DBA's Freight Market Update: June 5, 2025
This week: Tariff battles escalate as courts, countries, and companies clash; Contract deadlock continues as Canada Post refuses arbitration; Emirates SkyCargo is expanding its freighter network.
Current Critical Industry Trends
Tariff battles escalate as courts, countries, and companies clash. Trump’s 50% tariff on imported steel and aluminum is now in effect. Small businesses and global partners push back on trade disruptions. Canada and Mexico decry U.S. violations of existing trade agreements. A trade court ruled the tariffs illegal but paused the injunction. The case now heads to the Supreme Court, with economic uncertainty mounting.
Contract deadlock continues as Canada Post refuses arbitration. CUPW calls for immediate resolution through binding arbitration. Canada Post insists the process is too slow and costly. Union warns a forced vote risks further division. All eyes now on the federal labour minister’s decision.
Ocean
A new era for South African shipping may be on the horizon. More than 25 years after Safmarine was sold, Pretoria is working with DBSA to establish a state-backed fleet. Crude and dry bulk vessels are at the top of the list.
Global rules are falling behind the pace of maritime innovation. Around 75% of maritime professionals believe regulation won’t keep up by 2035. Regional bodies like the EU are stepping in while the IMO lags behind.
Ports
Auto ports race to adapt amid trade volatility. In 2024, Baltimore experienced an 11.4% drop in vehicle vhttps://splash247.com/can-glob...olumes following the Key Bridge collapse. Meanwhile, Colonel’s Island expanded its capacity to accommodate more than 900,000 vehicles, and Veracruz increased throughput by 240% with the addition of new customs gates.
New ship queuing system delivers climate and cargo wins. CO2 emissions dropped 24% on East Asia–California routes. Slower speeds also reduce fuel use and protect marine life.
International
Vietnam unlocks faster and greener cargo movement. The new Mekong Express route cuts transit time by 70% and emissions by 60%. It slashes the journey from 48 hours to just 15 while covering 167 km less.
Trucking
A new study finds the majority of truckloads in 2024 moved with significant empty space. On average, underloaded trucks had about 34 linear feet of unused room, with shippers citing efficiency as the main reason.
Canada’s First Ministers have reached a deal to strengthen the country’s supply chain. The agreement focuses on removing internal trade barriers and expanding the interprovincial trucking pilot, with strong political support expected to help move things along quickly.
Rail
CPKC has finalized new labor agreements with two Teamsters Canada Rail Conference divisions. The four-year contracts cover key rail operations, include 3% annual wage increases, and ensure uninterrupted logistics service across Canada.
Air
Emirates SkyCargo is expanding its freighter network. New routes include added services between Milan and Southeast China, and a Beirut stop on a European loop. The carrier is meeting growing demand for fashion, pharmaceuticals, and general cargo with newly delivered 777 freighters.
Technology
Autonomous trucks are gearing up to move freight along Interstate 35. A new hub in Fort Worth, TX will support self-driving operations with dedicated fleet management centers, control rooms, and a customer experience space to showcase the future of automated logistics.
Other
The supply chain can be complex, often raising questions like, “What’s the difference between a Freight Broker and a Third-Party Logistics Provider (3PL)?” Here's a clear breakdown of what each one does and when to use them.
As the world’s largest oil importer, China is accelerating its move toward commercial electric vehicles and LNG-powered transport. This transition is driving down diesel demand and reducing the country’s reliance on diesel imports.
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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!