Navigating the Unpredictable: Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Prepare for 2025
As the new year unfolds, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are bracing themselves for an unpredictable 2025. According to a recent survey by DHL Express, a majority of SMEs are optimistic about their performance in 2025, with 67% anticipating better results compared to 2024.
Tariffs Take Center Stage
The top concern for SMEs is the looming threat of tariffs, with 67% of respondents citing trade regulations as the most important area of regulatory change in 2025. The uncertainty surrounding tariff percentages has created a sense of unease, with businesses eagerly awaiting clarity on the incoming presidential administration’s policies.
Supply Chain Strategies in Flux
In response to the uncertain landscape, 30% of SMEs plan to make minor adjustments to their supply chain strategies, while 13% are prepared to make significant changes. However, a notable 57% intend to maintain their current strategies, despite the potential challenges ahead.
Growth Opportunities Abound
When it comes to growth, SMEs are looking to expansion into new markets (40%), economic improvement (31%), and the implementation of new technologies (14%) as key areas of opportunity.
Logistics Providers Must Adapt
As the supply chain faces unprecedented challenges, logistics service providers must be agile and adapt quickly to new policies, regulations, and geopolitical factors. The ability to respond to these changes will be crucial in determining the success of SMEs in 2025.
TRAC Tuesday: Philadelphia to Chicago
This week’s TRAC lane highlights the Philadelphia to Chicago route, a critical freight market with a tight load balance. Spot rates are relatively low, at $1.62 per mile, compared to the National Truckload Index. However, carriers may be hesitant to accept this long-haul lane, potentially driving up spot rates.
Broker Liability Debate Continues
The ongoing battle over broker liability in accidents and incidents has taken another turn, with the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling in favor of 3PLs and freight brokers. The Supreme Court has declined to take up the case, leaving the issue unresolved. The key question remains: are carriers “agents” or “independent contractors” of brokers, and who bears liability in cases of accidents or incidents?
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