The Week 48 freight market continues to be influenced by labor challenges and congestion in North America. Dwell times at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach have improved, reducing delays and easing rail transport to inland U.S. destinations. The shift in U.S. trade policy under the incoming administration could significantly impact global trade, with proposed tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico potentially reshaping supply chains. Retaliatory tariffs and stockpiling by companies are expected to strain supply chains further, contributing to ongoing capacity challenges.
DWELL TIMES: DELAYS IN CANADA, IMPROVED AT LA/LB
Dwell times at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach have improved, reducing the number of containers awaiting rail transport from over 9,000 to about 2,300. Major railroads like BNSF and Union Pacific are moving containers efficiently, though off-dock cargo at non-FMS terminals faces delays due to limited space. In Canada, the Port of Vancouver is recovering from disruptions, with dwell times decreasing to 5 days, though vessel delays may continue to cause schedule instability in Pacific Northwest services.
NEW U.S. ADMINISTRATION: IMPACT ON GLOBAL TRADE
As the new U.S. administration prepares to take office, the potential for substantial shifts in trade policy is under close scrutiny. Proposed changes to tariffs and free trade agreements could significantly reshape global supply chains, impacting businesses, consumers, and international trade dynamics.
President-elect Donal Trump recently announced on social media that he will sign an Executive Order creating a 25% tariff on all imported goods from Canada and Mexico stating, “this tariff will remain in effect until such time as Drugs (sic), in particular Fentanyl, and all illegal Aliens (sic) stop this invasion of our Country!”
Read a full editorial on the potential impact the U.S. President-Elect may have on global trade here: The New Administration – Free Trade Agreement and Tariff Outlook
As these policies unfold, the shipping and logistics industries must remain agile to navigate potential disruptions and take proactive measures to secure supply chains in an increasingly complex trade environment.
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