As disruptions have become the new normal for the transportation industry, the majority of shippers and ocean carriers say that they’re prepared to handle whatever is thrown their way in 2025.
According to a survey of 500 transportation leaders from sustainable freight data company Breakthrough,44% of shippers and carriers believe that product shortages brought on by tariffs or extreme climate events are most likely to impact supply chains this year, followed by major regulatory changes at 34%, labor stoppages at 33%, and economic downturn at 27%. That said, 37% believe that they are “very prepared” for any disruptions, while 55% say that they are at least “somewhat prepared.” Of those in either category, half say that they’ve been helped by having access to reliable market insights, while 47% credit their diversified networks of carrier /or shipping partners.
Also expected to throw a wrench into the works in 2025 is an anticipated shift to a more carrier-friendly freight market by the second quarter of the year, when carriers enter into negotiations with shippers on new service contracts. Roughly 52% of shippers surveyed by Breakthrough say that they already working to secure the lowest possible shipping rates before that happens, while 47% plan to expand their volumes with core strategic carriers, and 39% look to on diversify their carrier relationships.
Carriers are preparing for the possibility of a market flip as well, with 44% aiming to sign more contracts with premium shippers, and 43% looking to either raise prices or renegotiate contracts with existing customers.
