US Manufacturing Growth Slows in July As Inventories Dip

US Manufacturing Growth Slows in July As Inventories Dip

The ISM's July manufacturing report indicates a slight dip in the PMI, with key indicators like new orders and production generally declining, increasing the risk of inventory buildup. Businesses commonly cite inflation, reduced orders, and raw material supply issues. Experts believe that manufacturing has not fallen into recession, but caution against inventory risk and emphasize the need for refined operations. The report suggests a slowing manufacturing sector facing challenges related to demand and supply chain disruptions, requiring careful management of inventory levels to mitigate potential losses.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bnsfs 15B Barstow Hub to Transform US Supply Chains

Bnsfs 15B Barstow Hub to Transform US Supply Chains

BNSF Railway is investing $1.5 billion in the Barstow International Gateway in Southern California to improve U.S. supply chain efficiency, reduce port congestion, and create jobs. This facility will enable the direct transfer of goods between ships and trains, enhancing overall logistics efficiency. It aims to streamline the flow of goods and alleviate bottlenecks within the supply chain by providing a seamless intermodal connection. The project represents a significant investment in infrastructure designed to modernize and optimize the movement of freight across the country.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Drop Amid Trade Shifts Tariff Effects

US Container Imports Drop Amid Trade Shifts Tariff Effects

A Descartes report indicates a sharp drop in U.S. container imports in May, influenced by tariffs and U.S.-China trade policies. Imports from China experienced a significant decline, leading to supply chain reshaping. Businesses need to diversify their supply chains and optimize logistics networks to proactively respond to trade fluctuations and uncertainties arising from the evolving global trade landscape. The report highlights the need for adaptability and strategic planning in navigating the current trade environment.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Mixed in March Coal Autos Rise

US Rail Freight Mixed in March Coal Autos Rise

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year in the first week of March, while coal, petroleum, and automotive shipments bucked the trend with increases. Economic downturn, inflation, and supply chain issues are key contributing factors. Logistics companies need to optimize operations, expand services, strengthen partnerships, and embrace digitalization to address challenges and seize opportunities. These strategies are crucial for navigating the current economic climate and ensuring future growth in the face of fluctuating freight demands.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Chamber Calls for Debt Action to Boost Economy

US Chamber Calls for Debt Action to Boost Economy

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce forecasts a slow economic recovery in the United States, identifying national debt as the biggest threat. The Chamber proposes a five-point growth plan, including unleashing energy potential, expanding trade, streamlining regulations, reforming immigration, and controlling spending. Simultaneously, it advocates for increased infrastructure investment, suggesting a rise in fuel taxes to stimulate economic growth and job creation.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Growth Slows in Latest ISM Report

US Service Sector Growth Slows in Latest ISM Report

The US Services PMI registered 51.5 in August, indicating a slower pace of expansion. New orders increased, while employment declined and backlogs decreased. Performance varied across sectors, with institutional sectors performing well and consumer-facing industries lagging. Key focus should be on tracking changes in new orders to gauge future economic activity. The slowdown suggests potential headwinds for economic growth, and the ISM report provides valuable insights into the current state of the services sector.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Service Sector Growth Slows Amid Steady Economic Resilience

US Service Sector Growth Slows Amid Steady Economic Resilience

The US Services PMI edged down in June but remained in expansion territory. Labor shortages and inflationary pressures are key challenges, while supply chain improvements and resilient demand offer opportunities. Experts believe the economy faces recession risks, but the low unemployment rate indicates continued resilience, suggesting the service sector engine is still running. Despite the slight dip in the PMI, the overall outlook remains cautiously optimistic, supported by underlying strength in the labor market and persistent consumer demand.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Red Sea Crisis and US Midterms Disrupt Global Trade

Red Sea Crisis and US Midterms Disrupt Global Trade

The Red Sea crisis and the US midterm elections are injecting uncertainty into global trade, leading to soaring freight rates and testing supply chains. Businesses should diversify their supply chains, plan ahead, strengthen collaboration, and embrace digital transformation to turn challenges into opportunities and remain competitive in the global trade landscape. This proactive approach is crucial for navigating the current turbulent environment and mitigating potential disruptions.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

Data from the 'Tariffs Hurt the Heartland' organization reveals the negative impact of the US-China trade war on the US economy. American consumers and businesses have paid an additional $38 billion in tariffs. These tariffs have led to increased prices, decreased corporate profits, and disruptions to global trade patterns. Businesses should diversify supply chains and optimize production processes, while governments should reduce tariffs and provide subsidies to jointly address these challenges. The trade war's economic consequences necessitate collaborative solutions to mitigate its adverse effects.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Multimodal Transport Struggles With Congestion Aims for Recovery

US Multimodal Transport Struggles With Congestion Aims for Recovery

Multimodal transport expert Larry Gross highlighted challenges facing US intermodal transportation at the RailTrends conference, including congestion, capacity constraints, and declining market share amid a surge in trucking. He argued that supply chain reshaping requires a focus on resilience and redundancy. Gross anticipates freight volumes to stabilize in 2022, presenting both challenges and opportunities. The need for improved infrastructure and more efficient operations is crucial to regain market share and mitigate the ongoing supply chain disruptions.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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