Magaya Corporation, the leading freight management platform for logistics service providers (LSPs), today unveiled a new industry report titled Freight Forwarding at a Crossroads: Preparing for 2026 and Beyond, produced in collaboration with supply chain expert Adrian Gonzalez, President of Adelante SCM. The report underscores a critical truth: static strategies won't survive, and now more than ever, growth requires a bold and decisive mindset shift. Factors driving this shift include heightened disruption across trade policy, increasing customer expectations, and amplification of AI-driven automation.
“The greatest risk in this moment isn't the turbulence itself, it's standing still,” said Adrian Gonzalez, President of Adelante SCM. “Forwarders who make deliberate, strategic bets are setting themselves up not just to survive but to lead the industry forward.”
Key Findings:
45% of forwarders are automating compliance, documentation, and invoicing workflows, but 20% of small forwarders report having no major modernization plans, compared to just 6% of larger firms.
48% cite a lack of internal AI expertise as their biggest barrier to adoption.
90% say trusted relationships are their top success driver, with small forwarders placing even greater emphasis (97%).
“For forwarders to thrive in 2026 and beyond, they must balance technology investment with human connection, workforce upskilling, and outcome-based customer partnerships,” said Ed Rusch, Chief Marketing Officer at Magaya.
An extensive survey of freight forwarders and logistics service providers conducted as part of the research effort revealed that the divide between fast-moving, tech-forward organizations and slower adopters is widening, especially in AI readiness, digital transformation, and customer satisfaction. “The most successful forwarders are building adaptability into their DNA. Our research clearly shows that being wired for change is what it takes to stay ahead when uncertainty is a constant,” added Rusch. The Freight Forwarding at a Crossroads report is available now as a free download, providing benchmarking data, practical tips, and industry insights to inform decision-making.
Examples of key findings:
Biggest AI Challenge: Lack of Internal Expertise or Understanding
For small and larger freight forwarders alike, the biggest concern or challenge their organizations have about using AI—especially more autonomous or agentic AI systems—is “Lack of internal expertise or understanding,” which 48% of the re-spondents selected.
Source: Magaya