This week, U.S. container imports surge as shippers aim to mitigate tariff impacts and potential East Coast port strikes, while the U.S. military thwarts multiple Houthi attacks on merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden. The EPA allocates $135 million to California for zero-emission vehicle projects, advancing efforts to phase out diesel trucks. The Federal Maritime Commission pauses a major ocean carrier alliance to assess competitive impacts, and spot trucking demand spikes, with load posts jumping 114% week over week. Jaxport announces expanded global container services for 2025, strengthening ties to Asia, South America, and Europe. In India, a ratified wage deal averts a port worker strike, maintaining stability across major public gateways. Read the full articles below.
Weekly Freight Report: December 13, 2024
December 13th, 2024
Container Imports to Surge Ahead of Strike, Tariffs, NRF Predicts
Shippers are increasing containerized imports through U.S. ports to mitigate potential disruptions from East and Gulf Coast longshore strikes and planned tariffs, with forecasts showing significant year-over-year growth in TEU volumes.
U.S. Again Defeats Houthi Attacks on American Cargo, Military Ships
The U.S. military successfully intercepted multiple Houthi missile and drone attacks on American-flagged merchant and naval vessels in the Gulf of Aden, ensuring the safety of both military and civilian ships in the region.
EPA Awards $135 Million to California to Phase Out Big Diesel Trucks
The EPA has awarded $135 million to fund 13 projects in California, replacing 455 diesel-powered vehicles with zero-emission alternatives to reduce pollution, improve public health, and combat climate change.
FMC Halts HMM, ONE, Yang Ming Alliance
The Federal Maritime Commission has paused the proposed Premier Alliance between HMM, Ocean Network Express (ONE), and Yang Ming Marine, requesting additional details to assess potential competitive impacts and statutory compliance.
DAT Sees Dramatic Increase in Spot Truck and Load Posts as Seasonal Patterns Resume
Spot truck and load posts surged 114% week over week on the DAT One marketplace, reflecting a seasonal rebound in freight demand, with dry van rates nudging up to $1.72 per mile nationally.
Jaxport Adding More Global Container Services in 2025
Jaxport is expanding global connectivity in 2025 with new container services from major shipping alliances, linking Jacksonville to key markets in Asia, South America, and Europe, while supporting regional business growth.
India Averts Port Worker Strike With Wage Deal Ratification
India has averted a port worker strike with the ratification of a wage deal, revising contracts retroactive to 2022 and enhancing pensions, ensuring uninterrupted operations at major public ports.
