Adcom's Freight Market Update: July 16, 2026
This week's freight market reflected continued focus on resilience amid global uncertainty.
Current Critical Industry Trends
Renewed conflict between the U.S. and Iran has disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, increasing uncertainty across global energy and shipping markets.
Ocean
DP World plans to expand Fujairah as an alternative gateway outside the Strait of Hormuz. The project would provide shippers with another strategic access point to the Gulf of Oman, helping improve network resilience during future regional disruptions.
Shanghai ranked second in the latest global shipping center index, reflecting sustained investment in port infrastructure, maritime connectivity and logistics capability across China's global trade network.
Ports
Ports of Indiana have been awarded a $25 million federal BUILD grant to double the facility’s general cargo capacity and increase the port’s lift capacity from 35 tons to 300 tons. The investment will expand heavy-lift capabilities while supporting future manufacturing, project cargo, and industrial growth.
A new freight corridor between I-16 and the Port of Savannah’s Garden City Terminal aims to remove at-grade rail crossings and truck traffic from local neighborhoods. Truck drivers will also have faster access to the port and a more direct route to inland markets.
International
The Gordie Howe International Bridge opens July 27, adding capacity at one of North America's busiest trade corridors and improving cross-border freight movement between the U.S. and Canada.
Trucking
$62M in federal funding has been allocated across five states to expand truck parking capacity. The additional spaces are expected to improve driver safety, reduce congestion, and provide more reliable rest options.
Rail
Stadler’s EURO6000 locomotive received authorization for freight in Belgium, allowing uninterrupted service between Barcelona and Antwerp while improving capacity along a key European freight corridor.
Air
The end of Europe's de minimis import exemption has sharply reduced air cargo volumes from Asia Pacific. Lower demand is prompting airlines to cut capacity, potentially tightening available space on affected trade lanes.
American Airlines Cargo introduced a temperature-controlled pharmaceutical corridor connecting Europe with major U.S. healthcare markets. The daily service expands cold chain capacity and improves transit options for temperature-sensitive cargo.
Technology
Only 12% of logistics technology implementations fully achieve their intended business goals, underscoring the importance of aligning technology with operational processes and organizational adoption.
As supply chain technology continues to evolve, tools like Radiant’s Navegate® help connect shipment visibility and operational insights, supporting better decision-making across global networks.
Other
CSX opened a new hazardous materials training institute designed to improve rail safety and enhance coordination among first responders and railroad personnel.
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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!