The escalating conflict involving Iran is creating significant uncertainty across global supply chains, particularly for freight forwarders and third-party logistics providers. At the center of the disruption is the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping chokepoints, responsible for moving roughly one-fifth of global oil and a substantial volume of international cargo. Recent attacks on vessels, port infrastructure, and energy facilities have already slowed or halted maritime traffic, with some ships stranded and others rerouting to avoid the disruptions. ([Reuters][1])
For logistics companies, the immediate impact is rising costs and reduced capacity. War-risk insurance premiums have surged dramatically, in some cases increasing several-fold, while carriers are adding emergency surcharges to offset heightened risk. ([The Guardian][2]) These added expenses are quickly passed through the supply chain, driving up freight rates and landed costs for shippers. At the same time, many major carriers are suspending services or avoiding the region entirely, tightening available capacity and creating congestion at alternative ports. ([vervologistics.com][3])
Transit times are also becoming less predictable. Rerouting vessels around Africa instead of through the Middle East can add up to two weeks to delivery schedules, disrupting inventory planning and increasing fuel consumption. ([Forbes][4]) Air freight networks are facing similar challenges, with suspended routes and reduced capacity compounding delays for time-sensitive shipments. ([WC Shipping][5]) The result is a ripple effect across global supply chains, including equipment imbalances, port congestion, and inventory shortages that can take months to stabilize.
Beyond operational disruptions, the conflict is also influencing energy markets. Damage to oil and gas infrastructure and restricted transit through the Gulf have already pushed energy prices higher, increasing fuel costs for carriers and adding further pressure to logistics budgets worldwide. ([AP News][6])
To mitigate these risks, companies must prioritize flexibility and proactive planning. Diversifying shipping routes and modes can reduce reliance on high-risk corridors, while building additional lead time into supply chains helps absorb delays. Strong communication with carriers and customers is essential to manage expectations and adjust quickly to changing conditions. Many forwarders are also reassessing contracts, insurance coverage, and contingency plans to better handle sudden disruptions.
In a volatile geopolitical environment, resilience becomes a competitive advantage. Freight forwarders and logistics providers that adapt quickly, leverage alternative networks, and maintain visibility across their operations will be better positioned to navigate the uncertainty and continue delivering reliable service.
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SOURCES:
[1]: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/un-shipping-agency-imo-calls-safe-corridor-evacuate-seafarers-gulf-2026-03-19/ “UN shipping agency IMO calls for safe corridor to evacuate seafarers from Gulf”
[2]: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/mar/20/risk-london-shipping-industry-iran-war-lloyds-of-london-premiums “‘Huge build-up of risk’: London’s centuries-old shipping industry wrestles with Iran war”
[3]: https://vervologistics.com/blog/how-the-current-u-s-iran-conflict-is-affecting-shipping-and-logistics-in-the-gulf “How the Current U.S.-Iran Conflict Is Affecting Shipping and Logistics in the Gulf”
[4]: https://www.forbes.com/sites/briandelp/2026/03/04/iran-conflict-disrupts-supply-chains-as-dual-chokepoint-crisis-unfolds/ “Iran Conflict Disrupts Supply Chains As Dual Chokepoint Crisis Unfolds”
[5]: https://www.wcshipping.com/blog/iran-war-shipping-day-10 “Iran War Shipping Day 10”
[6]: https://apnews.com/article/36037b31738bd9582f0ca617f292839d “The targeting of key Gulf energy infrastructure raises the risk of long-term disruption”
