Quest for Quality Awards Honor Top Logistics Providers

Quest for Quality Awards Honor Top Logistics Providers

The Logistics Management magazine's Quest for Quality (Q4Q) Awards are considered the 'gold standard' for service excellence in the logistics industry. Based on rigorous shipper surveys, the awards evaluate carriers on key performance indicators like on-time delivery, value, information technology, customer service, and equipment & operations. The 2025 Q4Q Awards recognized 160 outstanding carriers and service providers, offering shippers a valuable benchmark for selecting reliable logistics partners. This recognition provides important insights for shippers seeking dependable and high-quality logistics solutions.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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STB Probes BNSF Acquisition Amid Freight Rate Concerns

STB Probes BNSF Acquisition Amid Freight Rate Concerns

The U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) held a hearing regarding Berkshire Hathaway's acquisition of BNSF Railway, focusing on whether the acquisition premium should be included in BNSF's cost base, thus impacting freight rates. Shippers expressed concerns about potential rate increases, while BNSF emphasized market-based pricing. The STB's decision will influence the competitive landscape of the rail freight market and companies' operating costs. The core issue is whether the acquisition price will unfairly inflate freight rates for shippers using BNSF's services.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Ocean Freight Firms Adapt to Peak Season Challenges

US Ocean Freight Firms Adapt to Peak Season Challenges

The US ocean freight peak season typically runs from July to February, characterized by surging volumes, increased rates, port congestion, and tight capacity. Driven by holiday effects, seasonal product demand, inventory buildup, and global supply chains, the peak season presents challenges for shippers. Strategies to mitigate costs and delays include booking in advance, utilizing off-peak shipping, leveraging LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments, and exploring intermodal transportation. By proactively planning and diversifying transportation options, shippers can navigate the peak season more effectively.

01/23/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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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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Data Analytics Boosts Freight Efficiency Cuts Supply Chain Costs

Data Analytics Boosts Freight Efficiency Cuts Supply Chain Costs

This paper explores how digital freight networks enhance supply chain transparency through data analytics. It examines how shippers can optimize operational expenses, improve facility performance, reduce carbon emissions, and become shippers of choice. The study emphasizes the importance of building a data-driven logistics system and leveraging data insights for continuous improvement. By harnessing the power of data, companies can gain a competitive edge and drive efficiency across their supply chain operations. This ultimately leads to a more sustainable and resilient logistics ecosystem.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Digital Shift Boosts Efficiency in Full Truckload Shipping

Digital Shift Boosts Efficiency in Full Truckload Shipping

While Full Truckload (FTL) transportation offers speed advantages, it suffers from inefficiency when cargo is insufficient. Digital logistics, through innovations like intelligent load matching and on-demand ridesharing, optimizes supply and demand, reduces empty miles, and enables shippers to ship on demand, lowering costs and improving efficiency. Embracing digitalization is key to reshaping the future of freight and enhancing business competitiveness. This approach allows for better resource allocation and a more sustainable transportation model, ultimately benefiting both shippers and carriers.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Parcel LTL and Truckload Markets Show Divergent Trends TD Cowen Index

Parcel LTL and Truckload Markets Show Divergent Trends TD Cowen Index

The TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index reveals a divided US freight market. Parcel rates are up due to fuel surcharges and dimensional weight increases. Less-than-truckload (LTL) benefits from Yellow's bankruptcy, maintaining strong pricing. Truckload (TL) rates are slightly down due to increased short-haul shipments. Companies should optimize transportation networks, strengthen carrier partnerships, and improve load factors to navigate these trends and manage logistics costs effectively.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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TD Cowenafs Index Highlights Trends in Truckload Parcel and LTL Markets

TD Cowenafs Index Highlights Trends in Truckload Parcel and LTL Markets

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index unveils the latest trends in the trucking, parcel, and LTL transportation markets. Spot market trucking shows optimistic signs, but contract rates lag. Parcel pricing adjustments are effective, leading to intense competition. LTL pricing remains firm, but carrier pricing discipline is weakening. The index provides freight companies with crucial insights for strategic planning, operational optimization, and enhanced profitability. It serves as a valuable benchmark for understanding market dynamics and making informed decisions in a rapidly evolving transportation landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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New Freight Index by Cowen AFS Aims to Predict Market Trends

New Freight Index by Cowen AFS Aims to Predict Market Trends

Cowen and AFS Logistics jointly launched a freight index designed to provide investors with a predictive pricing tool covering LTL, Truckload, and Parcel transportation. The index's key strengths lie in its forward-looking forecasting capabilities and segmented market insights. Through data-driven models, it predicts future rate trends, helping investors plan ahead. This index also marks AFS Logistics' transition from behind-the-scenes to the forefront, transforming massive data into commercial value. It offers valuable insights for investment decisions within the dynamic logistics landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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TD Cowen Index Highlights Opportunities in Truckload Parcel and LTL Markets

TD Cowen Index Highlights Opportunities in Truckload Parcel and LTL Markets

The TD Cowen-AFS Freight Index indicates a slightly optimistic outlook for the truckload market. Parcel shipping pricing strategies are proving effective, although discounts remain prevalent. LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) pricing, while currently high, may see some softening. The index provides businesses with crucial market insights, empowering them to develop more effective transportation strategies. It offers valuable data points for understanding current trends and making informed decisions regarding freight management and cost optimization.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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