Shippers Face Ongoing Freight Market Struggles

Shippers Face Ongoing Freight Market Struggles

FTR's Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) indicates that despite a rebound, shippers still face significant challenges as it remains in negative territory. The analysis covers influencing factors such as fuel costs, freight volume, capacity utilization, and freight rates. It suggests strategies for shippers to navigate these challenges, including optimizing supply chains, diversifying transportation modes, strengthening collaborations, and leveraging technological innovations. The aim is to help shippers find opportunities amidst the difficulties in the current freight market.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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JB Hunt Acquires Zenith for 87M to Boost Furniture Logistics

JB Hunt Acquires Zenith for 87M to Boost Furniture Logistics

J.B. Hunt acquired Zenith for $87 million, strengthening its furniture delivery capabilities and expanding its national supply chain. This acquisition is expected to enhance service offerings and position J.B. Hunt as a leader in the industry. The move signifies a strategic expansion for J.B. Hunt, allowing them to better serve the growing demand for specialized furniture logistics solutions across the country. The acquisition aims to provide improved efficiency and reliability in the furniture distribution network.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) are scheduled to resume negotiations to proactively address contract extensions and prevent future freight congestion at West Coast ports. These talks are critical to global trade stability. Key negotiation points are expected to include wages and benefits, automation, job security, and contract duration. The outcome will directly impact shippers' supply chain efficiency and costs, making a timely agreement essential to avoid disruptions.

01/21/2026 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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Warehouse Execution Systems Drive Modern Logistics Efficiency

Warehouse Execution Systems Drive Modern Logistics Efficiency

This paper delves into the evolution of Warehouse Execution Systems (WES) from traditional Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), highlighting its crucial role in driving smart logistics upgrades. It analyzes the core functionalities of WES, market trends, and its significance in addressing omnichannel order fulfillment challenges. Furthermore, the article elucidates the value of WES in enhancing warehouse operational efficiency and enabling real-time operational intelligence, contributing to a more agile and responsive supply chain.

01/21/2026 Warehousing
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NITL Conference Tackles Trade Transport Trends in New Orleans

NITL Conference Tackles Trade Transport Trends in New Orleans

The National Industrial Transportation League (NITL) Annual Conference and Freight Exhibition will be held in New Orleans from November 16-19. The conference focuses on new trends in trade and transportation, featuring exhibitions and educational seminars. It brings together industry experts and business representatives to discuss supply chain challenges, operational efficiency improvements, and sustainable development. Attendees can expect insights into the latest innovations and strategies shaping the future of freight and logistics.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact to Avoid Disruptions

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact to Avoid Disruptions

A six-year labor agreement has been reached at 36 ports along the US East and Gulf Coasts, ensuring wage increases and automation protections, bringing stability to the supply chain. This collaboration between the International Longshoremen's Association and the United States Maritime Alliance avoids the risk of strikes while laying the groundwork for port modernization and future development. This agreement is crucial for maintaining smooth operations and preventing disruptions in the vital maritime transportation network.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Trucking Industry Struggles with Capacity Amid Economic Challenges

Trucking Industry Struggles with Capacity Amid Economic Challenges

While truck capacity constraints have eased somewhat, the trucking market remains under pressure due to a combination of factors including driver shortages, regulatory restrictions, and economic fluctuations. Shippers should strengthen partnerships with carriers and enhance supply chain resilience to address future challenges. Despite some improvements, the underlying issues continue to impact the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of trucking operations. Building stronger relationships and proactively managing potential disruptions are crucial for navigating the evolving logistics landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Foreign Trade Firms Adopt Costcutting Shipping Strategies

Foreign Trade Firms Adopt Costcutting Shipping Strategies

This paper delves into how foreign trade enterprises can reduce costs and improve efficiency by optimizing ocean freight strategies. From six dimensions – FCL/LCL selection, tide-style booking, container loading optimization, route timeliness balance, policy dividend utilization, and risk cost control – combined with practical cases, this article provides a systematic cost reduction and efficiency improvement plan for enterprises. It aims to help companies enhance their competitiveness in the global supply chain restructuring.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Nicaragua Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs Reforms

Nicaragua Boosts Trade Efficiency with Customs Reforms

Nicaragua, with the support of the World Customs Organization, hosted a Time Release Study (TRS) workshop. The aim was to identify and address trade bottlenecks through the TRS methodology, thereby improving customs clearance efficiency. This event is part of the WCO-Norwegian Development Cooperation Agency's Customs Capacity Building Project and complements Nicaragua's Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) pilot program. Both initiatives are dedicated to enhancing supply chain security and efficiency, ultimately promoting trade facilitation.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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