Radiant's Freight Market Update: April 3, 2026
This week: New executive order hits pharma and metals; Hormuz risk shifting from disruption to control; Ocean strategy as a competitive advantage.
Current Critical Industry Trends
New executive order from President Trump could impose up to 100% tariffs on pharmaceuticals, alongside 50% tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper. The move is expected to increase pricing pressure across manufacturing and healthcare, adding further strain to supply chains and raising costs for businesses and consumers.
Hormuz risk is shifting from disruption to control. Emerging peace proposals point toward continued Iranian oversight of the Strait. For shippers, this introduces a more sustained layer of transit risk and cost pressure rather than a short-term disruption.
Ocean
In today’s environment of tariff swings, alliance shifts and port volatility, treating ocean freight as a spot-market utility can be a costly oversight. Moving to a more proactive strategy when considering international shipping can make all the difference.
Ports
U.S. maritime sector is set to receive a significant funding boost. The Department of Transportation will allocate nearly $500 million to improve ports, modernize infrastructure, and support seafood-related businesses. Funding will be distributed throughout 2026.
International
China factory activity rebounds in March. The expansion ends a two-month contraction, with the country leaning on Southeast Asia and Europe to support export growth. However, concerns over the Iran war continue to loom over the outlook.
Tariff relief is progressing slower than the ruling. CBP’s developing refund system moves eligible IEEPA claims forward, but repayment remains tied to liquidation timelines. Importers should expect continued delays in recovering tariff-related costs.
Trucking
Diesel Exhaust Fluid sensor requirement rescinded. The EPA announced on March 27 that these systems will no longer be required, citing longstanding challenges for the trucking industry. New guidance encourages the use of alternative monitoring technologies.
Rail
Rail-served development is gaining momentum. A record number of completed BNSF customer projects suggests industrial and consumer supply chains are continuing to invest in rail, with an eye on efficiency, expansion, and long-term network stability.
Rail consolidation is back in focus. The proposed Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern merger could streamline east-west freight flows, but shippers will be watching closely for service disruption, reduced choice, and the conditions regulators may require.
Air
E-commerce growth is putting new pressure on Europe’s traditional hub model. The pressure on legacy gateways is creating space for a more distributed air cargo network, where customs capacity and regional connectivity may matter as much as airport scale.
Poland is expanding cargo capacity with multimodal intent. Port Polska is being designed as an integrated air, rail, and road gateway from the outset, which could improve flow, scalability, and service reliability for Central European freight networks.
Technology
Cargo theft is becoming more coordinated and more costly. The latest data suggests cargo crime is shifting from opportunistic theft to more coordinated cyber-enabled attacks, raising the stakes for visibility, verification, and day-to-day shipment control.
Other
Cold chain demand is shifting toward newer infrastructure. Modern, automation-ready sites are capturing more volume, while older facilities face rising vacancy. The trend points to a broader shift toward efficiency, throughput, and long-term operational performance.
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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!