Dale McClung

Fuel is the second largest and most volatile operating expense in transportation, and traditional fuel surcharge programs expose your budget to unnecessary costs and risks. Forecasts for 2026 signal continued volatility, making it critical for transportation leaders to move beyond outdated, average-based reimbursement models. Our 2026 Fuel Outlook provides the data-driven insights you need to navigate market complexities and turn your fuel spend from a volatile cost center into a powerful strategic advantage. Key Takeaways from the Report: An emerging global supply surplus is creating downward pressure on crude oil prices, yet regional disruptions are adding significant volatility. Refinery closures on the West Coast and continued U.S. diesel exports are tightening domestic supply and creating complex pricing dynamics. Traditional fuel surcharge programs based on the weekly DOE index are inaccurate, leading to missed savings opportunities. Learn why Fuel Recovery is the definitive solution for fair and accurate fuel reimbursement. DOWNLOAD NOW

Supply chain technology is a hot commodity. Venture capital investments in supply chain tech and technology-based logistics companies have totaled an estimated $15.4 billion in 2024, and more than 150 supply chain startups have been acquired in the last two years as logistics companies work to leverage cutting-edge technology to improve their services. According to a Kearney report, the biggest capital infusions have been in delivery technology, warehouse automation, and supply chain digitization and artificial intelligence (AI), and the investments are paying off. “Quite simply, the more you invest, the better you get at monetizing breakthrough innovation.” Freight brokerages, in particular, are looking to technology to help set them apart – or stay in business. Brush Pass Research reported there are 17.5% fewer active freight brokerages today than there were two years ago. Three Supply Chain Startups to Know StartUs Insights identified the top nine supply chain innovations and trends for 2025: AI Internet of Things (IoT) Flexible supply chains Big data and analytics Robotics Supply chain sustainability Supply chain traceability Last-mile delivery Cybersecurity   “The supply chain has several variables that hinder its efficiency, including globalization, government regulations, pandemics, international transportation costs, increasing competition, and more,” StartUs said of…