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From Strait of Hormuz Closure Forces Crude Oil Rerouting Amid High Transport Costs

How does the Strait closure and surging transport costs affect the LMI?

High transport costs and supply chain pressure drive up the LMI The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing attacks on tankers have led to surging transport costs and increased supply chain pressure. This environment has caused the Logistics Management Index (LMI) in the US to rise to its second-highest reading in four years. The LMI increase is specifically attributed to high and rising inventory levels and associated inventory costs within the US logistics industry.

Reported by 1 independent outlet Written Wednesday
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How it reaches LMI

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The facts so far

As reported. Each one links to where it comes from.

  • The LMI rose in September to its second-highest reading in four years.interest.co.nz
  • The LMI rise is driven by high and rising inventory levels and inventory costs.interest.co.nz
  • Transport costs are surging and supply chain pressure is not easing.interest.co.nz
  • Hormuz transits have reduced again today with just eight ships exiting over the past 24 hours.interest.co.nz

Why it matters

The LMI is a critical indicator of operational health and efficiency within the logistics sector. A sustained rise signals significant friction in global supply chains, which translates directly into higher operating costs for businesses and potential delays in goods movement.

This situation is compounded by other global economic pressures, including the US merchandise trade deficit reaching a monster US$105.6 bln monthly deficit, and the general difficulty businesses face in managing costs amid supply chain instability.

What we don't know yet

  • What is the projected trajectory of transport costs given the ongoing instability in the Hormuz region?
  • Will the US logistics industry find ways to mitigate the impact of high inventory costs?

What would change this answer

The Strait of Hormuz were to reopen fully and safelyTransport costs would likely decrease, causing the LMI to fall.
Inventory levels were to stabilize or decrease significantlyThe pressure driving the LMI increase would ease.

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