**London**: A survey from Breakthrough reveals that shippers and ocean carriers face significant challenges ahead of 2025, with concerns over tariffs, climate events, and regulatory changes. Many industry leaders feel somewhat prepared, while strategies are being developed to navigate expected disruptions and shifting market dynamics.
As the global transportation industry continues to navigate significant disruptions, a recent survey indicates that many shippers and ocean carriers are bracing for the challenges expected in 2025. Conducted by Breakthrough, a company specialising in sustainable freight data, the survey involved 500 transportation leaders and reveals insights into how prepared the industry feels in the face of ongoing uncertainties.
The survey highlights that 44% of the respondents attribute potential supply chain impacts to product shortages stemming from tariffs or extreme climate events, which remain at the forefront of their concerns. Other significant concerns include major regulatory changes at 34%, labour stoppages at 33%, and economic downturns at 27%. In terms of preparedness, 37% of participants feel “very prepared” for any upcoming disruptions, while 55% report being “somewhat prepared.”
The majority of those who expressed confidence in their preparedness cited access to reliable market insights as a contributing factor, with half of respondents in these categories acknowledging its importance. Additionally, 47% of shippers and carriers credited their diversified networks of carriers and shipping partners as vital to their readiness.
The survey also anticipates a shift towards a more carrier-friendly freight market by the second quarter of 2025, coinciding with the renewal of service contract negotiations between shippers and carriers. In an effort to mitigate potential cost increases, approximately 52% of shippers reported that they are actively seeking to secure the lowest possible shipping rates ahead of these negotiations. Concurrently, 47% plan to increase their shipping volumes with core strategic carriers, while 39% are looking to diversify their carrier relationships.
Carriers are also preparing for the changing dynamics in the market. The survey found that 44% of carriers intend to sign more contracts with premium shippers, while 43% are considering strategies to raise prices or renegotiate existing contracts to adapt to the expected shifts in market conditions.
These findings from Breakthrough reflect the evolving landscape of the transportation sector, underscoring the extensive challenges and strategies being implemented by shippers and ocean carriers in anticipation of 2025.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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