Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

Rising Diesel Costs Strain Shippers Risk Supply Chain Disruptions

The FTR Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) fell below zero in August, the first time since October 2022, indicating a worsening environment for shippers. Soaring diesel prices were the primary driver, offsetting the benefits of ample capacity. Shippers face challenges such as increased transportation costs and reduced bargaining power. Strategies for shippers include optimizing routes and building long-term partnerships. Data-driven decision-making is crucial for enhancing freight resilience. The index suggests shippers need to proactively adapt to the changing market dynamics to mitigate potential negative impacts.

01/18/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Multimodal Transport Faces Supply Chain Challenges Experts Warn

US Multimodal Transport Faces Supply Chain Challenges Experts Warn

Multimodal expert Larry Gross highlighted significant challenges facing US intermodal transportation at the RailTrends conference, citing port congestion, capacity constraints, and declining market share. He emphasized the diffused responsibility for the supply chain crisis, advocating for increased resilience. Gross predicted a future market shift from west to east, with a corresponding increase in trucking's share. While the damage inflicted in 2021 is repairable, it will require substantial effort. The focus should be on building a more robust and adaptable intermodal system to mitigate future disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Intermodal Transportation Faces Supply Chain Bottlenecks

US Intermodal Transportation Faces Supply Chain Bottlenecks

This paper analyzes the challenges facing US multimodal transportation based on Larry Gross's insights at the RailTrends conference. It highlights issues such as port congestion and capacity constraints, while exploring future development directions. The article emphasizes the need to optimize operational efficiency, strengthen collaboration, invest in infrastructure, embrace digitalization, and enhance supply chain resilience to address challenges and seize opportunities. It argues that a multifaceted approach is crucial for the future success of multimodal transportation in navigating current complexities and ensuring a robust and efficient supply chain.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bluegrace Exec Joins Digital LTL Council to Streamline Logistics

Bluegrace Exec Joins Digital LTL Council to Streamline Logistics

A BlueGrace Logistics executive has joined the Digital LTL Council, aiming to drive digitalization and standardization within the Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) transportation sector. Addressing capacity constraints and high freight rates, the council focuses on establishing unified standards encompassing electronic bills of lading, freight tracking, and exception handling. This initiative seeks to improve efficiency, reduce error rates, and enhance customer experience. The move promises to foster healthy industry growth and unlock further opportunities for the LTL community by creating a more streamlined and transparent process.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Trucking Market Rebounds Slowly Amid Lingering Challenges

US Trucking Market Rebounds Slowly Amid Lingering Challenges

FTR's latest report indicates a slight improvement in the U.S. Trucking Conditions Index (TCI) for September, though it remains negative, signaling a slow market recovery. Stabilizing fuel prices and modest freight demand growth contributed to the improvement. However, excess capacity and economic uncertainty continue to pose challenges. Carriers need to enhance efficiency, diversify services, and focus on technological innovation to navigate the evolving market landscape. The report suggests a cautious outlook for the trucking industry, emphasizing the need for strategic adaptation to overcome ongoing headwinds.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Budget Airlines Expand Using Data Analytics

Budget Airlines Expand Using Data Analytics

Low-cost carriers (LCCs) continue to gain market share globally, particularly dominating in South and Southeast Asia. Airlines are innovating with hybrid models, segmenting the market with ultra-low-cost options, and consistently increasing capacity. The successful recovery of Ryanair and the strategic expansion of Wizz Air indicate that LCCs will continue to reshape the aviation landscape and challenge traditional airlines in the future. Their agility and focus on cost efficiency drive growth and influence consumer behavior, forcing legacy carriers to adapt their strategies.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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ALAN Walmart Foundation Boost Disaster Relief Supply Chains

ALAN Walmart Foundation Boost Disaster Relief Supply Chains

The American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN), in collaboration with the Walmart Foundation, has launched a project to enhance disaster supply chain management capabilities of non-profit organizations. This initiative aims to improve relief efficiency and ensure faster delivery of aid to disaster victims through knowledge sharing, capacity building, and fostering collaboration. The partnership will promote cooperation between non-profits and private sector companies, building a stronger, more efficient, and sustainable disaster relief system. The project emphasizes building resilience and preparedness within the humanitarian supply chain.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Breakbulk Sector Adapts with Upgrades and Tech Innovations

Breakbulk Sector Adapts with Upgrades and Tech Innovations

The maritime bulk cargo transportation is undergoing a profound transformation, with the upgrading of multipurpose vessels (MPVs) being crucial. Market trends indicate the phasing out of smaller vessels, replaced by MPVs with enhanced lifting capacity and the ability to accommodate diverse cargo types. Technological advancements extend beyond the vessels themselves to encompass marketing and booking methods. Shippers need to pay attention to changes in market competition and explore new cooperation models to address future challenges. The shift towards larger, more versatile MPVs is reshaping the industry.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Truckload Demand Slows As Rates Volumes Decline in July

US Truckload Demand Slows As Rates Volumes Decline in July

The US truckload market showed signs of cooling in late July, with both rates and volumes declining. The dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed sectors all exhibited weakness. Sluggish agricultural shipments significantly impacted the refrigerated market. A combination of economic headwinds, excess capacity, and seasonal factors contributed to the market challenges. Freight companies and shippers need to closely monitor market dynamics and leverage data-driven decision-making to navigate the current environment. The downturn highlights the importance of adaptability and strategic planning in the face of market volatility.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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CPG and Retail Firms Adapt SOP to Market Volatility

CPG and Retail Firms Adapt SOP to Market Volatility

The consumer goods and retail industry faces a rapidly changing market environment, making efficient Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) crucial. This paper explores how optimizing the S&OP process can lead to more accurate demand forecasting, optimized supply and capacity planning, more efficient production and delivery coordination, and faster responsiveness to changes. By improving these areas, companies can gain a competitive edge in the market. The focus is on practical strategies and best practices for implementing a robust and effective S&OP framework.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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