Adcom's Freight Market Update: October 9, 2025
This week: U.S. Federal shutdown enters a new phase with rising public impact; The legality of recent tariffs is now in the Supreme Court’s hands.
Current Critical Industry Trends
U.S. Federal shutdown enters a new phase with rising public impact. Pressure points may have a big influence on resolving the shutdown. Flight delays are intensifying as staffing shortages hit major airports. Food assistance programs and tourism face mounting disruptions. Economists warn the prolonged standoff could drag down year-end growth
The legality of recent tariffs is now in the Supreme Court’s hands. The Court will decide whether Pres. Trump-era tariffs were lawful. If overturned, importers could face a slow, paper-heavy refund process that may take months to complete. Companies and brokers are already bracing for potential delays and complex documentation requirements.
Ocean
Australia’s Pilbara region will host a new clean ammonia hub. Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, NH3 Clean Energy, and Oceania Marine aim to provide safe ammonia bunkering for bulk carriers. The project supports sustainable shipping and a transition to low-emission maritime fuels by 2030.
Ports
Los Angeles is preparing for its first new terminal in a generation. Pier 500 on Terminal Island would add 200 acres of cargo capacity, including two berths and 3,000 linear feet of wharf, allowing the port to handle larger ships. The project aims to enhance efficiency, improve sustainability, and create new jobs in the region.
U.S. ports face new fees on Chinese-built and operated vessels starting October 14. Ship operators must pay up to $50 per net ton or $120 per container in advance through the Treasury portal or risk being barred from unloading. Analysts say the top 10 container lines could face $3.2 billion in fees next year, with Chinese carriers like COSCO and OOCL hardest hit.
International
Trade tensions are high between the U.S. and Canada. President Trump pledged fairness in talks with Prime Minister Carney, but suggested deals could shift by country. Canadian exporters, especially in steel, autos, and small businesses, are still feeling the impact of tariffs. Both leaders emphasized cooperation in some areas, but uncertainty over broader trade agreements and ongoing tariffs continues to strain relations.
Delayed tariff shock set to drag trade in 2026, WTO warns. President Trump’s policies reshaped demand patterns and global flows. AI tech shipments fueled this year’s rise, but headwinds are building fast.
Trucking
Truck import tariffs rescheduled as uncertainty lingers. With a Nov. 1 start date, carriers face higher costs on top of weak volumes. Experts say as much as 50% of the U.S. truck supply comes from imports.
CDL and immigration crackdowns ramp up in key U.S. states. Colorado, Wyoming and Oklahoma targeted drivers in multi-day stings. Dozens were arrested for ELP, immigration, and fraudulent license violations.
Rail
Intermodal braces for more unpredictability despite stable service. Domestic loads face pressure from cheap trucking and shifting imports. Rail networks are expanding capacity, but tariff risks cloud the outlook.
Air
New Miami–Georgetown air cargo service takes flight. 7Air and Air Cargo Pack team up to deliver faster, flexible capacity to Guyana. Freighters will carry e-commerce, industrial goods and high-value cargo.
Global air cargo adapts swiftly to tariff-driven disruption. Spot rates remain steady despite a 50% drop on some U.S. lanes. Airlines are redeploying maindeck space to Europe to chase new demand.
Technology
Qatar eases maritime ban as GPS jamming persists. Daytime navigation is now permitted, but night restrictions remain for small vessels. Wider regional disruptions continue, with interference hotspots near Iran and Sudan.
Other
Energy reliability emerges as global supply chain fault line. Nearly 90% of executives reported power disruptions in the past year. AI-driven demand and grid instability are forcing a rethink of facility strategy. Power resilience is now ranked above labor and tariff concerns.
_____________________________________
Want more like this? We've got you covered. Subscribe today!
As always, Adcom’s team is here to help. Our expert teams are ready to answer any questions you may have or give advice for managing the current logistics environment. Additionally, if you need help moving freight or gaining visibility and control over your supply chain, we’d happily discuss what Radiant can do for you. Contact us!