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Small shippers struggle with inventory glut as supply chain complexity accelerates

Small and mid-sized shippers are operating under sustained pressure as inventory management challenges intensify, according to the 2026 Supply Chain Planning Benchmark Report. The report, based on data from over 2,500 Netstock customers and a survey of more than 150 users with less than $250m in annual revenue, reveals accelerating inventory turns—now reaching four times annually. Companies deploy aggressive clearing strategies: 77% use sales and promotions, 39% resort to liquidation, and 34% relocate goods to other locations. Half of firms now employ at least two tactics, up from 38% in 2024. Despite these efforts, dead stock problems are worsening. Twenty-four percent of SMBs carry dead inventory exceeding 10% of total stock, doubling from 12% in 2024. Simultaneously, nearly a quarter struggle with low fill rates and poor stock turn. Regional sourcing diversification has grown from 45% to 55% of shippers, contributing to supply chain strain.