MCCLAIN & INDUSTRY NEWS

White freight trailers parked at a loading dock beside a warehouse building
By Dan McClain August 17, 2026
Cross-docking through Midwest logistics hubs is one of the fastest ways to cut dwell time and distribution cost. Here's how it works — and when it makes sense for your freight.
Team reviewing financial charts and graphs around a conference table with laptop and documents
By Dan McClain August 10, 2026
When should Midwest shippers bring in supply chain consulting help? Here are the signs it's time — and how to find a partner worth paying for in St. Louis, Chicago, and Kansas City.
Aerial view of a highway interchange beside a dense container port with stacked colorful shipping containers
By Dan McClain August 3, 2026
Non-asset based 3PLs give Midwest shippers more carrier options, better rates, and no conflict of interest. Here's why more Missouri and Illinois shippers are making the switch.
Aerial view of a truck loading dock with parked trailers, yellow lane markings, and a curved roadway.
By Dan McClain August 1, 2026
Not sure if 3PL services are right for your business? This guide explains what third-party logistics providers do and when it makes sense to partner with one in St. Louis.
Industrial warehouse aisle with machinery, pallets, and blue bins along a marked concrete floor
By Dan McClain July 27, 2026
Should Midwest manufacturers manage logistics in-house or outsource to a 3PL? Here's an honest cost comparison — including the hidden expenses most operations teams miss.
Three workers stand beside stacked pallets in a warehouse aisle, viewed from above.
By Dan McClain July 25, 2026
Comparing logistics services in St. Louis? Learn what separates a strong logistics partner from a generic vendor and how to find the right fit for your business.
Long freight train of shipping containers beside a rural road under a blue sky
By Dan McClain July 20, 2026
Intermodal shipping through the Midwest rail network is one of the most underused cost-reduction tools in freight. Here's when it makes sense — and when it doesn't.
Export goods report with a blue bar chart on a white page
By Dan McClain July 18, 2026
Supply chain management explained for St. Louis businesses. Learn what SCM covers, why it matters, and how a local supply chain service can improve your operation.
Highway scene with a truck driving ahead on a sunny, tree-lined road
By Dan McClain July 13, 2026
The truckload vs. LTL decision isn't just about weight. Midwest shippers in St. Louis, Chicago, and Columbus are leaving money behind by defaulting to the wrong mode.
Two people reviewing notes and a laptop at a meeting table
By Dan McClain July 11, 2026
Evaluating 3PL services in the Midwest? Use this practical guide to compare providers, ask the right questions, and avoid common mistakes in logistics outsourcing.
Warehouse interior with tall metal racks, red beams, and stacked goods wrapped in plastic
By Dan McClain July 6, 2026
Midwest warehousing strategy can make or break your distribution costs. Here's how shippers in St. Louis, Kansas City, and Chicago are using 3PL storage to cut freight spend.
Empty modern conference room with a long table, monitors, keyboard, and chairs by large windows
By Dan McClain July 4, 2026
Managing freight in St. Louis? This guide covers how freight management services work, what they cost, and how to choose the right provider for your shipping needs.
Three white semi-trailers parked at a warehouse loading dock under a blue sky
By Dan McClain June 29, 2026
LTL freight across the Midwest is more complex than most shippers realize. Here's how the hub network really works — and how to stop overpaying on your LTL lanes.
Worker operating a pallet jack in a warehouse aisle lined with stacked boxes and shelves
By Dan McClain June 27, 2026
Midwest businesses face real supply chain pressures in 2026. Here's what's driving disruption and how supply chain management services can help you stay ahead.
Midwest manufacturer managing freight costs with 3PL partner
By Dan McClain June 22, 2026
Midwest manufacturers in St. Louis, Chicago, and Detroit are leaving money on the table with every shipment. Here are the six freight spend leaks to fix first.
LTL freight truck on Missouri highway near St. Louis
By Dan McClain June 20, 2026
LTL freight can save Missouri businesses significant money on shipping — if you use it correctly. Here's what St. Louis shippers need to know about less-than-truckload freight.
Midwest shipper evaluating 3PL provider options in St. Louis
By Dan McClain June 15, 2026
Choosing the wrong 3PL costs more than you think. Here's what Midwest shippers in St. Louis, Chicago, and Kansas City should look for before signing a contract.
3PL logistics partner meeting in St. Louis Missouri
By Dan McClain June 13, 2026
Choosing a 3PL in St. Louis? Learn what to look for in a logistics partner, questions to ask, and red flags to avoid before you sign anything.
st louis logistics companies
By Dan McClain June 3, 2026
St. Louis sits at the center of the U.S. freight network. Discover why businesses across the Midwest rely on STL logistics companies to move goods efficiently.
Hands using a laptop with transparent supply chain icons overlayed on a blue background
By Dan McClain May 21, 2026
If you've been shopping for logistics solutions, you've likely seen TMS mentioned alongside 3PLs, ERPs, and WMS systems. The terminology can get thick
Businessman using a digital interface in an industrial warehouse corridor
By Dan McClain May 18, 2026
The “PL” model proliferated over the last two decades — 2PL, 3PL, 4PL, and some consultants now argue for a 5PL. For a mid-market shipper trying to decide how