Supply Chain & Logistics News, Trends, and Insights

In the world of high-performance audio equipment, speed, reliability, and efficiency are just as important as sound quality. KICKER, a leader in car and marine audio, found that recent growth had introduced supply chain inefficiencies that weren’t apparent at a smaller scale.

Inbound container volumes are climbing again, with ocean ports across the U.S. reporting the beginning of tariff-driven surges that are rivaling post-COVID levels. This uptick appears to be tied to importers pulling forward inventory in response to the temporary pause on new tariffs for Chinese goods that was implemented in May.

In today’s supply chain, international isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether sourcing from Asia, nearshoring to Mexico, or establishing a China+1 procurement strategy, global supply chains are shifting fast. On this episode of Beyond Point to Point, we go beyond the headlines to unpack what’s really happening in international logistics.

From emerging sourcing regions to the tariff impacts driving change, we explore how shippers are adapting to new trade realities. Hear from Richard Egan (VP of International Solutions, Averitt) on long-term global strategy; Ed Habe (VP of Mexico Sales, Averitt) and Homero Gonzalez (General Director, Central de Fletes) on the evolving U.S.-Mexico freight dynamic; and licensed customs broker Kailoni Lawson (Integrated Operations Manager, Averitt) on why planning and compliance matter more than ever.

Watch the episode below to learn how the right partnerships—and the right questions—can help you future-proof your supply chain.

Inbound logistics is often the unsung hero of the supply chain. It sets the stage for everything that follows, yet it’s where many supply chains begin to fray. With market volatility, rising import costs, and supply chain disruptions continuing into 2025, it's time to ask: Is your inbound model helping or hurting you?

In global logistics, some of the most frustrating costs are the ones you don’t see coming. Demurrage and per diem (also known as detention by some shippers) fees are perfect examples. These penalties can accrue rapidly, disrupting budgets and operations for shippers caught off guard. But with the right strategy and partnerships, these fees aren’t just manageable—they’re preventable.

Houston isn’t just a hub for oil and aerospace—it’s a rising powerhouse in freight movement. As global trade routes shift and supply chains face new pressures, shippers are increasingly turning to shipping companies in Houston to streamline the flow of goods.

In this episode of Beyond Point to Point, we take a closer look at one of the most overlooked—and most critical—aspects of supply chain strategy: inbound cargo and freight. From shifting tariff policies to mounting warehouse congestion and the rising cost of delays, today's shippers are under pressure to rethink how they manage cargo from port to facility.

You'll hear from Averitt's Ed Smith, DiversiTech's COO Matt Krause, and Extensiv's David Miller as they share real-world insights on reducing touch points, improving visibility, and turning inbound logistics into a competitive advantage. If you’re ready to move from reactive to resilient, this episode is for you.