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The 2026 State of Shipping and Logistics Report

James Greenlaw — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 04:56:41 +0000

The 2026 State of Shipping and Logistics Report

Executive Summary

12 Shipping Trends To Watch in 2026

Disruption is no longer an exception in shipping and logistics: it's the operating environment. In 2026, that reality becomes even clearer as disruption shapes every corner of the industry. Some of that disruption brings real challenges: regulatory shifts, capacity risks and new compliance hurdles that directly impact shippers. Other disruptions unlock innovation, efficiency and smarter logistics than ever before. Together, they form a "perpetual disruption" cycle that rewards agile, technology‑driven shippers and 3PLs and places new pressure on those relying on outdated processes. In this report, ��Ķ��vlog — part of the WWEX Group family of brands — breaks down seven core trends, a set of emerging "watch list" trends and looks back at 2025 forces that will continue to shape shippers' strategies in 2026.

This report explores the following shipping and logistics trends:

A fragile freight shipper's market: Soft demand and ample freight capacity create a shipper‑friendly market, but it rests on shaky economic and policy fundamentals.
A CDL crackdown risk: A potential crackdown on non‑domiciled CDLs could reduce available drivers and tighten truckload capacity in key regions.
The logistics AI revolution: AI is moving into every stage of the customer journey, from quoting and routing to tracking, exception management and post‑shipment analytics.
Election‑driven policy uncertainty: The 2026 midterms introduce new uncertainty around regulations, labor policy and trade, forcing shippers to plan for multiple outcomes.
Mexico's emerging logistics edge: Mexico's nearshoring shift and evolving tariffs are driving more cross‑border freight and elevating the country's role as a key logistics hub for North America.
Import volatility under tariff review: Court scrutiny of Trump‑era tariffs is adding legal uncertainty to already volatile import volumes and landed costs.
Resilience as a core strategy: ��Ķ��vlog are doubling down on resilience — multi‑sourcing, regionalization, buffers and stronger 3PL partnerships — to withstand ongoing disruption.
Emerging trends on the watch list: Emerging technologies such as RFID, biometrics, advanced cargo security and sustainability tech are gaining momentum and could reshape how shippers track, protect and manage freight.
Lessons carried over from 2025: Persistent forces like freight class changes, labor shortages and cargo theft from the 2025 report still shape shipper strategy in 2026.

"Logistics lives in perpetual disruption. Every season brings its own capacity swings — winter storms, produce surges, summer lulls, peak retail. That's the expected chaos. But the real market shifts come from the unexpected — COVID shutting down the country, hurricanes and polar vortexes. Capacity is always entering and exiting. It's a nonstop cycle, year after year."

— JJ Lewis, WWEX Group SVP of Truckload

Download the full report below or keep reading for a deeper look at the trends shaping shipping and logistics in 2026.

Trend #1: A Freight Shipper’s Market … Again (But Built On Fragile Ground)

Freight shipping enters 2026 in one of the softest demand environments the industry has seen in more than a decade. Shipment volumes remain depressed, carriers continue to compete aggressively for limited freight and no meaningful economic stimulus has emerged to spark a turnaround. High interest rates, tariff volatility, elevated inventories and inconsistent consumer spending all weighed heavily on 2025 performance — and those pressures carry into 2026. The result: a market where shippers hold the leverage.

In fact, a , with the headline "A New Breaking Point," revealed some somber numbers for freight carriers. , the Cass "multimodal shipments index fell 4.3% from September (down 2.1% seasonally adjusted) to the worst October reading since 2009."

Cass Freight Index by the Numbers

	October 2025	Year-over-year change	2-year stacked change	Month-to-month change	Month-to-month change*
Cass Freight Index — Shipments	0.997	-7.8%	-10.0%	-4.3%	-2.1%
Cass Freight Index — Expenditures	3.169	-0.2%	-6.1%	-3.9%	-2.1%
Truckload Linehaul Index	142.1	3.0%	0.7%	1.1%	NA

* Seasonally adjusted. Source: Cass Freight Index Report

What is causing soft demand in 2026?

WWEX Group leaders are watching freight conditions closely, and the signals are consistent across the network. Their on-the-ground expertise and ongoing market analysis reveal clear patterns to why the industry will continue to face prolonged soft demand and excess freight capacity heading into 2026. Here are the most serious culprits:

1. Freight Demand Remains Flat with No Clear CatalystFreight demand never stabilized in 2025, as the recession endured longer than expected. Consumer spending stayed cautious, manufacturers kept production conservative and retailers avoided large inventory resets. With no major demand engine emerging, the market largely moved sideways, setting the same muted tone as we enter 2026.

2. Housing Market Slowdown Continues to Pressure Freight

High interest rates suppressed home sales, construction and renovation — all major drivers of freight volume. With fewer moves and fewer homes changing hands, the usual flow of appliances, fixtures, building materials and home goods never materialized. Until interest rates fall, demand tied to housing will remain subdued across freight networks.

"There's no real demand catalyst right now. Demand is still tepid and there's too much capacity in the market. Home buying typically drives a significant amount of freight — everything that goes into a house has to move. But with the slowdown, that freight isn't materializing. And when you look at the Cass Freight Index Report, truckload shipments are sitting at levels we haven't seen since 2009 — essentially post-financial-crisis territory."

— John Pavlick, WWEX Group VP of Truckload

3. Tariffs Created Stop-start Shipping Cycles

Tariff volatility contributed to an uneven shipping rhythm throughout 2025. Many shippers pulled forward freight (moved up their shipping or inventory schedule) early in the year to get ahead of policy changes, then paused as demand stayed muted, and inventories sat longer than expected. That stop-start pattern left few opportunities for a sustained rebound heading into 2026.

4. ��Ķ��vlog Locked in Low Contract Rates

With excess capacity outpacing demand, 2026 bids strongly favored shippers. Many secured top contract rates in late 2025, taking advantage of carriers eager to maintain stability. These agreements reflect one of the strongest pricing environments for shippers in years. However, it could create financial woes for carriers in 2026, especially if volumes remain soft.
Source: WWEX Group

"Every year the narrative shifts. First, it was 'the market will change in the back half of 2024,' then it became 2025. Now people are pointing to the back half of 2026. So, we're staying laser-focused on what we can control: our KPIs, on-time performance and customer success."

— JJ Lewis, WWEX Group SVP of Truckload

WWEX Group Pro Tip

Even in a shipper-friendly market, navigating large inventory, unpredictable tariffs and soft demand requires strategy — not luck. When looking to optimize your freight shipping, a third-party logistics (3PL) provider can help you:

Secure consistent capacity across vetted carriers despite market conditions.
Optimize modes and routing by shifting freight between TL and LTL.
Strengthen forecasting and planning using market data, lane insights and historical trends.
Navigate tariff and regulatory changes with expert guidance.
Protect budgets by auditing invoices, flagging overcharges and identifying hidden cost drivers.

Trend #2: The CDL Crackdown That Could Reshape Freight Capacity

Our Trend #1 highlighted the excess freight capacity that's expected in 2026. However, potential trucking regulation changes this year could significantly tighten freight capacity, potentially reversing that trend and creating new challenges for the marketplace.

In September 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's (FMCSA) emergency rule on non-U.S.-domiciled Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) triggered immediate industry concern because it would prohibit states from issuing licenses to applicants who reside outside the United States — typically in Mexico or Canada — even when those applicants meet all federal training, testing and safety requirements.

, the "rule took effect the moment it was published. No advance notice, no comment period before implementation, no state consultation. Approximately 200,000 drivers lost eligibility to renew their CDLs overnight."

200,000 drivers lost their eligibility overnight before CDL rule stay.

Source: FreightWaves

Fewer drivers in fewer trucks would certainly mean less capacity to move freight. However, , a federal appeals court responded with an administrative stay, pausing the rule while litigation continues. The court did not judge the validity of the CDL rule, only providing the stay for sufficient time to consider it. For now, states may keep issuing non-domiciled CDLs.

As the legal process continues, the decision leaves fleets, drivers and state agencies in a holding pattern — operating under the old rules while they wait to see whether the emergency restrictions return, are revised or are struck down entirely.

is enforcing compliance by administratively pressuring states, including threats to withhold federal highway funds from those like New York and California that issued improper non-domiciled CDLs. Agencies are revoking existing licenses in certain states, with California having revoked thousands. Some states, such as Pennsylvania, have paused their non-domiciled CDL programs voluntarily or due to federal and audit pressures.

What are the key takeaways from the non-domiciled CDL rule?

Issue area	What's known
Who's affected	Non-U.S.-domiciled CDL applicants (various humanitarian statuses included).
What the rule does	Restricts states from issuing or renewing non-domiciled CDLs under expanded definitions.
Industry concern	Loss of legally authorized drivers and tighter capacity.
FMCSA rationale	Identity verification + safety standardization.
Current status	Temporarily paused by federal appeals court (administrative stay).
What states must do	Continue using the prior CDL rules until litigation concludes.

Source:

"One of the biggest issues to watch heading into 2026 is the impact of non-domiciled CDLs. If those drivers come off the road, it will take a major chunk out of truckload capacity — right as carrier bankruptcies are already rising, and fraud is knocking carriers out of the market. Even if demand stays muted, fewer drivers will tighten supply fast, and if demand turns even slightly, routing guides and rates could shift aggressively almost overnight."

— Brian Andalman, WWEX Group Vice President of Carrier Procurement

WWEX Group Pro Tip

In 2026, working with a top 3PL like WWEX Group gives shippers access to a broad network of vetted and reliable freight carriers. That scale helps secure lanes and freight capacity even when driver shortages make the market more difficult to navigate.

Trend #3: Logistics AI Will Power the Entire Customer Lifecycle

has moved from "future trend" to everyday infrastructure. In 2026, it's shortening workflows, reducing manual errors and giving shippers clearer visibility across freight networks. What used to take hours now takes seconds — and what used to be reactive can now be predicted before it becomes a disruption.

But most importantly, in 2026, AI will streamline the entire lifecycle of the shipper experience, while creating efficiencies for the 3PLs who know how to wield it. By automating quoting, booking, tracking, appointment scheduling and final settlement, shippers get faster responses, more accurate data, fewer exceptions and a smoother end-to-end experience regardless of mode or volume. This lifecycle automation is becoming a competitive advantage for shippers that rely on speed, precision and reliability.

"We’re automating the entire quote-to-cash lifecycle so teams can focus on exceptions while AI handles the repetitive work with greater accuracy. For shippers, that means faster processing, fewer errors and a smoother end-to-end shipping experience."

— Arjun Srinivasan, WWEX Group SVP, AI & Data Science

How does logistics lifecycle automation work?

Lifecycle stage	What's automated	What the customer experiences
Quote request	AI-powered tools generate accurate freight quotes in seconds, using live rates and business rules.	Faster, more consistent pricing without long back-and-forth email chains.
Shipment creation	Shipment details are validated, enriched and pushed into TMS systems with minimal manual entry.	Cleaner, error-reduced orders that move through systems smoothly.
Appointment scheduling	Dock appointments are requested, booked or adjusted automatically based on facility rules and capacity.	Fewer missed windows and faster confirmation of pickup and delivery times.
Capacity & truck posting	Available loads and capacity are posted and matched automatically to preferred carriers.	More reliable coverage on key lanes without last-minute scrambling.
Carrier booking	Best-fit carriers are recommended and booked based on performance, cost and service criteria.	Better carrier alignment for freight at the right price-service mix.
Tracking & exception flags	Shipments are monitored in real time; AI flags delays or issues before they become service failures.	Proactive updates instead of "where's my shipment?" calls.
Documents & compliance	BOLs, PODs, invoices and customs documents are requested, organized and validated automatically.	Less paperwork chasing and faster resolution of billing or claims issues.
Payment & settlement	Carrier invoices are matched to agreed terms and processed with fewer touches.	More predictable payments for carriers and cleaner cost visibility for shippers.

Source: WWEX Group

71% of logistics & supply chain companies offered AI-enabled solutions in 2025 (up from 50% the year before), showing how mainstream logistics AI tools have become in the industry.

Source: of the supply chain and logistics IT market.

WWEX Group Pro Tip

Embrace — don't fear — AI tools and the companies that are deploying this technology to your advantage. If freight forecasting, lane sourcing or rate quoting still feels like manual hustle in 2026, a 3PL with embedded, data-driven AI can give you real-time visibility, faster decisions and the flexibility to move quickly when market conditions shift.

Trend #4: Midterm Elections Add Uncertainty to Shipping and Logistics

The may introduce real uncertainty into an already fragile shipping and logistics environment — or provide the stimulus it needs. Midterms are inherently unpredictable, but the current political climate — marked by sharp polarization, competing economic narratives and high-stakes national debates — could further influence voter turnout and reshape the balance of power. With all 435 House seats and roughly one-third of Senate seats on the ballot, control of Congress is far from guaranteed.

Why does this matter for the shipping and logistics industry? often trigger policy shifts that ripple directly through transportation, trade and supply chain operations. In a divided and politically heated environment, regulatory direction, funding priorities and trade dynamics can swing quickly after Election Day. Here are five areas where midterm election outcomes can influence logistics trends.

1. Regulatory Uncertainty Increases During Election Cycles

Federal agencies often ease off major rulemaking around election periods to align with shifting priorities and avoid unnecessary political risk. This can delay key and inject real uncertainty into planning for carriers and shippers.

2. Policy Priorities Frequently Shift After Midterms

Midterm elections can , and new chairs often shift the policy focus on transportation, emissions, safety enforcement and supply chain oversight. Even without a change in the White House, these shifts can subtly change which issues receive attention and funding across the federal agencies that influence logistics.

3. Infrastructure Funding Timelines Tend to Adjust

Midterm elections can shift how Congress oversees the remaining , affecting which types of projects draw the most support or scrutiny. Over time, those shifts can change the pace and mix of port, highway and rail investments, with visible impacts on freight flows, regional congestion and overall network capacity.

4. Labor and Workforce Policies Can be Reprioritized

can alter the pace and direction of workforce-related legislation, including apprenticeship programs, driver training standards, immigration enforcement or employment-eligibility rules. These adjustments slowly shape the availability of drivers, warehouse labor and broader logistics staffing conditions.

5. Business Investment Often Slows Ahead of Elections

Big election years on big-ticket projects while they wait to see how policy and the economy shake out. When that happens, it can take a bit of steam out of freight demand in construction, manufacturing and other durable-goods sectors that normally feed significant TL and LTL volume.

WWEX Group Pro Tip

Once the election dust settles and new policies take shape, a leading 3PL becomes your stabilizer and strategist. Here's what the right partner can do:

Monitor policy changes in real time to anticipate regulatory or compliance adjustments before they affect operations.
Adjust routing and mode strategies quickly when regulatory or funding changes impact regional congestion or carrier availability.
Leverage diversified carrier networks to maintain stability during periods of capacity tightening or workforce disruption.
Build adaptive pricing and procurement strategies that flex with election-year volatility in demand and cost structures.

Trend #5: Mexico's Logistics Moment: Nearshoring, Tariffs and the New Cross-border Shipping Reality

Mexico is having its logistics moment in 2026 — one that could profoundly reshape global supply chains. In 2025, it widened its edge over China as the United States' top trade partner, claiming No. 1 for U.S. exports in three of the first five months, .

This doesn't overlook its 2023 breakthrough, when Mexico overtook China as the leading source of U.S. imports for the first time in two decades, propelled by tariffs on Chinese goods and nearshoring that leveraged its proximity and supply chain integration.

Together, these developments signal Mexico's rise as a global logistics powerhouse right across the U.S. border, with set to redefine North American — and potentially worldwide — trade flows.

Looking to 2026, this momentum primes the stage for explosive growth, with market projections hitting $141 billion by 2033 amid nearshoring and multimodal expansions. ��Ķ��vlog ignoring this shift risk missing the .

Why is Mexico primed to become the next logistics giant?

Geographic proximity Mexico's border location slashes U.S. shipping times and costs versus distant suppliers like China, fueling rapid nearshoring momentum.	Favorable trade agreements USMCA offers tariff-free access for compliant goods — unlike China's sometimes 40%+ tariffs — enabling seamless North American supply chain integration.
Rapid infrastructure expansion Massive investments in rail, ports and highways boost connectivity and capacity to handle surging trade volumes.	Manufacturing investment surge Nearshoring draws U.S. giants like Tesla while Chinese firms build plants in Mexico, spurring industrial parks nationwide.

Source: |

How can shippers benefit from Mexico's logistics growth?

Faster transit times and lower freight costs Proximity enables 2-5 day overland shipping from Mexico versus weeks from Asia, slashing inventory costs and enabling just-in-time delivery.	Simplified customs via USMCA Tariff-free access and optimized border processes reduce delays and compliance costs compared to complex China imports, streamlining cross-border flows.
Access to expanded near-border capacity New port and rail link construction boosts intermodal options, easing congestion at key crossings like Laredo and El Paso.	Resilient, diversified sourcing Nearshoring reduces China exposure amid tariffs/geopolitics, offering stable capacity even during disruptions while maintaining cost competitiveness.

Source:

"Given the less expensive labor, lower real estate costs and the long-standing trade flow between the U.S. and Mexico, I can only see more European and Chinese companies expanding their manufacturing footprint there. Multiple countries are already building TVs, appliances and electronics in places like Tijuana, then moving that freight cross-border into U.S. distribution centers. In essence, Mexico is becoming a strategic production base to supply the United States more efficiently."

— JJ Lewis, WWEX Group SVP of Truckload

WWEX Group Pro Tip

��Ķ��vlog can navigate Mexico's cross-border shipping complexities seamlessly with a strategic 3PL partner. Here is what the top ones offer:

Cross-border shipping expertise: Teams manage customs, carriers and routing strategies to keep shipments moving without delays.
Local presence in Mexico: On-the-ground teams secure capacity, solve issues quickly and maintain real-time visibility end-to-end.
Document and compliance support: Experts handle invoices, USMCA requirements and customs paperwork to prevent avoidable clearance issues.
Tariff and policy guidance: Specialists track shifting trade rules and advise shippers to protect landed costs.
Expedited border crossings: Cross-dock carriers and streamlined programs accelerate delivery and cut border dwell time.

Trend #6: Import Volatility Continues as Justices Examine Trump Tariffs

Since early 2025, President Trump's broad "emergency" and "reciprocal" tariffs have reshaped the cost structure for U.S. importers, layering new duties on goods from China, Mexico, Canada and dozens of other countries. Now, moving into 2026, the legal tide is turning. The Supreme Court has taken up challenges to whether the actually authorizes these tariffs, after lower courts found that several executive orders overstepped presidential authority.

Against this backdrop, importers from big‑box retailers like Costco to smaller manufacturers are rushing to court, seeking to protect their right to refunds if the justices ultimately strike the tariffs down, adding another layer of volatility to an already disrupted shipping environment.

"Some customers asked, ‘What do these tariffs mean for us?’ The problem was trying to untangle complex international supply chains and how these new tariffs applied to their business. Some product lines had multiple countries of origin, and there was so much confusion that some businesses halted shipping while others had no choice but to continue business as usual."

— John Pavlick, WWEX Group VP of Truckload

What do I need to know about tariffs in 2026?

Trump's "fentanyl" and "reciprocal" tariffs, imposed under IEEPA, extend well beyond China to a wide set of trading partners and product categories.
The Supreme Court heard expedited arguments in November 2025 on whether IEEPA actually permits these broad, across‑the‑board tariff hikes.
Multiple courts have already ruled that key tariff orders exceeded the president's authority, creating real risk that some duties will be declared unlawful.
Importers like Costco are filing "protective" lawsuits at the Court of International Trade (CIT) to secure full refunds if the Supreme Court ultimately sides against the government.
A wave of copycat suits from other large shippers and business owners is building as the industry waits for judgement from the Supreme Court.

Source:

$150 billion The amount the White House says new tariffs have brought in, some of which may be returned depending upon the Supreme Court ruling and potential lawsuits.

Source:

What ��Ķ��vlog Need to Know

In 2026, tariff policy creates a high-stakes fork in the road for shippers: if the Supreme Court upholds Trump's authority, elevated duties and cost pass-throughs could become a long-term fixture. If the Court strikes all or part of the program, some importers may recover significant refunds, while competitors that did not sue miss out, depending on how courts ultimately structure any remedy.

Audit 2025 imports for tariff exposure and consult trade counsel about whether to request liquidation extensions, file protests or bring protective U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) complaints to keep tariff refund options open.

WWEX Group Pro Tip

In a volatile tariff environment, a strong 3PL becomes a stabilizer. WWEX Group can help shippers model landed-cost scenarios, benchmark carrier rates under shifting duty levels, and build flexible contracts that protect margins whether tariffs hold or fall. Our experts track trade developments daily and can flag cost impacts early and recommend mode or routing shifts, so you stay compliant, competitive and ready for any Supreme Court outcome.

Trend #7: The Necessity of Building Supply Chain Resilience

Global disruptions — from port strikes and tariffs to geopolitical tensions — have exposed vulnerabilities, for uninterrupted supply flows in an increasingly volatile world.

Resilience emerges as 2026's competitive edge through accurate forecasting, risk monitoring, scenario simulation, multi-sourcing and geographic diversification to counter tariffs, demand shocks and logistical disruptions.

What are the key shipping and logistics disruption possibilities in 2026?

Challenge	Solution	How it helps
Economic volatility	Accurate forecasting	Rapid inventory adjustments, shock minimization
Tariffs/trade barriers	Multi-sourcing	Reduces single-supplier vulnerabilities
Geopolitical instability	Geographic diversification	Maintains continuity across regions
Cyber threats	Risk monitoring	Proactive disruption anticipation
High logistics costs	AI-driven planning	Network optimization, excess inventory cuts
Red Sea/global disruptions	Scenario simulation	Proactive rerouting/decisions
Skilled labor shortages	Automation/robotics	Boosts productivity, fills workforce gaps
E-commerce margin pressure	Dark stores/micro-warehouses	Fast delivery with cost efficiency
Fragmented networks	Control towers	End-to-end visibility, rapid coordination

Source:

WWEX Group Pro Tip

A 3PL can be a vital partner in navigating today's volatile logistics landscape by leveraging advanced logistics technology and diversified networks to keep shipments moving smoothly despite disruptions. They can provide:

Multi-carrier networks: 3PLs spread volume across a wide range of carriers to avoid strikes/congestion, ensuring capacity during peaks.
Predictive rerouting: AI monitors disruptions, auto-switches lanes/carriers for seamless continuity without shipper intervention.
Dual sourcing integration: Coordinates parallel suppliers via unified visibility, balancing inventory across diversified origins.
Risk modeling platforms: Real-time analytics forecast carrier/port issues 7-30 days ahead for proactive contingency planning.
Backup capacity access: Preferred partnerships guarantee priority slots when primary carriers fail, minimizing delays.

5 More Shipping and Logistics Trends We are Watching

Need more shipping trends? Here are the additional ones we're watching — some emerging, some futuristic and others simply too interesting to ignore. Each offers a glimpse into where shipping and logistics may be headed in 2026.

RFID-enabled Freight Tracking

use tiny radio chips and antennas to transmit package data wirelessly, so items can be identified and tracked without manual barcode scans. Once limited to niche use cases, these smart labels are moving into mainstream freight operations as part of the broader smart labelling market. By automating scans at each handoff, RFID technology offers near‑real‑time visibility without slowing drivers or terminal workflows, improving tracking accuracy, reducing disputes, and strengthening chain‑of‑custody assurance across multimodal networks.

Digital Twin Supply Chain Simulation

Digital twin platforms let shippers in virtual form, testing everything from mode shifts to port disruptions before making real-world decisions. As the technology matures, AI-driven simulations help teams predict bottlenecks, optimize lane strategy, calibrate inventory and model how external shocks — weather, tariffs, demand swings — will impact service.

Cross-border Supply Chain Redundancy Planning

With tariffs, geopolitical shifts and nearshoring acceleration, shippers are diversifying cross-border freight flows. Companies are — Mexico plus Asia, Canada plus U.S. Gulf, dual-port entry models — to avoid overreliance on any one region. This redundancy planning helps stabilize transit times, mitigate regulatory shocks and ensure year-round capacity access.

Freight Wellness Programs for Drivers and Dispatchers

initiatives to reduce burnout across driver and back-office teams. Programs include fatigue-monitoring wearables, mental-health check-ins, ergonomic cab design, flexible dispatching and predictive scheduling powered by AI. The goal: lower turnover, improve safety performance and strengthen operational reliability in a talent-scarce environment.

Biometric Cargo and Facility Security

uses unique physical identifiers — like fingerprints or facial recognition — to control who can access freight, vehicles, and secure areas in the logistics network. Biometric authentication is starting to move from airports and passenger gates into freight yards, warehouses, and container seals, tying cargo access to verified scans instead of PINs or keys. By restricting dock doors, yard gates, and even truck or container locks to authenticated personnel, these systems cut down on fictitious pickups and cargo theft while creating a tamper‑proof audit trail of who accessed freight, where and when.

2025 in Review: How did we do in our logistics trends report from last year?

Before closing, we're revisiting several key themes from our 2025 Shipping Report to understand how they unfolded. These updates provide essential context for 2026, highlighting what changed, what persisted and what shippers should continue watching in the year ahead.

Cargo Theft

Cargo theft remains one of the most persistent threats to supply chains, and the problem continues to escalate in 2026. , U.S. cargo theft jumped 29% year-over-year in Q3 2025, with 645 recorded incidents and major spikes in California and Texas. Electronics and food-and-beverage shipments were top targets, while auto parts and pharmaceuticals saw some of the fastest growth. Criminal tactics are also evolving, with pilferage still common but full-truckload thefts and deceptive pickups increasing rapidly. As criminal methods become more sophisticated, experts warn that the industry should expect sustained, elevated theft activity in 2026.

"Cargo theft isn’t new, but the sophistication is on a completely different level today. We’re not just talking about smash-and-grab theft at truck stops anymore. We’re seeing fake brokers, spoofed emails, purchased MC numbers, and coordinated rings that can make freight disappear quickly. It’s one of the biggest threats facing truckload shippers — and the speed, scale and creativity of these schemes are forcing the entire industry to rethink how it verifies, tracks and protects freight."

— Brian Andalman, WWEX Group Vice President of Carrier Procurement

Freight Class Changes

The 2025 NMFTA freight-class overhaul was one of the most meaningful LTL changes in years, shifting thousands of commodities to a more density-driven model and requiring shippers to tighten packaging, measurement and documentation practices. But despite early concerns, the transition did not bring the freight industry to a standstill. Yes, shippers had to adjust — particularly around dimensions, density calculations and system updates — but the rollout came and went without major disruption. Outside of routine billing disputes and learning-curve challenges, there was little in the media to suggest widespread operational chaos. In short: the system changed, shippers adapted and freight kept moving.

Labor Shortage

, just as many industry analysts expected. While not as severe as the post-pandemic peak, shortages continued across warehousing, transportation planning, customer service and over-the-road driving. Many carriers struggled to recruit and retain qualified drivers, especially as compliance requirements and background checks sidelined portions of the workforce. Warehouses also faced ongoing competition for hourly labor, pushing wages upward and tightening margins. The result was a year marked by uneven staffing, productivity gaps and rising labor costs.

��Ķ��vlog Can Help You Navigate 2026 and Beyond

In 2026, a 3PL is your secret weapon for navigating logistics challenges. From leveraging AI for efficiency to staying ahead of regulatory changes, a 3PL provides expert solutions that streamline operations, reduce costs and keep you competitive — ensuring your business thrives in an ever-evolving shipping landscape. When you partner with ��Ķ��vlog, you gain a team of logistics experts who leverage our award-winning shipping options, virtually unlimited capacity and best-in-class technology to protect you from market volatility — in 2026 and beyond.

Ready to learn more about the industry-leading solutions and services from ��Ķ��vlog?

Reach out today for a free consultation

Executive Summary
Trend #1: A Freight Shipper’s Market … Again (But Built On Fragile Ground)
Trend #2: The CDL Crackdown That Could Reshape Freight Capacity
Trend #3: Logistics AI Will Power the Entire Customer Lifecycle
Trend #4: Midterm Elections Add Uncertainty to Shipping and Logistics
Trend #5: Mexico’s Logistics Moment: Nearshoring, Tariffs and the New Cross-border Shipping Reality
Trend #6: Import Volatility Continues as Justices Examine Trump Tariffs
Trend #7: The Necessity of Building Supply Chain Resilience
5 More Shipping and Logistics Trends We are Watching
2025 in Review: How did we do in our logistics trends report from last year?
��Ķ��vlog Can Help You Navigate 2026 and Beyond

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The 2025 Shipping and Logistics Industry Report

Nathan Hall — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 01:19:19 +0000

The 2025 Shipping and Logistics Industry Report

12 Shipping and Logistics Trends To Watch in 2025

With WWEX Group, the parent company of ��Ķ��vlog, you never have to navigate shipping alone! Download our 2025 State of the Shipping Industry Report to stay ahead and learn about the 12 shipping industry trends we are watching this year.

Download the Report

Summary of What You Will Find In the Shipping and Logistics Report

In our 2025 State of the Shipping Industry Report, we will explore emerging trends, technological innovations, regulatory changes, packaging innovations and more. We'll analyze key challenges and opportunities and offer tips on how to succeed at shipping and logistics in 2025. Here is a look at four of the trends you will find in the report:

Freight recession recovery: The logistics industry shows signs of recovery after a prolonged freight recession. Rising tender rejections and spot rates indicate a tightening market, but challenges remain. ��Ķ��vlog can navigate these changes with the help of third-party logistics (3PL) providers.
Workforce shortages: A significant labor shortage in the shipping and logistics sector continues to impact operations, from transportation to customer service. A 3PL can help mitigate these challenges by providing logistics support, route optimization and managed transportation solutions.
Trump tariffs plan: The Trump administration’s proposed tariffs could raise import taxes by up to 100% on Chinese goods, affecting U.S. businesses and global supply chains. These tariffs may lead to higher costs, requiring businesses to quickly adapt.
LTL freight classification changes: In 2025, freight class updates will simplify the classification system and improve pricing accuracy. These changes aim to streamline LTL shipping while creating efficiencies and cost savings for both carriers and shippers.

WWEX Group and ��Ķ��vlog can help you create shipping and logistics success in 2025!

At , we help businesses like yours navigate the growing pains of expansion by providing tailored shipping solutions — whether it's FTL, LTL, managed transportation or other services.

As the parent company of ��Ķ��vlog, we bring together top talent, strong industry relationships and an extensive distribution network. With a unified approach and a single infrastructure, we’re transforming logistics from a roadblock into a growth driver for businesses of all sizes.

Download our 2025 State of the Shipping Industry Report to get ahead this year. Ready to talk to an expert? Contact ��Ķ��vlog for a free consultation today!

Download the Report

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Turn Your Inbound Freight into an Advantage

James Greenlaw — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 22:36:28 +0000

If you're like most companies, you likely rely on vendors to arrange for your inbound shipping. But did you know that, in doing so, you're losing out on more than just visibility of your incoming inventory? Vendors typically include shipping costs in the price of their products, leaving your business in the dark regarding company rates and additional fees that may be accrued. Should you be unhappy with carrier performance or delivery options, you'll likely have little information to use to change carriers directly. That's why shifting inbound logistics management to an internal team gives your company a leg up by creating greater efficiencies and cost savings. We're here to walk you through how to turn your inbound logistics from a costly expense to a competitive advantage.

What are the in-house benefits of inbound freight management?

Considering bringing your inbound logistics management in-house? Whether you're looking to save on costs or gain more control over your supply chain, inbound logistics may be an ideal solution. Here are a few of the major benefits of maintaining your own inbound freight management.

Greater control over shipping costs

When a company manages its own inbound logistics, it has greater control over shipping costs and transit times since shippers can compare carrier rates and service options to best meet their unique needs and limitations. Costs can further be reduced by identifying and eliminating unnecessary accessorial fees. Plus, with better visibility and influence over the carrier's performance, dissatisfied shippers can switch to another carrier with ease to better fit their needs or budget.

Even carriers benefit from companies managing their own inbound freight logistics since shippers can choose to use the same company for inbound and outbound shipping. The carrier gets an extra shipment they may not have otherwise, lot congestion is reduced and separate pickup coordination requirements are eliminated, making the shipment more fuel efficient. Handling both your inbound and outbound shipments may also make carriers more willing to offer discounted or special loyalty rates.

Greater control over resource management

When suppliers arrange carrier pickup and delivery, the company is left without control over the truck's arrival and is typically left paying the dock crew added wages for idle time. When you take inbound shipping into your own hands, your company gains priceless visibility into when trucks will arrive for pickup and delivery and can schedule workers accordingly. Plus, you'll be able to make sure your inbound and outbound carrier schedules don't overlap. This helps to avoid chaos at the dock and makes both loading and unloading more efficient. When the lot is less congested, drivers spend less time waiting and you can save on dwell time fees.

More balanced inventory management

Not only does bringing your inbound freight management in-house help you gain supply chain visibility, but it also helps you better manage your inventory. Balancing product flow with inventory through inbound logistics will help ensure levels are cost-effective. An inventory management system gives companies visibility so they can submit orders when inventory is low, rather than allowing suppliers to replenish on a cycle - this avoids tying up cash with excess inventory.

Better enabled data analytics and KPIs

When you handle your own inbound logistics solutions, you have control over the technology and resources being used to keep your shipments on track. For example, using a transportation management system (TMS) for both inbound and outbound logistics gives companies a more complete picture of opportunities to optimize efficiency and cost savings. The data collected through a reliable TMS can be used by a third-party logistics (3PL) expert to identify optimal delivery routes, uncover opportunities for shipping cost reduction, determine whether shipments are candidates for consolidation or pooling, and decide if other different modes — or combination of modes — could improve cost savings and help manage dock congestion. Data analysis can also help establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure areas for improvement and identify any successful operational efficiencies to maintain.

How can a 3PL help with inbound logistics management?

Bringing your inbound logistics in-house can feel like a huge undertaking, but you don't have to go it alone. 3PLs offer the resources, technology and expertise you need to manage your logistics and transportation and oversee the vendor and carrier relationship to bring all your operations together in one wholistic strategy.

A 3PL will utilize TMS data and an end-to-end view of your supply chain to not only improve the inbound and outbound flow of goods, but also allow for easier carrier and rate selection. Plus, 3PL experts will work directly with you to reduce freight and warehouse costs, decrease wait time and improve both speed and accuracy. That's extra money in your pocket.

So, how can a 3PL help improve your inbound freight management? With a trusted 3PL by your side, your operations will be more efficient, leaner, more cost effective and reliable. As a further benefit, stakeholders in the organization will see the results and understand how improving inbound logistics can be thought of less as an expense than as competitive advantage.

Best-in-Class Inbound Freight Management from ��Ķ��vlog

If your company is looking for ways to be more efficient and save money, managing your own inbound logistics may be the ideal solution. However, knowing where to begin may be a challenge you're not confident tackling by yourself. Luckily, ��Ķ��vlog offers best-in-class shipping and logistics solutions, round-the-clock support from real industry experts, and industry-leading resources to help maximize all aspects of your logistics. Whether you're seeking less-than-truckload (LTL) or full truckload (FTL) shipping solutions, ��Ķ��vlog has the tools and expertise to transform your supply chain. Ready to get started? Connect with an expert to learn more.

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Why You Need Transportation Optimization (And the Steps To Get There)

James Greenlaw — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 20:15:20 +0000

The shipping and transportation industry moves quickly. New services — as well as challenges — emerge in the marketplace on a consistent basis. That makes it imperative for shippers to constantly look out for solutions that make it easier to move product and keep customers happy. One way that shippers can stay ahead of the competition is through transportation optimization. This is the practice of analyzing and improving your supply chain with a focus on cutting costs, saving time and eliminating disruptions.

8 Steps to Transportation Optimization

��Ķ��vlog is an industry-leading third-party logistics (3PL) company that provides shippers of all sizes with fast and reliable transportation services across all major modes of freight. Below, we list the eight areas that shippers should focus on in their transportation optimization efforts.

Automation and Warehouse Location Optimization

Using robots and artificial intelligence in the warehouse for unloading pallets, picking, packing and fulfilling orders will improve accuracy and increase productivity and speed.

Consolidating Shipments for Transportation Route Optimization

To help with less-than-truckload (LTL) capacity issues and save on shipping costs, multiple orders heading for the same geographic area via LTL can be combined and delivered to a distribution center via full truckload (FTL) shipping. From there, the shipments can be separated and shipped to the destination by LTL freight.

Continuous Transportation Network Optimization

Using the same truck to deliver outgoing FTL freight shipments and returning with incoming shipments in a single route eliminates empty cargo space, reduces empty miles on the road, makes the most of a driver's time and saves on shipping costs.

Utilizing Multiple Freight Carriers from a 3PL Network

Dispersing shipments through multiple carriers can keep freight moving in times of capacity shortages. A 3PL's transportation management system (TMS) can identify available carriers, their rates and service options.

Intermodal Transportation Optimization Options

Businesses can combine different modes (multimodal) to take advantage of different speeds, reach and costs. Shipping by rail for most of the journey can save on expenses with final transport by truck to the distribution center.

Transportation Route Optimization and Planning

Using GPS tracking and real-time analytics on weather, traffic flow and distance to destinations will help carriers determine the best routes for their drivers. Plus, adding details on truck stops can eliminate driving off course for mandatory rest times.

Eliminating Bottlenecks Through Effective Scheduling

Strategically allocating inbound deliveries with pickups from outbound trucks can help the flow of traffic at your warehouse. You can use a TMS for orderly scheduling.

Utilize Warehouse Location in Shipping Strategy

The location of your warehouses can greatly impact delivery times. If you have multiple warehouses or distribution centers, shipping from locations nearer to the destination saves time and money.

Connect With the ��Ķ��vlog Team of Transportation Optimization Experts

��Ķ��vlog is an industry-leading 3PL, providing best-in-class supply chain optimization and managed transportation solutions to businesses of all sizes across the nation. Our team of logistics experts will help analyze your supply chain, identifying opportunities to save money and maximize operational efficiencies. We'll even determine optimal distribution sites and storage requirements to protect your products and help you optimize your efforts.

Are you ready to speak to one of our experts? Reach out for a consultation today!

The post Why You Need Transportation Optimization (And the Steps To Get There) appeared first on ��Ķ��vlog.

Simplify Your Logistics With Our Shipping Technology

James Greenlaw — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 19:28:26 +0000

In the shipping industry, a truck, airplane or train might be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the movement of products. Those modes of transport are essential, but they accomplish little today without the use and implementation of shipping technology.

Platforms like a transportation management system (TMS), warehouse management system and e-commerce shipping software allow you to make informed decisions and seamlessly make transactions for greater profitability. 3pl technology solutions can also keep your customers happy and turn them into return customers.

But not all technology platforms are equal. Some are based upon antiquated logic and processes, leaving you to do a lot of guesswork that ends up negatively impacting your bottom line.

At ��Ķ��vlog, we provide logistics technology solutions and follow technology trends that make your job easier. We have decades of shipping expertise and keep an eye on the future to help you remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Transportation Management System

��Ķ��vlog has its own proprietary transportation management system (TMS). Our platforms provide end-to-end transportation management that enables a greater supply chain transparency than our competitors. Our transportation management system offers:

Immediate access to carriers — Select the appropriate carrier for your shipments at a cost that fits your budget. With more than 85,000 full truckload (FTL) carriers and 75+ less-than-truckload (LTL) carriers , we can help you find trucks with capacity, no matter what you're shipping.
Connection to multiple modes — From LTL and FTL to rail and air, ��Ķ��vlog gives you maximum opportunities to choose the best method to ship your products at the speed and price you need — all through our TMS. You can choose a single transportation mode for your shipment or mix them for the best value.
Track-and-trace capabilities and notifications — Get real-time insight into your shipments and resolve any issues as soon as they happen. This allows you to communicate with your customer and plan for potential disruptions. Communication of this kind can help you develop trust with your customers.
Documentation management — Keep all of your online paperwork in one place — from freight quotes to bills of lading, invoices, claim information and shipping labels.
Claims management — Make filing and settling claims with carriers easy with our TMS software. All shipping data is in one place. Plus, you're given step-by-step filing instructions on claims and have access to our support staff to help with the process.
Analytics and business intelligence — Use data from your selections and transform them into a high-level dashboard you can use to discover insights and opportunities for greater efficiencies and cost-savings.

Warehouse Management System

The ��Ķ��vlog warehouse management system (WMS) allows you to organize, control and optimize operations in your warehouses. A WMS helps reduce human error from manual data entry. They can also improve productivity, enable flexibility and reduce operating costs. Some functions of a WMS include:

Warehouse design — Organize products into a workable space with WMS data. This allows you to optimize inventory management and enable an efficient picking process.
Inventory tracking — A WMS provides insight that can help you make better decisions on the supply and demand of goods and allows you to forecast better inventory control — whether you work with a lean or agile system.
Picking and shipping — A WMS indicates where products are stored and updates the inventory count in real-time as activity occurs for greater productivity and accuracy.
Labor management — Get intelligence on inventory levels and order demands by using a sophisticated WMS. You can also plan for needed labor force, assign tasks and improve productivity.
Analytics — Utilize WMS data to make better decisions when balancing inventory levels and storage costs.

E-commerce Shipping Software

Using an application programming interface (API) with a TMS, WMS and order management system provides businesses with a single source of truth. This e-commerce shipping integration software helps companies ensure their online customers get the product they need when they need it. For you (the shipper), the logistics API integration gives you assurance that your shipping operations are running at an optimal level. Our transportation management software and warehouse management system integrates with leading e-commerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce and Magento, providing you with:

Seamless online shopping experience — Shipping costs are generated in your e-commerce cart so customers can see charges up front and complete their purchase.
Customers get several shipping methods — Customers get the option to choose freight rates and transit times based upon budget and deadlines.
Create administrative rules for greater control — Customize your customer experience by offering free shipping or the lowest priced carriers.

��Ķ��vlog Is a Leader In Providing Shipping & Logistics Technology Solutions

As a shipper, you have access to an enormous number of shipping and logistics solutions to help you face today's challenges. But not all solutions are created equal. That's why it's important to team up with a shipper partner, like ��Ķ��vlog that you can trust for a full suite of proven transportation management services. That includes a TMS, a warehouse management system and e-commerce integration solution that can increase profitability and efficiency while keeping your customer happy. Get a quote to learn how we can help you stay competitive and profitable in the face of an ever-changing supply chain.

The post Simplify Your Logistics With Our Shipping Technology appeared first on ��Ķ��vlog.

Logistics Transportation Archives - ���Ķ���vlog

The 2026 State of Shipping and Logistics Report

The 2026 State of Shipping and Logistics Report

Executive Summary

12 Shipping Trends To Watch in 2026

Trend #1: A Freight Shipper’s Market … Again (But Built On Fragile Ground)

Cass Freight Index by the Numbers

What is causing soft demand in 2026?

WWEX Group Pro Tip

Trend #2: The CDL Crackdown That Could Reshape Freight Capacity

What are the key takeaways from the non-domiciled CDL rule?

WWEX Group Pro Tip

Trend #3: Logistics AI Will Power the Entire Customer Lifecycle

How does logistics lifecycle automation work?

WWEX Group Pro Tip

Trend #4: Midterm Elections Add Uncertainty to Shipping and Logistics

WWEX Group Pro Tip

Trend #5: Mexico's Logistics Moment: Nearshoring, Tariffs and the New Cross-border Shipping Reality

Why is Mexico primed to become the next logistics giant?

How can shippers benefit from Mexico's logistics growth?

WWEX Group Pro Tip

Trend #6: Import Volatility Continues as Justices Examine Trump Tariffs

What do I need to know about tariffs in 2026?

What ���Ķ���vlog Need to Know

WWEX Group Pro Tip

Trend #7: The Necessity of Building Supply Chain Resilience

What are the key shipping and logistics disruption possibilities in 2026?

WWEX Group Pro Tip

5 More Shipping and Logistics Trends We are Watching

RFID-enabled Freight Tracking

Digital Twin Supply Chain Simulation

Cross-border Supply Chain Redundancy Planning

Freight Wellness Programs for Drivers and Dispatchers

Biometric Cargo and Facility Security

2025 in Review: How did we do in our logistics trends report from last year?

Cargo Theft

Freight Class Changes

Labor Shortage

���Ķ���vlog Can Help You Navigate 2026 and Beyond

Table of contents

The 2025 Shipping and Logistics Industry Report

The 2025 Shipping and Logistics Industry Report

12 Shipping and Logistics Trends To Watch in 2025

Summary of What You Will Find In the Shipping and Logistics Report

WWEX Group and ���Ķ���vlog can help you create shipping and logistics success in 2025!

Turn Your Inbound Freight into an Advantage

What are the in-house benefits of inbound freight management?

Greater control over shipping costs

Greater control over resource management

More balanced inventory management

Better enabled data analytics and KPIs

How can a 3PL help with inbound logistics management?

Best-in-Class Inbound Freight Management from ���Ķ���vlog

Why You Need Transportation Optimization (And the Steps To Get There)

8 Steps to Transportation Optimization

Automation and Warehouse Location Optimization

Consolidating Shipments for Transportation Route Optimization

Continuous Transportation Network Optimization

Utilizing Multiple Freight Carriers from a 3PL Network

Intermodal Transportation Optimization Options

Transportation Route Optimization and Planning

Eliminating Bottlenecks Through Effective Scheduling

Utilize Warehouse Location in Shipping Strategy

Connect With the ���Ķ���vlog Team of Transportation Optimization Experts

Simplify Your Logistics With Our Shipping Technology

Transportation Management System

Warehouse Management System

E-commerce Shipping Software

���Ķ���vlog Is a Leader In Providing Shipping & Logistics Technology Solutions

Logistics Transportation Archives - ��Ķ��vlog

What ��Ķ��vlog Need to Know

��Ķ��vlog Can Help You Navigate 2026 and Beyond

WWEX Group and ��Ķ��vlog can help you create shipping and logistics success in 2025!

Best-in-Class Inbound Freight Management from ��Ķ��vlog

Connect With the ��Ķ��vlog Team of Transportation Optimization Experts

��Ķ��vlog Is a Leader In Providing Shipping & Logistics Technology Solutions