New Jersey’s role as a transportation hub is vital to the nation's supply chains, involving ports, freight, and logistics infrastructure.
New Jersey’s location along the East Coast makes it a prime hub for transportation and logistics. Several companies in the state are adopting advanced technologies to optimize supply chains, reduce costs, and improve delivery speeds within the transportation and logistics industry. The state has access to one of the largest container ports in the country, which facilitates international trade, in which trucks carry 75 percent of the more than 600 million tons of goods moved through the state each year. This is driven by a combination of strategic advantages, technological advancements, and changing market demands.
Advancements in technology, including automation, data analytics, and real-time tracking, have further enhanced the efficiency of logistics operations. Companies like Amazon, UPS, and XPO Logistics are known for using cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and automation in their supply chain operations. UPS and Amazon are incorporating robotics and drones to enhance their distribution network which significantly improved delivery times and reduced transportation costs. In addition, employment in this sector has also risen, with jobs in New Jersey growing by 12% from 2019 to 2023. The state saw over 10,000 new positions in warehousing, freight forwarding, and transportation management, in line with the increasing demand for e-commerce and last-mile delivery services.
Overall, New Jersey's transportation and logistics industry is thriving, supported by innovation and its prime location. From educational programs and workshops to networking events, the LDI provides these resources for skill development and training in the top occupations trending in Transportation and Logistics.