The logistics industry has proven once again its remarkable ability to thrive amidst uncertainty.
As we move through this remarkable period in the transport and logistics world, I find myself both amused and impressed by transport and logistics’ resilience. If 2024 has taught us anything, it’s that adaptability isn’t just a business advantage – it’s survival.
Essential Reading: War and Terrorism Clauses
2024: the year when shipping lines accidentally found their pot of gold in the Red Sea, thanks to Houthi rebels. Who knew that setting up an impromptu checkpoint with rockets could be so profitable? Although I must say those Institute War and Terrorism clauses suddenly became every shipper’s bedtime reading.
Container Challenges
Remember when we thought the container crisis was over? Well, detention and demurrage fees stuck around, whether it is disputes coming back to haunt us from the pandemic port congestion or fresh cases of consignees struggling with container pickups. These charges remain a constant headache in the industry.
Driver Shortages Lead to Cultural Misunderstandings
The truck driver shortage continues to be logistics world’s favourite soap opera. Ukrainian drivers are now a common sight on European Union roads and we’re importing talent from as far as Pakistan, India and Africa. It’s like a United Nations on the road but with increased accidents and cultural misunderstandings.
Can You Trust Your Subcontractor?
And, just when you thought it was safe to trust your subcontractor again, the Phantom menace strikes back. Apparently, some freight forwarders learned their lessons in 2023, while others did it in 2024. Meanwhile, across the pond, USA Logistics is still recovering from its “surprise we are fake” party.
End of an Era for Automotive Logistics
The automotive logistics Golden Age has left the building. European Union manufacturers are playing catch-up in the EVs race and new tariffs are looming like a dark cloud at a picnic. Full value liability is becoming the new black, even if international conventions are rolling their eyes.
AI in Air Freight
The air freight sector had its own plot twists. Thanks to artificial intelligence like ChatGPT demanding more servers than forwarders demanded space on vessels during the pandemic. Who knew artificial intelligence would need so much hardware to crack jokes?
The Supply Chain Never Sleeps
What’s the moral for 2024? The logistics industry has proven once again its remarkable ability to thrive amidst uncertainty. From pandemic chaos to freight-rate rollercoasters and supply chain disruptions, professionals across the sector have not just survived—they’ve innovated and excelled. Keep your containers moving and trucks rolling because the supply chain never sleeps.
Gediminas Dauksa
Group Practice Leader Transportation & Logistics
T +370 616 08451
