Radiant's Freight Market Update

This week: New tariffs tied to Iran were announced; Heathrow’s air cargo volumes rose in 2025; Trailer theft stopped in Mississauga.

Current Critical Industry Trends

New tariffs tied to Iran were announced this week. President Trump said the United States will impose a 25% duty on imports from countries that do business with Iran. The White House has not yet released formal guidance or definitions.

Ocean

NRF is forecasting a slow start for 2026 imports. The trade group expects year-over-year declines to continue through at least spring, citing tariff uncertainty and elevated inventories. A short-term increase is expected this month ahead of Lunar New Year factory shutdowns.

Another Red Sea transit was completed this week. The Maersk Denver became the company’s second vessel to pass through the region in nearly two years, following heightened security risks tied to Houthi attacks. The carrier said safety measures were applied and described the move as part of a cautious, step-by-step approach.

Ports

U.S. ports are stepping up with major crane investments. Jaxport and Oakland are installing new ship-to-shore cranes that boost capacity, efficiency, and environmental performance. The upgrades are designed to support cargo growth and modernize port operations for the future.

Singapore maintained its position as the world’s second largest container port in 2025. The port handled 44.66 million TEU, up 8.6% from the previous year, while bunker sales rose 3.4% to 56.77 million tonnes, including growth in alternative fuels.

International

Tariff refunds could be issued if the Supreme Court rules IEEPA duties illegal. The Department of Justice said reimbursements would apply to all levies instituted under the statute, including recent increases on imports from India and Brazil. The administration does not plan to challenge the Court’s eventual ruling.

Trucking

DOL is revisiting independent contractor rules. The agency may redefine how drivers and gig workers are classified under the FLSA, citing the “economic reality” test. Changes could affect hiring, contracts, and operations across trucking fleets.

Rail

New York awarded $101 million for freight rail and port projects. The funding, through the Passenger and Freight Rail Assistance Program, will support track, bridge, dock, and terminal improvements to move goods more safely and efficiently.

Air

Heathrow’s air cargo volumes rose in 2025. The UK’s largest airport moved 1.5 million tonnes, led by a 29.7% increase in domestic cargo. Investments in infrastructure, new runway plans, and cargo area upgrades aim to further boost trade and connectivity.

Technology

Cyber risk is becoming a daily challenge for logistics. Attacks on carriers, ports, and hubs jumped 61% in 2025 and are expected to double in 2026. Disruptions at a single port or system can ripple across air, ocean, rail, and truck networks, delaying shipments and driving up costs.

Other

Attempted trailer theft stopped in Mississauga. Authorities intercepted a truckload of connectivity hardware valued at $500,000, recovering all cargo safely. The shipment was just 20 miles from its final destination.

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The Radiant Network's supply chain and logistics updates provide valuable insights on freight trends, customs regulations, global news, economics, tech, and more. The Radiant Network includes the brands Radiant World Trade Services, Radiant Global Logistics, Radiant Canada, Radiant Road & Rail, Adcom, Airgroup, SBA, and Distribution By Air.

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Radiant World Trade Services is a part of Radiant Logistics, Inc. (NYSE American: RLGT), a publicly traded third-party logistics company that provides technology-enabled global transportation and value-added logistics solutions to a diverse account base. They offer comprehensive services including freight forwarding, truck and rail brokerage, warehouse and distribution, customs brokerage, order fulfillment, inventory management, and technology services. Radiant has an extensive network of offices throughout North America and other key markets worldwide.