Cargo Volumes for 2012 - What's your 2012 Plan?

Has there ever been a more conflicting set of information about cargo volumes into and out of the US?  

This year there have been several reports, some saying both import and export cargo volumes will go down, some vice versa, and others say exports up and imports down....who do you believe and how do you plan your business accordingly?

Well ask yourself this question; do you ever start a year planning/ projecting your business to go down? Maybe? Possibly? I’m sure it is not the majority of companies who project a downturn, especially in this environment where all signs point up. Let's look at some reported facts of late:

First Fact - Reported recently in one of the trade mags import volumes in Jan 2012 were just about flat, Feb was expected to dip (makes sense with Chinese New Year shut down overseas) and then a good spike in March and April for Imports, projecting double digit increases, year over year! Another trade mag reported the same

Second Fact - Recently published article in one of the trade mags also used this phrase in part..."current statistics show that the economy in the US will continue to improve in 2012"

Third Fact - US Exports in Jan 2012 although slightly down from November 2011 levels, are up from Dec 2011 levels and are above the levels they were in July and August of 2011...keeping in mind that 2011 was the best year for Export from the US - EVER!!!!. Yes, with our highest month ever in October 2011, in terms of US$$ and far exceeding the previous high in 2008. The trend line continues to grow here.

I’m sure if you look hard enough, there can be competing opinions on the above, in the opposite camp and with conflicting data. But, facts are facts and the fact is, we are on our way upward, not downward.

So those in transportation, international and domestic, who planned to take a dip down in 2012, rethink it. This is a great time to look to emerging markets for both imports (that $ is still pretty cheap) and exports to find the many opportunities to grow your business.

Of course, as you grow you will need systems, support, training and maybe some help....don't forget about ARTEMUS Transportation Solutions...besides being tremendously optimistic, we have several staff with over 20 years in the industry, are systems are utilized throughout the world by over 125 international transportation and trade companies.

Our web based software products are used daily by 4000+ users in 19 countries. We have the systems, knowledge, and support you need to as you grow your import and export markets.

If you want to ask a question, make a comment or shout out, please feel free to contact us...www.artemus.us

Until next time....

ARTEMUS OUT!