What's Happening?
A recent survey conducted by Averitt has revealed a cautiously optimistic outlook for the shipping industry in 2026. The survey, which gathered responses from over 1,000 supply chain, logistics, and procurement
professionals across North America, indicates that while a majority of respondents expect shipping volumes to increase, the anticipated growth is modest. Specifically, 59% of participants foresee an increase in shipping volumes, marking the lowest level of positive outlook in the past decade. Meanwhile, 37% expect volumes to remain unchanged, and only 3.6% predict a decline. This sentiment reflects a careful approach by companies as they navigate tight capacity and ongoing execution risks.
Why It's Important?
The findings of the Averitt survey are significant as they highlight the cautious stance of the shipping industry amidst ongoing challenges. The modest expectations for volume growth suggest that companies are preparing for a stable yet uncertain market environment. This cautious optimism could influence strategic decisions in logistics and supply chain management, impacting procurement strategies and operational planning. The industry's approach to managing capacity and mitigating risks will be crucial in maintaining efficiency and competitiveness. Stakeholders, including logistics providers and businesses reliant on shipping, will need to adapt to these dynamics to ensure resilience and sustainability in their operations.
What's Next?
As the industry moves into 2026, companies are likely to focus on enhancing their operational efficiencies and risk management strategies. The cautious outlook may prompt businesses to invest in technologies and processes that improve capacity management and execution reliability. Additionally, stakeholders may explore collaborative approaches to address supply chain challenges and optimize resource utilization. The evolving market conditions will require continuous monitoring and adaptation to ensure alignment with industry trends and customer demands.
