Lastmile Delivery Costs Challenge Retailers Amid Demand for Speed

Lastmile Delivery Costs Challenge Retailers Amid Demand for Speed

High last-mile delivery costs drive intense logistics competition behind e-commerce's 'free shipping' promise. This article analyzes various delivery models, including 'coopetition,' e-commerce companies building their own logistics networks, and individual operators. It highlights delivery density as crucial for cost reduction and emphasizes the need for shippers to understand their service providers, ultimately responsible for 'free next-day delivery.' Understanding the nuances of these models and focusing on efficiency are key to navigating the challenges of modern e-commerce fulfillment.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Autonomous Systems Revolutionize Lastmile Delivery Efficiency

Autonomous Systems Revolutionize Lastmile Delivery Efficiency

Autonomous Dispatch and Routing (ADR) is crucial for addressing last-mile delivery challenges driven by the 'Amazon Effect'. This paper delves into the concept of ADR, categorizing it into a five-level progressive model, outlining the characteristics of each level. Furthermore, it explores the commercial value of ADR in enhancing customer experience, reducing operational costs, and strengthening competitive advantages. This provides a valuable reference for companies seeking to upgrade their last-mile delivery operations.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Industrial Real Estate Shifts As Ecommerce Cools Logistics Grows

US Industrial Real Estate Shifts As Ecommerce Cools Logistics Grows

A JLL report reveals record-high net absorption in the US industrial real estate market for Q1, with e-commerce leasing demand stabilizing and logistics demand growing. Smaller warehouse spaces are particularly favored. The report highlights a market trend of cooling e-commerce and a rise in logistics. It emphasizes the importance for data analysts to focus on niche markets, key performance indicators, and macroeconomic factors. This shift underscores the evolving dynamics within the industrial sector and the need for a nuanced understanding of these influences.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Korn Ferry Supply Chain Talent Adapts to Postpandemic Demands

Korn Ferry Supply Chain Talent Adapts to Postpandemic Demands

A CRI International survey reveals that the pandemic has accelerated cultural changes in supply chains, with agility, resilience, and collaboration becoming key. Companies are facing a shortage of end-to-end talent and need to break down departmental barriers and broaden their selection horizons. CRI International helps companies meet these challenges by building outstanding supply chain teams and embracing the digital future. The survey highlights the urgent need for organizations to adapt their talent strategies to foster a more responsive and adaptable supply chain workforce.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Logistics Firms Adapt to Ecommerce Boom Says Dicom CEO

Logistics Firms Adapt to Ecommerce Boom Says Dicom CEO

The CEO of Dicom believes that freight in Canada is stable, while the US benefits from e-commerce. To adapt to market changes, it is necessary to expand "last mile" delivery, optimize the supply chain, and embrace B2C. Focusing on improving the efficiency and reach of the final delivery stage is crucial. Adapting to direct-to-consumer models and strengthening the overall supply chain are also vital for success in the evolving logistics landscape.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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October Shipping Volumes and Costs Decline Cass Index Shows

October Shipping Volumes and Costs Decline Cass Index Shows

The Cass Freight Index reveals a year-over-year and month-over-month decline in North American freight volumes and expenditures for October, reflecting macroeconomic slowdown and inventory overhang. Despite short-term pressures, economic recovery and structural adjustments are expected to create new growth opportunities. Companies need to pay close attention to market dynamics and respond flexibly. The downturn highlights the need for efficient supply chain management and strategic adaptation to navigate the evolving economic landscape. Proactive measures will be crucial for businesses to weather the current challenges and capitalize on future upturns.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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AI and Realtime Visibility Transform Global Supply Chains

AI and Realtime Visibility Transform Global Supply Chains

The supply chain software market is evolving towards platformization, optimizing end-to-end processes and managing multi-tiered constraints. Real-time capabilities are achieved through IoT technology for real-time tracking of inventory and transportation. Intelligence leverages AI and machine learning for demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and risk management. Companies face challenges such as data quality, technology integration, and talent development to build a more resilient and intelligent logistics system. This transformation enables better visibility, responsiveness, and efficiency across the entire supply chain network.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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E2open CEO Advocates Resilient Supply Chains Amid Logistics Shifts

E2open CEO Advocates Resilient Supply Chains Amid Logistics Shifts

In an interview, E2open CEO Michael Farlekas analyzed the current freight economy, the impact of declining imports on US ports, and emphasized the importance of supply chain diversification and resilience. E2open is dedicated to helping companies build more resilient supply chains to address market challenges through its connected supply chain software platform. The platform aims to improve visibility and collaboration across the supply chain, enabling businesses to proactively manage disruptions and optimize their operations in a dynamic global environment.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Customer Focus Key to Supply Chain Success

Customer Focus Key to Supply Chain Success

The SMC3 Connections conference highlights customer connection as crucial for success in freight, supply chain, and logistics. The article explores enhancing customer experience through customer relationship management, technology enablement, and building supply chain ecosystems. It emphasizes that businesses should be customer-centric, continuously innovating and improving to adapt to the rapidly changing market environment. Focusing on customer needs and fostering strong relationships are key to navigating the complexities of modern supply chains and achieving sustainable growth.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Chamber Calls for Debt Action to Boost Economy

US Chamber Calls for Debt Action to Boost Economy

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce forecasts a slow economic recovery in the United States, identifying national debt as the biggest threat. The Chamber proposes a five-point growth plan, including unleashing energy potential, expanding trade, streamlining regulations, reforming immigration, and controlling spending. Simultaneously, it advocates for increased infrastructure investment, suggesting a rise in fuel taxes to stimulate economic growth and job creation.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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