Weekly Freight Report: December 26, 2025

As 2025 comes to a close, the freight industry is reflecting on a transformative year shaped by tariff wars, shifting trade patterns, and resilient consumer demand. From record-breaking port volumes to new semiconductor levies and evolving cross-border dynamics, this year’s developments have reshaped supply chains and challenged shippers to stay agile.

The USMCA review looms on the horizon, and 2026 promises to be a year of consequences for the policies enacted this year. Here’s your year-end recap of the stories that matter most.

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Trump Launched Global Tariff Wars in 2025: Here's a Recap of His Trade Actions This Year

President Trump’s tariff actions dominated 2025, with sweeping “Liberation Day” levies, escalating trade wars with China, and sector-specific duties on steel, aluminum, autos, and more. The on-again, off-again nature of these tariffs created widespread uncertainty for businesses and consumers alike

US Unemployment Claims Fall Again Last Week, Remain at Historically Healthy Level

Weekly jobless claims dropped to 214,000, below analyst forecasts, signaling continued labor market stability. However, hiring momentum has slowed amid tariff uncertainty and the lingering effects of elevated interest rates

Global Trade Adapts to Tariffs as 2025 Sees Shifting Patterns and USMCA Review Looms

Despite tariff headwinds, global container volumes grew 2.1% in October. However, U.S. inbound volumes contracted 8% as trade flows reconfigured toward Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and India. The 2026 USMCA review could bring fresh turbulence.

US Plans Fresh China Semiconductor Tariffs for 2027

A new Section 301 investigation has led to additional semiconductor tariffs on China, set to take effect in June 2027. The levies will stack on top of existing 50% duties, further intensifying the tech trade battle between the two superpowers.

Resilient US Consumers Drive Strongest Economic Expansion in 2 Years

The U.S. economy grew at a surprising 4.3% annual rate in Q3—the fastest in two years—driven by resilient consumer spending. However, a “K-shaped” recovery shows wealthier households outpacing those with lower incomes, and inflation remains above the Fed’s target

Tariffs, Enforcement and Cargo Theft Reshape U.S.–Mexico Trade in 2025

Cross-border commerce with Mexico was marked by tariff volatility, intensified customs enforcement, and surging cargo theft. Despite these challenges, Mexico retained its position as America’s top trading partner, while nearshoring pressures collided with border infrastructure limits.

Port of Long Beach Eyes Record 2025 Cargo Volume After Strong Year

The Port of Long Beach is on track for its busiest year ever, surpassing the 9.6 million TEU record set in 2024. Pre-tariff cargo rushes helped drive volume, and the port moved over 9 million TEUs through November despite ongoing trade policy uncertainty.

Weekly Freight Report: December 26, 2025

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