Shipping and logistics are kicking off 2026 with a mix of new risks, tightening capacity, and major regulatory and legal shifts. From cybersecurity threats that can lead to physical cargo theft to rising trucking costs and changing ocean carrier behavior ahead of Chinese New Year, the first week of the year is already setting the tone for what’s ahead.

We’ve pulled together the stories that matter most to shippers, so you can plan with confidence, whether you’re a growing brand or managing a complex global supply chain.

Here are the 5 key shipping and logistics stories this week, and what they mean for shippers.

The Top 5 News Stories This Week

1. Cybersecurity Becomes a Cargo Theft Risk in Shipping Operations

A new and concerning trend is emerging in logistics: cyberattacks that lead directly to physical cargo theft. Instead of only stealing data, hackers are now targeting the digital systems that control warehouses, yards, and ports. By breaking into warehouse management systems, access controls, or connected IoT devices, criminals can reroute shipments, unlock secure facilities, or disrupt operations long enough to steal goods.

This blurs the line between cybersecurity and physical security. What happens online can now directly impact what happens on your dock.

What It Means for Shippers

If your warehouses, yards, or fulfillment centers rely on connected systems (which most do), your physical inventory is only as secure as your digital defenses. Traditional security measures like guards and cameras are no longer enough on their own.

For smaller brands using 3PLs, this also raises questions about your partners’ security standards, not just your own.

2. Truckload Capacity Tightens as Lead Times and Rates Rise

The North American truckload market is starting 2026 on firmer footing for carriers, and a tougher one for shippers. The average lead time to secure a truck has grown to over 3.6 days, up more than 7% from last year. At the same time, spot market trucking rates spiked at the end of December, signaling that the loose, shipper-friendly market of 2025 is fading.

In simple terms: trucks are harder to find on short notice, and waiting until the last minute is getting more expensive.

What It Means for Shippers

If you rely on booking trucks one or two days before pickup, you’re more likely to face delays or premium pricing. This affects everything from inbound inventory to outbound customer deliveries, especially for brands promising fast shipping.

To avoid these delays and pricing, extend your planning window. Aim to book truckload shipments at least four days in advance where possible. This gives you better access to capacity and helps avoid costly last-minute spot rates.

3. Customs Security Expands to 3PLs and Freight Forwarders

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is expanding its CTPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) program to include U.S.-based freight forwarders and warehouse-based 3PLs. CTPAT is a voluntary security program that helps trusted supply chain partners move goods through customs faster with fewer inspections.

Until now, the focus was mainly on importers and carriers. This move brings more of the “middle mile” under the same security umbrella.

What It Means for Shippers

Your choice of logistics partners now has a bigger impact on how smoothly your international shipments clear customs. Working with CTPAT-certified (or certification-ready) 3PLs and forwarders can reduce delays at ports and borders.

For smaller brands, this can mean fewer surprise holds. For larger importers, it can translate into more predictable transit times at scale.

To get ahead, review your logistics partners. Ask whether your 3PLs and freight forwarders are CTPAT-certified or planning to apply. Going forward, this certification should be a key factor in selecting partners, especially for international freight.

4. Chinese New Year Disruptions Create Ocean Shipping Bottlenecks

Ocean carriers are changing how they manage capacity ahead of Chinese New Year (CNY) in early 2026. Instead of gradually increasing sailings, many are front-loading shipments and then canceling (or “blanking”) sailings more aggressively.

The result: congestion at major Asian export hubs now, with knock-on effects expected at U.S. ports, especially on the West Coast, later this month.

What It Means for Shippers

If your inventory isn’t already moving, you may face longer waits and less available space. This is particularly risky for spring inventory and fast-moving ecommerce products.

Smaller brands may feel this as “mystery delays,” while larger brands may see entire lanes tighten unexpectedly.

Start to consider more flexibility in your routing. While West Coast ports are typically faster, East Coast or Gulf Coast ports may offer more reliability during this disruption, even if transit times are slightly longer.

5. Legal Ruling Challenges Outsourced Last-Mile Delivery Models

A recent court decision against Amazon brings the industry closer to treating the company as a “joint employer” of drivers working for its Delivery Service Partners (DSPs). While this case centers on Amazon, the implications extend to any business using outsourced or contractor-based last-mile delivery models.

The ruling signals increasing scrutiny of how much control companies exert over third-party workers.

What It Means for Shippers

If you rely on 3PLs, delivery partners, or contractor models for last-mile delivery, legal and labor risks may increase over time. This could eventually affect costs, contracts, and how delivery operations are structured.

Start by reviewing your delivery contracts. Ensure there’s a clear separation between your business and how third-party partners manage their workers. Staying proactive now can help reduce exposure as regulations and legal standards evolve.

The Bottom Line

The start of 2026 shows just how interconnected shipping, technology, labor, and security have become. Cyber risks can turn into cargo losses, trucking markets can tighten quickly, and decisions made by carriers or regulators can ripple through your entire supply chain.

For shippers of all sizes, the key is the same: plan earlier, choose partners carefully, and stay informed. Understanding these shifts now puts you in a stronger position to control costs, avoid disruptions, and keep customers happy as the year unfolds.