Radiant's Freight Market Update: February 5, 2026
This week: Global trade lanes are shifting; Ontario expands global reach; Shinkansen trains move high-speed freight.
Current Critical Industry Trends
Global trade lanes are shifting. U.S. allies are accelerating new trade agreements and supply chain partnerships to reduce exposure to President Trump’s tariff strategy, reshaping cargo flows away from traditional U.S.-centric routes.
Ocean
Container carriers cautiously reenter Red Sea corridors. Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd are rerouting a shared Gemini service through the Red Sea while maintaining enhanced security protocols. The phased approach underscores how route resilience and risk monitoring now shape East West network planning.
Ports
Port of Baltimore posts container recovery despite volatile trade backdrop. The Port exceeded its prior container record in 2025 as vessel calls and throughput rebounded from 2024 lows. Ongoing infrastructure projects are expected to expand rail capacity and improve network efficiency in the year ahead.
Port Saint John gains momentum as Ontario expands global reach. The export volumes through Port climbed dramatically in 2025, led by shipments to Europe, Asia, and Latin America. The trend reflects a broader
International
Latin American industries feel pressure from China’s redirected exports. Chinese goods are gaining market share across Latin America as exporters seek alternatives to the U.S. market. The resulting strain on domestic producers is prompting new tariffs and regulations aimed at slowing import growth without provoking retaliation.
A tariff shift is underway. The United States plans to cut tariffs on Indian imports to 18% as part of a broader trade agreement tied to energy sourcing and market access. For global supply chains, the change may support steadier cargo movement and renewed trade activity between the two economies.
Trucking
Florida targets undocumented CMV drivers. A bill advancing in Florida would trigger arrests, out-of-service orders and $50,000 fines for carriers tied to undocumented commercial drivers. If enacted, it would tighten enforcement standards across trucking operations.
Rail
Canadian Pacific Kansas City absorbed a $200-million hit from the U.S. tariff war. CEO says renegotiating USMCA could rebalance cargo flows while keeping North American trade strong.
Japan is converting Shinkansen trains for high-speed freight. The modified trains can carry up to 1,000 containers at over 300 km/h, reducing transit times for perishable and high-value goods while easing highway congestion.
Air
Vancouver International posted record cargo volumes. YVR’s 365,000 tonnes included perishable and industrial goods, with plans underway for a potential air-to-marine hub to expand shipping capacity efficiently.
Technology
Warehouse automation is taking flight. Autonomous drones are being deployed to support inventory accuracy by operating above active aisles and capturing data without stopping work below.
Other
Retailers are moving faster than regulators on food traceability. While the FDA delayed FSMA 204 enforcement until 2028, many grocers are already requiring detailed traceability data across all food categories, raising the bar for supplier compliance and supply chain transparency.
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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!