In the global logistics industry, sustained and stable growth often serves as a significant indicator. The recently released Logistics Manager Index (LMI) reveals that the logistics sector maintained robust growth momentum in June 2025. This comprehensive index, developed collaboratively by researchers from Arizona State University, Colorado State University, University of Nevada, Florida Atlantic University, and Rutgers University, receives support from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP).
The LMI is compiled by a team of renowned doctoral scholars who conduct in-depth analysis of multiple key components within the logistics industry, including inventory levels, costs, warehousing capacity, utilization rates, transportation capacity, and pricing. The June index registered at 60.7 , marking a 1.3% increase from May's reading of 59.4. This achievement represents only the third time the index has surpassed 60 since July 2022, with all three occurrences happening in 2025—a level not reached during 2023 or 2024.
Inventory Levels Drive Growth
The report identifies expanding inventory levels as the primary driver behind June's LMI growth, with this component surging 8.3% to 59.8 . This acceleration appears closely tied to tariff considerations. During the first half of June, inventory levels reached 67.4 , reflecting importers' active exploitation of market opportunities, before subsequently declining to 52.2 . Inventory costs rose 2.5% , exceeding 80 for the first time to reach 80.9 , continuing an upward trend that began in October 2022.
Warehousing and Transportation Trends
Warehousing capacity declined 2.2% to 47.8 in June, entering contraction territory for the first time. A similar trend emerged in transportation, where capacity fell 2.3% to 52.4 —the lowest level since October of the previous year. Meanwhile, transportation prices dipped slightly by 1.1% , remaining strong at 62.0 , while transportation utilization edged up 0.3% to 52.9 . This metric has avoided contraction throughout 2025 so far.
Market Outlook and Uncertainties
Analysts interpreting June's LMI reading above 60 suggest it reflects elevated supply chain activity during the first half of 2025. "While this short-term growth is positive, it raises questions about whether demand will sustain at similar levels in the second half," the report notes. "Typically, we would expect stronger demand in the latter half of the year." The report highlights that current high inventory levels in the U.S. combined with uncertainties surrounding future trade policies are creating additional complexity in market forecasting.