With same-day delivery becoming the norm, the latest edition of Inbound Logistics is quick to unpack fast fulfillment strategies and unveil a handy direct-to-customer delivery guide. Featuring a look at how enterprises and practitioners prepare for the future of supply chain as well as how DCs are redefining efficiency, this edition can help you accelerate efficiency and AI adoption.
HOW DCs ARE REDEFINING EFFICIENCY FUTURE-PROOFING FLORIDA
DIRECT-TO-CUSTOMER DELIVERY GUIDE NEXT-GENERATION SUPPLY CHAIN TALENT PLUS
BITE SIZED SUPPLY CHAIN/LOGISTICS INFORMATION Info SNACKS
Return to Sender UPS is reportedly “disposing” of some packages unable to clear U.S. Customs following regulatory changes that ended the long- standing “de minimis” exemption, which had allowed duty-free entry for goods valued under $800.
DECK THE HALLS…AND HOLD ON TO YOUR WALLET
At more than 280 miles per hour, the CR450—poised to become the world’s fastest high-speed rail service—is currently undergoing trials on the Shanghai-Chongqing-Chengdu line. During these trials, the train reportedly reached a top speed of 281 miles per hour, significantly surpassing the previous record of 217 miles per hour, also held by a Chinese high-speed train. It even exceeded the projected top speed of 249 miles per hour for the CR450 prototype. Faster Than a Speeding Bullet Train
The change imposed new taris and fees on more than 1 billion packages annually. UPS ocials told NBC News that thousands of shipments are stuck at facilities due to customs issues, and some are being discarded. Customers have reported weeks- long delays, confusion over tracking updates, and the loss of items, though UPS says more than 90% of packages clear customs within one day.
In November 2024, two trucks carrying approximately $1 million worth of Santo Tequila (co-owned by Guy Fieri and Sammy Hagar) were stolen in an elaborate cargo heist in Laredo, Texas. The theft was carried out by criminals who used double brokering, a form of online deception to take control of the shipment and reroute it to a fake warehouse in Los Angeles. Some of the stolen tequila has since been recovered, but the full extent of the loss is still being assessed. Stolen Spirits, Smooth Criminals
DELIVERY EMOJI IS ON THE WAY Deutsche Post and numerous international organizations are supporting an application to the Unicode Consortium to create a dedicated emoji for the approximately 5.3 million
employees in the postal sector and millions more in the courier, express, and parcel industry. If approved, the delivery person emoji is expected to be available on all smartphones worldwide sometime in 2026.
Caterpillar announced an investment of up to $5 million in workforce training and upskilling in Indiana as part of the machinery manufacturer’s five-year, $100 million workforce commitment.
Autonomous Vehicles Take a Back Seat 70% of U.S. freight companies would hire human drivers over using self-driving trucks 19% of U.S. freight companies would use self-driving trucks over hiring a new human driver 49% of U.S. freight businesses in August 2025 looked to adopt route optimization software 63% of U.S. freight businesses say driver recruitment and retention has stagnated or worsened in the past year -Tech.co survey data
The pledge aims to promote advanced
Caterpillar Digs Into the Future
manufacturing careers and train prospective workers in the United States.
November 2025 • Inbound Logistics 1
CONTENTS FEATURES 32 UNPACKING FAST FULFILLMENT AND DELIVERY As same-day delivery becomes the NOVEMBER 2025 | VOL. 45 | NO. 11 INFOCUS 1 INFO SNACKS 12 NOTED
14
14 TAKEAWAYS 64 LAST MILE Autonomous truck clears international boundary
norm, businesses harness supply chain visibility, strategic inventory placement, and AI to master the intricate balance between expedited fulfillment and shipping, and customer expectations. 38 DIRECT-TO- CUSTOMER DELIVERY GUIDE When your customer
CONTENT PARTNERS 56
INSIGHT 4 CHECKING IN Somewhere, Henry Ford is smiling 6 10 TIPS Improving carrier collaboration 8 GOOD QUESTION What supply chain tool/strategy is your Most Valuable Player? 28 GREEN LANDSCAPE Transitioning to a circular supply chain 30 RETAIL RETHINK How to conquer seasonal surges
FUTURE-PROOFING
FLORIDA Florida’s strong transportation
infrastructure has long made it a key U.S. logistics hub. Now, the state’s logistics sector is looking ahead, investing to meet growing supply chain demands. CONTENT PARTNERS 16 From In ation to Sustainability: Top Trends Impacting Supply Chains O ered by MHI 17 How Landstar’s Network Tackles Complex Logistics O ered by Landstar 18 10 Steps for Peak Season Prep O ered by Ryder 20 The NMFC Overhaul: How Shippers Can Adjust to Updates O ered by SMC 3
needs the product now, these providers oer the technology and delivery networks to make it happen. 42
GENERATION AI: PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE OF SUPPLY CHAIN
INFO 62 CALENDAR 63 RESOURCE CENTER INPRACTICE 10 LEADERSHIP: BURNING SHIPS AND EMBRACING CHANGE By adopting a “burn the ships” mentality and building the right team, Josh Dunham, CEO of Reveel, navigates constant changes and fosters a culture of innovation.
Here’s how companies are developing the workforce of the future and how current practitioners can future-proof their careers. CONTENT PARTNERS 48 HOW DCs ARE REDEFINING EFFICIENCY By continuing to innovate, leading warehouse automation solution providers are transforming distribution centers and empowering the workforce.
22 How eShipper+ Boosted Ful llment Ef ciency by 73% O ered by Logiwa 24 Training Made Simple With LightSort ® Pick-and-Put Solution O ered by Engineering Innovation 26 Arti cial Intelligence in Supply Chains: Beyond the Hype O ered by Kuehne + Nagel
Inbound Logistics (ISSN 0888-8493, USPS 703990) is mailed monthly to approximately 60,000 business professionals who buy, specify, or recommend logistics technology, transportation, and related services, by Thomas, a Xometry company, 6116 Executive Blvd, Suite 800, North Bethesda, MD 20852. Periodicals postage paid at North Bethesda, MD, and additional mailing o£ces. All rights reserved. The publisher accepts no responsibility for the validity of claims of any products or services described. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any electronic means, or stored in any information retrieval system, without permission from the publisher. Postmaster send address changes to: Inbound Logistics, P.O. Box 1167, Lowell, MA 01853-9900
2 Inbound Logistics • November 2025
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CHECKINGIN Somewhere Henry Ford is Smiling
Vol. 45, No. 11 November 2025 THE MAGAZINE FOR DEMAND-DRIVEN ENTERPRISES www.inboundlogistics.com
STAFF
Keith G. Biondo publisher@inboundlogistics.com Felecia J. Stratton editor@inboundlogistics.com Katrina C. Arabe karabe@inboundlogistics.com
PUBLISHER
H enry Ford revolutionized car manufacturing by inventing the moving assembly line. Besides saving time and money, that new process made the Model T affordable and ubiquitous. Today, thousands of vehicle plants around the world still use that method. Using Ford’s method, modern vehicle assembly lines are a moving and sequential process where a car’s frame—called box or cage—moves down the line, then workers and their cobots shoehorn components—
EDITOR
SENIOR EDITOR
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC CONTENT
Amy Roach amy.roach@thomasnet.com
Tom Gresham Karen M. Kroll Rich Osborne
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Keith Biondo, Publisher
wiring, electronics, dashboard rugs, doors—into the cage. Wrangling oversized components through space-restricted door or windshield openings is complicated and time-consuming, but car companies have it down to a science. But what if you came at the concept in a completely different way? Standing on Ford’s manufacturing shoulders, Tesla just patented a revolutionary auto manufacturing process called “unboxed manufacturing.” Tesla’s plan is to build the car’s contents on a at and open, accessible platform called a skateboard, and then close it off at the very end. The skateboard is the car’s oor with the battery pack underneath. This unboxed method aims to reduce factory footprints and cut production costs in half, while manufacturing at blazing speeds. Two new Tesla patents outline how it intends to turn this manufacturing method from vision to reality. Tesla begins with 5 parallel module assemblies: skateboard, front module (suspension, steering, dashboard), rear module (suspension, drive unit), and left and right sides (doors, windows, charge port, trim, controls). Here’s where the magic happens. Once the oor, front, and rear modules are joined into a single, drivable chassis, the sides of the car are attached. This is the most bene cial change in the assembly line process because it leaves the vehicle completely open from the sides and top during the most complex and previously space-restricted assembly stages. Now more hands and cobots can drive faster internal construction while the skateboard speeds down the line. This genius idea relies on a new era of inbound logistics performance. Inbound Logistics began thinking about how to ip push supply to pull supply 40 years ago. With unboxed, we’re talking about moving from one assembly line with a dependent supply to feeding 5 assembly lines in smaller factory footprints and running at Elon Musk manufacturing speed. There’s no way that will work without a futuristic upgrade in supply chain controls and supply certainty. Genius and creativity can ip solid and accepted logistics and manufacturing practices. But both must converge to deliver the unboxed manufacturing idea. When it does, this unboxed method will be copied everywhere, just as Ford’s assembly line process was. And when that happens, what would Henry Ford think? He’d smile.
Jeof Vita jvita@inboundlogistics.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
DESIGNER Arlene So
DIGITAL DESIGN MANAGER PUBLICATION MANAGER CIRCULATION DIRECTOR
Amy Palmisano apalmisano@inboundlogistics.com
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SALES STAFF PUBLISHER: Keith Biondo
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Inbound Logistics supports sustainable best practices. Our mission is rooted in helping companies match demand to supply, eliminating waste from the supply chain. This magazine is printed on paper sourced from fast growth renewable timber.
Inbound Logistics welcomes submissions and comments. Email us at editorial@inboundlogistics.com; call (212) 629-1560. For advertising or subscription information, email publisher@inboundlogistics.com. Inbound Logistics is distributed without cost to those qualified around the world. Interested readers may subscribe online at bit.ly/get_il. Subscription price to others: in North America $95 per year. Unqualified subscription prices: foreign $229. Single copy price: N. America $50, foreign $100, back issues $50.
4 Inbound Logistics • November 2025
Handling your business and your cargo with care is what we’re known for. We’ve expanded to deliver that personal service on nearly 1,500 daily flights to 141 destinations, including 29 international markets. Growing cargo capacity. Individual customer service.
Book online at alaskacargo.com/hawaiian Or call 1-800-225-2752 . ABOVE & BEYOND. FOR YOU.
10 TIPS 1 PROVIDE CLEAR AND TIMELY UPDATES.
In an era of constant disruption, businesses face unprecedented logistics challenges. To navigate these complexities, companies must strengthen collaboration with carriers. Improving Carrier Collaboration
8 LEVERAGE CARRIER TECHNOLOGY. This is the pillar of successful carrier/shipper collaboration in a digital world. Carriers today are savvy, with significant investments and a strategic focus on simplifying processes. Taking advantage of their capabilities benefits both parties in an ever- changing, complex business environment. 9 SHARE FUTURE SHIPPING PLANS. Keeping carriers informed about upcoming shipping needs can help them plan their capacity and resources more effectively, especially during times of disruption. This approach enables the logistics provider to deliver better service while allowing both parties to navigate fuel costs, demand, capacity, and more.
Last-minute changes to shipping details occasionally occur. Does it happen regularly? Are carrier updates sent out as quickly as they should be, or are there unannounced changes when they show up at the dock? If so, shippers should ensure these are rare occurrences and focus on delivering necessary information to carriers as quickly as possible.
2 KNOW YOUR CARRIERS. Every carrier offers
delivery windows can help them optimize their routes and schedules, leading to more efficient operations. 5 PAY CARRIERS PROMPTLY. Timely payment is crucial for carriers to maintain their cash flow and operations. Adhering to the agreed payment terms can help build a strong, long- term relationship. Likewise, carriers should be prompt when disclosing any disputes or invoicing so they can be resolved quickly. 6 STANDARDIZE PROCESSES. Shippers should be focused on standardizing processes wherever possible. The
benefits? Once these processes are mapped, carriers have an easier pathway to connect quickly. Costs will be reduced for both parties while also accelerating the timeline to transact, a key pathway to quickly realizing value. 7 STANDARDIZE WITH FLEXIBILITY. Carriers want documentation and clarity on the processes shippers support
something unique to your organization, and they want shippers to know what they do best. Understanding the uniqueness each carrier offers your organization—such as technology, specific routes or types of freight—can help you make better decisions and set realistic expectations. 3 DISCUSS AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT. Regularly engaging in conversations about potential improvements is good for any working relationship. Carriers may identify tactics to make operations more efficient, and shippers might have insights that help a carrier match or exceed their competition. Setting up a formal process for these discussions is a must. 4 OFFER FLEXIBLE PICKUP AND DELIVERY WINDOWS. Carriers juggle multiple shipments simultaneously. Offering flexible pickup and
and how they expect to transact. Speeding up
through standardization is undoubtedly important, but shippers also need to be flexible and open to engaging the expertise of their carriers, because their knowledge is a valuable resource.
10 BUILD LONG-TERM PARTNERSHIPS.
Treating carriers as partners rather than just service providers is an effective strategy for success. The potential benefits include better service, preferential treatment, and more stable rates. Both parties should work toward shared KPIs and joint planning for the long haul.
SOURCE: DANILO ANGELINETTA, DIRECTOR, STRATEGIC LOGISTICS TRADING PARTNER EXECUTIVES AND TIM SHORT, SENIOR STRATEGIC LOGISTICS TRADING PARTNER EXECUTIVE, SAP
6 Inbound Logistics • November 2025
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GOODQUESTION Readers Weigh In
What Supply Chain Tool or Strategy Is Your Most Valuable Player?
THE AI-POWERED DIGITAL TWIN. Enabled by IoT sensing and computer vision, a digital twin creates a live, virtual replica
Teamwork For the Win
of physical operations like warehouses or yards. This provides unprecedented visibility, allowing AI to run predictive simulations to preempt bottlenecks and optimize workflows. –Mat Gilbert APPLICATION PROGRAMMING INTERFACES (APIs) are the unsung MVP of the modern supply chain. They connect transportation, insurance, compliance, and analytics into one real-time system. –Johnny McCord CEO and Founder, Loadsure PhD, Director, Head of AI & Data, Synapse, part of Capgemini Invent
Our MVP in 2025 isn’t a tool, it’s our people. Putting the right talent in a strong culture drives everything we do. We’re focused on hiring curious, collaborative people who understand that logistics depends on teamwork. When your workforce is aligned around serving customers, innovation follows naturally. –Lisa Yankie Chief Human Resources O cer, Odyssey Logistics Having the right people in the right seats is critical. While technology, process, and customer engagement are foundational, a true dierentiator lies in aligning individuals with roles that unlock their unique talents. –Craig Remley VP – Truckload Operations, Evans Transportation
THE PRIVATE FLEET IS OUR MVP —driving flexibility, safety, and control for our customers. By operating their
Tackling Global Trade
own trucks, they achieve higher safety standards, faster response times, and more consistent service that builds trust and boosts sales. –Adam Putzer National Sales Director, CPC Logistics AI-POWERED PROCESS INTELLIGENCE. By using data to map the flow of supply chain processes, organizations can uncover bottlenecks and delays, automate tasks, and measure performance in real time. The result is a supply chain that learns, adapts, and improves. –Heidi Benko VP Product Management and Strategy, Infor
Tari management. Building a clear picture of tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers and the country-of-origin risks associated has been essential in managing costs in a rapidly changing trade environment. While the courts are still analyzing the applicability of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), supply chains have been stressed and modified to accommodate the new reality. –Joe Adamski Senior Director, ProcureAbility Trade strategy is the 2025 MVP. Frequent trade policy shifts create uncertainty and inject risk into shippers’ planning and execution. Leaders apply scenario planning to evaluate options, anticipate impacts, adapt sourcing, and optimize networks—driving intelligent decisions and unlocking value through foreign trade zones and duty drawback. –Tara Buchler Principal of Strategy, JBF Consulting
8 Inbound Logistics • November 2025
GOODQUESTION
INTEGRATED PLATFORMS unify fragmented data and workflows, giving AI something to work with and giving teams and supply chain stakeholders the visibility, consistency, and control they need to move faster and smarter. AI might be the headline of the year, but it’s nothing without connected systems underneath. –Kristjan Lillemets Chief Product Ocer, MAGAYA DETAILED SOLUTIONING SIMULATION TOOLS. They let us test, validate, and optimize workflows before bringing AI-driven robotics on site. This way, we spot bottlenecks early, reduce costly trial-and-error, and get to faster, smoother deployment. –Ben Gruettner VP, Revenue, Robust.AI CONSOLIDATED CLEARANCE SERVICE for U.S. imports. As tari rules tighten, retailers need faster, smarter customs solutions. By consolidating multiple shipments under one entry, we’re helping customers cut costs, stay compliant, and keep trade flowing. –Tim Robertson CEO, DHL Global Forwarding, Americas
Changing the Game With Orchestration
Real-time orchestration platforms can transform warehouses into intelligent command centers by turning operational data into insights that can drive quick decisions. These tools help companies see and act across their entire supply chain network. –Nicolas Odet CEO, Hardis Group Hyper-speed orchestration —using AI to transform fragmented tasks into intelligent, real-time workflows across departments, partners, and customers. It replaces manual coordination with instant, insight-driven collaboration, aligning people, processes, and technology around shared goals to drive precision, agility, and measurable impact. –Ann Marie Jonkman VP, Global Industry Strategies, Blue Yonder Real-time optimization powered by agentic AI. By combining task-specific AI agents with larger orchestration systems, we can dynamically allocate people and robots, rebalance resources, and maintain throughput even in volatile conditions. –Oscar Mendez Director, Head of AI & Data Science, Locus Robotics
DEDICATED TRUCKLOAD. The MVP is a supply chain solution that ensures reliability, oers
DATA SCIENCE AND PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS to aid in speed and quality decision making. Global events and industry constraints evolve quickly. Dynamic toolsets and deep utilization of data are required to be agile and deploy mitigation strategies. Our ability to respond with speed and intelligence is paramount to building resiliency. –Chad Stecker Chief Supply Chain Ocer, Incora
flexibility, and drives e ciency and value. So, shippers are turning to a dedicated truckload solution—or a mix of dedicated and private fleet— that scales with demand, optimizes backhaul opportunities, and aligns with goals. –Erin Van Zeeland SVP, Operations, Truckload, Schneider STRATEGIC INTELLIGENCE. A trusted research and advisory platform helps us make smarter decisions in cybersecurity and IT supply chain vendor management by supporting risk assessments, aligning with industry standards, and aiding partner selection. This reduces uncertainty, boosts vendor performance, and strengthens supply chain security and resilience. –Mike Crumpler VP, Information Security, Kenco
GLOBAL DATA STANDARDS that enable millions of businesses to identify, capture, and share
information. Without them, operations are ine cient and siloed. With them, supply chains are interoperable, with a common language that connects every product, location, and partner and delivers a foundation for AI-driven decisions. –Melanie Nuce-Hilton SVP, GS1 US STRONG SYNERGY between carriers, brokers, and warehouses. Partnering with warehouses improves loading times and cuts detention. Teaming with carriers lowers costs and boosts service. Together, this creates a more e cient supply chain. –Chad Hage Account Manager, TA Services
Answer upcoming Good Questions at: www.inboundlogistics.com/ good-question
November 2025 • Inbound Logistics 9
LEADERSHIP Conversations with the Captains of Industry
Burning Ships, Embracing Change, and the Power of ‘Who, Not How’
Josh Dunham is co-founder and CEO of Reveel, which provides shipping intelligence technology and has more than $8 billion in parcel spend under management. In this role, he focuses on corporate strategy and growth, as well as client and employee retention. “My role requires addressing questions such as ‘How do we win? Do we have the right offer? How do we create competitive advantage?’” Dunham says. Examining these questions led to a significant change in the company’s business model about five years ago. Dunham and Chad Beville launched Reveel in 2006 as a professional services firm, with a goal of addressing the lack of transparency in the parcel shipping space. At the time, many shippers had no idea how they could use their data to save money. “I saw it as a big opportunity for us to create something meaningful that can help our customers,” Dunham adds. The company grew steadily. Then, extensive interviews with parcel shippers and a market survey project revealed clients were looking for a technology solution that would provide visibility to help them actively manage their parcel shipping expense. In 2019, Reveel acquired a software development company and incorporated its intellectual property within a solution that unlocks insight from shipping data and provides actionable steps shippers can take to control and forecast costs. “The data sets from the carriers are massive,” Dunham says. “This helps unlock the insights from within them.” Reveel launched the solution at the end of 2021 and made several adjustments over the next few years. Here, Dunham reveals the insight he’s gained on leadership, building a thriving company, and continually innovating. IL: What lesson from early in Reveel’s life remains relevant? A relevant lesson is having a ‘burn the ships’ mentality. When you start a business, it’s easy to think that it will be nice if it works out, but you’ll keep other options open just in case. That’s a different mindset than ‘There’s no Plan B; you have to go forward and figure things out.’ Essentially, you burn the ships. I had some advantages—I had emotional and some financial support from my family. I didn’t have the responsibilities of my own family. But I did quit my job and took on some debt. The mentality was, ‘We’ve got to make this work.’
Josh Dunham, Co-founder and CEO, Reveel
By adopting a “burn the ships” mentality, balancing empathy with accountability, and building the right team, Josh Dunham, CEO of Reveel, navigates constant industry changes and fosters a culture of innovation.
by Karen Kroll
10 Inbound Logistics • November 2025
LEADERSHIP
explain the reasoning to employees. Keeping people motivated also requires helping employees understand and believe in what the company is doing. IL: What book has helped you grow and run your business? In the book Who, Not How, authors Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy argue that who you have on your team is more important than what you do. I’ve seen this firsthand. Nothing changes your business more than having the right people in the right seats. As a CEO, I’ve got one million things to think of every day. But, with the right people in different areas of the business, I don’t need to dig into the details. IL: How has your participation in the Entrepreneurs’ Organization, including as a board member, helped you? You’re around other entrepreneurs who’ve gone through the same struggles and problems you’ve gone through. So often, entrepreneurship is associated only with the business you run. This group helps me stay well-rounded and focus on other areas of my life, as well. IL: Who would you trade places with for a day? The president of the United States. It’s the ultimate CEO job. It would be incredible to be exposed to the amount of information that goes through the president, and to be able to make critical decisions from it. IL: If you could host a dinner party with three leaders, from any time period and realm, who would top your list? First is George Washington, because he helped to start a nation. Second is Nelson Mandela, because he created a blueprint to get through a politically charged environment. Finally, Elon Musk, who is the most creative and innovative thinker of our generation. How to Encourage Innovation “As a technology business, it’s crucial that we stay on the cutting edge of innovation,” says Josh Dunham, co-founder and CEO of Reveel. “It starts with ensuring our team feels empowered to contribute. Our team is where our best ideas come from, and they have to be given the grace to fail. If you come down on everyone who makes a mistake, no one will try anything new. “We also encourage learning,” he adds. “Innovation is fueled by curiosity and experimentation. You’ve got to be able to fail fast, learn from it, and course correct. “Finally, we take a customer-centric approach,” Dunham says. “We have a customer advisory board and we constantly seek feedback. We’re determined to continue to understand our customers’ problems so we can come up with creative solutions for them.”
IL: What is a current challenge you’re focused on? Constant carrier changes. In the past, carrier changes occurred maybe once a year. Now they occur every few months, making it hard for our customers to control costs and to forecast. As a result, we need to remain agile from a development standpoint. We don’t know what’s coming, so we have to remain agile just to manage through the changes. IL: How does an organization remain agile? We adhere to the agile development philosophy. It allows us to make sure that we work on priorities important for the current environment, as opposed to not touching something for months because our product roadmap is baked. We develop our solutions to a sprint cadence that starts every two weeks. Before the sprint commences, we hold a team meeting to wrap up the last sprint and to kick off and manage the requirements-gathering for the new sprint. We also hold daily standups that focus on our objectives and obstacles we might run into. IL: Several values drive Reveel: transparency, partnership, empathy, and perseverance. How do you balance empathy with accountability? You might think that with a core value of empathy, you can’t hold someone accountable because your job is to empathize with them. But that’s where transparency comes from. It’s having real conversations. Everyone here is accountable. We have goals and are measured on how well we hit them. We run a monthly meeting with the executive team, focused on KPIs that help executives drive the business. Each team also has this meeting each month. As you go down the organization, the metrics get more granular. IL: What characteristics are critical for effective leaders? Integrity and the ability to embrace change. Change is often difficult, but it is also inevitable. You’ve also got to be empathetic. In my experience, effective leaders have optimism. IL: How can leaders help others embrace change? It boils down to being transparent around why you’re making a change. It helps if you can align the ‘why’ with the ‘how’ and
November 2025 • Inbound Logistics 11
NOTED [ IN FOCUS ]
The Supply Chain in Brief
> RECOGNITION
> UP THE CHAIN
• Transervice Logistics was recognized for its corporate social responsibility as one of Long Island Business
Clifford Katab was appointed CEO of Weber Logistics. He previously spent more than 30 years in global shipping and logistics, serving as president of Performance Team and COO of North American distribution at Maersk. Uber Freight appointed D’Andrae Larry as its new chief commercial of cer. He will lead a realigned commercial organization focused on building logistics solutions that meet evolving customer needs.
News ’ 2025 Corporate Citizenship Honorees. The award honors companies and individuals that contribute to the economic and social well-being of employees, businesses, and the community by being good corporate citizens.
The Port of Longview appointed Ken Anderton as CEO. Prior to his appointment, Anderton led several transformative projects as senior manager of real estate, leasing, and investment at the Port of Portland, Oregon.
• John Nardi (left), president of the Shipping Association of New York and New Jersey , will receive the Connie Award and Steve Rothberg (right) ,
CSX Corp. named Steve Angel president and CEO, and a member of the board. Angel is an accomplished executive with over 45 years of experience leading large, public companies and generating strong shareholder returns. Peter Nordstrom was named CEO of The Rhenus Group’s Air & Ocean division. He was most recently the executive vice president of Ocean Freight Americas at DB Schenker.
founding partner of Mercator International , will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Containerization & Intermodal Institute. • AutoScheduler.AI won the CSCMP 3V Business Innovation Award , which recognizes innovative uses of Art Mesher’s 3V’s Framework (visibility, variability, velocity) in supply chains.
> GREEN SEEDS
> INVESTMENTS
Hermann Services o cially became New Jersey's largest electric commercial vehicle fleet following the purchase of 15 new Peterbilt electric trucks.
Dexory, a provider of real-time warehouse intelligence, visibility and autonomous solutions, raised $165 million. Eurazeo led the $100 million Series C round, with participation from LTS Growth and Endeavor Catalyst, alongside various existing investors. Reitar Logtech Holdings signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AI logistics company NEXX, along with a formal investment agreement for an inaugural Smart Fulfillment Center project in Qatar. Reitar will invest in the project’s automation system and equipment through its subsidiary, KAMUI Logistics Automation System Limited.
DHL Global Forwarding and Hapag- Lloyd signed a three-year framework agreement for Scope 3 greenhouse gas emission reductions resulting from the use of sustainable marine fuels within Hapag- Lloyd’s fleet. As part of this agreement, the first goal of 25,000 tons CO2e well-to- wake emission reduction was successfully executed in July 2025.
12 Inbound Logistics • November 2025
NOTED
> GOOD WORKS
> M&A
• Menasha Packaging Company hosted its 10th annual Menasters Golf Outing, which raised more than $550,000 for ve local charities that meet the needs of the community, placing its 10-year total at more than $2 million.
The CMA CGM Group acquired Freightliner in the UK. The transaction encompasses rail and road operations and inland terminals, as well as the Freightliner brand. ATS Logistics Services acquired Trailer Bridge Logistics , the division of Trailer Bridge responsible for the company’s current domestic freight brokerage services. Rose Rocket acquired Centro , a Toronto-based company whose core IP transforms unstructured email into structured data that feeds directly into supply chain software systems.
> SEALED DEALS
• Retailer Blain’s Farm & Fleet selected RELEX Solutions to improve its forecasting, allocation, and replenishment operations across its distribution center and 45 stores.
• Under a new long-term contract, Arvato will take over the entire operational logistics for sneaker and streetwear retailer SNIPES’ European online business.
TCI Transportation purchased Success NationaLease , adding more than 450 trucks and
three facilities to TCI’s nationwide network.
• California-based Crystal Art Gallery, an omnichannel supplier of art and home décor products, is using Descartes Sellercloud and
Rail Vision signed a non-binding term sheet for a strategic transaction to acquire 51% ownership of Quantum Transportation , a quantum computing and AI company specializing in error correction technologies. Ingka Investments , the investment arm of Ingka Group, the largest IKEA retailer, acquired logistics technology company Locus . The investment strengthens IKEA’s digital capabilities. Velocitor Solutions acquired NextBillion.ai , joining two leaders in fleet management and an AI-powered routing and optimization platform.
its WMS module to consolidate and synchronize warehousing, inventory, listings, order processing, shipping, customer service, and invoicing across multiple sales channels and brands.
• Rivian Automotive selected Agillence to provide proprietary optimization software to support the planning of parts logistics networks. Agillence Lean Logistics Optimizer
enables part-level, simultaneous optimization of network design, order frequency, detailed routing, 3D stowage, and packaging across multi-tier inbound networks.
• B&H Worldwide was awarded a global warehousing and logistics contract by Ontic Aerospace. Under the contract, B&H Worldwide will deliver inventory management
> MILESTONES GEODIS celebrated the 500th successful flight on its route from Asia to Guadalajara, Mexico. This achievement highlights the service’s success in providing secured capacity, reduced lead times, and end-to-end reliability.
processes including full packaging, consignment, and document checks on both receipt and dispatch to ensure the integrity of items and documentation.
November 2025 • Inbound Logistics 13
TAKEAWAYS Shaping the Future of the Global Supply Chain
Inventory management is king. That’s the short take from the most recent West Monroe Quarterly Supply Chain Poll , which surveyed 250 industry leaders across manufacturing, retail, and distribution to track how they’re responding to supply chain disruption in real time. Against a now familiar backdrop of margin pressures due to tari policies, AI transformation impacts, and growing worry over labor constraints, survey respondents indicate that inventory control remains the anchor of supply chain priorities. Snagging the No. 1 spot, 25% of respondents name “improving inventory management” their top focus (up from 20% in Q2). The surprise mover? Customer fulfillment speed, which jumped three spots to become the No. 2 priority. As realigned supply flows and tari- driven delays mount, speed is emerging as a competitive necessity ( see chart ). Looking ahead, West Monroe predicts the next chapter will show which companies lean in and dierentiate. Structural agility—data, scenario modeling, responsive networks—will matter more than ever, the company says. ALL ABOUT THE INVENTORY
GLOBAL TRADE DEFIES TARIFF PRESSURES Even as U.S. taris hit their highest levels in nearly a century, global trade continues to expand, according to the updated DHL Global Connectedness Tracker , developed in partnership with New York University’s Stern School of Business. Drawing on more than 20 million data points from 25 sources, the report provides one of the first systematic looks at how global trade and investment are adapting to shifting U.S. trade policies under President Trump’s second term. Global trade volumes are projected to grow at an annualized rate of 2.5% through 2029, roughly matching the pace of the previous decade, according to the Tracker . The resilience is partly because the United States accounts for a smaller share of world trade—just 13% of imports and 9% of exports in 2024— and most countries have not mirrored U.S. tari increases. While taris are slowing growth, they are not reversing it. North America saw the steepest downgrade in trade forecasts, while Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East gained ground due to lighter tari exposure and stronger energy exports. “Despite all the headwinds, the DHL Global Connectedness Tracker highlights the enduring strength of global trade,” says John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. The report also shows these key findings: • Global trade grew faster in the first half of 2025 than in any period since 2010 (excluding the pandemic rebound). • No major reorientation of trade along geopolitical blocs is evident. • Average trade distance hit a record 3,200 miles (5,000 kilometers) , disproving claims of “deglobalization.” • Globalization remains near its record high at 25% on DHL’s index scale. • The share of U.S.-reported imports coming directly from China plummeted to only 9% over the first seven months of 2025, down from 13% one year earlier and 22% in 2017 ( see chart ).
Shifting Trade Tides
Source: West Monroe
14 Inbound Logistics • November 2025
TAKEAWAYS
SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS SHRINKING Despite public commitments to decarbonization and efficiency, U.S. logistics companies continue to view sustainability as a secondary concern, according to a new Tech.co survey of more than 1,500 professionals in the transportation and shipping sectors. From April through August 2025 (per data reported in October), just 7% to 11% of respondents identified sustainability as a top operational focus, placing it far behind priorities such as vehicle upkeep (19%–23%), financial pressures (16%–21%), and staffing (12%–26%). When logistics operators do invest in green initiatives, their decisions are closely tied to cost reduction and measurable ROI, the report notes. The most common sustainability practices are reducing idling time (43%) and optimizing delivery routes for fuel efficiency (40%), both of which directly reduce fuel costs. Sustainability is not a core consideration for the logistics sector at the moment, as it struggles to deal with a volatile year, the research shows. Instead, the investments of time and resources needed for progress in this area are being spent elsewhere. Policy reversals, such as the repeal of California’s Advanced Clean Fleets Act, have dampened enthusiasm for EV adoption and other long-term green initiatives, Tech.co notes.
WHAT’S IN STORE FOR THE FREIGHT MARKET?
Muted demand and cautious optimism define the outlook for Q4 2025, according to the latest TD Cowen/AFS Freight Index , which tracks truckload, LTL, and parcel rate trends using freight audit and payment data from $39 billion in annual transportation spend. The report shows carriers leaning on pricing discipline and operational efficiency to protect margins in what has become the third year of an extended freight downturn. While macroeconomic signals such as GDP growth and lower interest rates offer modest encouragement, capacity imbalances and trade policy shifts continue to limit recovery. The environment is one where “carriers are relying on hard-won lessons of the past to prioritize profitability and hang on in a soft environment,” says AFS Logistics CEO Andy Dyer. Key report highlights include: Parcel: Ground parcel rates are projected to climb 4.8% year over year (YOY), reaching 32.4% above the 2018 baseline as FedEx and UPS introduce new dimensional rounding rules and holiday surcharges. LTL: The rate-per-pound index is expected to hit 64.8% above 2018 levels, marking eight consecutive quarters of YOY growth as carriers maintain yield discipline despite lower shipment weights. Truckload: Rates remain sluggish, with Q4 index levels forecast at 6.1% above the 2018 baseline—virtually flat versus prior quarters—despite small upticks in economic activity.
FUNDING FRENZY?
Source: IL LinkedIn poll Should federal and state transport funds be directed to strengthen trucking and keep freight moving as the economy heats up? YES — Trucking is essential 62% MAYBE — Balanced with other needs 29% NO — Private sector should pay 9%
Logistics experts argue that government investment hasn’t kept pace with the growing importance of trucking to the U.S. economy. From training incentives to infrastructure and technology upgrades, the industry needs targeted support before capacity constraints slow recovery. In a recent Inbound Logistics LinkedIn poll, we asked our audience whether or not they believe it’s time to channel more infrastructure funds into trucking. The answer? A resounding yes.
November 2025 • Inbound Logistics 15
KNOWLEDGE Base CONTENT PARTNERS
The latest MHI Annual Industry Report reveals the technologies driving supply chain transformation, as well as the objectives of supply chain leaders. From Inflation to Sustainability: Top 10 Trends Impacting Supply Chains
T he 2025 MHI Annual Industry Report, “The Digital Supply Chain Ecosystem: Orchestrating End- to-End Solutions” offers insights into technologies driving supply chain transformation, as well as the objectives of supply chain leaders. When asked which current trends have the greatest impact on their supply chains, leaders put inflation concerns at the
will struggle to make data-driven decisions that optimize inventory, respond to shifting demands and risks, and improve efficiency. 8. Digitization and the Pace of Technology Adoption. The frantic pace of technological change in supply chains will likely accelerate as more operations embrace AI for better visibility, transparency, and efficiency. Keeping up with the latest developments will become even more challenging
and actionable data generated by technology can help. 5. Inventory Challenges. Finding ways to maintain larger volumes of safety stock, manage higher associated costs, and improve demand forecasting accuracy in uncertain economic times is contributing to supply chain complexities. Rounding out the list of top 10 trends impacting supply chains are five technology specific developments identified by survey respondents. They include: 6. Cybersecurity and Data Security. Supply chains are already a leading source of cybersecurity risk. Their greater reliance on technology and digitization will make data security ever more vital. Threat agents will also leverage AI to launch progressively more sophisticated phishing, deepfake, and ransomware attacks. 7. Demand for Real-Time Data. Lack of access to accurate, real-time data is an ongoing barrier to achieving end-to-end supply chain orchestration. Without real- time data visibility, supply chain leaders
and important. 9. Ecommerce Growth. Online shopping exploded in popularity during the pandemic and continues to expand. Supply chains are seeking ways to harness the power of technology— especially AI—to more accurately anticipate customer needs, manage inventories, and accelerate delivery. 10. Sustainability. Technology advances are helping operations worldwide become more sustainable, but many firms struggle with data issues. That makes accurate reporting of Scope 3 emissions difficult. Although AI can help, ironically it requires tremendous amounts of energy. The report is available for free at mhi.org/publications/report.
top of the list for the second year in a row with 38% of leaders citing inflation- driven costs as the top trend impacting operations and investments. After inflation, the next four most impactful external forces facing supply chains are: 2. Economic Uncertainty. Driven by rising geopolitical tensions and trade restrictions, both domestically and globally, unease about policy revisions has businesses on edge. 3. Workforce and Talent Shortages. Due to the ongoing decline in supply chain labor force participation, companies are increasingly looking to technology and automation to compensate—along with developing and Resiliency. Amid growing complexities and increased vulnerabilities resulting from continued expansion of product portfolios and supplier networks across manufacturers, organizations must focus on identifying and mitigating potential points of failure. The real-time visibility deploying reskilling strategies. 4. Supply Chain Agility and
–By John Paxton
Interested in learning more about applying digital technologies throughout supply chains to orchestrate streamlined, end-to-end decision-making? Make plans now to attend MODEX 2026, April 13-16 at Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center. Learn more and register for free admission at modexshow.com .
Chief Executive Officer MHI mhi.org
16 Inbound Logistics • November 2025
KNOWLEDGE Base CONTENT PARTNERS
Building the Future: How Landstar’s Network Tackles Complex Logistics
How do you execute a game plan when a multi-year project is massive in scale and complexity? The EverBank Stadium project showcases Landstar’s core value proposition.
M ajor infrastructure projects demand more than just moving freight from point A to point B. They require precision, experience, and a transportation team who can navigate complex challenges with con dence. The $1.4-billion renovation of EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida—home to the city’s NFL team—is a perfect example. Handling the logistics for a project of this scale requires a team with a proven playbook for success. For a major North American pipe supplier tasked with delivering foundational pilings for the “Stadium of the Future,” the choice was clear. They needed a freight agent on their team with deep experience in project cargo and a commitment to seeing the job through. They found their top draft pick in the Landstar network. Landstar Agent Adam Spencer of Spencer Global Logistics is leading the charge on this multi-year project. His agency’s deep experience in logistics project management, transloading, and stadium renovation made him a valuable player in securing the deal. But it was his promise of on-site problem-solving and hands-on management that sealed it. “I decided on his agency for this project not only because I’ve worked with him in the past, but also because I knew he is local to the area and will personally see this project through,” says Matt Corbell of the steel pipe supply company. This level of dedicated service is a hallmark of Landstar’s unique business model. Independent agents like Spencer act as an extension of their customers’
Landstar independent owner-operator Amani Triplett helps deliver foundational steel pipes to the EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida.
teams, providing tailored solutions and unmatched support. They aren’t just booking loads; they are managing complex supply chain challenges. Spencer prides himself on providing service customers can count on, day or night. “If our customers’ lights are on, our lights are on,” he says. Powered by an Extensive Network This commitment is powered by Landstar’s extensive network of independent owner-operators they refer to as business capacity owners (BCOs). The strong relationships between agents and BCOs allow customers to bene t from a cohesive team that provides custom solutions and great customer service, even for the most demanding jobs. “Our agency’s relationship with Landstar BCOs strengthens our commitment that loads will be picked up on time and handled professionally from beginning to end, giving our customers con dence that their project is our priority,” Spencer explains.
Landstar BCO Amani Triplett, one of the owner-operators on the project, agrees. “Developing a relationship with agents like Adam has helped my business,” Triplett says. “I nd reliable agents, and they look out for me as much as I look out for them and their customers.” The EverBank Stadium project showcases Landstar’s core value proposition: a powerful combination of experienced agents providing superior project management and a network of reliable, professional owner-operators executing the plan. It’s a home- eld advantage for a project in Landstar’s own headquarters city, demonstrating how the Landstar network is building the future, one delivery at a time.
To learn more: Solutions@landstar.com www.Landstar.com
When your next big project demands a higher level of service, trust the Landstar network to deliver. Learn more about Landstar’s transportation solutions at Landstar.com .
November 2025 • Inbound Logistics 17
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