Supply chain news covering shipping, logistics, ports, freight, warehousing, and global supply chain developments.
This commentary argues that domestic intermodal rail container volumes are experiencing historic growth, driven by shippers converting from truck to rail earlier than usual. It cites record intermodal volumes from J.B. Hunt and data showing intermodal is 30% cheaper than truckload, suggesting a structural shift in freight demand.
Toyota Tsusho started direct shipping lanes from Japan to Canada and Mexico for auto parts suppliers, bypassing US tariffs. The service consolidates cargo from smaller Japanese parts makers, cutting shipping costs by up to 61% and reducing or eliminating tariffs. Toyota forecasts US tariffs will cut profits by $8.49bn.
This commentary argues that global trade's reliance on outdated paper-based documentation makes it vulnerable to disruptions like the pandemic, US tariffs, and the US-Israeli war on Iran. It contends that despite past crises, digitization efforts have stalled, and suggests that trade's foundation in long-term relationships further impedes modernization.
The Cass Freight Index shipments component dropped 4.1% year-over-year and 3.1% month-over-month in June. Seasonally adjusted shipments fell 2.9% from May, reversing most year-to-date gains. The decline occurred amid tight capacity and elevated freight rates.
Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka said ocean shippers are abandoning traditional seasonal shipping patterns, moving cargo whenever there is a favorable opening. The port processed over 1 million TEUs in June 2026, its best June in 118 years, as retailers frontload cargo amid supply chain uncertainty.
ID Logistics US ranked 17th on Armstrong & Associates' Top 25 North American Warehousing 3PLs list for 2025, based on 19.6 million square feet of managed space. This is the first time the company responded to the survey since acquiring Kane Logistics in 2022. The firm has expanded into four new US states and Canada.
Etihad Cargo and PwC Middle East highlight the region's growing role in supply chain resilience as global shipping routes face disruptions. Air cargo demand is rising, positioning the Middle East as a key logistics hub.
ArcBest will consolidate MoLo Solutions, Panther Premium Logistics, and ArcBest Technologies under the ArcBest brand effective Aug. 1, 2026, and cut about 2% of its workforce. The company is also consolidating select service centers, representing about 1% of network doors, expecting $40 million in annualized cost savings.
This commentary argues that 'always-on' supply chains with real-time visibility are becoming a business necessity rather than a luxury, as advanced technologies become more affordable. It contends that companies at varying stages of digital transformation are pursuing this goal to improve resiliency and efficiency, though only a minority have achieved their strategic targets.