Rising Diesel Prices Drive Up Logistics Costs for Shippers

Rising Diesel Prices Drive Up Logistics Costs for Shippers

According to the latest data from FTR, a freight consulting firm, the Shipper Conditions Index (SCI) has fallen below zero for the first time since October 2022. Rising diesel prices are a major contributor, leading to increased freight rates and fuel surcharges, thus worsening the transportation environment for shippers. It is recommended that shippers optimize transportation routes, improve load factors, and choose appropriate transportation modes to cope with cost pressures.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Shippers Prioritize Safety in Freight Transportation

Shippers Prioritize Safety in Freight Transportation

Shippers play a crucial role in ensuring driver safety. By optimizing appointment systems, improving loading/unloading processes, providing comfortable waiting areas, enhancing communication, re-evaluating contract terms, investing in technology, and training staff, shippers can reduce driver downtime, improve operational efficiency, lower transportation costs, and increase customer satisfaction, creating a win-win situation for all parties involved. These measures contribute to a safer and more efficient transportation ecosystem, benefiting drivers, shippers, and ultimately, the end consumers.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Forwarders Face Rising Port Entry Challenges

Freight Forwarders Face Rising Port Entry Challenges

This article delves into common challenges encountered during freight forwarding inbound operations, including bill of lading information verification, shipping company information confirmation, customs inspection, shipper-owned container issues, and the sequence of customs declaration and inspection. It provides corresponding solutions and strategies to help freight forwarders improve work efficiency and reduce operating costs. The focus is on practical problem-solving and offers actionable advice for navigating complex situations in the import process.

08/23/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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The Relationship Between Freight Rate and Shipping Cost: Key Connections and Market Impacts

The Relationship Between Freight Rate and Shipping Cost: Key Connections and Market Impacts

This article explores the definitions of freight rates and shipping costs and their interrelationship. It indicates that the freight rate represents the price of transportation labor, which directly influences the supply and demand dynamics of the shipping market. In contrast, the shipping cost is the compensation paid by the shipper to the carrier for completing the transportation of goods. The calculation of shipping costs relies on the product of freight rates and transportation volume.

07/21/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Digital Trucking Eases Capacity Strain Improves Logistics Efficiency

Digital Trucking Eases Capacity Strain Improves Logistics Efficiency

Facing logistics challenges like capacity crunch and rising costs, digital trucking emerges as a smart choice for shippers. Through digital platforms, shippers can optimize transportation processes, reduce expenses, and improve efficiency. Becoming a more attractive 'shipper of choice' enables them to stand out in a competitive market. Digitalization allows for better capacity utilization, real-time tracking, and data-driven decision-making, ultimately leading to a more resilient and cost-effective supply chain.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Supply Chain Costs Rise Stability Expected Soon

Supply Chain Costs Rise Stability Expected Soon

The EDGE conference focuses on the economy, nearshoring, shipper-3PL collaboration, and AI. Economic slowdowns are prompting a rise in nearshoring strategies. Collaborative partnerships are being optimized for efficiency. Artificial intelligence is empowering logistics operations, enhancing visibility and streamlining processes. These trends collectively contribute to greater supply chain stability and resilience in a rapidly changing global landscape. The conference aims to provide insights and strategies for navigating these challenges and leveraging opportunities for growth.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Apply Now for Supply Chain Excellence Alliance Award

Apply Now for Supply Chain Excellence Alliance Award

The Logistics Management Alliance Award recognizes exemplary cases of supply chain efficiency improvement through outstanding collaboration. Participating projects must involve at least one shipper and one service provider, demonstrating significant achievements in efficiency gains, innovation, customer satisfaction, or sustainability. Participating in the award is an excellent opportunity to enhance brand image, attract potential clients, and motivate team members. The award highlights best practices and sets a benchmark for collaborative success within the logistics industry.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Globaltranz Adapts to Pandemic Supply Chain Disruptions

Globaltranz Adapts to Pandemic Supply Chain Disruptions

GlobalTranz executive Ross Spanier offers an in-depth analysis of the pandemic's impact on supply chains, highlighting shipper anxiety, regional disparities, container shortages, inventory management challenges, capacity fluctuations, and intermodal transport difficulties. He emphasizes the critical role of technological innovation, adaptability, and collaboration in navigating the crisis. Spanier underscores the necessity of building more resilient supply chains to withstand future disruptions. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities, requiring businesses to rethink their strategies and prioritize agility.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Shippers Index Signals Freight Market Stability

US Shippers Index Signals Freight Market Stability

The Shipper Conditions Index (SCI), published by FTR, a US freight transportation consulting firm, is a key indicator for assessing the freight market environment. Although the January 2024 SCI decreased compared to the previous month, it remained positive, indicating market stability. The SCI is influenced by factors such as capacity, demand, and freight rates, helping shippers develop strategies and negotiate rates. Combining it with other indices provides a more comprehensive understanding of market dynamics.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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New Guidelines Address SOC Container Compliance Risks

New Guidelines Address SOC Container Compliance Risks

This article delves into the compliance requirements for Shipper-Owned Containers (SOC), emphasizing the responsibilities and obligations of shippers. It clarifies the allocation of liability for loss and damage. Furthermore, it explores risk assessment and compliance management from a data analysis perspective. The aim is to assist all parties in strengthening SOC container management and ensuring transportation safety. By understanding these aspects, stakeholders can better mitigate potential risks associated with SOC containers and maintain adherence to relevant regulations.

09/28/2025 Document Interpretation
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