Fedex Pilots Resist Pension Cuts Threatening Strike

Fedex Pilots Resist Pension Cuts Threatening Strike

The FedEx Express pilots' union is negotiating with the company over pension issues, seeking an agreement through expedited mediation. The union emphasizes that improving the pension plan is a top priority and a non-negotiable goal. Despite the company's financial pressures, the pilots expect pension security commensurate with their contributions. The outcome of these negotiations will impact FedEx operations and industry compensation standards. The pilots are determined to secure a financially sound retirement for themselves and their families, viewing it as a critical component of their overall compensation package.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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STB Chair Warns of US Freight Rail Service Crisis

STB Chair Warns of US Freight Rail Service Crisis

Surface Transportation Board (STB) Chairman Martin Oberman strongly criticized the “collapse” of US freight rail service and labor shortages at the RailTrends conference. He pointed out that railroad companies have significantly reduced staff in pursuit of profits, leading to train delays, embargoes, and other problems, causing significant losses to the US economy. Oberman argued that these actions prioritize profits over service. He called for strengthened regulation, increased investment, and encouragement of innovation to reshape the future of US freight rail. He emphasized the need for railroads to prioritize service and reliability alongside financial performance.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volumes

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Container Volumes

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates mixed performance for U.S. rail freight for the week ending December 6th. Carload traffic increased year-over-year, driven by demand for commodities like coal and grain. However, container traffic declined compared to the previous year, reflecting challenges in global trade. Cumulative data for the first 49 weeks of 2025 shows overall freight volume growth. However, caution is advised regarding the potential impact of future economic uncertainties on rail freight performance. The container decline warrants attention as a potential leading indicator.

01/17/2026 Logistics
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US Dockworkers Employers Negotiate to Prevent Automation Strike

US Dockworkers Employers Negotiate to Prevent Automation Strike

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed labor negotiations to avert a potential strike stemming from disputes over automation. Automation is crucial for improving efficiency but poses a threat to worker employment. Both parties need to find a balance that meets the demands of port development while safeguarding worker interests. A resolution is needed to avoid significant disruptions to the supply chain and the broader economy. The negotiations aim to find a mutually acceptable path forward regarding the implementation of automation technologies.

01/18/2026 Logistics
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Freight Futures Strategies for Effective Hedging

Freight Futures Strategies for Effective Hedging

This article provides an in-depth analysis of freight futures hedging strategies, covering key steps such as risk assessment, correlation studies, and position sizing. It offers various hedging solutions tailored to different market participants, including corporate-level and active route-specific approaches. The article also introduces both exchange-traded and over-the-counter execution methods. Emphasizing the importance of professional advisors, it aims to help businesses effectively manage risk amidst freight market volatility. The strategies discussed enable companies to mitigate potential losses and stabilize their financial performance by leveraging freight futures for hedging purposes.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Resilient in November Amid Winter Challenges

Freight Market Resilient in November Amid Winter Challenges

DAT's latest report indicates that while overall freight volumes declined in November, they showed growth within the month. Dry van and refrigerated freight volumes decreased year-over-year, while flatbed volumes increased. Freight rates continued to decline due to excess capacity. Experts predict spot rates may have bottomed out and are expected to rebound in Q1 of next year, with the market moving towards normalization. Freight companies need to pay attention to market dynamics and respond flexibly. The report highlights the need for adaptability in the current freight environment.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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UPS to Add Air Conditioning in Delivery Trucks After Labor Deal

UPS to Add Air Conditioning in Delivery Trucks After Labor Deal

UPS plans to install air conditioning in 5,000 delivery vehicles to improve working conditions for its drivers. This initiative is part of a labor agreement reached with the Teamsters union, aimed at providing better heat protection for drivers. While UPS's relationship with the union hasn't always been smooth, with disputes over network restructuring and employee separation plans, the company is working to enhance operational efficiency and provide better service to its customers. This investment in driver comfort is a step towards improving employee relations and overall service quality.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Container Imports Drop in August As Demand Weakens

US Container Imports Drop in August As Demand Weakens

US containerized freight imports decreased by 12% year-over-year in August, marking the 13th consecutive month of decline, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. This reflects weak consumer demand and ongoing supply chain adjustments. Consumer goods imports experienced significant drops, and the outlook for industrial goods demand is also bleak. Experts attribute this to continued destocking and weakness in typically non-seasonal sectors. The full-year outlook is stable rather than prosperous, requiring businesses to adapt their supply chains. The government should monitor consumer data and implement measures to stimulate domestic demand.

12/31/2025 Logistics
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US Trucking Market Faces Winter Challenges As Freight Index Fluctuates

US Trucking Market Faces Winter Challenges As Freight Index Fluctuates

The Cass Freight Index indicates sluggish shipment volume growth and decelerating expenditure growth in November, suggesting challenges for the freight market. Year-over-year shipment volume declined, with a sharp decrease in West Coast imports, potentially influenced by shifts in global trade patterns. Expenditure growth was primarily driven by changes in the transportation mode mix, indicating persistent cost pressures. Investors can use the index to assess freight companies, but a comprehensive analysis incorporating other data is crucial. The index points towards a softening freight market, requiring careful monitoring of evolving economic conditions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Customs Americas Caribbean Push Gender Equality Diversity

Customs Americas Caribbean Push Gender Equality Diversity

In September 2021, SECO and WCO jointly organized a virtual forum on Gender Equality and Diversity for the Americas and the Caribbean, bringing together over 80 representatives from 24 countries. The forum aimed to promote gender equality and inclusion in customs administration. Discussions focused on work-life balance and the prevention of gender-based violence. The Spanish version of the WCO Gender Equality Organizational Assessment Tool (GEOAT) was launched. Participants agreed to integrate gender equality and diversity into the customs agenda and continue their efforts in this area.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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