STB Chair Warns of US Freight Rail Service Crisis

STB Chair Warns of US Freight Rail Service Crisis

Surface Transportation Board (STB) Chairman Martin Oberman strongly criticized the “collapse” of US freight rail service and labor shortages at the RailTrends conference. He pointed out that railroad companies have significantly reduced staff in pursuit of profits, leading to train delays, embargoes, and other problems, causing significant losses to the US economy. Oberman argued that these actions prioritize profits over service. He called for strengthened regulation, increased investment, and encouragement of innovation to reshape the future of US freight rail. He emphasized the need for railroads to prioritize service and reliability alongside financial performance.

Remote Warehousing Tech Transforms Logistics Industry

Remote Warehousing Tech Transforms Logistics Industry

Warehouse operations are undergoing a technology-driven transformation. Technologies like RFID and blockchain are enabling warehouses to reduce reliance on on-site personnel and achieve partial or even full remote operation. Remote insights, remote control, and the pandemic are key drivers of this trend. However, to achieve remote warehouse operations, companies need not only to generate real-time information but also to have the ability to process that information and undergo talent transformation. This shift requires a significant investment in technology and a new approach to workforce management.

01/19/2026 Warehousing
Read More
Firms Boost Supply Chain Efficiency Through Packaging Optimization

Firms Boost Supply Chain Efficiency Through Packaging Optimization

This logistics management podcast focuses on packaging optimization and its crucial role in improving supply chain efficiency. Through a conversation with a DHL supply chain expert, we delve into the new demands placed on packaging by the growth of e-commerce and how packaging innovation, standardization, and customization drive supply chain upgrades. Companies should re-evaluate their packaging strategies, increase investment in innovation, embrace digital technologies, and focus on sustainable development to enhance supply chain competitiveness. This podcast provides actionable insights for businesses looking to optimize their packaging and overall logistics operations.

Sherwinwilliams Invests 300M in NC Plant to Strengthen Resin Supply

Sherwinwilliams Invests 300M in NC Plant to Strengthen Resin Supply

Sherwin-Williams is investing $300 million to expand its North Carolina facility, boosting its coatings production capacity and resin self-sufficiency. This investment aims to address supply shortages and inflationary pressures within the coatings market. The expansion will create approximately 180 new jobs. By increasing internal resin production, Sherwin-Williams seeks to mitigate disruptions in the supply chain and control costs, ensuring a more stable and reliable supply of raw materials for its coatings manufacturing operations. This strategic move enhances the company's resilience in a volatile economic environment.

GXO Logistics Expands in Ecommerce and Automation As Independent Firm

GXO Logistics Expands in Ecommerce and Automation As Independent Firm

XPO Logistics has completed the spin-off of GXO Logistics, which is now independently listed. GXO focuses on global contract logistics, seizing opportunities from e-commerce growth and automation upgrades. By deepening its expertise in e-commerce logistics, increasing investment in automation, expanding into emerging markets, enhancing digital capabilities, and focusing on sustainability, GXO Logistics is poised to stand out in a competitive market and achieve sustained growth. The company aims to capitalize on the increasing demand for efficient and technologically advanced logistics solutions driven by the rapid expansion of online retail.

01/19/2026 Logistics
Read More
Global Ecommerce Trade Shows Key Strategies for Success

Global Ecommerce Trade Shows Key Strategies for Success

This article focuses on the critical aspects of cross-border e-commerce participation in overseas exhibitions, analyzing entry barriers, cost control, logistics solutions, and compliance requirements. Through systematic guidance, it aims to help Chinese sellers participate in exhibitions efficiently, avoid risks, successfully expand into overseas markets, and achieve brand globalization. It provides insights into navigating the complexities of international trade shows and maximizing the return on investment for businesses seeking to establish a global presence. The guide serves as a practical resource for companies looking to leverage overseas exhibitions as a strategic tool for growth.

Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

Bahamas Customs Adopts Wcobacked Preruling System to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports the Bahamas in establishing a commodity classification advance ruling system to enhance trade facilitation. Through national workshops and technical assistance, the WCO assists the Bahamas Customs in its modernization efforts, establishing a pre-ruling system to resolve trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and promote economic development. While challenges exist in establishing the advance ruling system, the WCO's support and cooperation will help the Bahamas achieve its trade facilitation goals. This initiative aims to create a more predictable and efficient trade environment for businesses operating in the Bahamas.

Trucking Industry Calls for Infrastructure Funding to Cut Congestion Costs

Trucking Industry Calls for Infrastructure Funding to Cut Congestion Costs

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has launched an advocacy campaign urging Congress to increase infrastructure investment to address traffic congestion and economic losses caused by aging roads and bridges. The ATA proposes raising the fuel tax to provide a sustainable funding source for the Highway Trust Fund. They are calling on the public to pressure their congressional representatives to support infrastructure development. The initiative highlights the urgency of modernizing America's transportation network to improve efficiency and boost the economy by reducing delays and ensuring the safe movement of goods.

UPS to Add Air Conditioning in Delivery Trucks After Labor Deal

UPS to Add Air Conditioning in Delivery Trucks After Labor Deal

UPS plans to install air conditioning in 5,000 delivery vehicles to improve working conditions for its drivers. This initiative is part of a labor agreement reached with the Teamsters union, aimed at providing better heat protection for drivers. While UPS's relationship with the union hasn't always been smooth, with disputes over network restructuring and employee separation plans, the company is working to enhance operational efficiency and provide better service to its customers. This investment in driver comfort is a step towards improving employee relations and overall service quality.

01/21/2026 Logistics
Read More
Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

With support from the EU-WCO and the German Alliance for Trade Facilitation, Côte d'Ivoire is actively developing a national Advance Ruling System. This initiative aims to enhance trade transparency and predictability, reduce trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and improve customs efficiency. The system is expected to revitalize Côte d'Ivoire's trade development and serve as a model for other African nations. It will provide traders with binding rulings on tariff classification, origin, and other customs-related matters before import or export, fostering a more predictable and reliable trading environment.