



The number of packages shipped in the U.S. is expected to grow to more than 100 million per day by 2026! And couple that with the dramatic changes in customer expectations, then you know you can’t toy around with your package fulfillment strategy.
For the past 23 years, PARCEL Forum has been light-years ahead of the curve when it comes to delivering an all-encompassing event focused on helping companies take their package fulfillment strategy to infinity and beyond via our best-in-class conference, exhibit floor and peer-to-peer networking opportunities.
“PARCEL Forum is a must-see event! In no other setting will you see all of the folks that pertain to the parcel industry, whether it’s regional carriers, technology providers or warehousing experts. For the money you will spend, you’re going to get a concentrated focus that’s just on parcel.”
JOHN JANSON VICE PRESIDENT, GLOBAL LOGISTICS • SANMAR CORPORATION
TRANSPORTATION/ SHIPPING PROFESSIONAL
You make sure the largest line-item expense, transportation, is managed properly.
LOGISTICS/ SUPPLY CHAIN PROFESSIONAL
You manage resources, information and flow of goods throughout the supply chain.
DISTRIBUTION/ WAREHOUSE PROFESSIONAL
You oversee the efficient receipt, picking, packing, warehousing and movement of product.
IT/SYSTEMS PROFESSIONAL
You integrate the front-end operation seamlessly into the back-end.
PACKAGING PROFESSIONAL
You make sure the shipped order arrives as ordered and damage-free.
FREIGHT AUDITING PROFESSIONAL
You collect and analyze data of all shipments to ensure optimal efficiencies.
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 8
WORKSHOP 100 10:00AM – 4:30PM
To Infinity and the Bottom Line: Mastering Your Parcel Carrier Agreement
PRODUCED BY:
PRESENTERS: PAUL YAUSSY, ED BARANEK, MATT BOHN & MATT SUMOWSKI – SHIPWARE • BRIAN OSSENBECK – J.P. MORGAN
Unlock insider knowledge and gain a competitive edge in parcel shipping in this dynamic workshop. Industry experts will break down the latest on carrier trends—including shifts at UPS, FedEx, USPS, Amazon and regional carriers, the rise of multi-carrier shipping and carrier pricing pressures—to help you to optimize your shipping strategy. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to evaluate carrier contracts, uncover hidden costs and anticipate the 2026 GRI. You’ll also get a chance to participate in a live benchmarking session to compare rates and surcharges and put your skills to the test in an interactive negotiation exercise.
NOTE: This workshop is exclusive for Shippers only. No carriers or consultants will be allowed to attend.
WORKSHOP 200 10:00AM – 1:00PM
PRESENTERS: MIKE LAMBERT, AARON GUILD & CASSIDY CORDELL – GREEN MOUNTAIN
PRODUCED BY:
The pandemic has forever reshaped eCommerce, requiring shippers to adapt to a new normal as they evolve their brands’ online offerings. Whether you’re a growing business or a complex, established shipper, you’re likely reassessing your eCommerce delivery network in response to shifting consumer expectations, increased competition, evolving technologies and changes in the carrier marketplace. In this workshop, you’ll discover opportunities for redesigning and optimizing your network, how to thoroughly assess the current state of your delivery network and formulating a strategy for the future. Experts will guide you through a proactive approach for network design and execution, enabling shippers to stay ahead of industry disruptions, enhance operational efficiency and create a more agile, resilient delivery network.
BONUS: INCLUDES OPTIONAL HALF-DAY DC TOUR (1:45PM - 4:30PM). NOTE: You must register separately for the tour.
WORKSHOP 300 10:00AM – 1:00PM
in
PRESENTER: DONNA PALUMBO – PENN STATE UNIVERSITY
PRODUCED BY:
Modernization of the supply chain through technological transformation allows businesses to better meet consumer demands, adapt to market changes and remain competitive in a landscape that continues to evolve. This workshop will explore how modern supply chains are integrating next-generation technologies to strategically reshape their operations, distribution and logistics networks, fulfillment and inventory management to overcome capacity constraints and get more value and output from their existing resources. Attendees will also explore strategies to identify, assess and mitigate risks pertaining to technological transformation while strengthening supply chain performance. Hear from industry leaders and learn from their experiences on how they have successfully implemented next-gen technologies, managed risks effectively and advanced their supply chain operations.
BONUS: INCLUDES OPTIONAL HALF-DAY DC TOUR (1:45PM - 4:30PM). NOTE: You must register separately for the tour.
WORKSHOP 400 10:00AM – 1:00PM
PRESENTER: BRIAN BARRY – F. CURTIS BARRY & COMPANY
PRODUCED BY:
Rising customer demand, shifting global sourcing strategies and unpredictable surges in demand are straining fulfillment operations, especially when trying to reduce transit time and freight costs without major investments in infrastructure. In today’s fast-paced supply chain environment, partnering with third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer a flexible, cost-effective way to scale fulfillment operations—either by taking on all logistics functions or augmenting existing capabilities for greater efficiency and savings. This interactive workshop will guide attendees through the critical considerations of outsourcing fulfillment, from assessing organizational readiness to selecting the right 3PL partner. Participants will engage in practical exercises and discussions to develop a comprehensive understanding of the 3PL selection process.
BONUS: INCLUDES OPTIONAL HALF-DAY DC TOUR (1:45PM - 4:30PM). NOTE: You must register separately for the tour.
WORKSHOP 500 9:00AM – 4:30PM All-Day DC Tours
TOUR PARTNERS:
Discover the inner workings of two state-of-the-art distribution centers on our exclusive tour in the Chicago area. Get an exclusive look at how these retail and manufacturing powerhouses designed their distribution centers to fuel customer-focused innovation and high-velocity eCommerce fulfillment. You’ll start with a behind-the-scenes look at Crate & Barrel’s advanced distribution center, where cutting-edge technology and strategic inventory management power their fast-paced eCommerce fulfillment. Then tour Snap-on Tools’ tech-enabled facility to see how creative design, smart automation and precision logistics work together to manage a 60,000-SKU inventory and power high-efficiency, high-volume fulfillment.
NOTE: Tour participants will be served lunch and schedule is subject to change.
Launched by our esteemed Advisory Board, we’ve created a conference program that covers the entire Order-to-Ship package lifecycle.
Chart a course through the evolving parcel universe—exploring the longterm trends shaping parcel delivery, emerging regional carriers and new delivery models that will remake your transportation strategy.
As consumer demands accelerate at lightspeed, learn how to recalibrate your parcel fulfillment strategies. Discover smarter, faster ways to meet expectations and manage cost across the first, middle and last mile.
From intelligent systems to fully integrated platforms, explore how AI, machine learning and data-driven strategies can launch your parcel shipping operations into a new era of speed, precision and control.
Turbo boost your workforce for peak performance. From AI-powered systems to strategies for engaging your distribution center associates, explore how today’s smartest fulfillment operations boost productivity, cut costs and go beyond customer expectations.
Cut through the hype and explore how AI is reshaping parcel logistics, complex shipping data and spend management with smarter, autonomous systems built for making better decisions faster than ever.
In an era of shifting borders and rising complexity, it’s time to boldly rethink your global strategy. From turbulent trade policies to tech-driven compliance, discover how to build resilient crossborder strategies ready for liftoff.
Activate autopilot and accelerate with precision. Explore how the right blend of human skill and smart automation— from pick/pack systems to process mining—can streamline operations, boost speed and launch your warehouse into the future.
Buckle up for our GRI roundup and prepare to navigate a shifting carrier marketplace. We’ll unpack what’s ahead— and how to negotiate smarter, reduce costs and keep your network moving at warp speed.
Power up your parcel strategy with next-gen intelligence. From forecasting package volume shifts to building connected data ecosystems, explore how advanced analytics can future-proof your transportation network.
eCommerce returns are growing fast— and so are the operational headaches. Explore actionable tactics to transform returns from a costly burden into a streamlined, tech-powered profit driver.
With new players, like Amazon, entering the carrier landscape, your strategy needs a serious upgrade. Learn how to optimize every mile—from cart to carrier—using data-driven decisions and smarter carrier engagement to protect your margins from unexpected turbulence.
The last mile is no longer the final frontier. Discover how brands are using delivery innovations and smarter fulfillment approaches to reduce costs, boost speed and future-proof delivery—no matter the destination.
Even the most ordinary box can fuel extraordinary results. From automated rightsizing to sustainable strategies, explore how smart packaging drives efficiency, enhances unboxing and propels your brand to the next dimension.
When outdated systems and limited visibility drag operations down, it’s time for a tech-powered liftoff. Discover how AI, robotics and the Internet of Things are streamlining fulfillment centers, maximizing space and empowering your workforce to go further, faster.
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 8
9:00AM – 9:50AM SHIPPERS-ONLY KICK-OFF BREAKFAST
SPONSORED BY:
9:00AM – 4:30PM ALL-DAY DC TOURS: Snap-on Tools and Crate & Barrel (Includes Lunch)
10:00AM – 4:30PM WORKSHOPS 100-400: See next page for schedules
1:00PM – 2:00PM PLATINUM GET TO KNOW YA LUNCHEON
1:45PM – 4:30PM HALF-DAY DC TOUR: Snap-on Tools NOTE: YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER FOR THE TOUR
5:00PM – 6:30PM THE PLATINUM RECEPTION SPONSORED BY:
8:00AM – 8:50AM OPENING DAY KICK-OFF KEYNOTE
9:00AM – 9:50AM Winners and Losers in Parcel Delivery
10:00AM – 10:50AM PANEL: The Changing Parcel Delivery Landscape: How to Select the Right Regional Carriers for Your Needs
11:00AM – 11:50AM PANEL: Disrupting Delivery: How Alternative Carriers Are Reshaping Delivery Networks
12:00PM – 12:50PM MEGA SESSION: The Future of the USPS
Customer Expectations: Evolving Trends and Future Strategies for Parcel Delivery
STUDY: Network Optimization to Reduce Last Mile Logistics Cost in eCommerce
eCommerce Transportation and the Middle Mile
1:00PM – 2:30PM KEYNOTE LUNCHEON : Details to be announced. Visit PARCELforum.com for updates.
2:30PM – 7:00PM DEDICATED EXHIBIT HALL HOURS
7:00PM – 8:30PM THE GRAND RECEPTION SPONSORED BY: 2026 RATE IMPACT
8:00AM – 8:50AM CLOSING KEYNOTE 9:00AM – 9:50AM How to Predict & Analyze 2026 Carrier Rates
11:00AM – 2:00PM DEDICATED EXHIBIT HALL HOURS
2:10PM – 3:00PM How to Negotiate 2026 Contracts
3:10PM – 4:00PM CLOSING SESSION: Top Takeaways from the Conference
& TOURS MONDAY SEPTEMBER 8
9:00AM – 9:50AM SHIPPERS-ONLY KICK-OFF BREAKFAST
SPONSORED BY:
9:00AM – 4:30PM ALL-DAY DC TOURS: Snap-on Tools and Crate & Barrel (Note: Tour will depart the Renaissance Schaumburg promptly
10:00AM – 4:30PM WORKSHOP 100: To Infinity and the Bottom Line: Mastering Your Parcel Carrier Agreement PRODUCED BY: SHIPWARE
10:00AM – 1:00PM WORKSHOP 200: Designing the Next-Generation eCommerce Delivery Network: From Strategy to Implementation PRODUCED BY: GREEN MOUNTAIN BONUS: OPTIONAL HALF-DAY DC TOUR NOTE: YOU MUST REGISTER SEPARATELY FOR THE TOUR
1:00PM – 2:00PM PLATINUM GET TO KNOW YA LUNCHEON
1:45PM – 4:30PM HALF-DAY DC TOUR: Snap-on Tools NOTE: YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER FOR THE TOUR
WORKSHOP 300: Capacity Operations, Fulfillment and PRODUCED BY: PENN STATE UNIVERSITY NOTE: YOU MUST REGISTER SEPARATELY
5:00PM – 6:30PM THE PLATINUM RECEPTION AT THE PUBLIC HOUSE & TERRACE SPONSORED BY:
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 9
SEPTEMBER 9
8:00AM – 8:50AM OPENING DAY KICK-OFF KEYNOTE: Securing the Future of Global Supply Chain Resiliency:
9:00AM – 9:50AM The Rise of End-to-End Shipping Platforms: How Technology Is Putting Shippers in the Driver’s Seat 301
10:00AM – 10:50AM PANEL: Unlocking Next-Level SKU Profitability: Leveraging AI, Machine Learning and Data-Driven Strategies 302
11:00AM – 11:50AM Unlocking Parcel Potential: How Integrating Systems & Strategies Can Optimize Your Parcel Program 303
12:00PM – 12:50PM MEGA SESSION: The Future of the USPS 104 204 304
Creating Industrial Athletes in Your Distribution Centers 401 Using AI and Data to Improve Shipping Costs
Striking the Right Balance: Leveraging AI and Algorithms for Warehouse Efficiency 402 Agentic AI: The Logistics Is Thinking
Benchmark Smarter, Perform Better: Supply Chain Trends & KPIs to Crush the Competition 403 Finding the Hidden Approaches to in Your Parcel
How AI Is Transforming Warehouse Management 404 No Hype, Just Your Logistics
1:00PM – 2:30PM KEYNOTE LUNCHEON : Details to be announced. Visit PARCELforum.com for updates.
SPONSORED BY:
2:30PM – 7:00PM EXHIBIT HALL HOURS – FEATURING THE WINDY CITY CAFÉ & VIPP LOUNGE SPONSORED BY:
7:00PM – 8:30PM THE GRAND RECEPTION SPONSORED BY:
8:00AM – 8:50AM CLOSING KEYNOTE: The Future of the Parcel Carrier Marketplace — Featuring Chris Kina, Gartner
9:00AM – 9:50AM Mastering Returns: How 3PLs Can Conquer Returns and Generate Profits 305
How Amazon’s Entry as a National Carrier Will Shake Up Your Transportation Strategy
CASE STUDY: Delivery-Related Reliability and 10:00AM – 10:50AM Unlocking Operational Efficiency through Consolidated
11:00AM – 2:00PM EXHIBIT HALL HOURS – FEATURING WOMEN IN LOGISTICS MIMOSA MEET-UP, THE WINDY CITY
2:10PM – 3:00PM PANEL: How Technology Can Help Reduce the Cost of Returns
PANEL: Carrier Engagement Done Right: Strategies for Maximizing 3:10PM
in the Supply Chain Ecosystem: Strengthening Inventory Management through Resiliency
WORKSHOP 400: To 3PL or Not to 3PL: Making the Smartest Logistics Decision for Your Business PRODUCED BY: F. CURTIS BARRY & COMPANY
BONUS: OPTIONAL HALF-DAY DC TOUR NOTE: YOU MUST REGISTER SEPARATELY FOR THE TOUR
Resiliency: Lessons from the Front Lines & Forging a New Path — Featuring John Polowczyk, Retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Historical Performance Improve Contracts and Reduce Costs
The Future of Shipping & Thinking for Itself
Hidden 2-7%: Practical AI to Reclaiming Lost Value Parcel Spend
Just How: Making AI Work for
The America-First Trade Policy: How Parcel Shippers Can Navigate a Shifting Global Landscape
Global Trade: Strategies for Success in a Volatile Market
Building Resilient Cross-Border Supply Chains: Strategies for Risk Mitigation
The Right
Pick/Pack Automation in 2025: Making Technology Work for You During Peak & Beyond
and
Connect, collaborate and exchange ideas with colleagues and build valuable relationships
You get here, and we’ll take care of the rest! Visit PARCELforum.com for a full roster of networking
OPENING DAY
KICK-OFF KEYNOTE
JOHN POLOWCZYK
RETIRED U.S. NAVY REAR ADMIRAL
8:00am - 8:50am
Securing the Future of Global Supply Chain Resiliency: Lessons from the Front Lines & Forging a New Path
This insightful keynote will share a behind-the-scenes look at the White House Coronavirus Task Force’s pivotal efforts to stabilize the U.S. medical supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the data-driven strategy that delivered critical medical supplies nationwide and lessons learned to bolster global supply chain resilience.
NOTE: This event is open to all.
PLATINUM RECEPTION AT THE PUBLIC HOUSE & TERRACE
CLOSING KEYNOTE
CHRIS KINA GARTNER
8:00am - 8:50am
The Future of the Parcel Carrier Marketplace
In this exclusive Closing Keynote, Gartner Senior Director Analyst Chris Kina will deliver a game-changing look at the latest trends shaping the parcel marketplace and an inside view of how Amazon, super regionals and new tech-enabled parcel solutions are taking market share. Attendees will walk away with an unprecedented review of the parcel carrier marketplace and winning strategies for their North American parcel operations.
NOTE: This event is open to all.
MEET OUR STELLAR ADVISORY BOARD...
HONORARY CONFERENCE CHAIR
SUSAN RIDER PRESIDENT – RIDER & ASSOCIATES
JILL BEMROSE MANAGER, FREIGHT AUDIT & CLAIMS NORDSTROM
RACHEL BROWN
SR. MGR. OF INTERNATIONAL COMPLIANCE & OUTBOUND TRANSPORTATION TORRID
BRIAN COLLER
MANAGER, PARCEL SHIPPING OPERATIONS MEDLINE INDUSTRIES
MARLENE CLARK MANAGER, DIRECTOR OF OUTBOUND TRANSPORTATION ESSILORLUXOTTICA
GREGG DABB DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, ECOMMERCE AGRI BEEF
JOHN A. GORDA
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SMALL PARCEL/FINAL MILE TRANSPORTATION CVS HEALTH
JOHN JANSON VP, GLOBAL LOGISTICS SANMAR CORPORATION
MELANIE KIRK DIRECTOR OF SUPPLY CHAIN & E-COMMERCE OPERATIONS BOOTBARN
GREGG MAU DIRECTOR, GLOBAL TRANSPORTATION LOGISTICS CROCS, INC
ALEX MOSTOFIAN DIRECTOR OF TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS QORVO INC
ED NAVARETTE DIRECTOR OF FULFILLMENT OBSERVINT TECHNOLOGIES
STEPHANIE SEXTON SR. MANAGER, TRANSPORTATION CAPABILITIES, VISIBILITY, AND DATA & INSIGHT ABERCROMBIE & FITCH
DOUGLAS SMITH CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER / CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER KMS WHOLESALE
5:00pm - 6:30pm Celebrate an incredible first day at the Schaumburg Public House with a party to remember! This vibrant pub features craft brews from Illinois brewers along Route 66, delicious food and a wraparound terrace perfect for conversation and connection.
SPONSORED BY:
NOTE: Must be a registered Platinum Plus Package or Platinum Package attendee, Speaker or Exhibitor with F&B Package.
THE GRAND RECEPTION
7:00pm - 8:30pm This is the signature networking event of PARCEL Forum ’25 Chicago! Immediately following the close of the Exhibit Hall, everyone will head to the Schaumburg Ballroom to kick up their heels and enjoy live music as well as a wide variety of hors d’oeuvres and an open bar.
SPONSORED BY:
NOTE: This event is open to all.
CRAFT BEER TASTING GARDEN
Open during Exhibit Hall Hours Sample some of the best local craft beer in our Craft Beer Garden! It’s a great place to meet with colleagues and network while never having to leave the Exhibit Hall!
CO-SPONSORED BY:
NOTE: This event is open to all.
Open during Exhibit Hall Hours Stop by the Windy City Café, located in the middle of the Exhibit Floor. Sip on freshly brewed coffee, espresso or a cappuccino that’ll fuel your Exhibit Hall adventures. Also, score an invite into the Very Important Parcel People (VIPP) Lounge from one of our partners and enjoy a full bar and passed hors d’oeuvres.
Tuesday & Wednesday during Exhibit Hall hours We’ll pay homage to and sample some of the best tequila that Texas has to offer in this special pavilion located in the Exhibit Hall. There will be a tequila sommelier on hand to talk about the differences between the samples being offered.
SPONSORED BY:
NOTE: This event is open to all attendees.
NOTE: Windy City Cafe is open to all attendees. The VIPP Lounge is by invitation only and Platinum Plus Package attendees.
BITE & BIZ EXHIBIT FLOOR LUNCH
WOMEN IN LOGISTICS MIMOSA MEET-UP
12:00pm - 1:30pm • No need to miss a minute of Exhibit Hall time to grab lunch. We’ve got you covered with our Bite & Biz Exhibit Floor Lunch!
NOTE: This event is open to all attendees.
11:00am - 12:00pm With women playing a larger and more important role in the industry, we wanted to pay homage to all the women who attend by tipping a glass to you all at our exclusive women-only Mimosa Meet-Up in the VIPP Lounge.
NOTE: Open to all women only.
9.10
BITE & BIZ EXHIBIT FLOOR LUNCHEON
Tuesday & Wednesday during Exhibit Hall hours Grab a coffee, expresso or cappuccino in this special pavilion located in the middle of the Exhibit Hall. Also, score an invite from one of our Very Important Parcel People (VIPP) and enjoy a semi-private setting for meetings and networking featuring a full bar and passed hors d’oeuvres.
12:00pm - 2:00pm No need to miss a minute of Exhibit Hall time to grab lunch. We’ve got you covered with our Bite & Biz Exhibit Floor Lunch!
NOTE: This event is open to all.
NOTE: The Giddy-Up Café is open to all. The VIPP Lounge is by invitation-only.
3 DAYS 14 LEARNING PODS 50 + SESSIONS & WORKSHOPS
125 + EXHIBITORS
125 + EXHIBITORS
I thought the PARCEL Forum was amazing! Definitely a great time, and I really enjoyed it. The networking aspect was phenomenal.
JOHN CARR
REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION MANAGER NORDSTROM UP TO $300 ON CONFERENCE OR GET A FREE EXHIBIT HALL PASS (A $75 VALUE) REGISTER BY JULY 18! REGISTER HERE BY JULY 18! $300 ON CONFERENCE OR GET A FREE EXHIBIT HALL PASS (A $75 VALUE) REGISTER HERE BY JULY 10! 9 NETWORKING EVENTS 14 LEARNING PODS 50 + SESSIONS & WORKSHOPS
Package ( TUESDAY OR WEDNESDAY )
Exhibit Hall-Only** ( TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY ) SAVE $75 ●
**Exhibit Hall-Only registration includes admission to The Grand Reception (Tuesday, September 9) and Bite & Biz Exhibit Floor Luncheon (Wednesday, September 10).
GROUP SAVINGS GROUPS OF 3 OR MORE SAVE $200 PER PERSON
Register a group of 3 or more and you'll each save an additional $200. Call toll-free at 866.378.4991 or email info@EventEvolution.com for details.
The Renaissance Schaumburg will be the mission control center for PARCEL Forum ’25 Chicago. Situated in the center of the parcel shipping and distribution world, the Renaissance Schaumburg is conveniently located just 13 miles from Chicago O’Hare airport. You’ll settle into your intuitively designed room or suite, which features modern technology and home-like comforts. PARCEL Forum has secured a room block rate of $235 per night plus tax. Reservations can be made by calling 888.861.8331 or online by visiting PARCELforum.com and clicking on the HOTEL/TRAVEL link. If making reservations by phone, please reference PARCEL Forum to secure our special room rate.
ONLY CONFERENCE TRAVEL
Platinum Plus Package (3-day) attendees are eligible to receive a
airfare or $100 drive-in rebate to help offset travel-related costs. To qualify, you must be a paid Platinum Plus Conference Package attendee and email your airline receipt or type “Drive-In Rebate” into the subject line and email to travelrebate@EventEvolution.com