Top 5 US transport and logistics trends to watch in 2026

The US logistics industry has an eventful year ahead in 2026. The push for CO₂ emissions reduction in logistics is getting stronger. Laws requiring drivers to speak English are now being enforced more strictly. Many operators are busy modernizing their fleets and workflows. At the same time, a lot of companies are nearshoring their supply chains.

Especially if you’re shipping sensitive goods like pharmaceuticals, high-value goods or food and beverages, 2026 will be a year to double-down on accurate data, steady capacity and sustainable logistics with a clear audit trail.

Here’s our quick guide to the top five US transport and logistics trends for 2026.

1. New environmental reporting rules

When it comes to sustainable logistics, US companies will face stricter rules in 2026. California is rolling out new emissions reporting rules under SB 253 and SB 261. These regulations apply to all companies doing business in California with annual revenue of $1 billion or more. Those companies will have to provide detailed reports on carbon emissions across their supply chains. Several other states are working on similar laws, including Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Minnesota and Washington.

Meanwhile, to promote sustainable logistics, US highways are being modernized to include rapid-charging corridors along major routes. This will make electric trucks a more viable option for many companies. We expect to see a lot of operators transitioning to more sustainable fleets, so they can stay ahead of new sustainability rules and demands from their customers.

If your business is affected by new disclosure rules in 2026, it’s useful to have tools that track and report CO₂ emissions automatically and accurately. New emissions tracking tools make that much easier by turning live transport data into audit-ready sustainability reports.

2. Freight gets flexible with Fleet-as-a-Service

More shippers across the country are discovering the flexibility of Fleet-as-a-Service (FaaS). Under this major trend, instead of laying out big bucks for your own vehicles, you work with FaaS providers and only pay for the trucks, trailers or yard space you actually use. This shared model gives you more agility and the ability to rapidly scale up or down with much lower overhead.

FaaS is part of a broader trend throughout the business world of outsourcing ownership of critical equipment. Companies are learning that this approach lowers their risk of being stuck owning equipment all year long, regardless of seasonal fluctuations in their activities. It’s also a more environmentally friendly option that cuts down on idle equipment and empty miles, as it enables multiple companies to distribute loads more optimally across shared vehicles and equipment on an as-needed basis.

3. Automation reaches new levels

Driver shortages and warehouse turnover are still big challenges across the industry. That’s why automation is going to be an even bigger priority in 2026. Warehouse robots will take on repetitive tasks. Autonomous and semi-autonomous trucks will start to handle longer routes.

With technologies that enable efficient transport, United States companies can do more, despite understaffing. You can also benefit from digital planning and visibility tools that keep human and automated operations in sync. Modern transport management systems enable everyone to see the same ETAs, routes and temperature data in real time.

4. Supply chains come home

The geopolitical situation still looks pretty uncertain for 2026. That’s why more manufacturers are looking to reduce risks, shorten lead times and serve customers faster by reshoring or nearshoring production to North America. This is already leading to more regional lanes, tighter cross-border routes with Mexico and growing demand for domestic road transport.

For logistics teams, planning shorter, more frequent runs will be key to staying ahead. You’ll need transport management systems that give you clear visibility across every leg of the journey, including emissions tracking and temperature control for sensitive goods.

5. Digital infrastructure catches up

If your company is still using Excel and emails to manage shipments, 2026 is a great year to update your workflows. To enable efficient transport, United States carriers and shippers are moving to live transport management systems that let you plan, track and document shipments all in one place.

These platforms show where each truck is, what space is available and when the next delivery is due. Through supply chain digitization, US companies can easily share shipment data with partners and customers in real time, instead of having to chase after updates by email or phone.

With cargo theft rising by 13% in Q2 2025 compared to last year, end-to-end visibility is also becoming an essential safety tool. It lowers the risk of theft by giving you much more insight into what’s going on at all times with each load.

Ready for 2026?

For many companies, the year ahead will bring stricter reporting rules, cleaner fleets and faster data. Food, pharma and high-value shipments can benefit now by switching to modern transport management systems that offer end-to-end visibility. That means steadier temperatures, lower risks and more accurate ETAs.

With the right digital tools in place, 2026 can be the year your logistics network runs cleaner, safer and more connected than ever. Want to learn how CtrlChain can help? Book your free intro today!