Data recently released by Zepol, a trade intelligence firm, indicated the United States-bound containerized vessel imports were mixed for the month of February, with imports down sequentially and up annually.

Given all the mysterious and metrical nuances of ocean cargo shipping, supply chain managers are increasingly challenged on how to monitor and measure this essential mode of global transport.

Brian Conrad, executive administrator for the Transpacific Stabilization Agreement (TSA), is not only regarded as a “thought leader” in the ocean shipping arena, but also as a man of uncommon candor. For the past several years now, he has weathered the storm brought on by shippers’ associations challenging pricing and operations in the world’s most active—and vital—trade lane linking North America and Asia.

Company officials said this expansion was made to address market trends related to increased manufacturing and consumer demand in many regions, with these lanes originating in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South Africa. With this expansion, UPS has more than 1,700 direct LCL lanes serving 116 countries.

The battle lines between shippers and carriers comprising the Transpacific Stabilization Agreement (TSA) are shaping up early as both sides make plans for future contracting.

The battle lines between shippers and carriers comprising the Transpacific Stabilization Agreement (TSA) are shaping up early as both sides make plans for future contracting.

Following months of acrimonious negotiations, the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), an alliance of container carriers, direct employers, and port associations serving United States-based East and Gulf Coasts, and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), the largest union of maritime workers in North America, have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract.

Port authorities at major cargo gateways on all three coasts are investing in infrastructure and strategic planning to become more sustainable corporate citizens—a positive trend that’s making U.S. seaports more efficient and resilient than ever.

American Association of Port Authorities' President and CEO Kurt Nagle says AAPA and the public port industry have greatly appreciated Secretary LaHood’s recognition of the importance of ports as a critical link in our transportation system and his support for port related infrastructure investment during his term as Secretary.

During his term as DOT Secretary, LaHood was very active on the transportation infrastructure and freight fronts.