US Freight Volumes Drop Sharply in February Raising Economic Alarms

US Freight Volumes Drop Sharply in February Raising Economic Alarms

The U.S. Freight TSI plummeted in February, hitting a near three-year low, primarily due to severe cold weather. This data indicates challenges in the economic recovery and persistent supply chain bottlenecks. Businesses should strengthen risk management, optimize transportation structures, and pay attention to technological innovation and policy trends to navigate market challenges. The significant drop suggests a potential slowdown in economic activity related to freight movement and highlights the vulnerability of the logistics sector to external factors.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

US Rail Freight Rises Hinting at Economic Rebound

Recent data indicates a year-over-year increase in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes, signaling economic recovery and improved supply chain resilience. Carload growth is primarily driven by increased shipments of grain, coal, and automobiles. The rise in intermodal transportation reflects optimization within the transportation structure. Despite ongoing challenges, rail freight shows promise for sustainable development through technological innovation and supportive policies. The growth suggests a positive trend for the industry and the broader economy.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Madagascar Enhances Climate Disaster Resilience with Global Aid

Madagascar Enhances Climate Disaster Resilience with Global Aid

A WCO-led collaborative project strengthens Madagascar's capacity to respond to pandemics and natural disasters. By optimizing processes, providing training, and enhancing coordination, the initiative aims to improve disaster governance resilience. This includes streamlining customs procedures for essential goods, improving risk management, and fostering collaboration between various agencies. The project ultimately seeks to minimize the impact of crises on trade and ensure the efficient delivery of humanitarian aid, contributing to Madagascar's overall stability and economic recovery.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Private Sector Collaborate to Strengthen Global Supply Chains

WCO Private Sector Collaborate to Strengthen Global Supply Chains

The WCO Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) meeting and Policy Commission dialogue focused on business recovery, data strategy, and green customs. Participants emphasized the need to make trade facilitation measures permanent, leverage data-driven strategies for planning, and promote green customs to build a sustainable trade ecosystem. The discussions centered on jointly addressing global trade challenges and building more resilient supply chains. The aim is to foster a robust and adaptable global trade environment capable of weathering future disruptions.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lightbulbscom Boosts Peak Season Efficiency Without New Hires

Lightbulbscom Boosts Peak Season Efficiency Without New Hires

LightBulbs.com successfully navigated peak season shipping surges without adding staff by integrating shipping and dimensioning solutions. Key strategies included adopting a multi-carrier platform, automated dimensioning technology, real-time shipping tracking, and improper charge identification/recovery mechanisms. This case study offers valuable insights for e-commerce businesses seeking to optimize logistics operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. By leveraging these technologies, LightBulbs.com streamlined their processes and maintained a high level of service despite increased order volume.

01/26/2026 Logistics
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Turkeys Customs Reforms Boost Postpandemic Supply Chain Resilience

Turkeys Customs Reforms Boost Postpandemic Supply Chain Resilience

Turkish Customs and businesses are strengthening cooperation to address the impact of the pandemic on global supply chains. Guided by the World Customs Organization and leveraging Turkey's strategic location, they are committed to modernizing customs reforms and facilitating trade. This includes deepening cooperation in information sharing and risk management to enhance supply chain resilience and promote economic recovery. The initiative aims to contribute to global trade development by fostering collaboration and efficiency within the Turkish customs system.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Iraqs Alfaw Port Revives As Key Persian Gulf Oil Hub

Iraqs Alfaw Port Revives As Key Persian Gulf Oil Hub

Al-Faw Port in Iraq, situated on the Persian Gulf, was once a vital oil export hub. Decades of war and sanctions led to its decline. This article examines the port's geographical location, facilities, and history. It also looks forward to Al-Faw's role in Iraq's economic recovery and its potential impact on the global energy market. The port's revitalization is crucial for boosting Iraq's oil export capacity and diversifying its economy, potentially influencing global energy flows and trade routes.

11/30/-0001 Port Encyclopedia
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European Ecommerce to Hit 565B by 2029 Amid Growth Surge

European Ecommerce to Hit 565B by 2029 Amid Growth Surge

A Forrester report forecasts significant growth in e-commerce retail sales across five major European countries over the next five years. Reaching €565 billion by 2029, online sales will account for nearly 21% of total retail sales. Key drivers include economic recovery, omnichannel strategies, and cross-border e-commerce. While the UK currently leads in online retail market size, Germany and France present substantial growth opportunities. Experts recommend retailers invest in digital platforms and embrace omnichannel approaches to capitalize on this expansion.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Dockworkers Resist Automation As Contract Expires

East Coast Dockworkers Resist Automation As Contract Expires

The US dockworkers' union and the Maritime Alliance are locked in a stalemate over automation negotiations, with the union fearing job losses. The trade community is concerned about the potential impact on supply chains. Balancing the interests of labor and management is crucial to avoid hindering economic recovery. The impasse highlights the challenges of technological advancements in the workplace and the need for proactive solutions to mitigate negative consequences and ensure a smooth transition for workers in the face of automation.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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East Coast Port Strike Averted with New Labor Deal

East Coast Port Strike Averted with New Labor Deal

The East Coast port strike has ended as the International Longshoremen's Association and the United States Maritime Alliance reached a tentative wage agreement, resuming port operations. The strike stemmed from automation and wage disputes, with the government facilitating but not interfering. Businesses should monitor the port recovery, adjust logistics plans, and build resilient supply chains. The resolution averts further disruption to the supply chain and offers a temporary reprieve, but long-term solutions addressing automation and labor concerns remain crucial for future stability.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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