Radiant's Freight Market Update: October 16, 2025
This week: Air safety concerns are rising amid U.S. shutdown; Trump administration is threatening sanctions; China’s exports to the U.S. fell 27% in September.
Current Critical Industry Trends
Air safety concerns are rising amid the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. More than 13,000 air traffic controllers face missed paychecks and mounting stress, with staffing shortages causing over half of recent flight delays.
The Trump administration is threatening sanctions against countries supporting the IMO’s proposed shipping carbon pricing framework. Officials warn backing the plan could lead to port bans, visa restrictions for seafarers, and punitive vessel fees. Support for the framework remains strong among European nations and Pacific Island states ahead of a key IMO vote.
Ocean
Ocean carriers are unlikely to return to Red Sea routes soon despite the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. Houthi attacks on vessels continue, keeping shipping lines on extended Africa-rounding routes. When Red Sea transits resume, port congestion and vessel shortages could drive freight disruptions and rate swings for several months.
A container ship sailed from China to Felixstowe in 21 days via the Arctic. The route, the first China-Europe Arctic Express, offers a time advantage over traditional paths and could reshape global shipping dynamics.
Ports
Maersk is skipping China calls for two U.S.-flagged vessels after Beijing imposed a new port fee. Cargo for Ningbo will now be transshipped through South Korea, adjusting the Transpacific TP7 service.
International
China’s exports to the U.S. fell 27% in September, marking a six-month decline. Overall, its global exports grew 8.3%, driven by demand in other markets. Trade tensions and new tariffs with the U.S. continue to cloud the outlook.
Trucking
Alberta gets serious about trucking safety and accountability. Five schools were shut down and over $100,000 in penalties issued. New training rules and national cooperation aim to raise industry standards.
Rail
New cold storage facility set to boost refrigerated logistics in Calgary. CN and Congebec are combining rail access with advanced cold chain capabilities. The hub is designed to improve efficiency for perishable goods across North America.
Air
Aircraft supply chain delays set to cost airlines over $11 billion. IATA says parts shortages are forcing older jets to stay in service longer. Fuel, maintenance and leasing costs have surged across the board.
Technology
Cyber risks in manufacturing are rising fast and spreading wide. Attackers are going after entire ecosystems, not just the big players. Experts say supply chain security is now the industry's weakest link.
Other
Mail disruptions continue in Canada as labor talks stall. Rotating CUPW strikes are causing delays in multiple communities. Canada Post says a new deal is needed to restore long-term stability.
Why U.S. drivers get into trucking and why they stay. Surveyed truckers cite the open road, stable income, and financial duty. Most respondents are veteran company drivers with decades of experience.
Cargo theft continues to escalate, with motor carriers reporting over $16 million in stolen goods in 2023. The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) estimates the industry's annualized cost at $6.6 billion, or more than $18 million per day. Fleets are urged to enhance security measures, such as securing terminals, using GPS tracking, and vetting personnel to mitigate risks.
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As always, Radiant’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!
About Radiant Logistics, Inc.
Radiant Logistics, Inc. (www.radiantdelivers.com) is a comprehensive North American provider of third-party logistics and multimodal transportation services. Through its comprehensive service offering, Radiant provides domestic and international freight forwarding services, truck and rail brokerage services and other value-added supply chain management services, including customs brokerage, order fulfillment, inventory management and warehousing to a diversified account base including manufacturers, distributors and retailers using a network of independent carriers and international agents positioned strategically around the world.