At Everglory Logistics, we help clients prepare for almost every situation with informed planning, technology-forward solutions, and consistent execution. Since the global logistics climate is constantly fluctuating, it is influenced by a perfect storm of changing trade rules, new infrastructure developments, and rising automation.
2026 will bring challenges—but also new efficiencies, opportunities, and technologies—for well-prepared and forward-thinking importers. Here are 10 logistics stories to watch in 2026, along with strategies to stay ahead of them.
1. Section 301 Watchlist: Enforcement, Adjustments, and Appeals
- While the 2025 review finalized many tariff categories, continued appeals and enforcement actions are likely in 2026.
- Expect clarifications of HTS codes, sunset timelines for exclusions, and re-evaluation of certain product classifications.
2. IEEPA Refund Protocols and Post-Ruling Audits
- Following the partial rollback of IEEPA in 2025, importers may face audits tied to refund claims.
- Maintain detailed documentation for shipments affected by both IEEPA and Section 301 overlap to prepare for scrutiny.
3. Labor Talks on the Horizon
- West Coast port labor contracts are expected to be back on the table in late 2026.
- Shippers should begin diversifying port entry strategies early in the year to build flexibility before potential slowdowns.
4. CBP Forced Labor Enforcement Expands
- CBP will continue targeting companies without traceable supply chain data related to human rights and origin verification.
- Expect more detentions under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) and calls for greater documentation.
5. AI Becomes a Core Component in Supply Chain Strategy
- AI will move beyond analytics to automated decision-making in areas such as routing, pricing, and inventory forecasting.
- Look for more adoption of predictive customs pre-clearance and dynamic capacity tools.
6. Ocean Freight Digitalization Goes Mainstream
- More carriers will adopt eBOLs (electronic bills of lading) and end-to-end visibility platforms.
- Shippers should align their systems to integrate with digital document flows and ensure that their internal processes are compatible.
7. Warehousing Costs Continue to Rise
- With ongoing labor shortages and growing demand, space and labor costs are expected to increase—especially in key coastal and inland hubs.
- Prepare by securing contracts early, co-locating inventory, and investing in automation where feasible.
8. Mexico’s Role in Nearshoring Strengthens
- U.S.–Mexico trade is expected to continue growing, particularly in the automotive, electronics, and textile sectors.
- Everglory continues to build cross-border expertise and solutions to support clients’ evolving sourcing strategies.
9. Sustainability Moves from Reporting to Requirements
- Major retailers and manufacturers are expected to enforce emissions tracking and ESG compliance on their vendors.
- Be prepared to provide shipment-level carbon data, alternative fuel usage, and supply chain transparency documentation.
10. Peak Season Capacity Will Tighten Again
- After a relatively smooth 2025, rising consumer demand and reduced carrier slack mean Q3–Q4 2026 will likely bring tighter space, especially for air and e-commerce freight.
- Book early, diversify modes, and review forecasting accuracy by mid-year.
What To Do Now
Being informed is step one. Having a trusted logistics partner to help execute is crucial. Everglory Logistics supports clients with:
- Tariff and compliance tracking
- Multi-modal routing and capacity planning
- Cross-border freight optimization
- Customs brokerage support
- Forecast-based capacity booking
Start planning for 2026 Everglory Logistics.
