Supply Chain Social Media and Updates

Shipping Adopts Airline Hub-and-Spoke to Cut Cargo Handling
SocialMar 13, 2026

Shipping Adopts Airline Hub-and-Spoke to Cut Cargo Handling

Container line shipping and transshipment hubs. Like the airlines’ hub and spoke. For the carriers vs multiple handlings of cargo.

By Tom Craig
Concern Grows Over Strategic Strait of Hormuz Tensions
SocialMar 13, 2026

Concern Grows Over Strategic Strait of Hormuz Tensions

I am sorry @SecWar, but there are some of us are worried about the Strait of Hormuz.

By Sal Mercogliano
Even in the Wrong Sea, Ships Get Escorted
SocialMar 13, 2026

Even in the Wrong Sea, Ships Get Escorted

At least someone is escorting a commercial ship. Wrong sea, but I will take it.

By Sal Mercogliano
Delayed US Naval Escorts Spark Doubts over Hormuz Strategy
SocialMar 13, 2026

Delayed US Naval Escorts Spark Doubts over Hormuz Strategy

It is 5,000 miles from Japan to the Strait of Hormuz. Even if the ships left early and conduct a high transit speed that is 10 to 14 days to get to the scene. If this is going...

By Sal Mercogliano
Iran's Real Power: Controlling the Strait of Hormuz
SocialMar 13, 2026

Iran's Real Power: Controlling the Strait of Hormuz

My take on Iran's biggest advantage in the war: "The US & Israel are making mincemeat out of Iran, but Iranians still hold their key card: the Strait of Hormuz, which remains shut down. A great friend in Dubai said he...

By Steve Hanke
Chemical Shortage Hits Asia as Naphtha Supply Dries Up
SocialMar 13, 2026

Chemical Shortage Hits Asia as Naphtha Supply Dries Up

More than “Five Asian petrochemical plants have declared force majeure in the past ten days because their naphtha supply was cut off at the Strait of Hormuz. The emergency reserves are crude oil. The shortage is chemicals.”

By Samantha LaDuc
Auto Industry Sees Surge in Freight Fraud and Cargo Theft
SocialMar 13, 2026

Auto Industry Sees Surge in Freight Fraud and Cargo Theft

The auto industry people are noticing the massive uptick in freight fraud and cargo theft

By Timothy Dooner
UAE Rail Shifts 459k Tons in Nine Days
SocialMar 13, 2026

UAE Rail Shifts 459k Tons in Nine Days

With the Strait of Hormuz closed, the UAE has turned to its rail network. Etihad Rail Freight has transported 459,000 tons of cargo and 7,900 containers in only 9 days. UAE’S INFRASTRUCTURE MITIGATES THE WAR’S COLLATERAL DAMAGE. https://t.co/cRyWRv4gvD

By Steve Hanke
Simple Time Question Outsmarts Freight Fraud Scammers
SocialMar 13, 2026

Simple Time Question Outsmarts Freight Fraud Scammers

Asking freight fraud scammers what time it is where they are trips them up so much more frequently than you’d think

By Timothy Dooner
Failed Execution Left Strait Open, only Weapons Remain
SocialMar 13, 2026

Failed Execution Left Strait Open, only Weapons Remain

"We had a plan. We just didn't execute it and that is why the Strait is totally open except for the missiles, explosive UUVs, and maybe some mines."

By Nathan Strang
Navy’s Capability Outpaces Capacity, Leaving Few Ready Ships
SocialMar 13, 2026

Navy’s Capability Outpaces Capacity, Leaving Few Ready Ships

Hegseth says the Navy is performing better than expected. He says the Navy had a comprehensive plan for the Strait of Hormuz. He says we have the best warships in the world. He says we have enough munitions. All of that can be true. And...

By John Konrad
Gulf Oil Shock Drives Naphtha Prices up 50%
SocialMar 13, 2026

Gulf Oil Shock Drives Naphtha Prices up 50%

"Gulf oil shock deepens crisis for Asia’s petrochemicals industry" https://t.co/4C3WI6qHaW "Prices of naphtha have jumped by half since last month to $875 a tonne" https://t.co/rNT2eRMXls

By Scott Lincicome
Saudi Bypass of Hormuz Spurs Red Sea Supertanker Surge
SocialMar 13, 2026

Saudi Bypass of Hormuz Spurs Red Sea Supertanker Surge

Supertankers Build Up in Red Sea as Saudi Arabia Races to Bypass Hormuz. The plan and how much the infrastructure can handle. https://t.co/0tUBLK1icp

By Tom Craig
Chinese Zinc Shipments From Iran Cancelled Amid Conflict
SocialMar 13, 2026

Chinese Zinc Shipments From Iran Cancelled Amid Conflict

"In the wake of the conflict in Iran, Chinese buyers have been informed that shipments of zinc concentrates set to leave the port city of Bandar Abbas have been called off, according to people familiar with the matter..." https://t.co/jXqFGxfn43

By Joe Weisenthal
USTR Launches 76 Section 301 Probes, Reviving Tariffs
SocialMar 13, 2026

USTR Launches 76 Section 301 Probes, Reviving Tariffs

Quick update on tariffs in light of this week’s new USTR announcement of over 76 new Section 301 investigations that will likely result in new tariffs being put back in place on substantially all of US imports that were taken...

By Ryan Petersen
Tehran’s Real Leverage: Shutting Hormuz, Not Drone Control
SocialMar 13, 2026

Tehran’s Real Leverage: Shutting Hormuz, Not Drone Control

Everyone wants a Hormuz EZ-Pass but Tehran's primary leverage is keeping the Strait closed to *all* traffic. It's the total supply flow lost—not the destinations— that ultimately matters. And no guarantee that person with whom you're negotiating is controlling the drones. https://t.co/xNoSi9YCh5

By Rory Johnston
Iran’s Missiles, Not Blockage, Are Hormuz’s Real Risk
SocialMar 13, 2026

Iran’s Missiles, Not Blockage, Are Hormuz’s Real Risk

Guys, relax, the only risk in transiting the Strait of Hormuz is that Iran will shoot a missile at your ship. Otherwise it's open for transit. An all-time quote from our Secretary of War. https://t.co/kwQ5Ij84KT

By Ryan Petersen
Helium Shortage Looms as Qatar Supply Disrupted
SocialMar 13, 2026

Helium Shortage Looms as Qatar Supply Disrupted

Everyone is talking about the impact of closing the Strait of Hormuz on oil and gas. I haven't seen much discussion of the war's impact on helium. Most people think of helium as being a fun gas you use for...

By Ryan Petersen
China’s JV Rules Succeed via Approval Leverage, Tariffs, Cheap Currency
SocialMar 13, 2026

China’s JV Rules Succeed via Approval Leverage, Tariffs, Cheap Currency

This is a critical point -- China's JV requirements worked b/c China had to approve investments (so it had leverage) generally speaking & b/c China had relatively high tariffs (25% on autos) and an undervalued exchange rate so there was a...

By Brad Setser
U.S. Targets Iran’s Mine‑Laying Threat in Hormuz
SocialMar 13, 2026

U.S. Targets Iran’s Mine‑Laying Threat in Hormuz

Separate messages today from Secretary Hegseth and Gen. Caine about the Strait of Hormuz. Hegseth disputed recent reporting that administration officials had underestimated the war’s likely impact on the strait, saying Iran “always” tries to hold the waterway “hostage.” “As the world...

By Dan Lamothe
Fraudster Hijacked Produce Shipments Using Fake Company Credentials
SocialMar 13, 2026

Fraudster Hijacked Produce Shipments Using Fake Company Credentials

“In one alleged scheme, Canals used a company's name and email signature block without authorization to contact produce suppliers and request shipments. While the produce was en route, he allegedly diverted the deliveries to a different location and never paid...

By Timothy Dooner
Extended Hormuz Closure Accelerates Alternative Energy Shift
SocialMar 13, 2026

Extended Hormuz Closure Accelerates Alternative Energy Shift

What are the longer term ramifications of an extended closure of the Strait of Hormuz? Growth in alternative energy sources? What else?

By Kyle Samani
Honda Abandons EVs, Faces $15.7B Cost as Startups Surge
SocialMar 13, 2026

Honda Abandons EVs, Faces $15.7B Cost as Startups Surge

"Honda Scraps Plans for E.V.s While Start-Ups Forge Ahead" https://t.co/UTDXx2aZBk "Honda said it expected the cost of switching direction on electric vehicles to total 2.5 trillion yen, or $15.7 billion, this year and in years to come" 😲 https://t.co/4OREGNQjqN

By Scott Lincicome
Suspending Jones Act Could Lower U.S. Fuel Costs
SocialMar 13, 2026

Suspending Jones Act Could Lower U.S. Fuel Costs

"What the Jones Act does and how a Trump suspension could affect fuel prices" https://t.co/goGJwDm2EN https://t.co/s2CTtPeu6A

By Scott Lincicome
Iran Conflict Threatens China's Small-Scale Oil Refineries
SocialMar 13, 2026

Iran Conflict Threatens China's Small-Scale Oil Refineries

NEW ODD LOTS: What War in Iran means for the 'teapot' oil refineries in China. @tracyalloway and I talk to @Erica_Downs_ about what the closure of the Strait of Hormuz means for Chinese energy security. https://t.co/ZdGwLQJV8E

By Joe Weisenthal
German Chemical Producers Slash Output Amid War‑driven Supply Shortages
SocialMar 13, 2026

German Chemical Producers Slash Output Amid War‑driven Supply Shortages

German chemical firms see output cuts as war crimps supplies https://t.co/3dmaDk6yyK via @WillWilkesNews @martin_marilen https://t.co/kS9KPiFuqU

By Zöe Schneeweiss
Modernizing Kiranas with Optimized Supply Chain and Profit Boost
SocialMar 13, 2026

Modernizing Kiranas with Optimized Supply Chain and Profit Boost

We are trying to build a startup aimed at modernizing local kirana stores by providing an optimized supply chain, marketing support, and operational efficiency. Our platform enables kiranas to increase margins, streamline inventory, and serve customers better, while creating a...

By Amisha (operator; B2B retail supply)
Trump Admin Weaponizes Forced‑labor Claims to End Tariffs
SocialMar 13, 2026

Trump Admin Weaponizes Forced‑labor Claims to End Tariffs

Trump admin picks another fight: “forced-labor” accusations as means to a tariff end. ❌ Section 301 permits the U.S. to impose tariffs on countries found to have engaged in unfair trade practices without congressional authorization. https://t.co/4pSaGKCo2K

By Samantha LaDuc
US Ignores Hormuz Closure Risk Amid Iran Bombings
SocialMar 13, 2026

US Ignores Hormuz Closure Risk Amid Iran Bombings

How does the US not plan on the closing of the Strait of Hormuz when it executes a multi-week bombing campaign against Iran. https://t.co/PD1g7fvdte

By Sal Mercogliano
White House Flips: War to Keep Hormuz Open
SocialMar 13, 2026

White House Flips: War to Keep Hormuz Open

I kid you not... The same White House that forgot that didn't realize that Iran might close the Strait of Hormuz, is now arguing (through Ron Vara) that the war is a good idea because it'll prevent Iran from closing...

By Justin Wolfers
Discussing the State of Freight on NewsNation
SocialMar 12, 2026

Discussing the State of Freight on NewsNation

Will be on NewsNation - the Hill on 15 minutes to talk about the State of Freight

By Craig Fuller
Energy Independence Doesn't Mean Price Independence, Oil Can Be Exported
SocialMar 12, 2026

Energy Independence Doesn't Mean Price Independence, Oil Can Be Exported

"You've always got the option of putting that barrel of oil on a tanker and sending it abroad." Which is why energy independence ≠ price independence. https://t.co/BmuaLeZWk6

By Justin Wolfers
Low Inventory, High Turn Boost Freight Demand Outlook
SocialMar 12, 2026

Low Inventory, High Turn Boost Freight Demand Outlook

The LMI is signaling low inventory, high turn retail supply chains. This bodes extremely well for freight carriers, as it means that we will either see: more inventory build in supply chains with slower turns (good for carriers) or a...

By Craig Fuller
Brazil Fears Tighter China Soybean Checks Amid Low Imports
SocialMar 12, 2026

Brazil Fears Tighter China Soybean Checks Amid Low Imports

🇧🇷Brazilian trade groups are concerned with the tightening of soybean inspections to China, potentially hampering the top exporters' shipments. Doesn't seem like great timing for China after its Jan-Feb imports hit 7-year lows. Now, Chinese meal futures have hit contract highs....

By Karen Braun
USNS Catawba Solo Tug Arrives as Salvage Ships Delayed
SocialMar 12, 2026

USNS Catawba Solo Tug Arrives as Salvage Ships Delayed

My buddy @NextNavy makes a great point. The @USNavy and @MSCSealift usually has one fleet tug in the area, the venerable USNS Catawba. But she arrived at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean on March 9. The new class of fleet...

By Sal Mercogliano
Future of Rail: C‑Suite Leaders Shape Next Decade
SocialMar 12, 2026

Future of Rail: C‑Suite Leaders Shape Next Decade

Trains is hosting its first in-person B2B event about the Future of Rail: The next decade in Chattanooga on July 28, 2026. We are working on an unbelievable lineup of C-suite speakers and senior leaders to discuss the future of...

By Craig Fuller
Oil Price Spike Won’t Slash Consumer Goods Volume
SocialMar 12, 2026

Oil Price Spike Won’t Slash Consumer Goods Volume

We've been looking at scenarios on the total volume of goods pumped through the economy, based on current geopolitical developments: Our general view is that the impact of high oil prices isn't as dramatic as one would initially fear in...

By Craig Fuller
Jones Act Waiver Sparks Shipping Policy Clash Amid Global Tensions
SocialMar 12, 2026

Jones Act Waiver Sparks Shipping Policy Clash Amid Global Tensions

Stand by for the brawl between the pro-Jones Act supporters @AMPmaritime and those who favor repeal @CatoInstitute over this proposed Jones Act waiver. Whenever there is a shipping crisis, you can count on this issue to be raised and @SecretaryWright should...

By Sal Mercogliano
Globalist Mole Inside Administration Sabotaged Strait of Hormuz
SocialMar 12, 2026

Globalist Mole Inside Administration Sabotaged Strait of Hormuz

Not gonna sugar coat this and do not care if it costs me my new Pentagon press credentials and access to this administration. The left smeared my name in a major WAPO hit piece and the right can do the...

By John Konrad
90% of Remaining Hormuz Traffic Still Flowing
SocialMar 12, 2026

90% of Remaining Hormuz Traffic Still Flowing

The Straights of Hormuz are closed? Know~Bull Logistics, Leaders, Innovators, Tech 90% of the 20% that was the volume through the straight is still moving. https://t.co/E7omInSzX4 https://t.co/X0ENIOnzx7

By Michael Vincent
Early Input Pricing Shields Farmers Amid Iran War
SocialMar 12, 2026

Early Input Pricing Shields Farmers Amid Iran War

Friend of mine that runs a large agricultural operation just texted: "We locked in pricing for farm inputs late last year & early this year before the Iran War started, which is good because now our suppliers will not even provide...

By Luke Gromen
Tom Hanson Shows AI‑Powered Rapid Retooling and Scalable Innovation
SocialMar 12, 2026

Tom Hanson Shows AI‑Powered Rapid Retooling and Scalable Innovation

Contributor Spotlight: Tom Hanson (p. 16) - retooling at speed, AI-driven resilience and innovating at scale. #Manufacturing #AI #Resilience https://t.co/K6t5frl13c

By Lisa Anderson
From Punjab Fields to Global Urea Crisis
SocialMar 12, 2026

From Punjab Fields to Global Urea Crisis

I have never heard the word Urea since I left our agricultural fields in Punjab, India, in early 1990s. Iran-US has brought the Urea fertilizer supply chain disruption to major news outlets. Yes, I have done the job of spreading...

By Sarbjeet Johal
Saudi Pays Record Tanker Rates to Ship Red Sea Crude
SocialMar 12, 2026

Saudi Pays Record Tanker Rates to Ship Red Sea Crude

Saudi Arabia is booking more and more super oil tankers at sky high rates (>$450,000 a day vs pre-war levels of $100,000 a day) to shift crude from the Red Sea into global markets.

By Javier Blas
Chios Lion Images Show July 2024 Attack, Not Recent
SocialMar 12, 2026

Chios Lion Images Show July 2024 Attack, Not Recent

🚨CHIOS LION 🚨 Anyone seeing images of the Houthis attacking the tanker Chios Lion in the Red Sea, this is a PAST attack. This took place off Yemen on July 14, 2024. I have a story from @gCaptain linked below:...

By Sal Mercogliano
Supply Chain Power Concentrated; Small Players Will Struggle
SocialMar 12, 2026

Supply Chain Power Concentrated; Small Players Will Struggle

Ahead of GTC, since $NVDA is a name on this list, publishing this report on the power a few wield in the supply chain that those without that scale will struggle in securing supply for their demand. Masters of the...

By Ben Bajarin
Hormuz Disruption Threatens Global Fertilizer and Food Security
SocialMar 12, 2026

Hormuz Disruption Threatens Global Fertilizer and Food Security

The Strait of Hormuz isn’t just about oil and gas. It’s about fertilizer. It’s about the supply chains that feed the world. Disrupt them, and the consequences show up months later—smaller harvests, tighter grain supplies, and higher food prices.

By Olivia of Troye
Hormuz Disruption Could Persist for Up to One Month
SocialMar 12, 2026

Hormuz Disruption Could Persist for Up to One Month

If Hormuz flows do not resume for a month, that's the worst-case disruption duration my colleagues at @RapidanEnergy and I modeled last June when we mapped out a US-Iran conflict on global oil and LNG markets and prices. We modeled disruption...

By Bob McNally
Trump Tells Oil, Shipping to Prep For
SocialMar 12, 2026

Trump Tells Oil, Shipping to Prep For

The Trump administration has told U.S. oil companies and shipping groups ​to prepare for a potential waiver of ‌the Jones Act https://t.co/X46i7aSDwu

By Cathy Morrow Roberson