Bi-weekly Freight Updates - January: latest news and updates on the worldwide supply chain
The worldwide supply chain is constantly changing. As we continue dealing with the fallout of pandemic-related supply chain issues, fluctuations in prices, labour disruptions, logistic delays, and port congestion persist. We provide you with freight updates that include some of the latest industry news, helping to keep you on top of the dynamic global supply chain landscape.
2025 brings wave of parcel carrier rate hikes
For parcel shippers, the start of the year means adjusting to higher carrier rates. UPS and FedEx’s 2025 average rate increases of 5.9% are now in effect, and the U.S. Postal Service is gearing up for its own pricing bump on Jan. 19. Read more.
US port strike called off as ILA and USMX reach 'tentative' agreement
Shippers can breathe a sigh of relief, the east and Gulf coast port strike slated to start next week looks set to be called off – and freight rates could ease. Last night, despite much speculation to the contrary, the ILA and USMX came to a ‘tentative’ agreement – on all items – on a new six-year master contract. Read more.
Why ocean container spot rates are spiking now
Ocean container spot rates have surged in recent weeks, marking a dramatic shift from the volatile pricing environment that characterized much of 2024. After a year of fluctuating rates and uncertainty, shippers are now grappling with rapidly rising costs, particularly on the crucial eastbound trans-Pacific trade lane. Read more.
China’s biggest shipping line added to U.S. military blacklist
The US has blacklisted China’s largest shipping line and two shipbuilders over alleged links with the People’s Liberation Army, as Washington turns its attention to the country’s massive maritime sector. Read more.
Trucking costs could rise $93M per year during bridge repair
The closure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March is set to increase the Mid-Atlantic trucking industry’s operating costs by $92.8 million in 2025 and each year after while the key regional thoroughfare is rebuilt, according to researchers. Read more.
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