SBA's Freight Market Update: May 21, 2026
This week: Supreme Court ruling increased focus on broker liability; EU tariffs capped at 15%; SC Ports plans RoRo expansion.
Current Critical Industry Trends
A U.S. Supreme Court decision could push truckload rates higher, ruling that brokers may be liable if a hired carrier is involved in an accident. The added legal risk could tighten carrier access, and with demand remaining strong, may contribute to upward pressure on rates.
A tariff agreement capping most EU export duties at 15% was finalized this week, potentially easing trade tensions and providing more cost certainty for importers.
Ocean
Panama Canal faces reduced capacity during its June maintenance window, raising concerns over transportation delays as vessel wait times hover around 48 hours. The partial closure could slow cargo movement and create added pressure across global supply chains.
As U.S. sanctions on Cuba mount, major container lines are suspending service to the country and halting new bookings. The move is expected to deepen supply chain disruptions and further strain access to goods and essential imports across the island.
Ports
The Port of Tacoma delivered strong performance during the first call under a newly revised vessel rotation. Faster rail cargo loading and reduced dwell times highlighted how a fully aligned first port call can improve cargo velocity and overall supply chain efficiency.
RoRo expansion is planned at SC Ports, introducing service to the North Charleston Terminal for the first time. The shift is expected to ease terminal congestion and improve overall capacity for waterborne commerce.
International
A new U.S.–China agreement targets bilateral trade in key goods, including agriculture and rare earth minerals. The arrangement could help stabilize supply chains and set the stage for future talks on tariff reductions and broader market access.
Trucking
The Office of the British Columbia Container Trucking Commissioner (OBCCTC) is accepting applications for 2026 Container Trucking Services (CTS) licenses, which are required for operations at the Port of Vancouver and within the Lower Mainland.
The House Appropriations Committee is proposing a bill that would begin to establish a unified, federal response to cargo theft. If passed, the bill would strengthen the partnership between government and supply chain partners to counter cargo theft more effectively.
Rail
South Africa opens its freight rail network to private operators, in an effort to strengthen rail exports and improve rail performance after years of decline. Access will include 41 routes across five strategic corridors.
Air
The National Air Carrier Association (NACA) is calling on the Trump administration to temporarily suspend jet fuel taxes, arguing that a temporary waiver would help reduce the pressure of rising costs and preserve critical air transportation capacity.
Technology
A new Cyber Defense Operations Center opens at the Port of Long Beach, providing 24/7 cybersecurity monitoring designed to protect critical trade and data infrastructure.
Other
A $2.25 billion settlement was reached between the State of Maryland and the Dali’s owners over the Francis Scott Key Bridge strike. There are still numerous legal actions pending, but the settlement reflects the start of taking accountability for the incident.
$68 billion worth of goods move daily on U.S. highways, driving the DOT’s new strategic freight plan to reduce transportation hurdles. The five-year initiative focuses on safety, efficiency, and security to improve supply chain performance and maintain U.S. competitiveness in global trade.
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As always, SBA’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 SBA can do for you. Contact us!