Editor's note: This article is part of the "Supply Chain Outlook" series, based on a virtual event co-hosted by Supply Chain Dive, Trucking Dive, Manufacturing Dive, and Packaging Dive. Sponsors of the event have no influence on editorial content.Click here to registerWatch the event replay.

In 2026, the logistics industry is facing a series of accumulating challenges: erratic trade policies, tightening capacity, frequent cargo theft, ongoing geopolitical conflicts, and fluctuating market conditions. These factors are placing continuous pressure on logistics leaders, from shippers to carriers.

During the virtual event "Supply Chain Outlook: 2026 Trends and Risks," hosted by Supply Chain Dive on July 15, panel experts noted that these issues have become central concerns in the transportation sector, and that new developments—or even surprises—will require executives to remain agile and flexible.

"It is becoming increasingly difficult to predict where the next disruption will come from," said Ranole Beng, Head of Transpacific Ocean Market at Maersk, during the event. He added, however, that despite the dramatic changes and unpredictability in global trade in recent years, it has shown remarkable resilience, proving that supply chains can absorb shocks and unexpected events.

Regulations and disruptions continue to pressure transportation services

Although the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic were once seen as the peak of shortages, shipping customers are now reassessing that view in light of subsequent developments. Donna Lemm, Chief Strategy Officer at IMC Logistics, noted that military attacks led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz andspiked fuel prices, and the impact of these events has far exceeded expectations.

Donna Lemm, Chief Strategy Officer at IMC Logistics, speaks at the virtual Supply Chain Outlook event, alongside Ranole Beng, Head of Transpacific Ocean Market at Maersk, moderated by Supply Chain Dive reporter Alejandra Carranza.
Donna Lemm (left), Chief Strategy Officer at IMC Logistics, speaks at the virtual Supply Chain Outlook event, alongside Ranole Beng (bottom right), Head of Transpacific Ocean Market at Maersk, moderated by Supply Chain Dive reporter Alejandra Carranza (top right).
David Taube/Trucking Dive/Trucking Dive
 

"This is not just a ripple effect; it's an immediate shock," Lemm said of the impact on diesel prices. She added that federal regulations are tightening driver capacity, including enforcement of English proficiency requirements and changes to non-resident commercial driver's license rules.

Lemm noted that cargo theft not only frequently affects high-value goods but also everyday consumer products such as food and beverages, posing an ongoing threat to the supply chain.

Trade routes show resilience

Although transpacific routes have shown some resilience with year-over-year revenue flat so far in 2026, Beng believes the third quarter may further intensify transportation pressure due to ongoing changes. As supply chains enter the peak season for goods arriving in the U.S., challenges may concentrate in this quarter.

"During peak season, we see customers generally replenishing inventory for fourth-quarter seasonal goods," Beng said. He added that the shipping peak season typically runs from June to October, and Maersk has not yet observed signs of slowing activity.

Navigating the rest of 2026

Although logistics pressures may intensify in the third quarter, companies can still adopt multiple strategies to address them. Beng believes that diversified sourcing strategies, maintaining flexibility, improving supply chain visibility, and strengthening partnerships are key ways for leaders to navigate future turbulence. "Resilience is not about eliminating risk entirely, but about being prepared to respond," he said.