Global Logistics

The Future of Transportation Looks Flexible

March 13, 2017

Analyst Insight: Logistics decisions are executed to deliver a service at the lowest possible cost. There are various inefficiencies in logistics operations, and the overall supply chain, that make this seemingly simple objective a constant struggle. Some of those inefficiencies are self-imposed by shippers, as they attempt to drive stability in logistics to lower costs. Mode decisions and core carrier programs are examples of historical ways to drive logistics efficiencies. But they may be driving inefficiencies in tomorrow’s logistics operations. – Shanton Wilcox, Partner-Supply Chain Management, Infosys Consulting

A Grim 2017 Expected for Container Shipping

March 13, 2017

Maritime Executive

The outlook for global container carriers remains grim at the outset of 2017, says analyst AlixPartners in their latest industry report.

Are Ocean Carriers and Shippers Focused on Service - Or Just Lip Service?

March 13, 2017

Robert J. Bowman, SupplyChainBrain

It's been the same drill for years: Ocean carriers and shippers talking service, then fixating on price. Is this disconnect finally about to be disrupted?

Autonomous Robots Promise Economic Delivery Options

March 10, 2017

SupplyChainBrain

Analyst Insight: The decades-old practice of a delivery truck dropping off a package at a home or business occurs millions of times daily across the globe. But new ways to cover last-mile delivery - such as drones, self-navigating parcel robots and underground vehicles/tunnels - are providing a glimpse into what tomorrow's last-mile delivery options might look like. Here are three technologies that carry the potential to transform the local delivery of direct-to-consumer orders. – John Johnson, senior content specialist, Gartner

The Supply Chain Outlook for China in 2017

March 9, 2017

SupplyChainBrain

Analyst Insight: Concern over a potential economic slowdown in 2017 is showing up in both government policy and business strategy in ways that positively impact the logistics sector. Government policies are showing concern for profitability of businesses. Many of the new incentives are centered around logistics. Meanwhile, businesses are taking a harder look at where to make profit in sectors which have thus far shown little margin, such as e-commerce logistics. – Jim Serstad, managing director, Asia, Tompkins International

Amazon Founder Plans Delivery for 'Future Human Settlement' of the Moon

March 9, 2017

Los Angeles Times

More than four decades after the last man walked on the lunar surface, several upstart space entrepreneurs are looking to capitalize on NASA's renewed interest in returning to the moon, offering a variety of proposals with the ultimate goal of establishing a lasting human presence there.

Research Group Seeks Insights on Ocean Supply Chain

March 8, 2017

BPI Network

The global container shipping industry is undergoing unprecedented upheaval, with industry restructuring and consolidation, supply and demand imbalances and convergence of e-commerce and transport logistics, says the Business Performance Innovation (BPI) Network. The group is seeking insights on emerging trends through its survey, Competitive Gain in the Ocean Supply Chain: Innovation That's Driving Maritime Operational Transformation.

IBM and Maersk Ready Blockchain Technology

March 8, 2017

Maritime Executive

Maersk and IBM have announced a new collaboration to use blockchain technology to help transform the global supply chain.

DHL Pilots Carbon-Neutral Bike Deliveries

March 8, 2017

Air Cargo World

DHL Express is piloting a cargo bicycle program for inner-city deliveries. The bikes, called 'DHL Cubicycles' are customized, four-wheel bikes that can carry a container with a load of up to 125 kilograms (one cubic meter in volume). The program reduces emissions by minimizing the mileage and time spent on the road by standard delivery vehicles. As e-commerce volumes surge, efforts to minimize the industry's high carbon footprint are increasingly important.