Trans-Pacific Cargo Capacity Crunch Sends Retailers Scrambling

NEWARK, N.J., Feb. 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- There may be early signs for a transportation industry recovery, but an immense shipping-capacity crunch for Asia-North America container shipments has sent retailers scrambling to get merchandise to store shelves. Key analysts at the 10th annual TPM conference on March 1-2 in Long Beach, Calif. will discuss the impact of the cargo bottleneck, the state of U.S. imports and whether the deepest recession in 50 years will fundamentally change supply chain choices and shipping patterns.

Latest economic data including 4th quarter GDP growth of 5.7% are clearly pointing to a recovery. However, the transportation industry remains concerned about underlying economic weakness, an uneven recovery and its sustainability.

For importers rushing to ship goods ahead of the mid-February factory shutdowns for Chinese New Year, capacity is a significant challenge. Just when the economy is starting to pick up, merchandise is being delayed en route to store shelves. Shipping rates are simultaneously being raised significantly and, in many cases, cargo has been diverted to more-expensive airfreight to meet delivery deadlines.

"We are now experiencing the most turbulent conditions that the trans-Pacific market has seen in recent years," said Peter Tirschwell, senior vice president of strategy, The Journal of Commerce. "The timing of the TPM conference is such that attendees will be able to hear a comprehensive briefing on the situation so as to fully understand its impact."

The Mar. 1 opening session of the Trans-Pacific Maritime Conference will look at how 2010 is shaping up, in terms of supply and demand, retail sales and overall economic health.

Predictions for the U.S. unemployment rate and its relationship to consumer spending as well as forecasts for Asian imports and Chinese currency appreciation will also be key topics.

To learn more and register for TPM call (562) 436-3661 or visit www.joc.com/TPM.

To view daily news visit www.joc.com. To become a member of The Journal of Commerce click here. JOC members have access to our weekly print and digital magazine and Web site, as well as a 10% discount on all JOC Conferences and trade shows, UBM Global Trade Directories and select PIERS products.

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SOURCE The Journal of Commerce; UBM Global Trade