US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

A Descartes report reveals a significant drop in U.S. container imports in May, with China freight experiencing a record decline due to trade friction and tariffs. The share of East Coast and Gulf Coast ports increased, while West Coast ports saw a decrease, indicating a profound shift in trade patterns. The impact of ongoing trade disputes is clearly visible in the reduced import volumes and the changing dynamics between different port regions.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises in Late September Led by Auto and Grain

US Rail Freight Rises in Late September Led by Auto and Grain

The Association of American Railroads reported that for the week ending September 27th, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both experienced year-over-year growth. Significant increases were seen in the transportation of nonmetallic minerals, grain, and motor vehicles & parts. Conversely, coal, petroleum & petroleum products, and metallic ores & metals saw declines. For the first 39 weeks of 2025, both total U.S. rail freight traffic and intermodal volume have shown year-over-year growth, indicating a positive trend in the sector.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Chamber Calls for White House Action on West Coast Port Crisis

US Chamber Calls for White House Action on West Coast Port Crisis

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is urging the White House to intervene in the stalled West Coast port labor negotiations, fearing a potential port shutdown would severely damage the U.S. economy. Significant disagreements between labor and management on wages, benefits, and other issues could lead to supply chain disruptions and increased inflation. The White House needs to quickly appoint an independent mediator and develop contingency plans to safeguard the stability and prosperity of the American economy.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Bank of America Index Shows High Costs Low Volumes in US Logistics

Bank of America Index Shows High Costs Low Volumes in US Logistics

The Bank of America Freight Payment Index indicates a decrease in freight volumes during the fourth quarter, while freight spending reached a record high. Driver shortages, rising fuel prices, and ongoing supply chain challenges are key contributing factors. Regional performance varied, with the Western region experiencing the largest increase in spending. To navigate these challenges, businesses need to optimize their supply chains, strengthen collaboration, diversify transportation options, and embrace digital transformation. These strategies are crucial for mitigating the impact of rising costs and ensuring efficient freight operations in the current economic climate.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact Amid Automation Push

US East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact Amid Automation Push

A six-year labor agreement has been reached for 36 ports on the US East and Gulf Coasts, guaranteeing wage increases and promoting automation. This agreement stabilizes labor relations and fosters regional economic growth. However, it's crucial to monitor market dynamics, strengthen technological innovation, and deepen labor-management cooperation to address potential challenges and ensure the ports' competitiveness in global trade. Continued focus on these areas will be vital for sustained success in the evolving landscape of international commerce.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Truckload Spot Rates Hit Multiyear Highs Amid Hurricane Season Ecommerce Surge

US Truckload Spot Rates Hit Multiyear Highs Amid Hurricane Season Ecommerce Surge

A DAT report reveals that North American freight spot rates have surged to multi-year highs due to various factors. The confluence of challenges, including hurricane disasters, the ELD mandate, and the e-commerce peak season, is expected to maintain tight capacity through the end of the year. The close connection between e-commerce and the spot market is also increasingly evident. High demand driven by online retail is contributing significantly to the upward pressure on freight rates and the overall capacity crunch in the trucking industry.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Seatoair Logistics Gains Traction for Costefficiency

Seatoair Logistics Gains Traction for Costefficiency

The sea-air intermodal transport mode in cross-border logistics combines the advantages of both sea and air shipping to reduce costs and improve efficiency, catering to various cargo demands. Companies can effectively respond to challenges posed by seasonal goods and urgent restocking, thereby enhancing their market responsiveness.

08/04/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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New Tool Streamlines Crossborder Logistics Cost Calculations

New Tool Streamlines Crossborder Logistics Cost Calculations

This article provides a detailed analysis of the calculation methods for cross-border logistics costs, including the cost structures of international express, postal packages, dedicated line logistics, and overseas warehouses. By understanding the cost structures, businesses can effectively manage transportation costs, enhance international shipping efficiency, and improve profitability.

08/04/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Swiss Worldcargo Joins Transatlantic Air Cargo Alliance

Swiss Worldcargo Joins Transatlantic Air Cargo Alliance

Swiss International Freight is set to officially join the transatlantic transport alliance of United Cargo and Lufthansa Cargo in 2025, aiming to enhance customer transport flexibility and choice through a dense route network. This collaboration will optimize shipping resources, resulting in more efficient and reliable cargo transportation services.

07/18/2025 Logistics
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Logistics Firms Urge Privacy in Negotiated Rate Deals

Logistics Firms Urge Privacy in Negotiated Rate Deals

The Negotiated Rate Agreement (NRA) is crucial for Flexport to protect customers' business secrets. Through the NRA, customers’ shipping rates can remain confidential, reducing the risk of competitors uncovering their business strategies. This article provides a detailed analysis of the necessity, content, and implementation requirements of the NRA.

08/07/2025 Logistics Encyclopedia
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