From major tariff changes and carrier routing updates to labor disruptions and new U.S. infrastructure investments, shippers are facing both new risks and new opportunities.

We’ve rounded up the stories that matter most right now, with clear takeaways on what they mean for your shipping, fulfillment, and supply chain strategy.

Here are the 5 key shipping stories this week and how they could impact your business.

The Top 5 Shipping & Logistics Stories This Week

1. U.S.–India Trade Agreement Could Reshape Import Costs and Sourcing

The U.S. and India announced the framework for an interim trade agreement that could significantly change tariffs on goods moving between the two countries. A formal deal is expected as early as March.

India plans to reduce or eliminate tariffs on many U.S. industrial and agricultural products, while the U.S. will apply a standardized 18% tariff on most Indian-origin goods such as textiles, apparel, footwear, plastics, and certain machinery. At the same time, tariffs on key categories like generic pharmaceuticals, gems, diamonds, and aircraft parts would be removed.

India has also committed to purchasing $500 billion worth of U.S. energy, aircraft, metals, and technology products over the next five years, which could increase trade volumes and shipping demand between the two countries.

What It Means for Shippers

If you source products from India, or are considering it, this agreement could meaningfully change your landed costs. Lower or simplified tariffs can make Indian suppliers more attractive, especially for apparel, consumer goods, and industrial products. Now is a good time to review supplier locations, model tariff scenarios, and prepare for potential shifts in trade volume and shipping lanes.

2. Red Sea Routing Changes Aim to Improve Transit Times and Reliability

Maersk’s February North America Market Update highlighted changes to the Gemini Cooperation’s ME11 service, which connects India and the Middle East with the Mediterranean. 

The service is shifting back to routing through the Red Sea and Suez Canal, with westbound changes starting mid-February.

The updated routing is expected to cut transit times by about seven days and improve schedule consistency. Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd may introduce similar changes on other Asia–Europe services later this year, while continuing to prioritize security for crews and cargo.

At the same time, pre–Chinese New Year shipping rushes led to seven blank sailings on Transpacific routes, temporarily reducing capacity into both the U.S. West and East Coasts.

What It Means for Shippers

For shippers moving goods from India or the Middle East, these routing changes could mean faster and more predictable deliveries. That’s a big win for planning inventory and replenishment. However, blank sailings around major holidays still create short-term capacity crunches. Booking early and maintaining carrier flexibility remains critical.

3. Ecommerce Fulfillment Trends Point to Faster Delivery and More Locations

ShipBob’s 2026 State of Ecommerce Fulfillment Report shows how quickly ecommerce logistics is evolving. Nearly 80% of brands reported higher costs due to tariffs in 2025, while customer expectations for fast delivery continue to rise.

Most brands now aim for 2–3 day delivery within the U.S., and more than half already use multiple fulfillment centers. Many plan to expand even further in 2026, both domestically and internationally. Omnichannel selling is also becoming the norm, with most brands selling across multiple platforms.

What It Means for Shippers

Shipping speed and cost control are now tightly linked. Using multiple fulfillment locations can reduce last-mile shipping costs and speed up delivery, but it also adds complexity. Brands that rely on third-party fulfillment providers and strong shipping analytics will be better positioned to balance speed, cost, and customer experience as they scale.

4. East and Gulf Coast Port Strike Threatens Major Shipping Disruptions

Dockworkers at 36 ports across the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts went on strike after contract negotiations stalled over wages and automation concerns. The White House has stepped in, urging both sides to reach a quick resolution, but the strike could cost the U.S. economy up to $5 billion per day if it continues.

While officials expect limited immediate impact on gas and food prices, containerized cargo, retail imports, and industrial shipments are at risk of delays.

What It Means for Shippers

If you move freight through East or Gulf Coast ports, this is a serious red flag. Even a short strike can cause congestion, missed delivery windows, and higher transportation costs. Shippers should evaluate alternate ports, consider intermodal or air options for critical shipments, and ensure they have real-time visibility into carrier performance and delays.

5. U.S. Investment Push Signals Long-Term Shift Toward Domestic Supply Chains

Two major announcements point to a continued focus on U.S.-based manufacturing and supply chain resilience. The federal government launched “Project Vault,” a $12 billion initiative to create a Strategic Critical Minerals Reserve, backed by both public and private funding. Major manufacturers like GM, Boeing, and Western Digital are already participating.

Separately, Eli Lilly announced a $3.5 billion investment in a new pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania. The site will use advanced technologies like AI and real-time data analytics to improve efficiency and resilience.

What It Means for Shippers

These investments signal a long-term move toward onshoring and supply chain stability. While this won’t eliminate global shipping, it may reduce reliance on certain overseas suppliers and increase domestic freight demand. For shippers, this could mean more regional distribution, shorter supply chains, and new opportunities to optimize U.S.-based transportation networks.

The Bottom Line

This week made one thing clear: shipping strategies need to stay flexible. Trade agreements, carrier routing decisions, labor disruptions, and government investment are all reshaping how goods move.