Radiant's Freight Market Update
Stay up-to-date on the latest global supply chain and logistics news with Radiant's weekly updates.
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This week: Strait of Hormuz reopens under a U.S.-Iran deal; Canada’s trucking sector posts its first driver gain of 2026; Industry report calls volatility the “new normal.”
Current Critical Industry Trends
The Strait of Hormuz has reopened under a U.S.-Iran agreement that launches a 60-day negotiation period. The move could ease disruptions and improve cargo flows through a critical global trade route.
The American Supply Chain Sovereignty Initiative includes a proposal to create a high-visibility dashboard for tracking cargo movement across the U.S. The added visibility could help reduce delays and improve the flow of goods through the supply chain.
Ocean
As containership demand outpaces available vessel supply, China is converting bulk carriers into container ships to add capacity. The move reflects ongoing equipment constraints in the market but could help improve availability for shippers facing tight space.
Ports
Tauranga Container Terminal is tightening dangerous goods requirements to improve safety and maintain regulatory compliance. The update may require shippers to adjust processes to avoid potential delays in cargo acceptance and handling.
International
China’s exports hit $1.2 trillion as trade shifted from the U.S. to Europe and Asia, signaling changing global freight flows and renewed G7 focus on China’s trade practices.
Trucking
Canada’s trucking sector posted its first monthly driver employment gain of 2026, suggesting potential stabilization in labor conditions after recent declines.
The U.S. House approved a five-year transportation proposal through 2031. If enacted, the legislation would support infrastructure investments critical to freight mobility.
Rail
GRUPO México Transporters USA and Wabtec have reached an agreement to pursue ownership of Belgrano Cargo and Logistics (BCYL). BYCL is 8000km along three networks that carry 75 million tons of freight annually, primarily mining logistics and infrastructure.
Switzerland’s new EURO DuFour locomotive is designed to use less energy, lower rail wear and remove steps in the logistics process. When the locomotive enters service in late 2027, operating costs for freight rolling stock are expected to lower by 60%.
Air
Four-engine freighters’ use is being questioned due to the rising cost of fuel. Last year, there were more 777’s in service than the four-engine 747, further creating discussion and doubts around the use of the aging model.
Technology
The use of Automated Track Inspection (ATI) was approved for an additional 5 years. Railroads estimate ATI will help improve safety and provide better rail track inspection, but others worry about balancing innovation with worker safety and human oversight.
Other
A new report states volatility as the “new normal” for the logistics industry and emphasizes five strategic applications ranging from designing networks for resilience, not just efficiency, to reassessing capital structure and investment pacing.
Two truck drivers accused of stealing World Cup merchandise now facing felony charges for stealing an estimated $18,000 worth of apparel and equipment from Team England. The case comes as cargo theft continues to rise across the U.S. supply chains, with criminals increasingly targeting high-value shipments.