US Tariffs Shift Businesses Urged to Claim Refunds Adapt

US Tariffs Shift Businesses Urged to Claim Refunds Adapt

The U.S. Trade Representative's office has reinstated tariff exemptions, creating duty drawback opportunities for businesses. Robinson Worldwide logistics experts analyze the policy and share strategies for businesses to navigate it. The article examines the impact of tariffs on U.S. businesses and supply chains, as well as future trade policy trends. This offers potential refunds and adjustments for companies affected by previous tariffs, making understanding the nuances of this policy crucial for optimizing cost savings and maintaining trade compliance.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Freight Activity Reaches Record High Amid Economic Shifts

US Freight Activity Reaches Record High Amid Economic Shifts

The U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported a record high Freight Transportation Services Index (FTSI) in June, with growth across trucking, rail, air, and water transportation. Despite the strong FTSI performance, other economic indicators such as industrial production and housing starts showed a decline, adding uncertainty to the economic outlook. Long-term, freight volumes are still on a steady growth trajectory. Businesses should closely monitor these data to better plan their supply chains and respond to market changes.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Trucking Industry Faces Capacity Crunch Amid Rising Demand

Trucking Industry Faces Capacity Crunch Amid Rising Demand

Trucking capacity remains tight, though slightly eased, the overall situation is still severe. Driver shortages, regulatory restrictions, and economic headwinds contribute to the difficulty in significantly increasing capacity. Shippers should strengthen cooperation with carriers, optimize transportation plans, adopt multimodal transport, utilize technology, and actively participate in industry dialogue to address capacity challenges and ensure supply chain stability. These measures are crucial for mitigating risks and maintaining efficient operations in the face of ongoing constraints within the trucking industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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California Logistics Transforms with Material Handling Tech

California Logistics Transforms with Material Handling Tech

California's logistics sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by AI and automation. Digital freight matching platforms are reshaping brokerage, while AI-powered TMS and warehouse robots are boosting efficiency. WMS optimizes inventory and processes. To stay competitive, businesses need to develop digital strategies, increase technology investments, and strengthen talent development. The adoption of these technologies is crucial for streamlining operations, reducing costs, and improving overall supply chain visibility in the face of evolving customer demands and market dynamics.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Sparks Economic Concerns

US Rail Freight Decline Sparks Economic Concerns

The latest US rail freight data shows a year-over-year decrease in freight volume for the week ending October 25th. Intermodal containers and trailers also experienced a decline. While year-to-date figures show overall growth, recent weakness may signal a slowing economic expansion. Businesses and investors should closely monitor these figures and adjust their strategies to mitigate potential risks. This data serves as an important economic indicator reflecting overall demand and supply chain health.

01/18/2026 Logistics
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North American Rail Freight Defies Economic Slowdown

North American Rail Freight Defies Economic Slowdown

Recent data shows year-over-year growth in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes. Performance varies across market segments, with intermodal demonstrating strong growth. Businesses should monitor market changes, diversify transportation modes, strengthen supply chain collaboration, embrace digital technologies, and focus on sustainable development to optimize their freight strategies. The intermodal sector's robust performance suggests a shift towards more integrated and efficient transportation solutions. Adapting to these trends is crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the evolving freight landscape.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Faces Growth Challenges and Opportunities in 2025

US Rail Freight Faces Growth Challenges and Opportunities in 2025

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year for the week ending November 1st, but cumulative freight and intermodal traffic for the first 44 weeks of 2025 increased year-over-year. The report reveals specific performance across commodity categories and suggests strategic recommendations including diversified investments, strengthened supply chain management, and embracing technological innovation. These strategies aim to help businesses seize opportunities, address challenges, and succeed in the future.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Q3 GDP Growth Boosts Logistics Sector Amid Challenges

US Q3 GDP Growth Boosts Logistics Sector Amid Challenges

US Q3 GDP growth exceeded expectations, primarily driven by consumer spending. However, shifts in consumption patterns, economic headwinds, and inflationary pressures pose challenges to the logistics industry. Inventory normalization offers a glimmer of hope, but full recovery may take time. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, flexibly adjust strategies, and embrace digitalization to navigate this complex environment. Focus on adapting to changing consumer behavior and optimizing supply chains for efficiency in the face of economic uncertainty.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Demand Falls Rates Rise Amid Economic Concerns

US Trucking Demand Falls Rates Rise Amid Economic Concerns

US truckload volumes decreased in September, while rates saw a slight increase. Excess capacity contributed to rising spot rates but declining contract rates. With a potentially weak peak season ahead, carriers need to be agile and responsive to market challenges. The imbalance between supply and demand continues to shape the freight landscape, requiring careful capacity management and strategic pricing decisions from carriers navigating the current market dynamics. Monitoring capacity analysis is crucial for informed decision-making.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Shifting Demand

US Rail Freight Growth Slows Amid Shifting Demand

For the week of October 4, 2025, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes increased year-over-year, but growth decelerated. Freight volume saw a slight increase of 0.002%, while intermodal grew by 6.7%. Declining coal shipments reflect the ongoing energy transition. Supply chain challenges continue to limit intermodal's full potential. Year-to-date figures still indicate overall growth. Future focus should be on infrastructure investment, technological innovation, and sustainable development to maintain momentum and address evolving market dynamics.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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