Global Freight Market Update - October 2025

October 28, 2025

Global Freight Forwarding News 

This month, the freight market continues to adjust to regulatory changes and shifts in global trade. While Truckload and LTL shipping faced tight capacity and higher costs due to new regulations, ocean freight saw distuptions due to Asia’s Golden Week and new U.S. tariffs on Chinese-built vessels which lead to route changes and increased expenses. Regional congestion affected intermodal lanes, especially at Gulf Coast and East Coast ports.

Meanwhile, Air freight rates continued to decline as peak season demand were softer than usual. Many suppliers and retailers are adjusting their sourcing and inventory strategies, with some exploring cost-saving options like LCL shipping. Clients should expect short-term volatility and consider flexible logistics solutions to manage costs and keep supply chains resilient.

Our goal at Crane Worldwide Logistics is to provide you with the latest market information and international trade advisory to help your decision-making in the short and long term, reach out to a member of the team should you need guidance in 2025 and beyond. 

International Air Freight News

• Global air cargo demand rose 4.1% year-over-year in August, but growth is moderating, with Asia leading the recovery and North America seeing a slight decline. Most major trade lanes still posted solid gains, especially Europe–Asia and intra-Asia routes.
• Air freight rates dropped 2% year-over-year, and jet fuel prices fell for the fourteenth consecutive month, easing cost pressures for shippers. However, cargo yields remain under pressure due to oversupply and shifting trade flows.
• US tariffs are driving significant shifts in global supply chains, with US imports moving from China to other Asian countries and China redirecting exports to Europe and other Asian markets. E-commerce, Technology, and Consumer Goods are leading these supply chain changes.

Download Air Freight Update

International Ocean Freight News

• Despite capacity cuts and rate hikes, Asia–Europe spot rates are still below long-term contract levels, with overcapacity from new megaships expected to keep ocean freight rates low into 2026.
• Ongoing labor strikes and severe weather at major European ports like Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges are causing significant congestion and delays, highlighting the fragility of global supply chains and the need for flexible shipping strategies.
• U.S. tariffs are reducing imports from China, while countries like Vietnam and India gain market share. Experts predict a strong rebound in trans-Pacific imports in early 2026 as inventories are restocked, signaling a potential “mini revival” in global freight demand.

Download Ocean Freight Update

U.S. Domestic Ground Freight News

• New driver regulations are tightening truckload capacity, leading to higher rates for new customers (7–10% premiums) and increased warehousing utilization near ports, even as overall import volumes remain soft.
• TL rates remain relatively flat year-over-year, and overall freight demand is soft. Most analysts expect meaningful demand acceleration and significant price increases to be a 2026 story. 

Download Ground Freight Update

Warehouse Spotlight: San Luis Potosi, Mexico

Did you know that Crane Worldwide Logistics in San Luis Potosí offers 52,001 sq. ft. of modern warehouse space with 3,800 pallet positions, fourteen docks, and twelve ramps? Perfectly positioned in the heart of Mexico’s “golden triangle” for optimal connectivity, our secure, gated facility in Villa de Reyes provides easy access to major highways and is just 24 miles from San Luis Potosí International Airport, making it ideal for both domestic and transborder ground services.

As a leading 3PL provider in San Luis Potosí, we deliver a full suite of logistics solutions, including air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and scalable warehousing services. Whether you need inventory management, cross-docking, or project logistics, our local logistics experts are ready to design customized, cost-effective strategies to keep your supply chain running efficiently. 

For more information on how our San Luis Potosí warehouse can support your business growth, get in touch with our team.

Stay ahead of global trade changes with Crane Worldwide Logistics’ Tariff Response Unit. Discover expert insights, tariff clarity, and peace of mind to help your business navigate evolving customs regulations and minimize costs. Click here to learn how our dedicated team can keep your shipments moving despite tariff uncertainty!