Intermodal Transport Faces Postpandemic Congestion Capacity Crunch

Intermodal Transport Faces Postpandemic Congestion Capacity Crunch

Larry Gross highlighted the challenges facing multimodal transportation at the RailTrends conference, including congestion and capacity shortages, leading to market share decline. He emphasized the need to reshape the supply chain, focusing on resilience and capacity. Gross also predicted a future shift in freight volume from west to east. He urged the industry to avoid repeating past mistakes and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The presentation underscores the critical need for innovation and strategic planning within the multimodal sector to navigate current and future supply chain disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Imports Stay Elevated As Port Delays Continue

US Imports Stay Elevated As Port Delays Continue

According to the Descartes Global Shipping Report, US imports in August decreased by 3% month-over-month but remained high, up 12.9% year-over-year, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This high import volume exacerbates port congestion, with delays increasing at the seven major ports. Chinese imports remain a significant driver, growing by 17.2%. The report reveals a slight decrease in the West Coast ports' share and a general increase in port transportation delays. Addressing port congestion requires increased infrastructure investment, optimized operations, and improved inland transportation.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Freight Index Hits Record High Amid Economic Uncertainty

US Freight Index Hits Record High Amid Economic Uncertainty

The U.S. Freight Transportation Services Index (Freight TSI) has reached a record high, while economic data presents a mixed picture, showing a 'fire and ice' scenario. This article delves into the drivers behind the growth in freight volume, explores long-term trends, and looks ahead to future challenges and opportunities. The aim is to help readers better understand the current state and development prospects of the U.S. freight industry. The analysis considers factors influencing the index and provides insights into the complexities of the current economic landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Volumes Rise Amid Economic Recovery Signs

US Rail Freight Volumes Rise Amid Economic Recovery Signs

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volume both increased year-over-year in late April. Significant growth was observed in freight categories such as coal, motor vehicles & parts, and chemicals. Intermodal business also showed strong growth momentum. Despite challenges like supply chain bottlenecks and labor shortages, the recovery of rail transport has a positive impact on the economy. It is recommended to increase infrastructure investment and optimize supply chain management to further enhance the efficiency and reliability of rail transportation.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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FBA Sellers Weigh Sea Vs Air Freight Costs to Europe

FBA Sellers Weigh Sea Vs Air Freight Costs to Europe

This article provides an in-depth comparison of the costs, delivery times, capacity, and convenience of sea and air freight for European FBA. It aims to assist Amazon sellers in making more informed shipping decisions based on factors such as product characteristics, time constraints, shipment volume, and budget. By understanding these trade-offs, sellers can optimize their shipping strategies and maximize their profits within the European market. The analysis helps navigate the complexities of cross-border logistics for efficient and cost-effective FBA operations.

01/26/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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US Ports Face Strike Threat Amid Rising Import Demand

US Ports Face Strike Threat Amid Rising Import Demand

US East Coast and Gulf ports face a strike threat, leading to a surge in import volume as retailers stockpile inventory to mitigate potential supply chain disruptions. Despite slowing consumer demand and job growth, container imports have significantly increased. Experts advise retailers to diversify port options, enhance communication with suppliers, optimize logistics processes, and monitor policy changes to address supply chain risks and ensure a smooth holiday season. This proactive approach aims to minimize the impact of potential port disruptions on the flow of goods.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Bank of America Data Signals Freight Market Recovery

Bank of America Data Signals Freight Market Recovery

The Bank of America Freight Payment Index indicates a continued decline in freight volume and spending in Q2, but the rate of decline slowed, suggesting a potential market bottom. Shifts in consumer spending towards services, high inflation, and regional disparities are impacting freight demand. The industry faces challenges such as overcapacity and rising costs. Future focus should be on macroeconomic improvements, technological innovation, and industry consolidation. While the index signals a possible bottom, sustained recovery depends on broader economic factors and adaptation to evolving market dynamics.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Retailers Face Import Surge As Tariff Uncertainty Persists

US Retailers Face Import Surge As Tariff Uncertainty Persists

The US retail supply chain, though relieved by the port labor agreement, faces increased import volumes due to anticipated tariff hikes. A report indicates retailers are stockpiling goods in advance, providing short-term benefits but potentially shifting costs to consumers in the long run. Import volume forecasts for the coming months are mixed, requiring retailers to closely monitor policy changes and flexibly adjust their supply chain strategies. This proactive approach is crucial to mitigating the potential negative impacts of tariffs and maintaining competitive pricing.

01/27/2026 Logistics
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Flexible Automation Boosts Warehouse Efficiency for Ecommerce Surge

Flexible Automation Boosts Warehouse Efficiency for Ecommerce Surge

Faced with surging e-commerce orders and labor shortages, warehouse operations face significant challenges. This paper analyzes challenges like safe restarts, labor issues, growing customer demands, and multiple sales peaks. It explores flexible automation solutions, particularly the advantages of collaborative robots. By assessing processes, setting goals, selecting solutions, deploying incrementally, and continuously optimizing, businesses can leverage automation to reshape warehouse operations and prepare for peak e-commerce seasons. This approach allows for a more agile and responsive warehouse environment capable of handling increased volume and complexity.

01/26/2026 Warehousing
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Fedex Raises Prices Improves Profits Despite Ecommerce Challenges

Fedex Raises Prices Improves Profits Despite Ecommerce Challenges

FedEx's Q3 earnings reveal a significant improvement in profitability, primarily driven by increased package volume and pricing strategies. The company expressed concerns about e-commerce cost pressures and is wary of Amazon's growing presence in the logistics sector. The report analyzes FedEx's strategic positioning, including its focus on profitability, pricing tactics, and competitive responses. It also outlines the challenges and opportunities facing the company in the future, highlighting the need to navigate the evolving e-commerce landscape and maintain a competitive edge against emerging players like Amazon.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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