Spring in Freight Forwarding : Between Recovery and Uncertainty in 2026

After a relatively slow start to the year, demand often picks up again in April. Construction and industrial goods are on the rise (start of the season). There is an increase in international shipments following the winter. Preparations for the summer peak season usually lead to higher capacity utilization. However, pressure from the weak economy persists. The industry is starting 2026 cautiously overall: only slight growth or even stagnation is expected due to uncertainties stemming from the geopolitical situation and trade policy, as well as rising costs (labor, energy, tolls). According to industry forecasts, sentiment remains rather subdued. Digitalization and AI continue to be rolled out. However, many projects, such as automated scheduling, AI-supported route planning, and digital customer platforms, are launching in April.

Shippers/companies are investing heavily to become more efficient. There are changes in global supply chains. Opportunities in local sales. Also visible in the spring: a shift in supply chains (e.g., Asia → Europe/Eastern Europe). Greater focus on resilience rather than just costs. Expansion of land routes between Europe and Asia. Major freight forwarders are continuously expanding their networks. Wage negotiations & political issues. April is often a busy month for:

Wage negotiations in the transport sector, discussions on CO₂ regulations, tolls, sustainability, the influence of associations such as the DSLV (German Association of Freight Forwarders and Logistics), and preparations for major industry events—even though the major trade fair Transport Logistic won’t take place again until 2027—are underway:

1. Smaller industry conferences
2. Regional logistics events
3. Strategic partnerships and deals
4. Day-to-day operational challenges

Typical issues that are particularly noticeable in April:

1. The driver shortage remains critical
2. Rising cybersecurity risks
3. Constraints on certain transport capacities