Radiant's Freight Market Update

This week: Air safety concerns are rising amid U.S. shutdown; Trump administration is threatening sanctions; China’s exports to the U.S. fell 27% in September.

Current Critical Industry Trends

Air safety concerns are rising amid the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. More than 13,000 air traffic controllers face missed paychecks and mounting stress, with staffing shortages causing over half of recent flight delays.

The Trump administration is threatening sanctions against countries supporting the IMO’s proposed shipping carbon pricing framework. Officials warn backing the plan could lead to port bans, visa restrictions for seafarers, and punitive vessel fees. Support for the framework remains strong among European nations and Pacific Island states ahead of a key IMO vote.

Ocean

Ocean carriers are unlikely to return to Red Sea routes soon despite the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. Houthi attacks on vessels continue, keeping shipping lines on extended Africa-rounding routes. When Red Sea transits resume, port congestion and vessel shortages could drive freight disruptions and rate swings for several months.

A container ship sailed from China to Felixstowe in 21 days via the Arctic. The route, the first China-Europe Arctic Express, offers a time advantage over traditional paths and could reshape global shipping dynamics.

Ports

Maersk is skipping China calls for two U.S.-flagged vessels after Beijing imposed a new port fee. Cargo for Ningbo will now be transshipped through South Korea, adjusting the Transpacific TP7 service.

International

China’s exports to the U.S. fell 27% in September, marking a six-month decline. Overall, its global exports grew 8.3%, driven by demand in other markets. Trade tensions and new tariffs with the U.S. continue to cloud the outlook.

Trucking

Alberta gets serious about trucking safety and accountability. Five schools were shut down and over $100,000 in penalties issued. New training rules and national cooperation aim to raise industry standards.

Rail

New cold storage facility set to boost refrigerated logistics in Calgary. CN and Congebec are combining rail access with advanced cold chain capabilities. The hub is designed to improve efficiency for perishable goods across North America.

Air

Aircraft supply chain delays set to cost airlines over $11 billion. IATA says parts shortages are forcing older jets to stay in service longer. Fuel, maintenance and leasing costs have surged across the board.

Technology

Cyber risks in manufacturing are rising fast and spreading wide. Attackers are going after entire ecosystems, not just the big players. Experts say supply chain security is now the industry's weakest link.

Other

Mail disruptions continue in Canada as labor talks stall. Rotating CUPW strikes are causing delays in multiple communities. Canada Post says a new deal is needed to restore long-term stability.

Why U.S. drivers get into trucking and why they stay. Surveyed truckers cite the open road, stable income, and financial duty. Most respondents are veteran company drivers with decades of experience.

Cargo theft continues to escalate, with motor carriers reporting over $16 million in stolen goods in 2023. The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) estimates the industry's annualized cost at $6.6 billion, or more than $18 million per day. Fleets are urged to enhance security measures, such as securing terminals, using GPS tracking, and vetting personnel to mitigate risks.

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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.