Airgroup's Freight Market Update: September 11, 2025
This week: New DG classification has been proposed for plastic nurdles; Organized retail crime is targeting the supply chain and costing billions annually; Radiant Logistics Inc. is growing in Mexico with the acquisition of Weport.
Current Critical Industry Trends
A new classification has been proposed for plastic nurdles, urging they be regulated as dangerous goods. Spills from vessels such as the X-Press Pearl and MSC Elsa 3 have shown the devastating environmental impact and billion-dollar liabilities they cause. With billions of nurdles shipped each year, stronger regulations for these microplastics are urgently needed.
Organized retail crime is increasingly targeting the supply chain, costing billions annually. AI-driven video tools, including facial recognition and real-time alerts, are helping retailers and logistics providers detect threats early and prevent theft before it happens.
Radiant Logistics Inc. is growing in Mexico with the acquisition of an 80% equity stake in Mexico City-based Weport, marking another milestone in Radiant’s continued expansion. Known for its freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and warehousing services, Weport strengthens Radiant’s North American network and will continue under its current leadership.
Ocean
Ocean Network Express (ONE) is revamping its Asia–North America routes starting October 2025. Key changes include new port calls in Ningbo, Qingdao, Pusan, and Norfolk, while Xiamen shifts to a different loop. The PS5 service has been suspended, marking a major schedule update for shippers in the region.
Ports
U.S. port fees set to take effect in October could hit Chinese container lines Cosco Shipping and OOCL hardest. While most carriers can sidestep the charges using non-Chinese-built ships, HSBC estimates Cosco and OOCL could face fees of $1.53 billion and $654 million in 2026. The carriers may mitigate costs through alliances, alternative routes, or transshipment strategies.
More than 60 containers fell off the cargo ship Mississippi at the Port of Long Beach. The containers tumbled into the harbor during unloading, with some landing on a nearby vessel. Crews have established a safety zone and begun salvage operations, while officials investigate the cause and assess potential delays for businesses relying on the port.
International
For the first time, a freight train carrying goods from multiple European countries has departed from Warsaw to China. The service, organized by PKP Cargo, is expected to transport items like furniture, ski equipment, and footwear in under two weeks, offering a faster alternative to disrupted sea routes. PKP Cargo says the route could pave the way for regular services and strengthen trade links between Europe and Asia.
Mexico will propose import tariffs on automotive and manufacturing goods, potentially raising $3.76 billion in revenue. The tariffs would target countries without trade agreements, with China reportedly under consideration. Analysts warn higher import costs could drive inflation, affecting both businesses and consumers.
Trucking
Contractor classification rule faces rollback from regulators. U.S. trucking groups back the move as a win for business freedom. Concerns remain over hidden speed limiter mandates in future proposals.
Canada clamps down on illegal truck driver misclassification. ESDC issues a firm warning targeting the Driver Inc. model. Nearly 65% of Ontario carriers are reportedly non-compliant with labor laws.
Rail
Rail volumes continue steady climb across U.S. networks. Carloads and intermodal units both rose in the final week of August. Key commodities like chemicals and metals helped drive gains across major corridors.
Delta Railroad unveils next-gen rail unloading innovation. The custom Rail Unloader Car turns a dangerous manual task into a safer, automated system. Efficiency and speed improve while protecting front-line crews across the U.S.
Air
Rural Alaska gets logistics boost as NAC launches Seattle route. New 737-800 flights enable 12 to 18-hour delivery windows. Cold chain tech ensures perishable goods arrive on time and intact.
New digital parking system brings relief to truckers on I-5. Washington introduces real-time tracking at key rest stops to combat parking shortages. Predictive tech is helping drivers plan stops more safely and efficiently.
Technology
New digital parking system brings relief to truckers on I-5. Washington introduces real-time tracking at key rest stops to combat parking shortages. Predictive tech is helping drivers plan stops more safely and efficiently.
AI is helping Spanish ports unlock new levels of performance. With fragmented data slowing operations, ports are now turning to smart assistants. The move is expected to enhance security and reduce decision delays.
Other
Holiday shoppers are putting reliable delivery ahead of discounts. Fast shipping is now expected, with weeklong waits tolerated by just 23%. Real-time tracking, simple returns, and secure checkout are driving loyalty, while tighter budgets and tariffs are shaping spending patterns.
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As always, Airgroup’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!