Cass Freight Index Shows October Demand Slump Amid Labor Strikes

Cass Freight Index Shows October Demand Slump Amid Labor Strikes

The Cass Freight Index reveals declines in both freight volume and expenditures in October, year-over-year and month-over-month, primarily due to weak demand and the UAW strike. Analysts suggest that private fleets' internal sourcing may lead to overall freight volume outperforming road transport. Looking ahead, economic conditions, geopolitical risks, and technological changes will continue to impact the freight market, requiring proactive responses from businesses.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact With Wage Increases

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact With Wage Increases

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a new six-year contract covering 36 ports on the US East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement includes record wage increases and automation protections, averting a potential strike, ensuring supply chain stability, and paving the way for port modernization. The efforts of all parties and the solidarity of ILA members were key to reaching the agreement.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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UPS Teamsters Struggle in Contract Talks for 250K Workers

UPS Teamsters Struggle in Contract Talks for 250K Workers

UPS and the Teamsters union are negotiating a contract for 250,000 employees, addressing key issues like automation, compensation, and working conditions. The outcome will significantly impact UPS operations, the broader logistics industry, and supply chain stability. Cooperation and mutual benefit are crucial to a successful agreement. The potential for a strike remains a concern, highlighting the importance of finding common ground and reaching a mutually acceptable solution to avoid disruptions.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Retailers Face Holiday Season Challenges Amid Import Boom Port Strikes

US Retailers Face Holiday Season Challenges Amid Import Boom Port Strikes

Despite potential strike risks at East and Gulf Coast ports, U.S. import volume has surged, driven by retailers preparing for the holiday season. The increase is attributed to concerns about strikes, anticipation of tariff hikes, and proactive retail inventory strategies. Retailers should be aware of potential port congestion and warehousing pressures. Diversifying port choices and planning transportation in advance are crucial strategies to ensure supply chain stability and mitigate potential disruptions.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Maersk Enhances Asian Supply Chains with Seaair Strategy

Maersk Enhances Asian Supply Chains with Seaair Strategy

Facing global supply chain challenges, Maersk's Sea-Air solution offers a more flexible, efficient, and reliable transportation option for Asian businesses. By integrating sea and air freight resources, Maersk helps companies strike a balance between speed, cost, and reliability, navigating market uncertainties and ensuring smooth cargo transportation. This integrated approach provides enhanced visibility and control throughout the supply chain, allowing businesses to optimize their logistics operations and improve overall efficiency in the dynamic Asian market.

09/26/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Industry Faces HOS Rule Changes Amid Safety Debate

US Trucking Industry Faces HOS Rule Changes Amid Safety Debate

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is set to publish the final version of the Hours of Service (HOS) rules for truck drivers. Aiming to enhance safety while providing greater flexibility, the key revisions include modifications to the 30-minute break rule, the sleeper berth exception, the adverse driving conditions exception, and the short-haul exception. Whether the new rules strike a balance between safety, efficiency, and economic factors remains to be seen.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed negotiations to avert a potential port strike on January 15th. Automation remains a central point of contention in the talks. Failure to reach an agreement could significantly disrupt global supply chains, impacting trade and potentially leading to economic consequences. The outcome of these labor negotiations is crucial for maintaining the stability and efficiency of port operations across the United States.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Aidriven ERP Boosts Supply Chain Efficiency

Aidriven ERP Boosts Supply Chain Efficiency

AI is driving ERP systems to deeply expand into supply chain management. Through data analysis, process automation, and user experience optimization, AI empowers ERP to achieve intelligent demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and transportation management. Businesses need to strike a balance between ERP and specialized supply chain software based on their specific needs to create an efficient and intelligent supply chain. This integration fosters improved decision-making and streamlined operations within the supply chain ecosystem.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Port Delays Strikes Disrupt Crossborder Ecommerce Shipments

US Port Delays Strikes Disrupt Crossborder Ecommerce Shipments

During the year-end peak season, cross-border sellers face multiple challenges including the risk of a US West Coast strike, Canadian port congestion, and Amazon warehouse overflow. Sellers should promptly adjust logistics and stocking plans, optimize inventory management, choose warehouses with better logistics conditions, and maintain communication with logistics providers and Amazon to ensure smooth logistics. This proactive approach is crucial for navigating the complex and volatile logistics landscape and mitigating potential disruptions to supply chains.

01/04/2026 Logistics
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Logistics Industry Faces Weak Demand Labor Unrest and Bankruptcies

Logistics Industry Faces Weak Demand Labor Unrest and Bankruptcies

The logistics industry faces challenges from weak demand and overcapacity. A potential UPS strike and Yellow's bankruptcy crisis add to the uncertainty. The report predicts truckload rates may bottom out, while the LTL market remains under pressure. Heavy-duty truck orders exceeded expectations, and the used truck market is cooling down. The industry outlook is unclear, with shippers currently holding the advantage. This complex situation necessitates careful planning and adaptation from all stakeholders to navigate the evolving landscape.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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