Adcom's Freight Market Update: March 19, 2026
This week: Air cargo strained by DHS shutdown; Hormuz conflict triggers multimodal shifts; The new risk in maritime AI.
Current Critical Industry Trends
U.S. air cargo faces mounting pressure. The ongoing DHS shutdown is straining TSA staffing, leading the Airforwarders Association (AfA) to warn of long-term risks to cargo processing and airport access. Coupled/Combined with widespread winter weather disruptions, shippers should anticipate sustained network congestion.
Global energy markets tighten under strain. Continued disruption in the Middle East is raising concerns that the crisis could exceed worst expectations. Higher energy costs and constrained supply are expected to ripple across transportation, shipping, and broader supply chains.
Ocean
Shipping lines adapt as Strait of Hormuz pressure grows. CMA CGM has deployed multimodal corridors through ports south of the strait and overland connections to major Gulf markets to bypass navigation constraints. These moves aim to sustain cargo movement despite security concerns.
Ports
Port Everglades hit a new high. Setting a new benchmark for 2026, the port has surpassed 1.16 million TEUs. Its diversified cargo portfolio and logistics connectivity make it a strong gateway for containerized, dry bulk and energy freight serving key global markets.
International
U.S. fertilizer costs are climbing and supplies are tightening. Disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz have slowed shipments of key fertilizer components and lifted input costs for growers. About 15% of U.S. fertilizer imports come from the Middle East, prompting some farmers to look to alternative sources as markets adjust.
Trucking
"Dalilah’s Law" passed by House committee. The legislation would strengthen CDL requirements and English‑language proficiency to boost safety on U.S. highways and roads used by freight carriers. Industry groups have voiced broad support as the bill heads for further floor action.
Rail
CPKC adds new industrial rail sites. Fourteen newly certified locations broaden CPKC’s site ready program across North America. The move is designed to speed up development and support integrated supply chains.
Air
Air traffic shifts as Gulf hubs face interruptions. Closures affecting key Gulf gateways are pushing some connecting traffic toward Europe. Infrastructure limits mean gains are likely measured rather than structural.
Technology
Incheon advances automated container project. Construction moves ahead on a fully automated terminal at Incheon New Port, with the next phase starting in March 2026. The port expects the 2028 opening to boost productivity and support future volume growth.
Data quality emerges as key maritime AI risk. As AI systems expand across vessel operations, attention is shifting from model performance to the reliability of sensor inputs. Subtle data drift, not computing power, may pose the greater safety concern.
Other
Rising volumes test Ontario tire recycling system. Higher than normal tire flows and updated recovery rules are putting stress on processors and haulers across the province. Stakeholders say reduced collection coverage may challenge service reliability during peak demand.
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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!