DBA's Freight Market Update: Aug 13, 2026
This week’s freight market reflects shifting risk, increasingly localized demand and continued investment in new routes, technology and infrastructure.
Current Critical Industry Trends
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is urging shipowners to conduct thorough risk assessments following a fatal attack in the Red Sea. Recent incidents in the Gulf of Oman are adding to maritime security concerns and the risks facing vessels operating across the region.
Ocean
Severe drought across Europe is disrupting inland shipping as low water levels on the Rhine and Danube force some barges to carry as little as 20% of their normal payloads. Reduced capacity is adding pressure to regional freight networks.
Chinese and South Korean carriers are developing Arctic services between North Asia and Northern Europe as an alternative to traditional routes affected by Red Sea disruption. The emerging services could significantly reduce transit times while reshaping routing options between Asia and Europe.
Ports
Rio Brasil Terminal is expanding cabotage connectivity with a new Norcoast service, adding another transportation option for cargo moving to and from Rio de Janeiro. The service expands domestic coastal connectivity as shippers look for greater flexibility across Brazil’s freight network.
The Port of Long Beach has approved new zero-emission measures, including a truck utilization incentive and infrastructure planning for cargo-handling equipment and other port operations. The initiatives continue the port’s push toward lower-emission freight movement.
International
U.S. imports at major ports have peaked ahead of the holiday season as retailers moved inventory early to manage tariff changes and ongoing trade uncertainty. The accelerated peak reflects continued efforts to secure inventory ahead of potential shifts in trade conditions.
Growing technology exports are strengthening Mexico’s position within North American supply chains as companies continue to diversify production. Proximity to the U.S. and preferential tariff treatment under USMCA are reinforcing the country’s appeal for nearshoring and regional manufacturing.
Trucking
The Canadian Trucking Alliance is criticizing a new government program that subsidizes the movement of Canadian steel, arguing that excluding trucking from the relief puts steel-hauling carriers at a competitive disadvantage.
Rail
BNSF reported higher second-quarter earnings on increased volumes and revenue per load. Growth in intermodal shipments tied to West Coast imports points to continued demand for rail as consumer goods move inland.
Air
Swissport has invested in a new cold chain facility at Kilimanjaro International Airport to support growing perishables volumes in East Africa. The investment adds temperature-controlled capacity as demand for time-sensitive exports grows across the region.
Technology
The Port of New Orleans is implementing AI technologies to improve speed, visibility and operational efficiency. The move reflects growing adoption of AI across maritime operations as ports modernize processes and look for new ways to improve cargo flow.
Other
The recently opened Gordie Howe International Bridge is seeing steady traffic, with 44% of land crossings between Detroit and Windsor using the new crossing during its first five days. Early volumes indicate rapid adoption of the new Canada-U.S. trade connection.
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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 DBA can do for you. Contact us!