If I were allowed to choose between (a) not having trucks clogging the interstates 24-7 and (b) having everything in my local stores available whenever I want it, it would be an interesting choice, and one which Americans should be allowed to contemplate. As it is, I think we are getting neither.
This system does not seem to be working for the Walmarts and Krogers in my town as you postulate it does. In the last year, far more than in the past, I am seeing some popular and high-demand products missing from the shelves for days on end.
I suspect that the concept of "just in time" is proving to be as dodgy for the retail business as it turned out to be for my healthcare company, where "just in time" has been replaced by "be mindful of a potential shortage".
>>I am seeing some popular and high-demand products missing from the shelves for days on end.<<
That is probably the result of the international economy. We have far less ships unloading from China today compared to 2007. Their problem these days is determining which ships to sell to the steel yards and where to anchor them while their waiting. All the while, they are ordering super carriers with delivery dates out in the future.
These are some of the more interesting websites, IMO
http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/
http://www.crowley.com/News-and-Media/Press-Releases
http://www.hellenicshippingnews.com/