How will the California Wildfires Affect the Shipping Industry
The California wildfires are among the worst disasters the United States has ever seen. The 2025 California wildfires have caused millions worth of damage and destroyed over 2,000 structures. The disaster affects businesses and residents, as well as the shipping and logistics industries. Wildfires lead to supply chain disruptions, potential insurance changes, and sudden route or schedule changes. Here’s more about how California wildfires will affect the shipping industry—and which impacts may carry into the future.
How Will the California Wildfires Affect the Shipping Industry
The Southern California wildfires have caused power outages, evacuations, and damage to more than 2,000 homes across Los Angeles County. The strong Santa Ana winds meant fast-moving and dangerous fires. Billions of dollars in structural and natural damage have also added to the disaster’s count.
The Los Angeles wildfires and other disasters affect everyone—and they also have an impact on the shipping industry. Emergency shipping delays might happen because of issues along the Pacific Coast Highway and other affected areas, including:
Employee shortages due to evacuation orders
Harsh driving conditions along transport routes
Road closures from smoke, reduced visibility, and downed power lines
Supply chain disruptions
Some areas are shut from access, while other roads may be reserved only for emergency response services.
Supply Chain Disruptions
Disasters and wildfires cause supply chain disruptions, especially during California's raging Pacific Palisades wildfires. Supply chains can’t adapt fast enough, and there may be delays in securing stock from third-party companies.
Prevent similar issues in the future by having a list of alternative third-party companies that are guaranteed to be ready for an emergency. If one of your regular providers can’t keep up, you'll know who to call.
The California Wildfires and Shipping Industry: Route Changes and Alternative Routes
Wildfires and other natural disasters make route changes and alternative routes likely for shipping and logistics. Maintaining the supply chain becomes difficult when:
Roads are closed for public access and open only to emergency services
Routes suddenly closed due to disaster conditions like high winds from the Palisades fires that spread fires that jumped roads.
Shipping should be prepared for this with a list of alternative routes. This should rely on updated and real-time information to be up to speed in a disaster event.
Low-Visibility and Tough Conditions
California wildfires have led to low visibility and tricky driving conditions. Drivers should be prepared to handle changing conditions—and shipping companies should expect that this might cause delays you can do nothing about.
Conditions might change as an emergency progresses—and we’ve certainly seen this happening with the 2025 California wildfires.
A well-maintained fleet can also help your drivers to cope better under harsh conditions.
Changes to Insurance Policies and Payments
Fire damage insurance can be particular. You may not be covered for what you thought you were in the event of a serious emergency. Many companies have sustained thousands in damage and have been unable to recover because they were under-insured during the disaster.
Always call your insurance company to know what your shipping-related insurance policies cover. Adjust your plans before an emergency like the California wildfires.
Employee Shortages
The California wildfires and other similar disasters can lead to employee shortages. When conditions are uncertain, you can’t count on everyone to make it to work. Employees may be unable to make the trip or need time away from the company to be there for family or friends long term.
If you have orders to fulfill and are short-staffed, a temporary workforce could help you fill the gap and make it through an emergency.
Future Disaster Preparedness
The 2025 California wildfires have shown many shipping companies why they must be prepared for the next disaster. Disasters like this can happen anywhere in the world—and many areas are prone to natural disasters that might affect your shipping destinations or hub.
California wildfires are a harsh lesson for many companies. How prepared are you for the next similar disaster—and can your shipping company keep up?
USA Global Logistics
We recognize that not all transportation companies are the same. At USA Global Logistics, our strategic partnerships with vetted carriers, along with our in-house assets create a streamlined ability to handle any need you may have with the world-class customer service you have come to expect from us.
Request a quote today or learn more about our services