Download slides
Freight, policy, and supply chain trends for January 2026
Published: Thursday, January 08, 2026 | 12:00 am CDT
Truckload shipping
The 2026 rate forecast has been raised again due to December conditions.
Seasonal disruption or the end of the freight recession? Get our takeLTL shipping
As truckload capacity tightens, smaller shipments are likely to shift back into the LTL market.
Read the capacity outlook for 2026Ocean freight
The pre-Lunar New Year surge of imports from Asia raises rates, expect extended transit times for cargo flowing to and from Europe, and a major carrier is slated to return to the Suez Canal.
Get our regional insights and planning considerations for Q1 shipmentsAir freight
Plan early to secure space for pre-Lunar New Year freight, space opens up for U.S. exporters, and the lifting of some U.S. tariffs on Brazilian products keeps booking windows at three to six days.
Review lane-by-lane conditions and our January planning tipsIntermodal
Stable pricing, improved service, and tightening truck capacity continue to support intermodal conversion.
Check out the intermodal pricing trends for 2026Ports & drayage
U.S. port operations are healthy, while congestion at gateways around the world and repositioning challenges are trapping needed equipment.
See where rail and equipment constraints may impact your shipmentsCanada, Mexico & cross-border
U.S.–Mexico and U.S.–Canada freight flows are marked by uneven demand, automotive weakness, and policy-driven uncertainty. New tariffs, customs delays, and seasonal disruptions are adding complexity, while volumes are expected to remain generally stable into early 2026.
Explore the cross-border freight outlookTrade policy & customs
Mexico and Canada have imposed new tariffs.
Go to our full report on trade issues to watch, including USMCA negotiationsGovernment & regulations
Work on the U.S. transportation authorization bill has been delayed.
Read about the funding and policy issues affectedDiesel fuel
U.S. prices declined significantly in December.
Track the latest diesel price trends for Mexico and Canada, too
