'competency anxiety,' the team's need for stability, and the 'skewed effect' in benefit distribution. It reminds professionals not only to work diligently but also to showcase their value appropriately, strive for deserved rewards, and rationally assess their career development prospects. Understanding these dynamics can help individuals navigate the workplace effectively and make informed decisions about their professional journey. Ultimately, proactive career management is crucial for retaining valuable employees and fostering a thriving work environment.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Prologisamb Merger Transforms Global Logistics Real Estate

Prologisamb Merger Transforms Global Logistics Real Estate

The merger of GLP and Prologis signifies a major shift in the global logistics real estate landscape, increasing market concentration and service capabilities. This consolidation not only expands market share but also enhances operational efficiency and customer service. Facing future supply chain challenges, businesses need to build more resilient systems through diversification, digital transformation, and infrastructure investment. The development of logistics real estate will profoundly impact global trade and our daily lives. This merger positions GLP as a dominant force in the sector, ready to address evolving supply chain demands.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Customs Rules on Franchise Fees Complicate Import Pricing

Customs Rules on Franchise Fees Complicate Import Pricing

This article analyzes whether franchise fees should be included in the customs valuation of imported goods. According to the Customs Valuation Agreement, only fees related to the imported goods themselves should be included. Case studies suggest that if the imported goods do not inherently contain intellectual property, and the franchise fees primarily cover branding and operational systems, they should not be included in the customs valuation. Businesses need to conduct data analysis, clearly define the terms of the agreement, and seek professional advice to ensure accurate valuation and compliance.

01/30/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to HS Codes for Tea and Spices Exporters

Guide to HS Codes for Tea and Spices Exporters

This article delves into the HS codes of the 09 series, covering export information and regulatory conditions for products such as black tea, Pu-erh tea, dark tea, mate, pepper, and chili. It aims to assist businesses in accurately understanding key regulations in international trade, thereby enhancing export efficiency and market competitiveness.

08/05/2025 HS Code Query
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