Global Freight Forwarding and Cargo News – May 2025 Update

News

Global Freight Forwarding and Cargo News – May 2025 Update – As we move further into 2025, the UK Freight Forwarding and Cargo Logistics sector is navigating a challenging but dynamic landscape. Geopolitical shifts, changes in trade policy, and technological advancements are all shaping how goods move to and from the UK. Here’s a round-up of the latest developments impacting freight forwarders, shippers, and logistics providers across the country:

UK & Global Trade Trends

US-China Tariff Relief Impacts UK Logistics: A temporary reduction in US tariffs on Chinese imports has led to a sharp increase in global shipping demand. While the change is US-focused, UK freight forwarders report tighter container availability and rising rates due to diverted capacity and increased transatlantic activity.
Post-Brexit Trade Adjustments Continue: UK businesses continue to adapt to post-Brexit customs procedures, particularly around the Northern Ireland Protocol and new border checks. Digital declarations and simplified procedures remain a top priority for freight firms.
Red Sea Shipping Routes Still Affected: Ongoing instability in the Red Sea region has led many carriers to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, adding delays and increasing costs for shipments from Asia to Europe, including the UK.

Air Cargo & Capacity Challenges

Air Freight Faces Capacity Drop: Global air cargo volumes have dipped due to changes in US tariff exemptions and a general slowdown in consumer demand. UK freight agents relying on air freight from Asia are reporting delays and higher spot prices as capacity contracts.
Heathrow & East Midlands Airports Increasing Infrastructure Investment: To improve cargo throughput and efficiency, major UK air cargo hubs are investing in automation, warehousing, and customs pre-clearance solutions.

Ocean Freight & Carrier Performance

ZIM Shipping Reports Strong Results: ZIM has seen revenue growth driven by smart capacity management, offering opportunities for UK importers using transhipment hubs like Rotterdam and Felixstowe.
Hapag-Lloyd Warns of Global Uncertainty: The carrier remains cautious due to supply chain disruptions, which may affect services to and from the UK.
Increased Demand for Green Shipping: UK customers are placing growing emphasis on sustainable freight options. Carriers offering carbon offset services and eco-routes are gaining favour among British companies aiming to meet ESG targets.

Innovation & Technology in the UK Logistics Sector

AI & Automation Transforming UK Freight Forwarding: British logistics firms are adopting AI for predictive route planning, cargo tracking, and customs automation. This technology is helping reduce paperwork and improve delivery reliability.
Government Support for Digital Trade Corridors: The UK government is investing in the Single Trade Window project, aiming to streamline border processes and reduce admin for importers and exporters.

Regional Developments & Infrastructure

Freeports Gaining Momentum: UK Freeports such as Thames, Teesside, and Liverpool are seeing increased freight traffic, offering tax incentives and simplified customs processes that benefit forwarders and manufacturers.
UK-Mexico & UK-India Trade Talks: New trade agreements in development are likely to open more streamlined logistics routes and new demand for freight forwarding services.

Summary

The UK freight forwarding industry in 2025 is being reshaped by global pressures and local innovation. From geopolitical tension to green transport solutions and customs reform, logistics providers must stay agile and forward-thinking. Those embracing digital transformation and strategic partnerships will be best positioned to thrive.

About this Blog

If you have any questions about this blog or the current timelines for shipping or Freight Forwarding, please get in touch with us via our website at www.uneek-group.com

Address: Uneek House, Amberley Way, Hounslow, Middlesex, TW4 6BH
Call: +44 (0) 20 8569 4949
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.uneek-group.com
Blog Title: Global Freight Forwarding and Cargo News – May 2025 Update
Blog Author: Mark Watts