Radiant's Freight Market Update

This week: Red Sea shipping could resume as talks of a ceasefire continue; Container shipment rates from Asia to the U.S. are on the rise; 25 Trends shaping warehouse automation in 2025.

Current Critical Industry Trends

Red Sea shipping could resume as talks of a ceasefire continue. Rates may dip if the Red Sea and Suez Canal routes reopen. Experts suggest that a “best case scenario could see the routes return in the latter half of February.”

Trade tensions are rising as Canada braces for Trudeau’s exit. In this uncertain time, Canadian exporters may look to alternative markets to mitigate risks. With leadership in flux, all eyes are on the Canadian Liberal Party as they work to select a new leader.

Ocean

The ship that collided with the Baltimore bridge has completed its repairs. The Dali underwent two months of repairs at a Chinese shipyard. The vessel is now making port calls in China before heading to South Korea.

Ports

The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority is upgrading navigation aids in Burrard Inlet to improve safety and efficiency. New lights will enable nighttime transits, boosting transit windows by up to 38%. The upgrades will support over 500 annual cargo ship calls and improve scheduling flexibility.

International

Container shipment rates from Asia to the U.S. are on the rise due to increased demand ahead of the Lunar New Year and disruptions caused by bad weather. Similarly, Asia-North Europe prices have climbed by approximately 8%.

Trucking

Multiple Canadian groups raise concerns in Montreal. During a press conference, the groups questioned Premier François Legault about Driver Inc, a scheme under security scrutiny. The controversy highlights issues of accountability, particularly regarding any fees drivers incur while operating under Driver Inc.

Clean fleet rules for large trucks put on hold. Proposed strict emissions guidelines for certain vehicles have been withdrawn, prompting mixed reactions from the freight industry. Observers note this shift could affect future sustainability plans and regulatory timelines.

Rail

CN secures Iowa northern, adding 175 miles to its rail network. The STB has approved the acquisition, allowing CN’s nearly 20,000-mile system to merge with Iowa Northern’s 175 route miles. This single-line service aims to boost grain, fertilizer and renewable fuel markets across North America.

Air

E-Commerce slowdown shakes airfreight market dependency. Forwarders report a steep drop in e-commerce traffic driving rates down by 40%. With inventories high and new carriers entering key trades, industry players brace for potentially flat volumes ahead.

Technology

25 Trends shaping warehouse automation in 2025. AI-powered forecasting, eco-friendly packaging, and other cutting-edge innovations are set to redefine supply chains in the coming year. Key trends like e-commerce returns management, real-time tracking, and robotics-as-a-service are fueling the demand for smarter, more resilient operations.

Autonomous ships the future of maritime shipping. Though few autonomous ships are in operation, they promise round-the-clock service, real-time route optimization, and up to 30% savings on crew-related costs. Regulators and insurers are quickly adapting to this transformative technology.

Other

Middle East ports expand their global footprint. Saudi Arabia is establishing 59 new logistics facilities, while Oman’s free zones continue to thrive. Gulf nations are modernizing ports and supply chains with significant investments in hubs like Jeddah and Khalifa Port, strengthening the region's position in global trade.

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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.