US Trade Trends and Peak Season Outlook Amid China Tensions

US Trade Trends and Peak Season Outlook Amid China Tensions

Chris Rogers, Head of Supply Chain Research at S&P Global, analyzes US import and export trends, peak season performance, inventory adjustments, and US-China trade relations. He points out that US imports and exports are undergoing a period of adjustment. The proportion of online sales during peak season is increasing, requiring companies to flexibly adjust inventory. Businesses should pay close attention to changes in US-China trade policies and explore diversified supply chains to mitigate risks and ensure resilience.

Lightbulbscom Boosts Peak Season Efficiency Without Hiring

Lightbulbscom Boosts Peak Season Efficiency Without Hiring

LightBulbs.com doubled its peak season throughput without increasing headcount by implementing an integrated shipping and dimensioning solution. Their success stemmed from utilizing a multi-carrier platform, automated parcel dimensioning, a real-time tracking system, and recovering overcharges from carrier errors. This case provides valuable insights for businesses aiming to optimize their logistics operations and navigate the challenges of peak season demands. The solution helped streamline processes and improve efficiency, leading to significant cost savings and enhanced customer satisfaction during a critical period.

Retailers Optimize Material Handling for Holiday Peak Season

Retailers Optimize Material Handling for Holiday Peak Season

The year-end holiday shopping season presents both challenges and opportunities for logistics. Businesses need to upgrade intelligently and embrace automation; utilize data-driven insights to accurately predict demand; implement flexible supply chains to handle unforeseen events; and adopt lean management principles to optimize processes. By doing so, they can improve material handling efficiency and ultimately win over customers during this critical period. This requires a proactive and adaptable approach to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction amidst increased volumes and potential disruptions.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Shipping Industry Braces for Oversupply As New Vessels Flood Market

Shipping Industry Braces for Oversupply As New Vessels Flood Market

After a period of recovery, the container shipping industry faces potential overcapacity risks due to a surge in new vessel deliveries. Capacity management is crucial. Shipping companies need to assess the situation carefully, strengthen capacity management, embrace digital transformation, and practice sustainable development to consolidate recovery gains and achieve sustainable growth. This will contribute to the prosperity of global trade. Effective capacity management and digital adoption are key to navigating the challenges and ensuring long-term success in a dynamic market.

Long Beach Port Extends Free Storage to Reduce Congestion

Long Beach Port Extends Free Storage to Reduce Congestion

The Port of Long Beach extended the free demurrage period for import containers to 7 days, aiming to alleviate port congestion caused by the holiday shopping season and larger vessels. This measure is expected to reduce detention charges for shippers, but chassis shortages remain a challenge. Port congestion impacts the supply chain, increasing costs and delaying deliveries. The Port of Long Beach is actively exploring solutions, such as upgrading the PierPass program, to improve operational efficiency and address global trade challenges.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Aviation Appraisal Key to Smooth Crossborder Ecommerce

Aviation Appraisal Key to Smooth Crossborder Ecommerce

This article delves into the validity period rules of the Aviation Transport Conditions Appraisal Report, emphasizing its “calendar year validity” characteristic and listing special circumstances that can lead to premature invalidation. Furthermore, it provides practical operational advice for cross-border e-commerce sellers, aiming to help them avoid cargo delays or detentions caused by appraisal report issues and ensure smooth shipment. The guidance focuses on understanding the expiration nuances and proactive measures to maintain compliance with aviation regulations for international shipping.

Italys Ecommerce Boom Opens Door to European Growth

Italys Ecommerce Boom Opens Door to European Growth

The Italian e-commerce market has transitioned from a period of high growth to a crucial stage of compliant operations. Registering an Italian company and obtaining local operating qualifications is a strategic choice for cross-border e-commerce businesses entering the European market. By establishing a compliant and localized operational structure, companies can effectively reduce costs, improve efficiency, and gain the trust and support of e-commerce platforms. This allows them to stand out in the highly competitive European market.

Winter Freeze Drives January Truckload Volume Surge

Winter Freeze Drives January Truckload Volume Surge

The DAT report indicates that U.S. freight volume hit a record high in January due to severe cold weather. Freight volume for dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed trucks all increased, leading to higher spot rates. Experts suggest this is a short-term phenomenon, with long-term rates still lower than the same period last year. Businesses are advised to view market fluctuations rationally and seize opportunities. The surge is likely a temporary response to weather conditions rather than a sustained market shift.

Yinchuan Tax Refund Eases Solar Export Policy Shift

Yinchuan Tax Refund Eases Solar Export Policy Shift

Yinchuan Comprehensive Bonded Zone launched bonded warehousing services in response to adjustments in photovoltaic export tax rebate policies. It offers services like 'tax rebate upon entry,' helping companies alleviate financial pressure and accelerate capital recovery. Through standardized warehousing and one-stop customs clearance services, it assists enterprises in reducing costs, improving international competitiveness, and smoothly navigating the policy window. This initiative aims to support photovoltaic exporters by providing efficient and cost-effective solutions during the policy transition period and beyond.

02/03/2026 Warehousing
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Shipping Alliances Adapt to 2014 Logistics Challenges Emerging Markets

Shipping Alliances Adapt to 2014 Logistics Challenges Emerging Markets

This paper reviews key issues highlighted in the 2014 Logistics Management journal, focusing on excellent service providers, the reshaping of shipping alliances, the integration of ERP with supply chain execution, the rise of emerging markets, and the optimization of forklift maintenance. By deeply analyzing the changes and trends in these areas, this review provides valuable insights for enterprise decision-makers. It offers a concise overview of significant developments and considerations within the logistics and supply chain landscape during that period.