As we prepare to turn the calendar into a new year, it’s natural to review where we’ve been and begin to look toward where we’re going. The same is true in logistics, which seems to be entering a phase of normalization and reinvention. Taking a peek into the global shipping outlook for 2026, the forecast is shaped by three consecutive years of Red Sea detours, unpredictable tariffs, and port congestion. Thankfully, the container shipping industry appears to be regaining its footing as it prepares for the next competitive era.
In 2026, there are three trends in particular that we’re keeping our eyes on, as they signal meaningful shifts in global carrier behavior, network planning, and port operations:
- CMA CGM returning to a Suez routing
- Hapag-Lloyd’s bid to acquire ZIM Lines
- October volume shifts at the Port of Oakland
While they might not seem related on the surface, looking deeper, you see that they create a more complete story about capacity, reliability, and long-term stability for businesses that ship internationally.
CMA CGM’s Return to the Suez: A Vote of Confidence in Global Stability
According to reporting from the American Journal of Transportation, CMA CGM is reintroducing a Suez Canal service on its INDAMEX route. They will be the first major carrier to formally reestablish regular operations through the region since Red Sea disruptions began in 2023.
The return matters for three key reasons:
- Reduced transit time: By cutting out the Cape of Good Hope detour, CMA CGM shortens voyages two full weeks. That means more predictable arrivals, faster container turns, and downstream cost savings.
- Increased global capacity: When carriers resume shorter routes, their vessels complete more roundtrips per year, injecting effective capacity back into the global network.
- Potential downward rate pressure: More capacity generally translates into more stable—or even slightly reduced—spot rates for key trade lanes.
Why this matters to global shippers
This development is important to keep on our radars because, if other carriers follow CMA CGM’s lead, companies could see:
- Improved schedule reliability into Q3–Q4 2026
- Lower fuel-related surcharges
- More predictable routing through key Asia–US and India–US corridors
In other words, this change could result in a calmer, more efficient shipping year.
Hapag-Lloyd’s Bid for ZIM: Carrier Consolidation Returns to the Spotlight
In another major development, Hapag-Lloyd has made a formal offer to purchase ZIM Lines. Although political and strategic considerations in Israel may influence the outcome, the bid underscores the renewed wave of carrier consolidation and partnership structuring.
If the merger proceeds, the implications could be significant, including:
- Greater network efficiency: Combined fleets often mean better vessel deployment, fewer redundancies, and stronger schedule discipline.
- Expanded service reach: ZIM’s strength in niche lanes, particularly between Asia and smaller Mediterranean or East Coast ports, would integrate into Hapag-Lloyd’s global footprint.
- Stronger contract positioning: A larger, more diversified carrier has more leverage in long-term rate and capacity agreements.
What this means for shippers
While consolidation can reduce carrier choice in some lanes, it generally boosts reliability, equipment availability, and long-range stability. For companies shipping internationally, it will be imperative to monitor service restructuring and maintain flexibility. A diversified routing strategy that includes various carriers, ports, and coasts will continue to position companies for success in this global shipping outlook for 2026.
Port of Oakland’s Volume Shifts: Stability Returns to the West Coast
The Port of Oakland reported 182,879 TEUs in October, a slight increase month over month. What’s most notable is the type of cargo driving the change, which includes:
- Loaded imports and exports remained steady
- Empty containers dropped significantly
- Equipment repositioning became more efficient
This is not a sign of weakening demand; in fact, it represents quite the opposite. It suggests:
- Better balance in Northern California: With fewer empties sitting idle, space is freed up for operational cargo.
- More predictable export flow: Export-heavy shippers (including agriculture, manufacturing, and food commodities) benefit from consistent equipment availability.
- Improved regional routing flexibility: Shippers who looked elsewhere during the 2021–2022 congestion may begin returning to Oakland as a reliable alternative gateway.
What this means for international shippers
A stable West Coast port results in fewer storage fees, dwell charges, and drayage delays. Additionally, changes here will lead to better long-term planning for companies needing redundancy across both West and East Coast gateways.
Why Understanding Shipping Trends Matters
Individually, these developments tell different stories. Together, they offer actionable insights for companies that are shipping internationally. Here’s what can be gained by tuning in to the global shipping outlook for 2026:
- Better budget forecasting: With more capacity returning to normal routes and major carriers consolidating services, rate volatility should soften, especially in the second half of 2026.
- Improved routing confidence: Armed with this information, businesses can begin planning for faster East Coast transits, more consistent West Coast exports, and longer-term carrier stability.
- Enhanced negotiation leverage: Understanding capacity shifts gives companies stronger footing when reviewing annual contracts or spot-market options.
- Reduced operational risk: A calmer operating environment minimizes the surprise costs that plagued the past three years.
In short, these shipping trends provide real-world value for any business building its 2026 supply chain strategy.
How Will the Global Shipping Outlook for 2026 Affect Your Business?
The global shipping industry is still evolving, but the direction is promising. New routing options, potential carrier consolidation, and stabilizing port volumes all point to a more efficient and predictable supply-chain environment.
For businesses shipping internationally, now is the time to revisit routing strategies, reassess carrier diversification, and prepare for a very different operating landscape than the one we saw from 2021 to 2024. Contact Cyclone Shipping to ensure you have the right shipping partner moving forward.
