ITS Logistics, a division of Echo Global Logistics, has released its June U.S. Port/Rail Ramp Freight Index, highlighting significant concerns across all regions. The report indicates that the drayage and intermodal markets are bracing for increased congestion and price surges as they head into the 2026 peak season.
This outlook is primarily driven by a reduction in available capacity and a continuous rise in fuel expenses. These factors are collectively putting pressure on the operational efficiency and cost structures within both ocean and rail container drayage sectors.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this forecast suggests a challenging period ahead. They should anticipate potential delays in cargo movement from ports and rail ramps to final destinations, leading to longer transit times. Furthermore, the expected price increases will directly impact shipping costs, necessitating adjustments to budgeting and client quotations. Proactive planning, including securing drayage capacity in advance and exploring alternative inland routing options, will be crucial to mitigate disruptions and manage expenses effectively during the upcoming peak season.
