Topic
Shipping Freight
Logistics 2026 State of Logistics Report: Volatility Becomes Permanent as U.S. Logistics Costs Fall to $2.4 Trillion
The 2026 State of Logistics Report, released Tuesday by Kearney and Penske Logistics for CSCMP, declares supply chain volatility the new normal. U.S. business logistics costs fell to $2.4 trillion (7.8% of GDP) from $2.6 trillion in 2025. Five structural forces—including asymmetric growth and tariff volatility—drive the environment, while AI reaches commercial returns in defined applications.
Logistics N-Sea appoints Pim Nelemans as chief executive, succeeding Martin Adler
Dutch subsea services specialist N-Sea has appointed Pim Nelemans as chief executive, replacing Martin Adler who stepped down on June 15. Nelemans, former COO, will lead a management board with CFO Ann Porte. Adler will stay on as shareholder and advisory board chairman.
Logistics HD Hyundai and Malcon Partner to Develop Korean Offshore Wind Support Vessels
HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has signed a cooperation agreement with Malcon to jointly develop a Korea-type offshore wind support vessel (SOV) optimized for domestic wind farms. The partnership will leverage eco-friendly propulsion technologies and aims to localize vessel production and strengthen South Korea's position in the offshore wind market.
Logistics GE Offshore Marine Services Secures Five-Year AHTS Charter with Trident Energy in Equatorial Guinea
UK oil and gas operator Trident Energy has awarded GE Offshore Marine Services a five-year charter for the anchor-handling tug and supply (AHTS) vessel Red Tiger to support operations offshore Bata, Equatorial Guinea. The 2008-built, 120-tonne diesel-electric vessel also features a newly installed 50-tonne crane and will support ROV operations with DeepOcean. The vessel has departed Vigo, Spain, and is scheduled to arrive in Bata on June 27.
Logistics FreightWaves Today: Mergers, Fraud Rings, and the Mid-June Rate Pause Impact Operations
FreightWaves Today covers key logistics developments: a bipartisan push for rigorous review of the Union Pacific-Southern Pacific merger; Rock-It Cargo's management of 1,500 daily shipments for the 2026 FIFA World Cup; eight indictments in a $4.49M carrier impersonation ring; FedEx's strategic MOU with China Southern Airlines; the FMCSA's new carrier registry failing to register any carrier in three weeks; and the mid-June spot rate dip deemed a seasonal pause, not a systemic drop.
Equasis adds ship-to-ship transfer records from DYNAMARINe - Splash247
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Logistics Former Norden Chief Launches Africa-Focused Shipbroking House Origin Brokers
Shipping executive Christian Vinther Christensen, formerly of Norden, Western Bulk and Maersk, has launched Origin Brokers, a shipbroking and advisory firm with a focus on Africa's commodity export and import corridors. The company will offer dry bulk and tanker chartering, market intelligence, and trade support from offices in Limassol, Dubai and Abidjan.
Logistics Hormuz Ceasefire Collapses After US-Iran Strikes, Tanker Hit Leaves 3 Missing
The fragile ceasefire in the Strait of Hormuz has completely broken down following fresh US-Iran attacks. A US strike on the product tanker Settebello off Oman left three seafarers missing and one injured, while Iran claimed strikes on two tankers. The IMO condemned the attacks, reporting 43 verified incidents since late February.
Logistics Framework Laptop 13 Pro Shipments Delayed One Month Over Touchpad, Display Issue
Framework has delayed shipments of its Laptop 13 Pro by about one month after discovering manufacturing flaws in the haptic touchpad and custom display. The delay pushes delivery from late June to late July, with some orders possibly not shipping until August. Pre-order customers can cancel for a full refund, and those seeking RAM can modify orders due to LPCAMM2 availability constraints.
Logistics Nominations Opening Soon for 2027 FreightTech Awards
FreightWaves will open nominations for the 2027 FreightTech Awards this fall, culminating at the Future of Freight Festival in Chattanooga. The program, now in its ninth year, recognizes top disruptive technology companies in North American freight through a rigorous judging process. The 2026 awards highlighted trends in automation, fraud prevention, and consolidation.
Logistics Shipping faces talent crisis as aging workforce threatens global maritime operat
The global shipping industry is grappling with a severe talent shortage, as an aging workforce and recruitment gaps threaten operations. At a BIMCO seminar in Athens, leaders warned that around 20,000 seafarers remain stuck in the Persian Gulf, highlighting the human cost of geopolitical conflicts. Industry experts called for collective action to attract young talent, retain experienced personnel, and address seafarer welfare and criminalization issues.
Logistics Brake failures plague fireworks logistics as Fourth of July approaches
A June 6 fireworks truck fire on I-75 near Chattanooga, Tennessee, uncovered severe hazmat compliance failures. FreightWaves analysis of FMCSA data shows over 1,400 brake violations among fireworks carriers, with Evans Delivery Company and ContainerPort Group accounting for most. Nearly a third of fireworks loads move on hotshot equipment, raising safety concerns as the Fourth of July demand peaks.
The DVIR: The Hidden Compliance Risk in Your Trucking Operations
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Logistics Truckload carriers eye multiyear rate upcycle as capacity tightens
The truckload market is entering a multiyear rate upcycle as capacity constraints tighten due to regulatory enforcement and cost inflation. Carriers like J.B. Hunt, Schneider National, and Werner Enterprises report accelerating contract renewals and double-digit rate hikes, while routing guides crumble and spot rates surge. Shippers face urgent need to secure sustainable carrier partnerships to mitigate rising costs.
Logistics Containerlines Cash In as Chinese Car Exports Surge 73% in May
Chinese passenger car exports surged 73% year-on-year in May to approximately 809,000 vehicles, driven by a doubling of new energy vehicle shipments. The booming export volume has pushed car carrier charter rates to fresh highs, forcing Chinese OEMs to divert growing volumes onto containerships, with around 1 million cars now shipped via container.
Logistics Zhejiang Yonghang orders up to six ultramax bulkers at Yangfan Group
Chinese owner Zhejiang Yonghang Shipping has contracted with Yangfan Group for up to six ultramax bulk carriers, with four firm and two optional vessels. The 64,500 dwt ships, designed by SDARI, will be Chinese-flagged and meet latest environmental rules. Estimated newbuild cost is around $34m per vessel. This follows Yangfan Group's recent containership order from Baozhou Shipping.
Logistics Sea Cargo Charter Signatories Hold Emissions Line Amid 2025 Shipping Turmoil
The Sea Cargo Charter’s 2025 annual report shows signatories maintained climate performance, averaging 11.6% behind IMO’s minimum decarbonisation trajectory, an improvement from 12.2% in 2024. Despite geopolitical turmoil and shifting trade patterns, 20 of 29 reporting companies lowered carbon intensity. Operational optimizations remain the primary tool, with growing interest in low-carbon fuels and wind propulsion.
Logistics Greek Capesize Owner NGM Flips Vintage Bulker for $17.4M in Firm Market
Greek capesize owner NGM sold the 2003-built vessel Charm to Chinese interests for around $17.4 million, more than $7 million above its purchase price in 2020. The sale is part of an accelerating shake-out of Greek capesize owners cashing in on historically firm asset values. Several other vintage capesize bulkers have changed hands recently.
Logistics Emotional Toll on Seafarers Poses Structural Risk to Global Shipping
A growing body of research, including surveys by Nautilus Federation and ISWAN, reveals that family separation and relationship strain among seafarers are becoming structural risks to the shipping industry. Nearly one in three seafarers has experienced a serious relationship breakdown linked to time away from home, and divorce rates are 20–30% higher than the national average. Welfare organisations report rising calls for relationship support, and experts warn that emotional distress affects concentration, retention, and operational safety.
Logistics Fortescue Revises Fleet Procedures After Bulker Loses Propulsion Off Port Hedlan
Fortescue's shipping arm has introduced fleetwide engine management changes after its bulk carrier FMG Nicola lost propulsion while departing Port Hedland on February 7, 2025. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) found the shutdown was caused by an erroneous activation of a low lubricating oil pressure emergency shutdown switch. FMG International has upgraded testing procedures and introduced a standardised rapid-response protocol.
Logistics Why Human Behavioural Competence Is Critical in Modern Maritime Operations
According to Splash247, the maritime industry is increasingly recognising that technical competence alone is insufficient for safe operations. Behavioural competencies such as communication, situational awareness, and teamwork are now seen as integral. The Nautical Institute Academy has launched a Behavioural Competency Assessor Course to help bridge this gap.
Amazon's LTL Gap: Buying Forward Air Could Solve Expedited Tier
Amazon launched a national economy LTL network, but lacks a premium expedited tier. FreightWaves argues that acquiring Forward Air — which operates a scheduled, airport-centric road feeder network — would instantly fill that gap and create a formidable competitor to incumbents like Old Dominion and FedEx Freight.
Logistics Structural Flaws in Crew Travel Budgets Exposed
Crew travel budgets in the shipping industry are plagued by structural inefficiencies, leading to unmanaged costs. The lack of competitive re-tendering and visibility into decision-making processes are key issues.
Logistics Amazon's LTL Entry Unlikely to Disrupt Market
Amazon's expansion into the less-than-truckload (LTL) market is not expected to significantly disrupt existing carriers, according to analysts. Despite Amazon's asset-light model and extensive network, the market's high barriers to entry and established players' strong service offerings limit immediate impact.
Logistics SONAR's New Index Tracks Accepted Truckload Volumes
SONAR has launched the Accepted Truckload Volume Index (ASTVI) to provide a clearer view of freight that moves through the market. This index helps distinguish between tendered and accepted freight, offering valuable insights for logistics professionals.
Logistics Hong Kong Firm Synelysia Orders Eight Feeders at Xinle
Synelysia Limited, a new Hong Kong company, has ordered up to eight feeder containerships at Xinle Shipyard. The vessels are expected to be delivered starting in 2028, with each ship costing approximately $32 million.
Logistics Amazon Expands LTL Network to All Businesses
Amazon has expanded its less-than-truckload (LTL) network to serve all businesses, offering a full-scale logistics solution. This move positions Amazon as a competitor to traditional LTL carriers.
Logistics Purus Expands LNG Fleet with New Samsung Order
Purus Marine is linked to a new LNG carrier order at Samsung Heavy Industries, expanding its fleet. The $252m contract for a 174,000 cu m vessel is set for delivery in January 2029.
Logistics Huaxia Financial Leasing Seeks Yard Slots for Six Newcastlemaxes
Huaxia Financial Leasing is seeking yard slots for six newcastlemax bulk carriers, marking a significant expansion in the dry bulk sector. The Beijing-based company has launched a tender for vessels with a price cap of $79.5 million each.
Logistics Lohmann Sells Final Feeder Ships to Lila Global
Hermann Lohmann Bereederung has sold its last two container vessels, Marina L and Theodor, to Lila Global, marking its exit from container shipping. The vessels are currently chartered to CMA CGM and X-Press Feeders.
Logistics Exmar's Ammonia-Powered Vessel Marks New Era in Shipping
Exmar has launched the world's first oceangoing vessel powered by a dual-fuel ammonia engine, marking a significant milestone in sustainable shipping. The vessel, named Antwerpen, is part of a series of four ships designed to operate with low emissions.
Logistics ICS Endorses Onboard Carbon Capture for Shipping Emissions
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) endorses onboard carbon capture and storage (OCCS) as a viable near-term solution for reducing vessel emissions. The ICS report highlights OCCS's potential amidst limited availability of green fuels.
Logistics PV Drilling Expands Fleet with New Jackup Rig Acquisition
Petrovietnam Drilling and Well Service Corporation (PV Drilling) has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of a new jackup drilling rig, increasing its total to eight. The rig, named PV Drilling X, will be transported to Vietnam for upgrades and is expected to enter service in 2027.
Logistics Samsung Heavy Secures $2.9bn Contract for US FLNG Project
Samsung Heavy Industries has signed a $2.9 billion contract to construct the Delfin FLNG Unit 1, the first floating liquefied natural gas unit in the United States. The project, involving Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Delfin Midstream, is set to begin production in 2030.
Logistics Moscow's Shadow Fleet: A Secret Network of Watchmen
An investigation reveals a network of Russian watchmen aboard tankers carrying sanctioned oil, ensuring compliance and evasion of Western authorities. These individuals, often with military backgrounds, play a crucial role in Russia's shadow fleet operations.
Logistics MSC Achieves Record 21.6% Global Market Share
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has set a new record by capturing 21.6% of the global container market. This achievement surpasses Maersk's previous high and highlights MSC's aggressive expansion strategy.
Logistics SplashTech: Navigating Shipping's Digital Transformation
SplashTech magazine offers a comprehensive guide to the technological changes in the shipping industry. It targets shipowners and operators, providing insights into digital advancements and strategic investments.
Logistics Diesel Prices Drop as Spot Demand Rises Amid Contract Failures
The average diesel price has dropped to $5.21 per gallon, marking a significant decrease. Meanwhile, RXO reports a rise in spot demand as contract routing guides fail, highlighting stress in traditional freight networks.
Logistics AI Agents Transforming Freight Operations
AI is revolutionizing freight operations by automating tasks and enhancing decision-making. A survey by FreightWaves and Trimble highlights current AI adoption, challenges, and future expectations in the industry.
Logistics Icon Energy Ventures into Container Shipping
Icon Energy, a Greek dry bulk owner, is diversifying by acquiring a minority stake in a container shipping venture. The investment involves a 2,000 TEU feeder vessel chartered at $26,500 per day, generating $19 million over two years.
Logistics Amazon Relay Enhances Safety and Prepares for Prime Day
Amazon Relay is implementing measures to combat freight fraud and enhance safety, including a new safety rewards program. These initiatives come as the company prepares for increased demand during Prime Day.
Logistics Pingtan Minghui Ventures into Tanker Market with New Orders
Pingtan Minghui Shipping, traditionally a dry bulk carrier, has ordered two LR2 tankers, marking its entry into the tanker sector. The vessels, built by Taizhou JianXing Heavy Industry, are set for delivery in 2028.
Logistics International Seaways Orders LNG-Ready Tankers in South Korea
International Seaways has contracted two LNG-ready LR1 product tankers at K Shipbuilding in South Korea, with options for two more. This move aligns with their fleet optimization strategy, following recent vessel sales and platform expansions.
Logistics CM Energy Launches Innovative Meridian Class CSOV
CM Energy has introduced the Meridian Class CSOV, a next-generation vessel designed for the offshore wind industry. This vessel offers low-carbon propulsion options, aligning with sustainability goals.
Logistics Keyfield Expands Offshore Fleet with New AHTS Vessel
Keyfield International has acquired a 2014-built AHTS vessel for $7.35 million to expand its offshore fleet. The vessel, to be renamed Keyfield Joyful, will undergo upgrades and is expected to be deployed in late 2026.
Logistics Thenamaris Expands Tanker Fleet with New Orders
Thenamaris has expanded its tanker fleet by ordering new vessels in South Korea and China. The company has confirmed orders for MR2 product tankers and aframax/LR2 tankers, enhancing its market presence.
Logistics Freight Analyst Donald Broughton Passes Away Suddenly
Donald Broughton, a prominent figure in freight market analysis, has died suddenly at home. Known for his insightful market forecasts, Broughton's passing leaves a significant gap in the logistics industry.
Logistics VLCC Orderbook Reaches Record High Amid Fleet Renewal
The VLCC orderbook has reached a record high, with 262 units on order, driven by fleet renewal needs. This surge in orders could impact freight rates and market dynamics, as older vessels are phased out.
Logistics Suez Canal Hikes Transit Surcharges from Mid-July
The Suez Canal Authority will increase transit surcharges for most vessel classes from July 15. This move affects crude oil carriers, LPG carriers, and containerships, among others, with surcharges rising significantly.
Logistics Mermaid Maritime and DS Global Revive Offshore Vessel
Mermaid Maritime has partnered with DS Global Offshore Engineering to reactivate the Mermaid Commander DSV. The joint venture, DS Mermaid, will manage the vessel's reactivation and future operations.
Logistics Containership Orderbook Reaches 39% of Global Fleet
The containership orderbook has reached 39% of the global fleet, marking a post-2010 high. This surge is driven by strong market conditions and includes plans to convert bulk carriers into container vessels.
Logistics BP Secures Noble Semisub for UK Drilling Campaign
BP has contracted Noble Corporation's semisubmersible for a UK drilling campaign. The contract, valued at up to $72.2 million, will precede a major project in Norway.
Logistics Sincere Navigation Sells VLCC Maxim to Sinokor
Sincere Navigation has sold its 2011-built VLCC Maxim to Sinokor, marking its second VLCC sale this year. This transaction highlights Sinokor's active role in the VLCC market.
Logistics Van Hui Shipping Expands into Capesize Market
Van Hui Shipping has acquired the 181,000 dwt Ehime Queen for $57.5 million, marking its entry into the capesize segment. This move comes amid a historically firm capesize market, driven by strong Guinea bauxite exports.
Logistics Cargo Giants Support Splash Singapore's Inaugural Event
Splash Singapore's debut event attracts major cargo interests, including Rio Tinto and Vale, aiming to become a key Asian shipping conference. The event will feature discussions on global shipping demand drivers.
Logistics Container Spot Rates Surge Amid Early Peak Season
Container spot rates are surging as an early peak season combines with disruptions in the Red Sea and increased demand. The Shanghai Containerized Freight Index and Drewry World Container Index show significant increases, affecting major trade lanes.
Logistics DHT Expands VLCC Fleet with New Hanwha Order
DHT Holdings has placed an order for a new Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) with Hanwha Ocean, continuing its fleet renewal strategy. The new vessel will be delivered in August 2028, following the successful delivery of two sister ships earlier this year.
Logistics Shipmanagement Sector Faces New Wave of Consolidation
The shipmanagement sector is experiencing a shift from scale-driven consolidation to a focus on technology and expertise. Industry leaders highlight the need for smarter operations to manage regulatory and technical complexities. This change impacts global shipping lanes and requires strategic adjustments.
Logistics AI's Impact on Shipping: Navigating the Hype and Reality
The integration of AI in shipping is reshaping logistics, yet it comes with challenges. Industry leaders discuss the balance between innovation and practical application.
Logistics Container Newbuild Delivered Amid Panama Canal Draft Cuts
The Behram Box, a containership stranded since the 2008 crisis, has finally been delivered and entered service, highlighting the strong demand for feeder tonnage. Meanwhile, the Panama Canal Authority has announced draft restrictions due to water level concerns, potentially impacting global shipping routes.