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Shipping Lines Implement Surcharges in Anticipation of Potential East Coast Strike

Market Updates|Jan 3, 2025
With the looming threat of a dock strike at U.S. East Coast ports on January 15, 2025, container shipping lines have started imposing emergency surcharges to prepare for significant disruptions in the supply chain. According to a report by Linerlytica, the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) – representing East Coast port operators – have yet to reach an agreement regarding wage negotiations. If the strike proceeds, the closure of all ports and container yards on the U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast could lead to massive disruptions, causing a sharp increase in Pacific freight rates.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. New Emergency Surcharges Implemented
2. Pacific Freight Rates Expected to Surge
3. Impact on Import-Export Businesses
shipping-lines-implement-surcharges-in-anticipation-of-potential-east-coast-strike.webp

1. New Emergency Surcharges Implemented

Major shipping lines have announced surcharge levels to address the current situation:

 

Shipping L

Surcharge Type

Surcharge Amount

Maersk Line

Surcharge for each TEU

$1,500

Surcharge for 40ft container

$3,000

Surcharge for 45ft container

$3,780

CMA CGM

Surcharge for exports from East Coast and Gulf Coast of the US

$800 per TEU, $1,000 per FEU

Import surcharge

$1,500 per TEU

Hapag-Lloyd

Work Disruption Surcharge

$850 per TEU, $1,700 per FEU for imports from Northern Europe, Mediterranean, Africa, Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, Oceania, and Latin America

Work Interruption Destination Surcharge

$1,000 per TEU for imports from East Asia

2. Pacific Freight Rates Expected to Surge

On December 27, 2024, the Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) indicated a significant rise in freight rates across the Pacific:

  • Shanghai to U.S. West Coast: Increased by 9% compared to the previous week, reaching $4,581 per FEU.
  • Shanghai to U.S. East Coast: Increased by approximately 8%, reaching $6,074 per FEU.

Linerlytica noted that after fully recovering from a previous decline, freight rates from China to the U.S. are expected to continue rising sharply in the coming weeks, particularly with the ongoing threat of a strike at U.S. East Coast ports. If the strike happens, shipping lines will impose emergency surcharges ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 per FEU. This will cause a significant rise in freight rates, especially on the U.S. West Coast, as goods are diverted to alternative routes.

3. Impact on Import-Export Businesses

The implementation of emergency surcharges and the rise in freight rates will directly impact businesses involved in international trade, especially those shipping goods through U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. Companies will need to prepare thoroughly for this situation, including adjusting transportation strategies and considering alternative routes.

Real Logistics is here to support you by optimizing your import-export processes, ensuring that your goods are transported quickly and efficiently, even amidst challenges like the current situation. Contact us for expert consultation and assistance to navigate through this challenging period safely and effectively.

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