7 Trending Transportation Updates: November 2016

Little Change in Economy, but Rate Increase Coming. Next year, the US economy won’t change much, growth expected to be about 2%. FTR predicts more of the same, but when you factor in low expectations, 2017 will feel like a good year. Shipping prices are expected to increase in 2017 and continue into 2018. FedEx, UPS and several LTL carriers have announced a series of rate increases effective in 2017.

Market Update: Seasonal Freight Surge and Consumer Forecast

Adobe Digital Intelligence says that 31% of consumers start shopping before November 1, and 27% will start before Thanksgiving, so the supply chain plans for the holiday season for months and months in advance. So many of the year’s sales occur during the short two-month season, so the logistics process needs to be efficient enough to handle the increase of purchases. It’s estimated that retailers derive 20-30% of their annual profit during November and December. “The holiday season puts great pressure on supply chains because everyone peaks at the same time,” says NRS vice president of logistics and supply chain solutions.

PLS Logistics Services Featured in Logistics Tech Outlook’s Top 10 3PL Technology Solution Providers 2016

“We take pride in ourselves to honor PLS Logistics Services for earning a spot in our ranking list which features elite group of companies that is setting new benchmark in Logistics industry,” said Linda James, Managing Editor of Logistics Tech Outlook. “PLS Logistics Services provides everything a business needs to gain a competitive edge in today’s rapidly changing transportation environment.”

4 Common Misconceptions about Non-Asset Based 3PLs

What is a non-asset based third-party logistics provider?
A non-asset based third-party logistics provider is a firm that doesn’t own equipment, but partner with carriers to provide transportation services. There are many myths and misconceptions about non-asset based 3PLs. However, none of them are telling the truth. So, we have outlined the most common stereotypes, and crushed them:

8 Things We Know About Uber-Otto Technology

The trucking industry has a reputation for being low-margin, highly fragmented and cyclical. Many tech companies have an interest in shaking up and rethinking the industry.

Expectations in Freight Market in 2017 Edition

The state of the freight market 2017
The latest American Trucking Association (ATA) report predicts freight volumes and the number of goods moved by truck will grow. Shipping rates are expected to increase as existing capacity is negatively affected by economic conditions and new regulations.

Supply Chain Collaboration: Benefits of Partnering with Your Competition

Supply chain relationships have evolved to be central to the success of 3PLs and their customers. Companies are finding innovative ways to make collaboration work for the shared benefit, and by teaming up with suppliers, buyers, and competitors, companies are reaping benefits of cost efficiencies and monetary availability.