DBA's Freight Market Update: Sept 24, 2026
From major trade corridors to inland networks, changing conditions continue to influence how freight moves.
Current Critical Industry Trends
A crude oil tanker was struck in the Strait of Hormuz on September 21, at least the fourth tanker strike since September 17 as commercial traffic through the waterway remains at reduced levels.
Ocean
Extremely low water levels on the Rhine River are severely restricting container and bulk cargo movements, reducing inland capacity and pushing more freight toward already constrained road and rail networks.
Ocean carriers are beginning to restore Suez Canal routings, cutting some India-to-Savannah transit times by up to 14 days while reducing the vessels needed to maintain weekly service.
Ports
The Port of Vancouver handled a record 88.1 million metric tons of cargo in the first half of 2026, driven largely by increased grain and crude oil exports to Indo-Pacific markets.
International
Canada is pursuing deeper trade and economic ties with Europe amid continued tensions with the U.S., accelerating efforts to diversify its international trade relationships.
The European Union and the Philippines reached a preliminary agreement on a free-trade deal covering roughly €30 billion in annual trade, expanding commercial ties between Europe and Southeast Asia.
Trucking
California will require manufacturers participating in state incentive programs to disclose pricing information for zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles beginning January 1, 2027.
Ontario is developing a standardized entry-level truck driver curriculum of more than 103 hours, with implementation expected in early 2027.
Rail
Norfolk Southern has launched daily intermodal service between Charleston and Huntsville, expanding the Port of Charleston’s reach into additional Southeast markets.
Air
The FAA has granted Boeing an emissions waiver allowing the company to sell 35 additional 777 freighters, helping maintain widebody cargo capacity as its next-generation freighter faces delays.
Air Canada will resume Toronto-Tel Aviv service November 30, restoring four weekly Boeing 787 flights and regular widebody cargo capacity on the route.
Technology
The FBI and Coast Guard are investigating suspected cyberattacks on two commercial vessels bound for the U.S., highlighting growing cybersecurity risks to maritime operations and critical transportation infrastructure.
Other
Emirates Shipping Line will stop accepting waste plastic cargo beginning October 1, following a similar move by another major carrier.
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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!