ATA Economist Predicts Freight Industry Trends at RILA Conference

ATA Economist Predicts Freight Industry Trends at RILA Conference

Bob Costello, Chief Economist at the American Trucking Associations, provided an in-depth analysis of the freight economic outlook at the RILA Retail Supply Chain Conference. He forecasts an economic slowdown rather than a recession in the near term, but a recession is inevitable, potentially in 2021. Despite challenges in the housing market, economic fundamentals remain solid, with strong manufacturing output. Long-term driver compensation has lagged, and increasing driver pay is crucial for the industry's sustainability and attracting new talent.

02/12/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ecommerce Tax Leads to Slight Price Increases Demand Steady

Ecommerce Tax Leads to Slight Price Increases Demand Steady

The Marketplace Fairness Act might slightly increase online shopping prices, but the convenience and other advantages of e-commerce will likely sustain its overall growth. Retailers and supply chains need to proactively adapt to tax policy changes and optimize their operational models. Future e-commerce tax policies will emphasize fairness and efficiency. Data analysis will play a crucial role in helping governments and businesses develop reasonable strategies. This shift necessitates a focus on compliance and efficiency within the retail landscape to maintain competitiveness.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Port of Los Angeles Reports Steady June Growth Despite Economic Concerns

Port of Los Angeles Reports Steady June Growth Despite Economic Concerns

The Port of Los Angeles experienced solid growth in June, but a cautious outlook prevails due to retail sector weakness. Strategic alliances are aiding port development, amidst intense competition among West Coast ports. Experts suggest low inventory levels could drive demand recovery, highlighting the importance of refined operations. While June's performance is positive, future growth hinges on navigating economic uncertainties and optimizing port efficiency. The port continues to adapt to evolving market dynamics and strives to maintain its competitive edge.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Ecommerce Logistics Hit Record Ontime Delivery Before Holidays

Ecommerce Logistics Hit Record Ontime Delivery Before Holidays

A ShipMatrix report indicates strong performance from the top three US logistics companies during 'Cyber Week,' achieving recent highs in on-time delivery rates. Ample capacity, Amazon's strategic adjustments, and relaxed delivery timeframes contributed to smooth logistics during the year-end peak season. While shifting consumer habits affected parcel volume, the overall logistics environment remains favorable for e-commerce sellers. The increased on-time rate suggests improved efficiency and reliability within the delivery network during a crucial period for online retail.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Walmarts Ontime Delivery Rule Poses Challenges for Suppliers

Walmarts Ontime Delivery Rule Poses Challenges for Suppliers

Walmart's new "On-Time Delivery" regulations impose stricter delivery standards on suppliers, shortening delivery windows and increasing compliance rates, aiming to optimize the supply chain and reduce costs. Suppliers face challenges such as supply chain complexity and rising transportation costs. It is recommended that suppliers comprehensively assess their supply chains, optimize transportation plans, and strengthen information communication to turn challenges into opportunities and enhance competitiveness. The overall trend in the retail industry is to tighten supply chains, making supplier transformation and upgrading imperative.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Supreme Court Ends Online Sales Tax Exemption Hits Ecommerce

Supreme Court Ends Online Sales Tax Exemption Hits Ecommerce

The US Supreme Court's overturning of the e-commerce tax exemption marks a new era for US online retail. The new rule mandates that out-of-state e-commerce businesses with over $100,000 in annual sales or 200 transactions must collect sales tax, causing e-commerce stocks to decline. This presents both challenges and opportunities for cross-border e-commerce. Businesses need to ensure compliance, optimize supply chains, improve service quality, and strengthen brand building to succeed in the evolving landscape.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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CH Robinson SAS Launch Realtime Supply Chain Platform

CH Robinson SAS Launch Realtime Supply Chain Platform

C.H. Robinson partners with SAS to offer end-to-end supply chain solutions for the retail industry. This collaboration integrates data, optimizes transportation procurement, and enhances inventory visibility, ultimately enabling a more agile and efficient supply chain. The solution leverages data analysis and potentially dynamic programming techniques to improve decision-making across the entire supply chain, from sourcing to delivery. By providing real-time insights and predictive analytics, retailers can better manage their inventory, reduce costs, and respond quickly to changing market demands.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Schneider Electric Exec Announces Supply Chain Overhaul for Logistics

Schneider Electric Exec Announces Supply Chain Overhaul for Logistics

Schneider Electric executive Erin Van Zeeland analyzes current logistics market challenges and opportunities, highlighting the impact of overcapacity, shifting consumer trends, and nearshoring on supply chains. She shares Schneider Electric's strategic initiatives in multimodal transportation, technological innovation, and customer service. Furthermore, she discusses best practices in verticals like automotive and retail. Her insights aim to help businesses reshape their supply chains and succeed in the future of logistics. The discussion emphasizes the need for agility and resilience in navigating the evolving landscape.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Lowes Expands Rural Reach Overhauls Supply Chain

Lowes Expands Rural Reach Overhauls Supply Chain

Lowe's is undergoing a strategic overhaul, focusing on targeted expansion, penetrating rural markets, restructuring its logistics system, and collaborating with third-party platforms. Leveraging data-driven store site selection, customized product assortments for rural locations, an efficient three-tiered node-based supply chain network, and online expansion of long-tail SKUs, Lowe's aims to create a more resilient and competitive omnichannel home improvement retail landscape. This comprehensive approach seeks to enhance customer reach and operational efficiency across diverse market segments.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Ecommerce Returns Cut Holiday Profits As Logistics Strain Grows

Ecommerce Returns Cut Holiday Profits As Logistics Strain Grows

A CBRE report reveals the reverse logistics pressure stemming from the holiday season e-commerce return surge, estimating the value of online returned goods could reach up to $41.6 billion. The report emphasizes that the retail industry needs to optimize return processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Collaboration with third-party logistics providers is crucial for retailers to differentiate themselves in a highly competitive market. Efficient reverse logistics management is key to mitigating the impact of returns and maintaining profitability.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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