Ocean Freight Costs Explaining GRI and PSS Surcharges

Ocean Freight Costs Explaining GRI and PSS Surcharges

This article delves into the General Rate Increase (GRI) and Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) common in ocean freight, explaining their definitions, influencing factors, and Flexport's approach. It emphasizes the importance of transparent pricing and provides practical advice for planning freight budgets, helping shippers navigate the volatility of the ocean freight market. Understanding these charges and proactive budgeting are crucial for efficient supply chain management and minimizing unexpected costs. By providing clarity and actionable insights, this resource empowers shippers to make informed decisions.

01/20/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Trucking and Delivery Sectors Face Supply Chain Challenges

Trucking and Delivery Sectors Face Supply Chain Challenges

The CSCMP conference highlighted the challenges facing the trucking, express delivery, and LTL freight markets, including overcapacity, intense competition, and industry consolidation. These issues are driven by a complex interplay of factors, leading to a freight recession. Finding a balance between supply and demand is crucial, as is effective regulation to ensure fair competition and stability. The conference emphasized the need for innovative solutions and strategic adjustments to navigate this evolving landscape and prepare for future disruptions in the supply chain.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Experts Analyze Shifts in Global Freight Economy Trends

Experts Analyze Shifts in Global Freight Economy Trends

Breakthrough's Chief Economist, Matt Muenster, provides an in-depth analysis of key factors impacting the freight economy on the Logistics Management podcast, including tariffs, manufacturing, capacity, inflation, demand patterns, and pricing. He emphasizes the connection between macroeconomics and micro-level practices, offering actionable strategies for businesses. The podcast aims to explore supply chain innovation and empower companies to make informed decisions in a complex market. It provides valuable insights for navigating the challenges and opportunities within the freight and logistics landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Recession Worsens Cass Index Shows

Freight Market Recession Worsens Cass Index Shows

The latest Cass Freight Index report reveals a decline in both freight volume and expenditures in October, signaling a market downturn. Factors such as weakening demand, excess capacity, the rise of private fleets, and supply chain reshaping are creating challenges for logistics companies. To survive and thrive in this environment, businesses should focus on refined operations, diversified services, technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and risk management. These strategies will help them weather the storm and prepare for the eventual resurgence of the logistics industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Imports Stay Strong Despite Inflation Geopolitical Strains

US Imports Stay Strong Despite Inflation Geopolitical Strains

Panjiva reports a month-over-month decrease but year-over-year increase in US containerized freight imports for February. The daily import volume reached a record high, indicating supply chain resilience. Imports of energy, consumer goods, and industrial equipment showed varied performance. Inflation and shifting demand may impact future imports, requiring businesses to adapt flexibly. This data highlights the complex interplay of factors influencing US trade and the need for businesses to closely monitor economic trends to navigate the evolving landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Multimodal Transport Eases Postpandemic Supply Chain Strains

Multimodal Transport Eases Postpandemic Supply Chain Strains

Industry expert Larry Gross highlighted at the RailTrends conference the conflict between surging demand and constrained capacity in multimodal transportation. He attributed this to a complex interplay of factors. Businesses should adapt their strategies, shifting from IPI to transloading, and be wary of the rise of trucking. The industry faces short-term pressure, but building supply chain resilience and reshaping growth models are crucial for the long term. A potential “west-to-east migration” of freight may emerge in the future.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucker HOS Reform Stalls Amid Political Disputes

Trucker HOS Reform Stalls Amid Political Disputes

The US Hours of Service (HOS) reform for truck drivers faces uncertainty as Democrats seek a “comprehensive review,” potentially delaying implementation by 18 months. The new rules aim to increase driver flexibility, but political factors and potential litigation cast a shadow over the reform's future. Trucking associations are concerned about the delay but remain optimistic that the rules will take effect as scheduled by the end of September. The potential delay raises concerns about efficiency and productivity in the trucking industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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AFS Logistics Highlights Freight Trends Supply Chain Resilience

AFS Logistics Highlights Freight Trends Supply Chain Resilience

AFS Logistics expert Tom Nightingale provides an in-depth analysis of the freight market, dissecting the Cowen/AFS Freight Index report. He explores peak season outlook, capacity rates, nearshoring trends, and the impact of the Baltimore bridge collapse on supply chains. Nightingale offers forward-looking insights to help businesses build resilient supply chains and navigate current market complexities. The discussion highlights key factors influencing freight costs and provides strategies for mitigating risks and optimizing logistics operations in a dynamic environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Imports Jump Amid Tariff Worries Labor Agreement

US Imports Jump Amid Tariff Worries Labor Agreement

Despite the US port labor agreement averting a potential strike, concerns about future tariff increases are driving a surge in US import volumes. Reports indicate that retailers are front-loading imports to mitigate potential tariff hikes, leading to a significant increase in import activity. Import volumes are expected to be further impacted by factors such as Lunar New Year factory shutdowns in the coming months. Retailers need to closely monitor policy changes and adapt their supply chain strategies accordingly to navigate these uncertainties.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Ports Report Import Surge As Tariff Fears Outweigh Labor Deal

US Ports Report Import Surge As Tariff Fears Outweigh Labor Deal

Despite the U.S. port labor agreement averting a potential shutdown, concerns about future tariff increases continue to drive a surge in U.S. imports. Retailers are stockpiling inventory to mitigate potential tariff hikes and supply chain disruptions, leading to a significant increase in import volumes. The report forecasts fluctuating import volumes in the coming months, influenced by factors like the Lunar New Year. The long-term impact remains to be seen as businesses adjust to the evolving trade landscape and potential tariff changes.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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