Freight Rates Climb Despite Falling Shipment Volumes

Freight Rates Climb Despite Falling Shipment Volumes

A peculiar phenomenon occurred in the U.S. freight market in September: freight volumes declined, yet spot rates unexpectedly increased. This rise wasn't driven by demand, but rather by freight imbalances and changes in capacity. Experts predict a disappointing peak season, potentially leading to continued trucking company bankruptcies. Truck drivers are advised to closely monitor the market, optimize operations, expand channels, invest cautiously, and seek professional assistance to navigate these challenges. The unusual rate increase despite lower volume highlights the complexities and potential instability within the current freight landscape.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global Customs Forum Sets Future Work Priorities

Global Customs Forum Sets Future Work Priorities

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully held the inaugural meeting of the Customs Working Organization Forum (CWOF), bringing together global experts to discuss innovative customs working methods in the “new normal.” The meeting approved the CWOF's terms of reference and outlined future work directions, including the collection of case studies and the development of best practice guidelines. The aim is to build a more resilient and efficient customs working system, adapting to the evolving challenges of international trade and ensuring effective border management in a rapidly changing world.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Infrastructure Crisis Can 1 Trillion Plan Spur Recovery

US Infrastructure Crisis Can 1 Trillion Plan Spur Recovery

The trillion-dollar infrastructure plan proposed by the Trump administration has seen little progress, drawing widespread attention. Experts urge focusing on key areas and addressing financing issues through public-private partnerships. The new Secretary of Transportation emphasizes the necessity of reform, but bipartisan disagreement persists in Congress regarding funding sources. The path to upgrading American infrastructure faces both challenges and opportunities. The lack of concrete action raises concerns about its potential impact on economic growth and competitiveness. Finding common ground on funding mechanisms is crucial for moving forward.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Music Brands Use Influencer Marketing to Expand Globally

Music Brands Use Influencer Marketing to Expand Globally

This article delves into the influencer marketing strategies employed by three musical instrument brands venturing overseas: LAVA ME, Donner, and Pearl River Piano. LAVA ME leverages endorsements from fingerstyle guitar masters, Donner opts for authoritative reviews from professional media, and Pearl River Piano collaborates with local experts for contextualized recommendations. The article summarizes the universal principles of influencer marketing for musical instrument brands expanding globally, offering valuable lessons for other brands to learn from. This analysis provides insights into effective strategies for reaching international audiences and building brand awareness.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Amazon Halts Thirdparty Delivery Service Amid Strategy Review

Amazon Halts Thirdparty Delivery Service Amid Strategy Review

Amazon's suspension of non-self-operated package delivery services has sparked industry attention on its logistics strategy. This move may be a temporary measure to address the challenges of the pandemic, or it may be accumulating strength for a larger-scale logistics expansion in the future. Experts believe that the short-term impact on UPS and FedEx is limited, but in the long run, Amazon's determination to enter the logistics field will not change, and future competition will be more intense. This decision highlights the evolving landscape of e-commerce fulfillment and Amazon's ambition to control more of its supply chain.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Retail Sales Rebound Annually Despite Minor Monthly Decline

US Retail Sales Rebound Annually Despite Minor Monthly Decline

US retail sales in May showed a significant year-over-year increase, with a slight month-over-month decrease, but the long-term growth trend remains solid. The apparel sector rebounded strongly, and the restaurant industry continued its recovery. The NRF revised its full-year retail sales growth forecast upwards. Experts emphasize the importance of long-term trends over short-term fluctuations. Data analysts should delve deeper into the data to uncover valuable insights and provide retailers with actionable recommendations. This analysis is crucial for understanding the ongoing economic recovery and its impact on the retail landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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BNSF Acquisition Sparks Shippers Concerns Over Rising Freight Costs

BNSF Acquisition Sparks Shippers Concerns Over Rising Freight Costs

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) of the U.S. Department of Transportation held hearings on Berkshire Hathaway's acquisition of BNSF Railway, focusing on whether the $8.1 billion acquisition premium should be included in BNSF's cost base, thus impacting freight pricing. Shippers expressed concerns about potential freight rate increases and urged the STB to protect their interests. Experts suggested breaking the regulatory cycle. This case concerns fair competition and efficiency improvement in rail transport, and the outcome will have a profound impact on the industry. The core issue is whether the premium should be considered when calculating BNSF's costs.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Guide to Canadian Sales Tax for Crossborder Ecommerce

Guide to Canadian Sales Tax for Crossborder Ecommerce

This article provides an in-depth analysis of Value Added Tax (GST, HST, PST) policies for offshore companies in Canada. It focuses on Amazon's collection and remittance rules, explaining the tax obligations of cross-border sellers, types of tax registration, bond requirements, and filing procedures. It also provides information on tax payment methods. This guide aims to help cross-border e-commerce sellers operate in compliance and minimize tax risks in the Canadian market.

01/04/2026 Customs Knowledge
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UK Ebay Sellers Face Complex VAT Rules Key Guide

UK Ebay Sellers Face Complex VAT Rules Key Guide

This article introduces the eBay UK VAT application process and the method of adding a VAT number, including both self-application and agency application. It emphasizes compliant operation to help sellers achieve stable development in the UK market. Understanding and adhering to UK VAT regulations is crucial for cross-border e-commerce businesses operating on eBay. This guide provides a concise overview of the necessary steps to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of eBay sellers in the UK.

01/06/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to VAT Compliance for Ecommerce Sellers in Europe

Guide to VAT Compliance for Ecommerce Sellers in Europe

This article provides a detailed guide for cross-border e-commerce sellers on VAT payment in six European countries (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Austria). It covers various methods, including bank transfers, third-party payment platforms, and tax accountants, to help sellers comply with regulations and efficiently complete tax declarations and payments, avoiding tax risks. This guide aims to streamline the VAT payment process and ensure sellers meet their European tax obligations effectively.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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