WCO Updates PICARD Standards to Modernize Customs Training

WCO Updates PICARD Standards to Modernize Customs Training

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of the PICARD Professional Standards to adapt to the rapidly evolving global trade landscape. The revised standards will focus on public-private partnerships, customs-tax linkages, coordinated border management, and cover emerging trends such as security, trade facilitation, technological advancements, and project management. This upgrade aims to cultivate forward-thinking and practically skilled customs professionals, ultimately fostering global trade development. The updated standards will ensure customs administrations are equipped to meet future challenges and opportunities.

01/20/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Customs Key in Fighting Illegal Wildlife Trade CITES COP15 Insights

Customs Key in Fighting Illegal Wildlife Trade CITES COP15 Insights

The 15th meeting of the CITES Conference of the Parties highlighted the crucial role of customs in combating cross-border environmental crime. The WCO contributes to the protection of endangered species by raising awareness among customs officers, providing enforcement tools, and strengthening international cooperation. Data analysis reveals a persistently high violation rate, necessitating enhanced data-driven enforcement and technological innovation to build a global environmental security defense. Further efforts are needed to improve detection and prevention measures, fostering a collaborative approach to effectively combat illegal wildlife trade.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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LTL Logistics Shifts Toward Valuedriven Partnerships

LTL Logistics Shifts Toward Valuedriven Partnerships

This paper explores the significance of business relationships in the Less-than-Truckload (LTL) sector. It emphasizes that value co-creation, transparent communication, shared goals, and long-term commitment are crucial elements for building strong LTL relationships. The paper also analyzes the importance of multi-layered relationship management and proposes strategies to overcome challenges in LTL relationships. Furthermore, it looks ahead to the future impact of technological advancements on LTL relationship management, suggesting that technology will play a vital role in enhancing efficiency and collaboration.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Freight Mixed in May Intermodal Gains Steady

US Rail Freight Mixed in May Intermodal Gains Steady

According to the latest data from the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight volume in May remained flat year-over-year, but intermodal traffic experienced strong growth. Intermodal transportation benefits from tight trucking capacity and corporate cost reduction demands, and is expected to maintain its growth momentum. The overall rail freight market reflects economic uncertainty. The industry needs to address challenges such as energy transition and manufacturing reshoring, while actively embracing technological innovation. The growth in intermodal offsets the weakness in other rail segments.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Logistics Industry Struggles with Workforce Shortage Seeks Solutions

Logistics Industry Struggles with Workforce Shortage Seeks Solutions

The logistics industry faces a severe talent shortage crisis. Despite revenue and profit growth, customer satisfaction is declining. This shortage stems from rapidly evolving skill requirements and negative perceptions of the industry. To overcome this, a revamped talent strategy is crucial. This includes improving the industry's image, optimizing the work environment, providing development opportunities, increasing compensation, embracing technological advancements, and strengthening collaboration between universities and enterprises. These efforts are essential to attract and retain top talent and ensure the continued success and competitiveness of the logistics sector.

01/18/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Slump Continues Stoking Recession Fears

US Manufacturing Slump Continues Stoking Recession Fears

The US Manufacturing PMI has contracted for two consecutive months, raising concerns about a potential economic downturn. The report reveals weakness in key indicators like new orders and production. Experts highlight the continued decline in backlogs as a potential risk factor. The situation is influenced by a combination of high interest rates, a global economic slowdown, and geopolitical factors. Moving forward, it's crucial to seize opportunities in technological innovation and green transformation, stabilize the macroeconomy, and optimize the business environment to facilitate manufacturing recovery.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Infrastructure Bill Poses Logistics Industry Challenges Opportunities

US Infrastructure Bill Poses Logistics Industry Challenges Opportunities

The US federal surface transportation authorization act is drawing significant attention. At the SMC3 conference, experts expressed optimism about the new bill but also raised concerns about a shift in focus and funding issues. While the new bill offers opportunities for infrastructure improvement and technological innovation, it may also increase operational burdens. Logistics companies need to closely monitor policies, participate in dialogues, embrace innovation, and strengthen risk management to navigate the changes effectively. Understanding the nuances of the bill and its implications is crucial for success.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Slump Deepens As Spot Rates Stay Low

Freight Market Slump Deepens As Spot Rates Stay Low

DAT reports mixed freight volumes and rates in October, with weak demand and excess capacity pressuring the market. Analysts predict challenges will persist into 2025, increasing the risk of broker bankruptcies. Companies need to optimize operations, expand services, control risks, and embrace technological innovation to navigate these difficulties. The freight market faces headwinds, and strategic adaptation is crucial for survival and success. The current environment demands proactive measures to mitigate potential losses and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Continued monitoring and agile responses are essential.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Flatbed Freight Market Struggles Amid Industry Shifts

Flatbed Freight Market Struggles Amid Industry Shifts

The flatbed freight market experienced a decline in both volume and price, influenced by seasonal factors and the economic environment. August data presented a mixed picture, while refrigerated truckload volume bucked the trend with growth in July. Daseke Inc.'s acquisition of Builders Transportation Co. highlights ongoing industry consolidation. The sector faces technological innovation and market changes. To navigate these challenges, companies must optimize operations, expand services, strengthen customer relationships, embrace technology, and closely monitor market trends. Strategic adaptation is crucial for success in this evolving landscape.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Trucking Industry to Hit 14M Tons by 2035

US Trucking Industry to Hit 14M Tons by 2035

The American Trucking Associations forecasts U.S. truck freight tonnage to peak at 14 million tons by 2035, maintaining its dominance in the freight market. The report reveals trends in total freight volume and revenue growth, analyzing key influencing factors such as macroeconomics, fuel prices, labor markets, regulations, technological innovation, and supply chain changes. The trucking industry needs to proactively address challenges and embrace innovation to adapt to future development. This includes optimizing routes, adopting sustainable practices, and leveraging data analytics for improved efficiency and predictive capabilities.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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