Read More About 2026 Container Volume Predictions
Truck issues loom as weaker ocean volumes de-stress container operations.
U.S. port and rail ramp operations are running smoothly thanks to dropping container volumes, but logistics analysts warn that major disruptions may hit the market heading into 2026, according to the latest ITS Logistics Port Rail/Ramp Freight Index.
Container Volumes Continue to Fall
ITS Logistics reports that November data confirms October trends, showing a sustained drop in both import and export container volumes.
Source: FreightWaves coverage of ITS Logistics report
Because of these declines, operations at major U.S. ports—including the West Coast, East Coast, and Gulf Coast—remain stable. The report also rates domestic and international rail ramp operations in both the eastern and western U.S. as “normal.”
Major Risks Ahead for 2026
ITS warns that conditions could shift dramatically as early as 2026, noting several developing threats:
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Accelerated trucking carrier exits as the freight recession continues, with falling rates and higher operating costs pushing more companies into shutdown or bankruptcy.
Source: FreightWaves reporting on trucking bankruptcies -
A pending federal initiative to remove non-domiciled CDL holders from service, combined with stricter English Language Proficiency (ELP) enforcement.
Transportation economist Noël Perry estimates that up to 600,000 drivers could be forced out of the U.S. driver pool as a result.
Source: FreightWaves interview/data referencing Noël Perry
Pacific Coast Trucking Sees a Surge
In November, ITS Logistics noted a “significant spike” in trucking activity on the Pacific Coast, likely tied to shippers attempting to secure capacity ahead of potential shortages.
Analysts will continue monitoring this trend into December, as it may signal early shifts that will shape 2026 port and ramp operations.
Where Porter Freight Funding Fits In
As the market tightens, cash flow will determine which fleets survive, grow, or exit the industry.
That’s where Porter Freight Funding becomes a critical partner.
How Porter Helps Carriers Stay Ahead in a Changing Market
✔ Fast, dependable factoring that keeps trucks moving
In a market where rates are down and expenses are up, waiting 30–60 days for broker payments can cripple operations. Porter provides same-day funding, helping fleets stay liquid even as competitors struggle.
✔ Fuel advances & the PorterFuel card for immediate operational savings
With diesel prices in constant flux, carriers need every edge. PorterFuel delivers real, per-gallon savings and no-interest fuel advances that protect your margins.
✔ Credit checks and back-office support to reduce risk
As shippers reshuffle capacity, having clear, fast broker verifications helps fleets avoid payment issues and bad debt.
✔ A partner that understands recession-era trucking
Porter works with fleets every day that are navigating the same challenges highlighted by ITS Logistics. We’ve helped carriers stay profitable through market swings — and we’re ready to help your fleet do the same.
Source: Freightwaves
Feeling Restricted by the Current Economy?
Porter Freight Funding provides funding solutions for owner-operators, small to mid-sized companies, and even large fleets. We provide solutions to manage the effects of an economic slowdown including freight factoring, dispatching services, fuel cards, and more.
Contact Porter Freight Funding Today
Having a trucking authority allows for career growth and independence and will help your business increase revenue. If you’re looking to get your trucking authority and need help, give Porter Freight Funding a call at (205) 397-0934 or fill out our online form to speak with a trucking specialist.
