DBA's Freight Market Update: November 26, 2025
This week: Data gaps complicating trade planning; NorthPort is boosting cargo capacity; Canada and India restart trade talks.
Current Critical Industry Trends
Data gaps are complicating trade planning. With limited federal reports due to the shutdown, importers face challenges scheduling orders for the Lunar New Year. Still, the Port of Los Angeles is tracking near its five-year average and expects a post-holiday surge in cargo movement.
The focus is turning to trade stability. As President Xi raised Taiwan in talks with President Trump, China and Japan introduced new import limits and stepped up patrols in the East China Sea. These developments could influence freight flows tied to U.S. China trade agreements.
Ocean
Northern Vietnam gains a faster trade route. The new Que Vo > Haiphong barge links key industrial zones to major U.S. ports, providing cost-efficient, lower-emission cargo flows. The service runs bi-weekly and connects with CMA CGM’s core U.S. maritime lines.
Operators are watching the Red Sea closely. Maersk has paused confirming early-December Suez Canal sailings, prioritizing crew safety while regional security improves. CMA CGM is preparing a full return, and the SCA continues offering incentives to encourage traffic on the corridor.
Ports
NorthPort is boosting cargo capacity. The Philippine gateway added two Konecranes Gottwald ESP 5 mobile harbor cranes to support domestic trade and improve quayside productivity. Full operations are set to begin in December.
International
Canada and India are restarting trade talks. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said negotiations will move quickly after two years of strained relations, as Ottawa seeks to diversify trade beyond the U.S.
Trucking
Non-domiciled commercial driver’s license enforcement sweeps are hitting U.S. highways. A recent Texas sting removed 31 drivers from the road, and Pennsylvania faces the potential loss of $75 million in federal funding if illegally issued CDLs are not revoked.
Toronto traffic is draining 216 hours a year from truck drivers. New data shows peak congestion on Highway 401 equals nearly six weeks of lost productivity. The delays are raising emissions, driver stress, and operating costs across the board.
Rail
A new logistics district is redefining freight in Fort Worth. With the power of automation, private road access, and streamlined heavy-haul movements, AllianceTexas is now home to a groundbreaking mobility zone. The public-private model behind it is fueling smarter U.S. supply chains.
Air
The U.S. turns to Southeast Asia as supply chains evolve. With China volumes dipping, air cargo from Vietnam and Taiwan is soaring. Fueled by rising chip demand and a new wave of nearshoring strategies.
Technology
Smarter dispatching is redefining last mile success. Courier teams across the U.S. are shifting from manual workarounds to intelligent routing. This change boosts delivery speed, reduces stress, and raises customer expectations.
Automation adoption rises as U.S. warehouses fight labor gaps. Firms are using affordable tech like mobile robots, lift assist devices, and guided vehicles to meet daily demand. These fast-start tools drive ROI without long delays or costly upgrades.
Other
Oklahoma gives laid-off workers a fast lane into trucking careers. A new grant-funded CDL program offers 28-day training and 99% job placement. Graduates earn an average of $60,000 in their first year, with support available across 17 sites.
Los Angeles crews contain major container ship fire after explosion and rapid spread.
Up to 100 containers may have been affected as responders relied on drones, fireboats, and safety apparatus to manage the blaze. With all crew members confirmed safe, terminals reopened and vessel monitoring continued from an offshore anchorage.
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As always, DBA’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!