A strategic approach to sourcing what you need to keep your business moving can help avoid disruptions and stay competitive in today’s competitive market.

Interrupted supply chains can mean costly delays and unsatisfied customers. A strategic approach to obtaining what you need to keep your business and products moving—whether you’re sourcing raw materials, manufactured accessories, or transportation capacity—can help avoid unforeseen disruptions and create a competitive advantage in today’s changing market. So just how strategic are you when it comes to sourcing transportation capacity? Ask yourself these four questions:

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This month’s Market Update highlights some of the key factors that impact the transportation industry in North America, including the most recent Shippers Conditions Index (SCI) reading, which shows signs of improvement in overall market conditions. Read on for more on influencers impacting the transportation industry, and then share your thoughts on these topics. » Read More

There were two massive explosions within the port premise of Tianjin, China yesterday. Early information suggests this was due to hazardous materials resulting in fatalities and multiple injuries.

As a result of this, the Port of Tianjin, which is the tenth largest port in the world, has suffered damages. At this time it seems specific terminals within the port complex operations have been temporarily impacted. We anticipate there will be delays given the overall damages sustained around the area which will impede the movements of containers both in and out of the terminals.

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You’ve paid your import duties. Now, you’ll receive a retroactive refund for duties on entries eligible for Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) treatment that were filed between July 31, 2013, and July 28, 2015. There is a catch that can mean you’ll never see those refunds. Here are the details of this change and what you’ll have to do to get everything you’re owed.

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Mark Bogucki, our general manager in Kansas City, recently announced he would retire at the end of 2015. Since joining C.H. Robinson in September 1979, he has seen tremendous change in the transportation industry. I asked Mark to share some of those memories and other insights gleaned throughout his more than 35 years with the company. » Read More