Category Archives: Industry Insights

April was a month full of momentum for PGL. Here’s a quick look at the highlights and milestones that kept our teams—and the supply chain—moving forward.

We kicked things off with a classic PGL tailgate to celebrate Opening Day with the Texas Rangers. As the official supply chain and logistics partner of the Rangers, we’re proud to support another exciting season.

Next stop: Atlanta, Georgia, for MRO Americas—one of the industry’s largest gatherings of aviation and aerospace professionals. Our team was on the ground connecting with partners and exploring innovations shaping the future of maintenance, repair, and overhaul.

We also marked two industry-relevant dates—National Supply Chain Day and Earth Day—with a nod to the hardworking professionals who keep goods moving and businesses running.

And finally, we’re wrapping up with key insights from April that shaped our industry—from market trends to logistics solutions that are transforming how goods move around the world.

Thanks for tuning in. We’ll see you next month with more updates from the field. As always, PGL is here 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

Industry Insights

April 2025

By PGL

Welcome to the PGL Industry Insights report for April 2025

DHL has temporarily suspended all B2C shipments over $800 to the U.S. due to ongoing challenges with regulatory requirements and delivery complexities. This move is part of DHL’s broader response to growing concerns over U.S. import rules and logistics constraints, affecting e-commerce and international shipments.

The benchmark diesel price recently dropped by 8.2 cents per gallon, marking the second-largest price decline of 2025. This price drop to $3.458 is the lowest since October 2021 and is expected to influence fuel surcharges across the industry.

Rail traffic continues to show strong growth, with total carloads and intermodal units rising 5.5% compared to the same period in 2024. This increase is fueled by higher demand in sectors like metallic ores and coal, while forest product shipments saw a slight decline.

Trans-Pacific container rates have continued to ease, with rates to the West Coast now sitting at $2,200 per FEU, reflecting competition and fleet growth in the market.

That’s it for this month’s report. Subscribe to our channel to make sure you get the latest supply chain insights. As always, PGL will be here to keep you informed 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

March was a dynamic month here at PGL, filled with big moves, meaningful connections, and impactful events. Let’s take a look at what we’ve been up to.

We kicked things into high gear on the networking front—attending the AirCargo Conference, Verticon, and the Mexico Supply Chain Summit. It was a great opportunity to connect, collaborate, and stay ahead of what’s next in logistics.

We were also proud to sponsor the GA Telesis Golf Tournament, supporting youth sports, education, and the incredible teachers who make it all possible.

March gave us a chance to honor some important milestones—we celebrated International Women’s Day and National Supply Chain Day, spotlighting the people and processes that keep everything moving.

And of course, we’ll wrap up with a quick look at the key trends and takeaways that shaped the global supply chain landscape this month.

Thanks for watching, and we’ll see you next month. Until then, remember—PGL is here for you 24/7, 365 days a year.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

Industry Insights

March 2025

By PGL

Welcome to the PGL Industry Insights report for March 2025.

President Trump signed a proclamation imposing 25% tariffs on imported automobiles and key auto parts under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. Importers of automobiles under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement can apply for certification of their US content, with tariffs applying only to non-U.S. portions.

For the fourth consecutive week, U.S. rail traffic rose over 5% year-over-year, reaching almost half a million carloads and intermodal units. Growth was led by metallic ores, minerals, and coal, while forest product shipments declined.

Post-Lunar New Year, trans-Pacific shipping rates have eased, despite stronger volumes. Rates sit at 20% below 2024 lows. Asia-Europe rates have also fallen due to weaker demand and new carrier alliances.

After three weeks of declines, diesel prices rose 1.8 cents to $3.567 per gallon. Market uncertainty, sanctions on Iranian oil, and rising ultra-low sulfur diesel futures contributed to the increase.

In Labor News, rail workers ratified a new contract with the National Carriers’
Conference Committee. The deal guarantees 17.5% wage increases, improved healthcare, and more vacation time.

That’s it for this month’s report. Subscribe to our channel to make sure you get the latest supply chain insights. As always, PGL will be here to keep you informed 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

PGL had a great month of February. Take a look at some of the moving parts.

We attended MRO Latin America and the WCA.

We celebrated Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day.

When the World Series champs need a trusted logistics partner, they call PGL! We’re proud to be moving the Texas Rangers with precision, reliability, and care.

Plus a look at the key insights and events that shaped the supply chain in February.

Thanks for watching. We will see you next month and as always, PGL is here 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

Industry Insights

February 2025

By PGL

Welcome to the PGL Industry Insights report for February 2025.

The Port of Los Angeles had its busiest January ever, moving more cargo than in any previous year. This surge was driven by a strong economy and businesses shipping goods early to avoid possible tariffs and delays from the Lunar New Year. Imports increased significantly, while exports declined. The rise in empty containers leaving the port suggests that even more shipments are on the way.

Rail traffic in the U.S. showed slight growth in mid-February, with container shipments rising while traditional freight like coal and chemicals declined. Canada saw modest rail growth, while Mexico reported lower volumes. Despite mixed results, overall rail activity across North America has been trending upward this year.

Ongoing tariff changes are keeping ocean shipping costs high. Businesses are rushing to move goods ahead of possible price increases, pushing up shipping rates. Analysts warn that if new tariffs take effect later this year, container costs could hit their highest levels since last summer.

Diesel prices have been creeping up, with only small changes week to week. The increase follows new U.S. sanctions on Russian oil, which could tighten global supply.

While prices have not spiked sharply, the steady upward trend is something to watch. In Laredo, Texas, the busiest border crossing for U.S.-Mexico trade, fewer trucks are available for cross-border shipments, as many carriers are shifting their focus to
California where demand for imports remains strong. Trade policy uncertainty and shifting market conditions are making it harder for shippers to secure capacity.

That’s it for this month’s report. Subscribe to our channel to make sure you get the latest supply chain insights. As always, PGL will be there to keep you informed 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

PGL kicked off 2025 with an incredible month of January! Here’s a quick look at some of the highlights:

As the exclusive U.S. licensee for TALA, we made waves at the AeroEngines Americas 2025 trade show, showcasing our cutting-edge logistics solutions designed to keep the aerospace industry soaring.

We also hosted our annual Sales Conference, featuring inspiring speaker panels, interactive breakout sessions, and unforgettable moments like casino night and a gala that truly brought our team together.

Finally, we’re sharing key insights and events that defined the supply chain this January, helping you stay ahead in an ever-changing industry.

Thanks for watching! We’ll see you next month. And remember, PGL is here for you 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

Industry Insights

January 2025

By PGL

Welcome to the PGL Industry Insights report for January 2025.

Truckload markets are experiencing a surge in tender rejection rates, the highest in two years, indicating increased reactivity. Intermodal markets are thriving, with double-digit volume growth driven by strong import levels.

Ocean freight faces uncertainty due to added capacity in 2025 and the threat of tariffs. Pre-Lunar New Year demand has boosted trans-Pacific container rates, with Asia-U.S. West Coast rates up 23% per container and East Coast rates up 13%.

The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) reached a tentative six-year agreement, avoiding a potential strike. The deal allows terminal operators to implement semi-automated technology while guaranteeing jobs for union workers linked to the new equipment. A 62% pay increase agreed upon after an October 2024 strike is contingent on the final contract ratification.

Houthi rebels announced they will cease attacks on merchant shipping and Israel following a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Ocean carriers are closely monitoring the Red Sea situation, with only CMA CGM maintaining a Suez Canal route.

Diesel prices have risen sharply, reaching just over $3.70 per gallon, the highest since August. The 11.3-cent increase is the largest weekly gain since February, partly driven by shipping disruptions in the Red Sea. This is a big turn–around after steadily decreasing prices over the last half-year, though the price is still well short of the $4.00 threshold.

That’s it for this month’s report. Subscribe to our channel to make sure you get the latest supply chain insights. As always, PGL will be here to keep you informed 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

Industry Insights

December 2024

By PGL

Welcome to the PGL Industry Insights report for December 2024

Season’s greetings from all of us here at PGL. We hope you have a wonderful holiday and a prosperous 2025 ahead of you!

We start this month’s report with news that the uptick in rail freight continues with intermodal volume up almost 10% this year over 2023. This was buoyed somewhat by an uncharacteristically large slump the week of Thanksgiving, but volume is still up for the year, and there are indications that it will continue to perform well in the new year.

In ocean freight, Labor tensions and political uncertainty with regard to future tariffs kept late November container rates to the US high, with Asia-to-US rates well over $5,000 per FEU and heading up. Forecasters are identifying both the West and Gulf Coast ILA labor fight as well as trepidation surrounding the unknown timing and overall impact of proposed tariff increases as factors for shippers to try to beat these issues to the punch, increasing volume and therefore, cost, ahead of what should prove to be an impactful January.

Speaking of the current ILA labor issues, President-elect, Donald Trump has commented repeatedly in recent days that he backs the Union’s stance to block port automation. It is unknown how this may affect the big picture, or how a long-term work stoppage would be received by the administration. PGL will keep an eye on how this develops ahead of the January 15 negotiation deadline.

Twice this month, US warships successfully defended three US-flagged merchant ships in the Gulf of Arden. The Destroyers were able to intercept several different ballistic and cruise missiles that were launched by the Houthi rebels that have been hunting vessels in the Red Sea for over a year.

After a tiny bump at the beginning of the month, benchmark diesel price dropped again, going below its lowest point in over three years that was hit in November. Early this month, OPEC+ held a meeting that led to an extension of the production cuts that were due to be adjusted for higher volume in December. The futures market remains bearish, with no signs of increasing prices on the horizon.

That’s it for this month’s report. Subscribe to our channel to make sure you get the latest supply chain insights. As always, PGL will be here to keep you informed 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

PGL had a great month of December. Take a look at some of the moving parts.

PGL sponsored the 4th Annual Freedom Mobility Foundation Golf Tournament.

Shoutout to PGL’s ORD Station for giving back to the community with Toys for Tots.

Plus, a recap of the key insights and events that impacted the supply chain in December.

Don’t forget to watch the Armed Forces Bowl happening Friday December 27! We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Happy Holidays from PGL, available 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

PGL had a great month of November. Here’s a glimpse at some of the moving parts.

We partnered with MTU Maintenance and TALA to deliver unmatched support and innovation in the aerospace industry.

We honored those who have fought for our freedom on Veterans Day.

PGL was a proud sponsor of the seventh annual Spirit Open charity golf tournament, which raised over 1.2 million dollars benefiting the Spirit Airlines’ Spirit Charitable Foundation.

We are also proud to sponsor the 2024 Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl! Tune in on Friday December 27th for a great football matchup.

Plus, a recap of the key insights and. Events that impacted the supply chain in November.

Thanks for watching! We’ll see you next month and, as always, PGL is here 24/7/365. #GoPGL

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.

Industry Insights

November 2024

By PGL

Welcome to the PGL Industry Insights report for November 2024.

We start this month’s report with news that the Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Ports Program has awarded 3 billion dollars to 55 ports across 27 states to secure new electric drayage trucks and cargo handling equipment, as well as the changing infrastructure to accommodate the new additions. This effort should make ports more efficient and have a positive impact on the environment.

In labor news, on November 14th the Canada Industrial Relations Board ordered all parties to resume operations after the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Ship & Dock Foremen union began a November first strike, followed by a subsequent lockout. A binding arbitration process is underway to resolve outstanding issues.

In the Boeing strike, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers union ended labor stoppage after 53 days with the approval of a new contract.

As we’ve reported before, 2024 is shaping up to be a strong year for intermodal freight, as according to a recent report from the Association of American Railroads, 2024 intermodal volume is up 9% over last year.

The benchmark diesel price dropped again this month, reaching its lowest point in over three years, just below the $3.50 mark.

The futures market remains undecided on the heels of a Trump presidential win, but expectations of decreased regulation and an intention to “drill baby drill” may keep prices low.

That’s it for this month’s report. Subscribe to our channel to make sure you get the latest supply chain insights. As always, PGL will be here to keep you informed 24/7/365.

Follow us at @shipPGL and visit our website at www.shipPGL.com.