Technology Emerges As Key Differentiator Amid Trade Uncertainty

Guest commentary by Glenn Palanacki (Descartes) highlighting key findings from the 9th Edition of the Descartes Global Forwarder / Broker Benchmark Study.

Jan 22, 2026

Logistics Service Providers (LSPs) face an unpredictable global trade environment today, driven by multiple factors including geopolitical instability and tariff volatility. Freight forwarders and customs brokers are under pressure to lower prices, reduce operating costs, mitigate tariff impacts, comply with an increasingly complex web of regulations, and meet demanding customer expectations for add-on services such as visibility into shipments and assistance with compliance.

To meet these many challenges, forwarders and brokers are turning to technology and the promise of artificial intelligence (AI). The 9th Edition of the Descartes Global Forwarder/Broker Benchmark Study reveals a growing recognition by LSPs that technology serves as a vital competitive differentiator, and is no longer optional.

How Big is the “Zombie Inventory” Problem?

For years, companies shifted from Just-in-Time to Just-in-Case, stocking up to survive disruption. Now demand has leveled off, but many warehouses are still packed with slow-moving, no-longer-needed items. This “Zombie Inventory” ties up space, working capital, and attention. This survey sought to understand how big this problem is across the industry.

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