Skip to Content

Blog Archives

Logistics Leverage: PGL and DHL Delivering Global Excellence

Logistics Leverage
At Perimeter Global Logistics (PGL), we excel in delivering world-class logistics solutions that not only meet the diverse needs of our clients but exceed their expectations. Our strategic partnership with DHL Express is designed to solve your toughest shipping challenges and transform international logistics into a seamless advantage for your business.

 

Solving Your Toughest Shipping Challenges
Shipping goods internationally comes with its challenges, from navigating complex customs regulations to ensuring time-sensitive deliveries. These pain points are precisely where the PGL and DHL partnership shines. Whether you require expedited shipments with a delivery window of 2-4 days, or need quick spot quotes on shipments, our collaboration empowers you to leverage logistics as a competitive advantage.

 

Unmatched Global Reach and Efficiency
Partnering with DHL, the world’s #1 logistics company, means gaining access to the most extensive network coverage and the largest global market share in logistics. With over 220 countries and territories served, 2,300 daily flights, and 118,000 service points worldwide, your shipments benefit from unmatched speed and reliability. This global infrastructure ensures that your goods reach their destination swiftly and securely, no matter where in the world they need to go.

 

Premium and Personalized Service
What sets us apart is not just our global reach, but also our commitment to personalized service. At PGL, every customer, big or small, receives dedicated attention. We handle day-to-day shipping challenges, manage customs intricacies, and provide real-time tracking and tracing support. This personalized approach allows you to focus on growing your business while we ensure your logistics operations run seamlessly.

 

Technology-Driven Solutions for Seamless Operations
Our state-of-the-art technology platform offers a best-in-class shipping solution tailored to your specific needs. From easy and efficient shipment booking to customizable interfaces, administrative controls, and comprehensive reporting capabilities, our platform provides full visibility into your logistics operations. Real-time tracking ensures you’re always informed about your shipments’ status, from pickup to delivery.

 

Comprehensive DHL Express Services
As an Authorized Reseller of DHL Express, PGL adheres to rigorous quality, ethical, and financial standards. This designation not only guarantees service excellence but also enables us to offer value-added benefits like access to discounts and a Large Opportunity Program, typically reserved for larger shippers. Whether you need time-definite door-to-door delivery or specialized customs services, we have the expertise to streamline your logistics process.

 

Experience the PGL and DHL Advantage
Our partnership with DHL allows us to deliver a comprehensive logistics solution that adds significant value to businesses of all sizes. Together, PGL and DHL redefine global logistics excellence, ensuring your shipments are handled with care and efficiency every step of the way.

 

Ready to Elevate Your Global Shipping Solutions?
Interested in optimizing and elevating your shipping solutions with our top-of-the-line DHL services? Fill out the form below, and our dedicated team will contact you promptly to discuss how we can enhance your global shipping capabilities.

 

 

0 Continue Reading →

Why Your Business Should Work with a 3PL

Understanding the Value of Third-Party Logistics

In today’s competitive business environment, efficiency and reliability in logistics are essential for sustainable growth. Partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider can offer numerous advantages that enhance your supply chain operations and overall business strategy. From managing complex supply networks to optimizing transportation routes and warehousing, 3PLs play a crucial role in overcoming common challenges that businesses face in logistics management.

 

Identifying Common Pain Points in Logistics

Despite advancements in technology and operational strategies, businesses encounter several challenges in managing their supply chains effectively:

Complexity in Logistics Management: Coordinating multiple suppliers, transportation modes, and distribution channels can lead to inefficiencies, delays, and increased costs.

Scalability Issues: Businesses often struggle to adjust their operations to meet fluctuating demand, leading to inventory imbalances, underutilized resources during off-peak periods, or shortages during peak seasons.

Limited Visibility and Control: Without robust technology systems, businesses lack real-time visibility into inventory levels, shipment status, and overall supply chain performance. This can hinder decision-making and responsiveness to market changes.

 

How 3PL Services Address These Challenges

Expertise and Specialization: 3PL providers like PGL (Perimeter Global Logistics) bring specialized knowledge and experience in managing complex supply chain operations. By outsourcing logistics to a 3PL, businesses benefit from industry expertise that optimizes processes and mitigates risks.

Scalability and Flexibility: PGL offers scalable logistics solutions that adapt to business growth and seasonal demand fluctuations. Our flexible approach ensures that your supply chain remains agile and responsive, optimizing inventory management and operational efficiency.

Advanced Technology Solutions: Leveraging state-of-the-art technology, PGL enhances supply chain visibility and control. Our integrated systems provide real-time data analytics, predictive insights, and automated processes that streamline operations and improve decision-making.

Financial Flexibility and Competitive Advantage: Partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider enhances financial flexibility and competitive advantage for businesses by leveraging extensive networks and resources. Tailored logistics solutions enable strategic cost management through scalable services that adapt to fluctuating demand and market dynamics. Accessing networks of partners and suppliers allows businesses to gain efficiencies, competitive pricing, and specialized services that enhance operational agility and market competitiveness. Outsourcing logistics streamlines operations, enabling businesses to focus on core activities and strategic initiatives while benefiting from robust risk management strategies that ensure continuity and reliability in supply chain operations. This proactive approach strengthens business resilience and supports sustainable growth in competitive markets.

 

Choose the Right 3PL Partner

After understanding the challenges and solutions offered by 3PL services, selecting the right partner is crucial for maximizing benefits:

Strategic Collaboration: PGL collaborates strategically with clients to form a partnership and align logistics solutions with business objectives. We provide customized services and proactive support to optimize your supply chain performance.

Customer-Centric Approach: With a commitment to exceptional service, PGL acts as an extension of your team. Our dedicated logistics experts prioritize customer satisfaction, delivering tailored solutions that drive operational excellence and competitive advantage.

 

Conclusion

Partnering with a 3PL like PGL can transform your supply chain operations, driving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing overall business performance. By outsourcing logistics to a trusted provider, businesses gain a strategic advantage in the market, positioning themselves for sustainable growth and success.

 

Ready to optimize your supply chain with a trusted 3PL partner? 

Contact PGL today to explore how our comprehensive logistics services can meet your business needs and propel you towards success. Let us help you navigate the complexities of global logistics and achieve sustainable growth.

0 Continue Reading →

Press Release: PGL Expands Warehouse Capacity in Grand Prairie, TX

PGL is pleased to announce the expansion of our Grand Prairie, TX, warehouse operations with the addition of 100,000 square feet of new space. This brings our total warehouse capacity to 400,000 square feet, further enabling us to serve our clients with enhanced storage and logistics capabilities. The new space is climate-controlled and designed to meet the growing demands of our customers while improving the security of our entire facility and truck yard.

This expansion aligns with PGL’s ongoing commitment to growth, both professionally and physically. By increasing our footprint, we are not only adding capacity but also increasing our operational efficiency and flexibility, allowing us to continue providing reliable, best-in-class logistics solutions.

Interested in filling this space? Fill out the form below to connect with a representative at PGL.

0 Continue Reading →

Welcoming Kris Rostan: A New Chapter in PGL’s Growth Story

Press Release

Chicago, Illinois — August 29, 2024

Kris Rostan

Director of Commercial Strategy and Operations

 

Investing in Innovation

At PGL, we’re always looking ahead—investing in innovation, refining our strategies, and strengthening our team to better serve our clients. Today, PGL is pleased to announce the newest addition to our leadership team, Kris Rostan as the Director of Commercial Strategy and Operations.

 

The Impact of Strong Leadership: Kris’s Role at PGL

Kris Rostan comes to PGL with extensive experience in commercial strategy, sales operations, and cross-functional team management. In her new role, Kris will build on the strong foundation laid by PGL, focusing on key growth initiatives that will accelerate PGL’s growth objectives. Kris has a proven track record of driving revenue growth, refining go-to-market strategies and improving operational efficiency—skills that are invaluable as PGL continues to expand its footprint in the logistics industry.

In her new role, Kris will work closely with Terry Unrein, our Chief Growth Officer, as well as Regional Vice Presidents, Vertical Leaders, and our COO, to ensure that every aspect of our operations supports our overarching growth strategy.

 

PGL’s Commitment to Strategic Growth

As a company, PGL prioritizes our commitment to growth by investing in our people, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. We understand that in an industry as dynamic as logistics, staying ahead means constantly evolving. That’s why we’re continually investing in our team and our technology, ensuring that we’re not just meeting the needs of today but anticipating the challenges of tomorrow.

Kris’s arrival is a testament to this commitment. With her at the helm of our commercial strategy and operations, we’re confident that PGL will continue to grow in ways that allow us to serve our clients even better. Her role is critical in ensuring that our operational activities are seamlessly aligned with our ambitious growth objectives.

 

PGL: A Woman-Owned Business with a Dynamic Team

PGL is proud to be a certified woman-owned business, and we’re even prouder of the dynamic group of women leaders who play a vital role in our success. Adding Kris to our team is not just an exciting development for PGL—it’s a continuation of our commitment to empowering women in leadership roles across our organization.

 

A Warm Welcome to Kris

Please join us in welcoming Kris Rostan to the PGL team. For more information about PGL and our comprehensive logistics solutions, visit our website at shipPGL.com. Don’t forget to follow us on LinkedIn to stay updated on all the latest news and insights from PGL.

 

About PGL: Perimeter Global Logistics (PGL) is a leading provider of comprehensive logistics and supply chain solutions. PGL offers a wide range of services, including transportation, warehousing, and supply chain management, designed to meet the unique needs of businesses across various industries.

1 Continue Reading →

PGL and the Art of Hospitality Logistics: From Vision to Reality

The World of Hospitality

In the bustling world of hospitality, where every detail matters, the pursuit of excellence is not merely an aspiration but an expectation. Just as a master chef meticulously crafts each dish or a concierge orchestrates a seamless guest experience, at PGL (Perimeter Global Logistics), we understand the intricate role of logistics within the hospitality sector. With our comprehensive suite of services, we don’t just deliver goods; we curate experiences, elevate spaces, and ensure that every element aligns flawlessly to create unforgettable moments.

Quality Service

At the heart of our approach lies a commitment to quality

that echoes the sentiments of writer and philosopher John Ruskin: “Quality is never an accident. It is always the result of an intelligent effort.” You can see intelligent effort in everything we do at PGL. From the moment we engage with a client to the final delivery and beyond. Just as a masterful host anticipates the needs of their guests, we anticipate the needs of our clients and tailor our services to exceed their expectations. PGL seamlessly coordinates between designers, contractors, and vendors to bring visions to life. From handling large furniture to delicate fixtures, our expertise in FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) and OS&E (Operating Supplies and Equipment) ensures that every element is delivered with precision and care.

PGL’s Project Prowess

Take, for example, the Murrieta project, where PGL’s logistical prowess was put to the test. With tight deadlines and high expectations, our team choreographed the various components of the projects, ensuring that each element arrived punctually and in impeccable condition. From coordinating international shipments to organizing white-glove deliveries, we left no stone unturned in our pursuit of excellence.

A Commitment to Quality

But our commitment to quality extends beyond logistics; it’s ingrained in our culture. Just as a renowned chef selects the finest ingredients, we handpick our partners and suppliers to ensure that every aspect of our service meets the highest standards. Whether it’s shipping and crating or installation and removal, our attention to detail sets us apart as a trusted partner in the hospitality industry.

In a world where every interaction is an opportunity to make a lasting impression, PGL stands as a beacon of reliability and excellence. Just as a memorable stay leaves guests longing to return, our seamless logistics solutions leave clients confident in their choice to entrust their supply chain to us. From domestic freight to global shipping, from warehousing to liquidation, PGL is more than a logistics company; we’re a partner in the pursuit of perfection.

So, whether you’re a boutique hotel embarking on a renovation or a global resort launching a new property, trust PGL to deliver more than just goods—we deliver experiences. Because, as John Ruskin so eloquently stated, excellence is not an accident; it’s a deliberate choice, and at PGL, we choose excellence every step of the way.

Case Study

Learn more about the Murietta Springs Hotel Case Study and uncover the secrets behind our success in delivering excellence. 

Link: MURRIETA – Case Study | PGL (shippgl.com)
 
 
 

0 Continue Reading →

Why PGL is the Best Place to Start and Grow Your Career

More Than Logistics

At Perimeter Global Logistics (PGL), we are more than just a third-party logistics (3PL) company; we are a team dedicated to excellence and innovation. As one of the world’s fastest-growing 3PL companies, specializing in time-definite transportation and comprehensive logistics solutions, PGL offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment that fosters both personal and professional growth for your career.

My Journey: From Intern to Leader

My journey with PGL began as an intern while I was still in college. This initial exposure to the logistics industry, guided by our dynamic leader Blake Fletcher, was transformative. It sparked a passion in me to return and contribute to PGL’s mission of connecting businesses worldwide with unparalleled customer service and cutting-edge technology. Today, I continue to thrive, learn, and grow within a team that consistently supports and pushes me to excel. At PGL, entrepreneurial spirit and innovation are not just encouraged—they are essential.

A Culture of Excellence and Innovation

Our culture at PGL is truly exceptional. Alec Lamothe, our Inside Sales Team Lead, captures this perfectly: “I love working at Perimeter Global Logistics because of the culture – you are family here at PGL, and it makes coming to work that much better! PGL is a great workplace!” This supportive environment fosters a sense of belonging and motivation, driving us to achieve excellence in everything we do.

Bradley Gascon, an Inside Sales Executive, adds, “PGL, from my perspective, is a family company. Coworkers within the organization are easy to reach out to and get questions answered. The leadership promotes forward-thinking as well as entrepreneurial ideas. If you can figure out a way to make it happen and it makes sense, the company will support your idea.” This culture of innovation and collaboration empowers employees to bring their best ideas forward, creating a competitive and rewarding work environment.

Empowering Women and Military Veterans

As a woman-owned business, PGL is dedicated to empowering talented women to lead and excel in the logistics industry. We believe in creating opportunities and nurturing talent to help women succeed in their careers. Additionally, we frequently hire retired military personnel, recognizing the unique skills and experiences they bring to our team. Many former service members have found a new home at PGL, where their contributions are highly valued and respected.

Commitment to Professional Growth

Our commitment to professional growth is a cornerstone of our success. Nyles Standridge, our Director of HR, emphasizes, “I most value PGL because of the continuous ability to develop as a professional and the personal growth that has resulted from being a member of a high-performance team.” At PGL, there is no better team to start or continue your career if you value the opportunity to impact both organizational and personal growth.

The Heart of PGL: Our People

Erwin Ancheta, Operations Station Manager, sums it up beautifully: “I love PGL because of the people. The camaraderie, the trust, and the loyalty make PGL a home, not just a job for me.” It is this sense of trust and mutual respect that makes PGL stand out as an employer of choice.

Join the PGL Team

At PGL, we are one team, all in, 365/24/7. Our mission is to connect businesses on time, anywhere in the world, through leading-edge technology and unrivaled customer service. Our vision is to be innovative in global freight management and contract logistics. If you are looking for a place where you can grow, innovate, and be part of a team dedicated to excellence, PGL is the place for you.

We invite you to join us at PGL, where your career can thrive, and your contributions will make a real impact. Together, we can achieve great things and continue to lead the logistics industry into the future.

Apply to PGL open positions here: PGL Careers

0 Continue Reading →

PGL Connect – Keep Track of What Matters

 

 

In our daily lives, we meticulously keep track of the things that matter most – our keys, wallets, and cherished belongings. Why? Because losing track of what’s important can lead to chaos and frustration. Just like you safeguard your personal essentials, at PGL, a leading 3pl logistics company, we understand that your business is paramount. Your shipments, cargo, and supply chain operations are vital assets that require constant monitoring and seamless coordination.

 

That’s why we are thrilled to announce the revamped launch of our cutting-edge platform, PGL Connect, in partnership with LogixBoard. Just like a world-class conductor seamlessly orchestrating a symphony, PGL Connect harmonizes every aspect of your supply chain into one powerful, user-friendly interface. This integrated digital solution provides real-time visibility, efficient communication, and advanced analytics to streamline logistical operations on an unprecedented scale.

 

With PGL Connect, you can track shipments globally with pinpoint accuracy, it’s like having an Airtag on every shipment, receiving automated notifications at every crucial milestone. The live vessel tracking feature keeps you informed about your cargo’s maritime movements across international waters. But PGL Connect goes far beyond basic tracking capabilities.

 

Our platform serves as a centralized hub for document access and management, eliminating the hassle of scattered papers and files. You can effortlessly communicate with our team through the in-app messaging system, ensuring seamless coordination. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg! PGL Connect offers insightful reporting tools that empower data-driven decision-making, giving you a competitive edge in the fast-paced world of global logistics.

 

As an international logistics company committed to transparency, PGL Connect is a game-changer in supply chain management. It elevates efficiency to new heights, approaching operations with the exactitude of a skilled surgeon performing a delicate procedure. With PGL Connect, we’re not just a global logistics provider – we’re a partner invested in your success, delivering a modern, comprehensive digital experience.

 

We know your business is important to you, just as your personal belongings hold immense value. Let us make it easy for you to keep track of what matters most when it comes to your business with PGL Connect. In the ever-evolving landscape of integrated logistics tracking, PGL Connect positions us as industry leaders, driving innovation and customer satisfaction. We couldn’t be more excited about the transformative potential of this platform, and invite you to experience the future of seamless logistics solutions with us.

 

0 Continue Reading →

Supply Chain Industry Insights – April 2024

Industry Insights

April 2024

By PGL

In this episode of the PGL Industry Insights report, we check on the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, deliver some welcome news on the drought-stricken Panama Canal, watch as the Benchmark Diesel Price continues to defy expectations and we have one last bit of eclipse fun.

Welcome to the PGL Industry Insights report for April 2024

We begin this month’s report with an update on the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key bridge collapse in Baltimore. Great effort has been made to help with local trucking, including a temporary amendment of hours-of-service rules that allow for an additional two hours of drive time which has helped to alleviate some traffic concerns and allow for drayage drivers to temporarily shift to the port of Norfolk while authorities deal with the wreckage in Baltimore. As of April 22nd, 3 channels have been opened up to allow for traffic to and from the port, and authorities are pushing for a full reopening of the Fort McHenry channel at the end of May.

We have good news on the drought conditions that have limited passage through the Panama Canal, as recent heavy rainfall has had a positive impact on reservoir levels and allowed for increased traffic. Forecasts are indicating not only the end of the dry season, but also the El Niño conditions that have led to the historically low rainfall, and there are signs that a La Niña weather condition could be coming in August that would lead to a cooling effect and more rainfall long term.

Benchmark Diesel pricing has spent the month bouncing above and below the $4 line, continuing to subvert expectations that Middle East turmoil and Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries would lead to soaring prices.

Lastly, as proof that logistics touches every aspect of life, we get a reminder that life also impacts logistics, sometimes in strange ways. Ahead of the eclipse that captured the attention of a wide swath of North America on April 8th, the Texas Department of Transportation halted oversize loads in 80 counties with consideration to the huge influx of umbraphiles adding approximately 1 million people to the area during the celestial event.

We’ll see you next month with another Industry Insights Report. As always, PGL will be here to keep you informed and will keep delivering peace of mind, 24/7/365.

Follow us on social media at @ShipPGL

Contact Us

0 Continue Reading →

Supply Chain Industry Insights – March 2024

Industry Insights

March 2024

By PGL

In breaking news: early Tuesday morning on March 26, the container ship Dali lost power, crashing into the Francis Scott Key Bridge that spans the mouth of the Patapsco River in Baltimore. The resulting collapse has shut down this portion of I-695 as well as the Port of Baltimore. As of the recording of this report, the ships crew is uninjured, and search and rescue efforts are underway for several people that are believed to have fallen into the river, including a construction crew that was working on the road at the time of the collision. Given the 45 degree fahrenheit water temperature, authorities are not optimistic about about their fate.

We can expect this tragic event to have far-reaching effects on logistics on the east coast. PGL will continue to monitor this developing situation.

Welcome to the PGL Industry Insights report for March 2024

In labor news, contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) are strained, with a potential coastwide strike looming as the ILA warns its members to prepare for October 2024. Concerns over disruptions in East and Gulf Coast ports parallel past issues on the West Coast.

Trucking transportation prices showed growth for the second consecutive month in February, but the rate of capacity expansion outpaced pricing growth, indicating that a significant recovery in the freight cycle has not yet begun. While transportation capacity increased, utilization also rose, suggesting that the industry has not yet entered a true growth period.

Freight shipments and expenditures saw improvement from January to February. Despite remaining lower year over year, the smallest decline in 10 months suggests a potential recovery is beginning, supported by an uptick in actual freight rates and strong new equipment orders.

The benchmark diesel price experienced a slight increase despite significant gains in futures prices for ultra low sulfur diesel, highlighting a delay in reflecting wholesale price changes at the retail level. 

Ocean shipping news is indicating that February’s U.S. container import volumes dipped by 6% from January, a better-than-expected performance for the typically slow season, but other indicators hint at potential softness in domestic freight for March and April. 

Over recent months, Houthi rebel attacks on cargo vessels have been threatening both regional stability and global commerce. Although the assaults have introduced complexity and risk to maritime trade, the impact on commerce may be diminishing as supply chains adapt and reroute vessels, mitigating some of the disruptions caused by the attacks, leading to long-term effects in many parts of the logistics industries.

The air cargo market has experienced a robust start to the year, propelled by strong e-commerce activity in Asia and disruptions in ocean freight due to the Red Sea conflict. While the growth appears significant, questions remain about its sustainability and whether it’s driven by favorable year-over-year comparisons. 

We’ll be back next month with another Industry Insights Report. As always, PGL will be here to keep you informed and will keep delivering peace of mind, 24/7/365.

Follow us on social media at @ShipPGL

Contact Us

0 Continue Reading →

Supply Chain Industry Insights – February 2024

Industry Insights

February 2024

By PGL

Welcome to the PGL Industry Insights report for February 2024

Inventory correction and spot rates for both ocean carriers and trucking are leading to something resembling stability despite troubled canals and international conflict, but of course, the details offer a more nuanced view of things. Let’s dive into those details.

In our ongoing coverage of challenges for both the Panama and Suez Canals, we saw surprisingly increased traffic through the Panama Canal due to a wetter-than-expected November, with 24 daily transits in January, beating the projected 20. The embattled canal is not out of the woods yet, however, with water levels expected to reach all-time lows by April.

Following a dip in Houthi activity in early February, hostilities continue, leading many carriers to take the longer route around Africa. This has lead to climbing spot rates for ocean transport, but we’re seeing some correction here in the latter half of the month.

Despite the canal troubles and a gloomy outlook for the start of the year, containerized imports to the US grew at a pace not seen in 7 years. Though the first several weeks of the year don’t traditionally see this kind of growth, even when adjusting for the ramp-up to the Lunar New Year, imports outpaced expectations. Factors credited for leading to this surge are leaner inventories and greater-than-expected resiliency of the American consumer.

Since the fall, we’ve been reporting that the diesel benchmark price posted by the US Department of Energy had been defying projections, and to a degree, even the futures market with unseasonable lows. Volatility in that futures and wholesale markets has finally affected the retail pump prices with a surge of over 20¢ per gallon, landing at over $4 per gallon for the first time since early December.

Increased US imports and stabilization of spot rates paint an optimistic picture, but as this report illustrates, the world finds a way to defy expectations. Through it all, PGL will be here to keep you informed and will keep delivering peace of mind, 24/7/365.

Follow us on social media at @ShipPGL

Contact Us

0 Continue Reading →

Supply Chain Industry Insights Special Report: A Look at 2023

 

Industry Insights Special Report: A Look at 2023

January 2024

By PGL

Welcome to the PGL look at 2023 and our forecast for the coming year.

We continue to live in interesting times, and last year was certainly no exception. The last gasp of the large scale ramifications of the pandemic came to a close with China easing its Covid Restrictions in January. Though the virus is still a threat, the global community was able to bring it to manageable levels and we continue to deal with the long tail effects relative to the logistics industry. We saw large inventories transition to something closer to the pre-pandemic normal just-in-time model this summer, allowing for more efficiency and lower warehousing costs heading into a better-than-expected holiday season.

Ocean Freight:

In Ocean Freight, 2023 has seen some major events, not the least of which being that the two most important canals are experiencing serious peril in the form of a years-long drought that is having a major impact on travel through the Panama Canal leading to reservation restrictions and delays, and unrest in the Middle East that has resulted in Houthi militant attacks on multiple vessels that were perceived to have connections to Isreal, causing many to avoid the Suez Canal. The situation with both Canals has led to rerouting plans for major shipping lines and the situation continues to develop into 2024. This has had an interesting ripple effect on shipping rates, as earlier in 2023, contract rates were plummeting as shippers jumped on low spot rates heading into contract nogotiotion season. Those rates are actively rebounding. This could lead to fewer blank sailings than we saw in 2023. Stay tuned to our Industry Insights reports for more as the situation develops.

Trucking:

In trucking, 2023 saw the closure of one of the US’s oldest and largest carriers, the Yellow Corporation. The knock-on effect lead to a boost for many carriers who have been able to take on business that used to go to the former trucking giant. The industry isn’t out of the woods yet, however, as trucking capacity remains high after fleets were expanded in 2021, and we can expect to see more carriers close up shop in the near future until trucking capacity is closer to demand.

Air Freight:

Air freight saw a tumultuous year as lower demand led to reduced rates through August due to high inventories, but had a bit of a rebound in the last quarter as the peak season proved to be better than projected. Additionally, the difficult situations surrounding the canals are driving more air freight for time-sensitive shipments that may have otherwise been bound for ocean freight in normal conditions. These factors have led to a surge in pricing that had rates ahead of the 2019 pre-pandemic benchmark. 2024 is showing indicators of improvement for air freight moving forward, but it’s important to note that the geopolitical landscape can and will influence that for the better or worse.

Intermodal:

Intermodal freight has proven to be a bright spot, as the congestion that led to much of the business leaving rail freight at the height of the pandemic has been dealt with, and lower rates compared to trucking are revealing opportunities for a resurgence for intermodal performance with shippers looking to save on long-haul trucking costs.

Energy:

In the energy sector, diesel benchmark pricing defied expectations in 2023 with unseasonably low rates in the last quarter of the year, even in the wake of conflict in the Middle East and production caps by OPEC. Crude oil per-barrel prices averaged almost $20 less than in the prior year. With interest rates high, the industry is reluctant to hang onto large inventories. At the moment, demand remains high and producers are meeting that demand. Many indicators are still pointing to rising diesel prices, but a short spike in the first week of 2024 has already been reversed, and traders are not viewing trouble in the Middle East as an imminent threat to the market.

Labor:

Labor disputes defined much of 2023 in the logistics industry. Though the over 400 work stoppages in the year is roughly equivalent to the number set in 2022, they involved significantly more workers and had far-reaching effects in 2023, such as UPS, Dock Worker Unions, the United Auto Workers and more. Major factors for the significant labor issues faced last year include the fact that many contracts were set to expire and inflationary pressures. Labor disputes always have a large impact on logistics, and we can expect that to continue for the foreseeable future.

We hope you have enjoyed this look at 2023 as well as some predictions for what the coming year may bring us. PGL will continue to keep you informed and will keep delivering peace of mind, 24/7/365.

Follow us on social media at @ShipPGL

Contact Us

0 Continue Reading →

SPECIAL REPORT: Delays in Ocean Shipping & Routing Guide

Summary of Current Routing Options from South China to US East Coast With Average Transit Time from China to First US Port of Discharge
If you’ve been following along with our Industry Insights Reports, you’ll know that things have been heating up in the two largest canals and are having a big impact on shipping times to and from the Far East for the US East Coast. Drought in the Panama Canal and hostilities in the Middle East are causing changes in routing that are leading to significant delays. In this report, you’ll find the latest data to help you plan around these obstacles.

DOWNLOAD OUR FULL REPORT HERE

0 Continue Reading →