Global Shipping Costs Rise Amid Hidden Fees Supply Chain Strains

Global Shipping Costs Rise Amid Hidden Fees Supply Chain Strains

International shipping prices are complex, consisting of base freight and various surcharges like port fees, customs clearance fees, and other potential costs. This article provides a detailed analysis of these surcharges, offering reference prices and key considerations. It aims to help foreign trade practitioners fully understand shipping costs, accurately quote prices, and ultimately improve profit margins. The article covers the different components of international ocean freight pricing beyond the basic freight rate.

01/19/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Fortune 500 Firms Turn to 3PL for Supply Chain Efficiency

Fortune 500 Firms Turn to 3PL for Supply Chain Efficiency

According to an Armstrong & Associates report, 90% of U.S. Fortune 500 companies rely on 3PL services. By outsourcing logistics and supply chain functions, businesses can focus on core competencies, optimize resource allocation, reduce costs, and enhance competitiveness. Selecting the right 3PL partner is crucial for companies seeking to upgrade their supply chain efficiency. This allows businesses to leverage external expertise and technology for improved performance and streamlined operations.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Exhomeland Security Chief Ridge Touts Supply Chain Risk Management Value

Exhomeland Security Chief Ridge Touts Supply Chain Risk Management Value

Former Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff emphasized at ProMat that supply chain security is not just asset protection, but also value creation. Companies should focus on the consequences of risks rather than the events themselves, building resilient supply chains, strengthening risk monitoring, and enhancing security awareness. By leveraging technology and fostering collaborative partnerships, businesses can address supply chain security challenges and achieve sustainable development. Focusing on resilience and proactive risk management is key to unlocking value and ensuring long-term success.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Logility Acquires Halo BI to Enhance Aidriven Supply Chain Solutions

Logility Acquires Halo BI to Enhance Aidriven Supply Chain Solutions

Logility's acquisition of Halo Business Intelligence aims to integrate AI technology into supply chain management, breaking traditional experience-based decision-making and enabling data-driven intelligent operations. By leveraging data integration, visualization, machine learning, and AI, the acquisition enhances supply chain visibility, accelerates decision-making, and enables predictive and prescriptive analytics. This empowers businesses to gain a competitive edge in the dynamic market landscape.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Supply Chain Concerns

East Coast Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Supply Chain Concerns

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed labor negotiations to resolve automation disputes before the current agreement expires on January 15th. The goal is to avert a potential strike that could shut down ports along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. The core issue is the use of semi-automated gantry cranes, balancing worker job security with improved port efficiency. The outcome of these negotiations is crucial for global supply chain stability. Businesses should closely monitor the situation and develop contingency plans.

01/18/2026 Logistics
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Bargain Hunt Averitt Express Partner to Boost Retail Supply Chain

Bargain Hunt Averitt Express Partner to Boost Retail Supply Chain

Bargain Hunt partnered with Averitt Express to significantly improve efficiency and drive business growth through supply chain optimization. By reducing fleet size, optimizing transportation routes, and adopting advanced technologies, Bargain Hunt successfully overcame the challenges of expansion, achieving a win-win situation of efficiency and growth. The collaboration streamlined operations and provided a more agile and responsive supply chain, allowing Bargain Hunt to better serve its customers and expand its market reach. This strategic partnership highlights the importance of efficient logistics in supporting retail expansion.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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India Emerges As Key Player in Global Supply Chain Shift

India Emerges As Key Player in Global Supply Chain Shift

The global supply chain is being reshaped, and India is attracting the attention of global companies with its demographic dividend, improved business environment, and strategic location. Logistics giants like UPS and FedEx are increasing their investment and footprint in India. Despite challenges such as infrastructure and regulations, India has enormous potential and is expected to become an important pole in the global supply chain. The trade changes expected by 2025 suggest that companies need to be resilient and adaptable to thrive in this evolving landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Turmoil Spurs Insurance Industry to Address Supply Chain Risks

Global Turmoil Spurs Insurance Industry to Address Supply Chain Risks

Global supply chains are facing multiple risks, including geopolitical tensions and extreme weather events. The insurance industry needs to innovate actively, strengthen cooperation with all parties in the supply chain, and establish risk assessment models. Developing new insurance products and leveraging new technologies can improve risk management efficiency. Businesses should establish diversified supply chains, strengthen collaboration with suppliers, and invest in supply chain visibility technologies. By working together, we can build a secure and reliable global supply chain.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Debt Ceiling Deal Eases Supply Chain Strains Amid Economic Uncertainty

Debt Ceiling Deal Eases Supply Chain Strains Amid Economic Uncertainty

The US debt ceiling agreement averted a potential economic crisis, offering a respite for supply chains. However, challenges like inflation, labor shortages, geopolitical risks, and insufficient supply chain resilience persist. Businesses should diversify suppliers, strengthen inventory management, invest in supply chain digitalization, enhance risk management, and focus on sustainability. By improving supply chain resilience and adaptability, companies can thrive in future competition. Addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial for long-term stability and mitigating future economic shocks.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Exim Bank Backs Ford Exports to Bolster US Supply Chain

Exim Bank Backs Ford Exports to Bolster US Supply Chain

The U.S. Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im) is providing a $250 million loan guarantee to Ford Motor Company, supporting $3.1 billion in export sales involving over 200,000 vehicles to Canada and Mexico. This initiative enhances Ford's competitiveness and stimulates the growth of U.S. domestic suppliers, creating jobs and boosting economic growth. Furthermore, it provides financial support for automotive supply chain development and offers insights into innovative financing models. The guarantee underscores the importance of export finance in supporting American manufacturing and global trade.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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