Global Freight Market Insights
Impact your business with timely information on global freight trends that could affect capacity availability, pricing, and more. Create and download custom reports by adding your preferred ocean and air trade lanes—then, check back monthly for updates.
To deliver our market insights to our global audiences in the timeliest manner possible, we rely on machine translations to translate these insights from English.
-
-
-
-
-
Copy to clipboardCopy to clipboardLink Copied
Updated on 16 November, 2023
The following information is built on market data from public sources and C.H. Robinson’s information advantage—based on our experience, data, and scale. Use these insights to stay informed, assist with decision making to potentially mitigate risk, and hopefully help avoid disruptions to your supply chain.
Customize and download this report
Select the topics you would like to export:
Explore all market insights
Global Market Overview
Navigating the intricacies of domestic, cross-border and international delivery demands a thoughtful strategy focused on enhancing efficiency and reducing expenses. One effective solution lies in consolidating freight transportation and customs brokerage under the management of a single third party logistics provider (3PL).
Relying on a single entity to manage both facets of your supply chain can unlock a wide range of benefits—moving you one step closer to seamless delivering operations. See what it takes and empower your business to effortlessly overcome the complexities of cross-border trade.
1. Improve efficiency across operations
Consolidating both freight and customs brokerage with a single logistics provider streamlines operations, cuts out unnecessary tasks, reduces administrative hassles, and decreases the chances of errors. Not to mention, the flow of information between freight forwarding and customs clearance is seamless. This not only speeds up processing times but also ensures more efficient border crossings by removing bottlenecks.
2. Simplify communication channels
Working with a logistics provider removes the hassle of co-ordinating communications across many service providers. Instead, you'll have a designated point of contact with established communication channels, ensuring consistent, timely updates and swift resolution to any potential issues. This unified approach promotes transparent and efficient supply chain management, allowing you to concentrate on your core competencies.
3. Reduce unnecessary expenses
Consolidating services to one 3PL not only streamlines administrative processes, but also helps you to leverage the economies of scale. With higher volumes of freight to work with, your provider can better negotiate competitive rates on your behalf and deliver more accurate forecasting—for more precise bids in the future.
Other ways to maximise your bottom line can be achieved by capitalising on newfound efficiencies. For example, by working with a single provider, you can avoid paying documentation handover fees you may not even be aware of. These fees can be incurred from both the freight forwarder and the customs broker.
Collaborating with consistent experts to implement best practices can help to boost your bottom line by avoiding common mistakes and their associated penalties.
Global suite of services
Supply chain solutions from a single provider minimises the need for multiple providers while still meeting all your logistics and technology needs today and in the future. When evaluating potential providers, ensure that they offer multimodal services in the regions of the world where you operate—from domestic truckload to specialised air freight. For truly seamless delivery, your 3PL should be able to oversee everything from simple deliveries to your most complex freight needs.
Compliance management expertise
When it comes to navigating the intricacies of customs regulations, your in-house team may not have the expertise required. A dedicated provider possesses in-depth understanding of customs regulations, documentation and trade compliance across different countries and regions. Relying on their expertise allows you to optimise your deliveries for compliance with the requisite regulations, reducing the chances of delays, penalties and other compliance-related complications.
Visibility across your entire supply chain
Cutting-edge technology platforms, such as Navisphere®, provide real-time tracking and monitoring capabilities, so you are always in the loop on your freight’s location. Having transparency and traceability throughout the delivery process empowers you to proactively handle potential disruptions, mitigate risks and make well-informed decisions to optimise your supply chain operations.
Effectively manage trade across all levels
In today's interconnected global economy, managing complex logistics solutions and navigating region- and industry-specific regulations are essential for successful delivery. Opting to consolidate your freight transportation and customs brokerage under one third-party logistics provider is a savvy move—for a smoother overall experience.
Connect with our experts to see how working with one provider for all your transportation and customs brokerage needs can affect your business.
Get the latest market updates delivered to your inbox
Thank you for signing up for the global forwarding freight updates from C.H. Robinson. Read our global privacy notice.
Air Freight Update
It is likely demand will increase in the next two months due to the typical year-end consumer spending surge. There has been a gradual increase in rates and tightening of capacity in specific trade lanes as a result. In general, there’s no significant capacity issues. Expect rates to hold up into the new year.
Be aware of increased demand leading to potential capacity constraints. Monitor for any changes in regulations due to the evolving pandemic situation.
Potential labour strikes by air traffic controllers in Southern Europe might affect flight schedules. Check for updates on regulatory changes affecting air cargo.
Fluctuating COVID-19 regulations may affect air cargo operations. Keep an eye on any local labour strikes or protests affecting airport operations.
The U.S. export market is stable as demand remains low relative to capacity. Capacity is generally available globally with few exceptions.
U.S. imports continues to experience stronger demand from Asia during high season than during the summer months. With very little additional capacity entering the market, expect the spot market to remain tight through November and into early December. December should see lower volumes, though it will likely be met with reduced capacity in response.
For Europe exports to the United States., the market remains relatively well-balanced between capacity and demand, even with the capacity reductions that come with the winter schedule. While a surge in demand is not expected, if demand increases, there may be some capacity challenges and spot market rate increases.
Capacity to Oceania continues to grow, however there are some capacity restraints caused by Northern summer season travel and additional fuel loads required—particularly from North America on direct flights. Softening of these restrictions and further additional capacity is expected throughout Q4 2023.
There are fewer restrictions from both Europe and Asia to and from Oceania and ample support for cargo demand.
The export market is softer overall to most destinations. With capacity exceeding demand, spot rates are likely to remain lower throughout the month.
Middle East tensions might lead to air space restrictions. Keep watch for any sudden updates. COVID-19 protocols can also affect cargo handling in some countries.
As the situation in Israel evolves, C.H. Robinson will continue to work closely with Ruth Cargo, our exclusive agent in Israel, to stay on top of the events and the impact those will have on supply chains in the region.
Several international airlines have already adjusted their flight schedules in response to the situation and it's unknown at present when they will return to normal operations. While Israeli airlines have increased their flight frequency, it’s unlikely this will offset the capacity lost from foreign airlines—C.H. Robinson is adjusting solutions accordingly.
Market Insights Live! Ways to Win in Today’s Market
Tune in for new ways to leverage today’s softer market, and strategies to prepare for the next shift.
Ocean Freight Update
Ocean freight demand on most trade lanes is not meaningfully increasing. In parallel, additional capacity continues to be delivered into the global fleet.
Alphaliner reports that January 2023 through July 2023 saw deliveries of new vessels totaling 1.2 million TEUs entering the global fleet, with less than 80,000 TEUs capacity removed through vessel scrapping. Another 1.2 million TEUs are expected to be added by the end of the year. To put this into perspective, the previous single-year record for annual growth was about 1.7 million TEUs in 2015.
Overall vessel capacity continues to trend higher than demand, keeping rates from long-lasting or significant increases. As such, the steamship lines will continue voiding sailings and slow steaming. This allows them to allocate more vessel/capacity per service and save on bunker costs.
Carriers are also suspending full services (such as the PS5 and PN3 on the Trans-Pacific) or cutting down service size drastically (such as the TA2 on the Trans-Atlantic). Consequently, delays and cargo rollover on head haul routes, as well as empty equipment congestion at backhaul route origins are becoming more common.
This lack of stability in schedules and transit times is a challenge that will likely continue for months to come. With a provider like C.H. Robinson, such challenges may turn into an opportunity to improve your supply chain management strategy.
November spot freight rates for the Trans-Pacific trade lane and Asia-Europe have rebounded, riding on the back of short- and long-term capacity cuts. However, the sustainability of the rate hikes will largely depend on carriers’ ability to manage the excess capacity in the market. New vessel deliveries in October exceeded 200,000 TEUs for the fifth consecutive month while vessel scrapping remains immaterial.
THE Alliance announced the withdrawal of the EC4 service from mid-November, which takes out 12,000 TEUs of weekly of trade capacity from Southeast Asia to the U.S. East Coast.
Demand continues to be soft on this trade lane. Vessel capacity far exceeds demand. The Journal of Commerce reports that rates have fallen by as much as 80% year-over-year on this trade.
THE Alliance’s removal of the FE5 in November marks the first service withdrawn this year in the Asia-Europe trade lane, while 2M and OCEAN have only relied on ad hoc blank sailings. This has helped support the much-needed 1 November 2023, rate restoration for carriers as they prepare to start the 2024 BCO contract negotiations. Overall capacity in November is expected to fall for the second straight month.
- Expect potential delays in major ports due to customs clearance and container availability issues. Monitor weather patterns, especially during hurricane season.
- Strikes by dockworkers in major European ports, especially in the Mediterranean, may cause delays. Keep contingency plans for rerouting if necessary.
- Ongoing rail maintenance in Central Europe might cause temporary disruptions. Watch for any labour disputes affecting rail services.
- Continued low water levels at the Rhine River are affecting barge transports due to draught restrictions. As of October 2023, a pass-through low water surcharge from the carriers will be assessed for both import and export cargo.
The EU will implement a carbon tax system called the Emissions Trading System (ETS) that will apply to the delivery industry effective in January 2024. Ocean carriers are advising that ETS will significantly increase their costs, which will be passed on to cargo owners.
Analysts are advising that ETS could also cause ocean carriers to adjust their delivery schedules into and out of Europe, which could significantly disrupt European supply chains. The costs are expected to be announced at the end of November/early December 2023.
Due to low water levels at the reservoir feeding the Panama Canal, draught restrictions have been in place since April 2023. In conjunction with the draught restrictions, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) lowered the daily transits through the canal to 32 vessels per day effective 30 July 2023, reduced from the usual 34-38 vessels per day. As of 3 November 2023, the daily transits were once again decreased from 31 to 25. There are plans to gradually reduce further over the next three months to 18 slots a day by 1 February 2024.
As a result of persistent civil unrest in Guatemala, the ports in that country have been inaccessible. Carriers are now announcing that they will need to divert vessels away from Guatemala ports until the ports re-open.
Congestion at transshipment ports in Asia remains an issue. Deliveries can be delayed as much as 10-14 days at many major transshipment ports, such as Busan and Singapore. All the delays at transshipment ports are leading carriers to push for business on direct services only. Congestion is expected to ease in the coming months as volumes on the Asia trade lanes continue to decline.
A wave of new vessel capacity will enter the market in Q4 2023 and into 2024. The vessels are mainly expected to be added to the Asia trade lanes, which will further widen the gap between capacity and demand.
Demand has dropped off significantly, particularly on the Trans-Atlantic westbound (TAWB) trade lane, which has created significant overcapacity from the U.S. East Coast (USEC) to Europe.
Space is still tight (ex U.S. West Coast (USWC) to Europe) due to lack of sailing options and carriers are substantially booked on the all-water services (ex Los Angeles and Oakland).
Continued low water levels at the Rhine River are affecting barge transports due to draught restrictions. As of October 2023, a pass-through low water surcharge from the carriers will be assessed for both import and export cargo.
Space is improving to East Coast South America (ECSA) ports, especially from (USEC) and U.S. Gulf Coast (USGC) ports. Carriers are also significantly improving their vessel space capacity being offered (ex USWC ports to ECSA and West Coast South America (WCSA) ports).
Due to lengthy drought conditions, the water levels on the Amazon River into Manaus port have been low for some time. Carriers cancelled direct services and started to introduce indirect services so smaller vessels would be used for the transport along the river leading to Manaus port.
As water levels worsened, carriers have been imposing significant low water surcharges into Manaus. Now, further reduction in water levels have caused carriers to announce a temporary suspension of service until water levels can be improved.
Direct carrier service is available both from the USEC and USWC ports, however, high season is approaching so space will tighten. C.H. Robinson highly recommends booking 3-4 weeks in advance.
Transshipment options to Oceania have improved and there is now more space capacity available.
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug fumigation season is once again in effect for all vessels departing from the United States between 1 September 2023, through May 2024.
Space is improving on this trade lane in general, especially with several carriers announcing they are re-opening space and service into this market. However, stay aware of pockets where space is tight and regular blank sailings still occur.
Space is most readily available (ex USEC ports) where there are more direct services. Among USEC ports, space is more available (ex New York and Norfolk ports).
Space (ex USGC ports) continues to be very tight, but it has improved slightly.
The Trans-Tasman market has continued to soften. Space and equipment availability is still widely open. Rates are still being reviewed regularly with the introduction of new options on this trade lane.
Direct carrier space is stabilising from the USEC and continues to be open off the USWC while trans-delivery service options are widely available. Rates have stabilised with supply versus demand being okay.
The Europe to Oceania market continues to see direct carriers trying to hold market share as rates are revised in small increments while supply continues to outweigh demand, with space and equipment readily available for dry cargo.
Northeast Asia supply continues to tighten as carriers increase blank sailing/port omissions, while demand remains steady from Southeast Asia to Oceania. There are continued general rate increases (GRIs) being implemented from Northeast Asia to Australia, Australian East Coast ports and New Zealand.
Export rates are under pressure. Wastepaper, grain, wool and cotton/cotton seed are still moving in large numbers with load factors strong for the next several weeks but coming up against constant competition and rate pressure. Currently, 20'GP/food quality is hard to forecast for Melbourne and Adelaide amidst solid grain season. Feeder space to ISC is tight across most carriers with small allocations against demand from Singapore.
Watch for port congestion in major hubs such as Dubai and potential delays due to geopolitical events affecting delivery routes.
Rail infrastructure development in South Asia may cause temporary disruptions. Political unrest in certain areas might affect cross-border rail deliveries.
The recent outbreak of conflict in Israel has caused disruption and port congestion in the region, but for now, carriers are continuing to offer service to all Israeli ports. The port most at risk is Ashdod and some carriers are choosing to divert their vessels from Ashdod to Haifa.
There is also a severe limitation placed on the acceptance of HAZMAT goods into Israeli ports. Several carriers have announced a war risk surcharge for deliveries to/from Israel and the amounts vary.
In past similar events, carriers’ insurance for vessels transiting through war zones have gone up, which leads to a pass-through charge of war risk surcharges. Carriers may also change their routings to avoid the area. The proximity of the Suez Cana, while unaffected, will be something to watch as well. Steamship lines could route vessels via Cape of Good Hope, with increased transit times and additional fuel costs, which could trigger further BAF increases in the future.
Inland Drayage Update
The domestic transportation market increased with the arrival of the traditional high season. Freight rates experience a brief rebound as the demand for transportation grows compared to earlier in the year (i.e., Q2 and Q3). The transportation market is expected to maintain until the end of the year. But due to the decline in overall demand compared to last year, trucking capacity is still in a surplus state and asset-heavy transport fleets are under pressure to feed drivers and vehicles.
Transit time in the Pingxiang port from China to Southeast Asia now is 2-3 days as there is a volatile rise in the cross-border trucking demand. There are a variety of options to speed up your border crossings, work with C.H. Robinson to find the right solution for you. Meanwhile, there is no congestion situation for import trucking from Southeast Asia to China after fruit seasons.
Keep an eye on labour strikes in rail companies, particularly in countries such as Brazil where several strikes have occurred so far this year. Infrastructure challenges might lead to temporary halts in rail services.
With more cargo being shifted to the Southeast, Savannah, Charleston and Jacksonville are working on new projects that will increase port capacity and accommodate larger vessels.
Savannah
The Georgia Port Authority recently shared the state’s Department of Transportation would be raising a bridge over the Savannah River to accommodate larger ships.
Charleston
South Carolina will launch a project to raise one of the Charleston area’s major bridges, allowing the North Charleston Terminal to handle vessels up to 20,000 TEUs hoping to attract cargo volumes moving through the Suez Canal.
Jacksonville
The Port of Jacksonville is raising power lines that span a waterway there, limiting the size of vessels that can call the port.
Cleveland
Chassis availability is critically low for exports in the Cleveland market. The wait time overall is better, but still seems to be worse at NS than CSX.
Columbus
Carriers are still advising frequent chassis deficits. These issues are more severe for export freight. Despite these issues they advise that wait times are lightning and carriers are reporting open capacity.
Memphis
A new chassis pool has launched in Memphis that the operator hopes will provide a better experience for truckers and cargo owners frustrated with restrictions over which chassis can be used to haul ocean containers.
ONE containers in Union Pacific Railroad’s Memphis terminal will be mounted onto MPOC chassis and the pool will also have a depot inside BNSF Railway’s terminal to supply truckers with equipment.
In the BNSF ramp, any MPOC chassis can be used on any container for most merchant haulage cargo. As for Canadian National, CSX and Norfolk Southern Railways, these are grounded terminals so there are currently no restrictions in many situations.
BNSF Memphis is anticipating delays due to crane issues. The railroad has reported there is a crane down and currently there is no estimated return to service. This could affect deliveries and appointment times. There is also a potential for increased driver wait time accessorial charges.
LA/LB ports
It has been confirmed that the ITS terminal in Long Beach will remain open, however they are not accepting any vessels until further notice.
Empty stop-offs are currently increasing. Limited return appointments are causing drivers to return the container to their yard. C.H. Robinson is still trying to understand the trend, looking into carriers with more stops offs than others and addressing the issue on an individual basis. Carriers are required to provide back up for any additional charges that occur.
Pier Pass charges increased starting 1 November 2023:
- 40ft = $71.14
- 20ft = $35.57
Montreal
The contract between union labour and the port of Montreal authority expires on 31 December, 2023. Contract talks have begun and based on initial reports the two sides are far apart. If there is any disruption to the port of Montreal operations due to these negotiations, anticipate significant cargo diversion to the USEC and Halifax/Saint John ports.
Australian port logistics and landside container transport services are operating at levels below optimum following the announcement of Planned Industrial Action at DP World Terminals across Australia.
Work bans and stoppages are scheduled to continue throughout the month of November affecting Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Fremantle terminals. C.H. Robinson will continue to monitor the situation; watch for updates in our Client Advisories.
As reported in October, work continues with the new phase of the Westgate Tunnel project in Melbourne, Victoria. Major arterials will be heavily congested and shippers should expect delays with:
- The closure of Wurundjeri Way until December 2023
- Significant lane restrictions (Westbound and Eastbound) on Footscray Road in the Swanson Precinct of the Port of Melbourne
As a result, expect an increase in missed time slots and truck turnaround times with transport operators potentially looking to recoup additional costs with the introduction of congestions fees.
National empty parks have given notice of pricing increases through November. Review the latest Wharf Ancillary Charges Client Advisory for more information.
Customs Update
Visit our Trade & Tariff Insights page for the latest news, insights, perspectives and resources from our customs and trade policy experts.
Australia is experiencing delays with the processing of quarantine entries and longer delays where inspections of cargo is required. In New Zealand, customs and processing times are currently operating at levels within capacity with no reported delays.
Earlier this month, an announcement was made that Australia has decided to walk away from negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Europe. Negotiations have been ongoing since 2018, with discussion that both parties will need to re-engage in conversations following the 2024 elections in Europe.
U.S. Tariff Search Tool
Stay up to date with client advisories
Receive notices on changing regulations when they happen.
Customize and download this report
Trade lane updates
Use these insights to forecast how capacity changes and trends impact your business. Create customized, shareable reports by adding your preferred trade lanes. Check back each month for the latest updates in the lanes you care about. Updated ocean and air freight market insights will be available the third Thursday of each month.
Add a trade lane
Trade lane {origin} to {destination} is not available.
Trade lane {origin} to {destination} is already listed.
Africa To Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space is generally available out of South and East Africa, rates are stable
- North Africa rates are up; vessel schedules are unreliable; recommend booking in advance
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Spot rates are fluctuating based on conditions at the time of booking
Africa To Europe
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space is generally available; rates out of South Africa are volatile; East Africa rates are stable
- North Africa rates are up
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Spot rates are fluctuating based on conditions at the time of booking
Africa To Latin America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- East and South Africa rates are holding while North Africa rates are increasing; vessels are mostly sailing full
- Transshipments are causing transit delays; recommend booking in advance
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Capacity is limited with extended transit times
Africa To Middle East
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- North Africa rates are up; space is generally available; rates are stable to down out of South and East Africa
- Conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Spot rates are fluctuating based on conditions at the time of booking
Africa To North America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- South and East Africa rates are flat yet high; North Africa rates are up; space is tight, recommend booking in advance
- Expect long transit times due to port of loading and transshipment port delays
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- High demand is creating backlogues
- Spot rates are fluctuating
Africa To Oceania
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- North Africa rates are up
- Space is generally available and rates are stable out of South and East Africa
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Demand and capacity are relatively balanced
Africa To South Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- North Africa rates are up; Diwali Holiday in India
- Space is generally available and rates are stable out of South and East Africa
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Demand and capacity are relatively balanced
Asia To Africa
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Added capacity to Africa trade lane will lead to rates staying stable or down
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Capacity is tightening as demand trends up
Asia To Europe
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Market rates may stop decreasing as current levels are not sustainable for steamship lines
- Carriers are trying to push rate increases
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Demand remains strong with tight capacity into major markets like Amsterdam, Frankfurt and Paris
Asia To Latin America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Demand is steady but there is extra capacity in the lane to accommodate it
- Rates to East Coast South America are increasing
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Capacity is tightening as demand trends up
Asia To Middle East
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Spot rates to Gulf remain flat
- Conflict in Israel has not affected services in the region at present
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up over month
- Capacity is tightening as demand trends up
Asia To North America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Demand is recovering after the Golden Week Holiday; steamship lines are trying to push rate increases
- THE Alliance has announced EC4 service suspension, reducing East Coast weekly capacity by 12,000 TEUs/week
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Market tightening as demand increases without compensating capacity
- Ecommerce is driving overall demand
Asia To Oceania
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Higher rates are expected to hold
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Demand is relatively light
Asia To South Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Market demand may decrease after the Diwali Holiday
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Demand is relatively light
Europe To Africa
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- This lane remains stable
- Space is relatively open
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Capacity and rates are stable month over month
Europe To Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- This lane remains stable
- Space is above the demand, pulling rates down
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Demand remains moderate, allowing for easier access to capacity
- Demand expected to increase slightly through year end
Europe To Latin America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Rates are still decreasing as steamship lines try to attract volumes
- New Service from COSCO, OOCL and ONE available
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Overall stable market, with a balance of capacity and demand
Europe To Middle East
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- This lane remains stable
- Space is relatively open; conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Overall stable market
Europe To North America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Space is still above the demand
- Carriers push general rate increases (GRIs) to bring rates up from the unsustainable levels they have reached
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Demand will determine the upcoming spot rates as capacity reductions have brought more balance to the market
Europe To Oceania
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Market rates stopped decreasing, but steamship lines keep trying to attract volumes
- Space remains above demand
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Overall stable with access to capacity and medium level rates
Europe To South Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- This lane remains stable; Diwali Holiday in India
- Space remains above the demand
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Capacity and rates are stable
Latin America To Africa
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Lane is not short of capacity, but availability is at higher rates; equipment shortage out of Colombia
- Some low rate carriers have sold out vessels weeks in advance as those services also call North Europe
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Options are limited and require connections via Europe or Middle East
Latin America To Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Rates are stable to down, carriers look to reposition container equipment back to Asia
- Equipment shortage out of Columbia
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Fruit season driving high demand from Chile and Argentina
Latin America To Europe
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Main volume destination for Latin America; capacity fairly available but at higher rates out of Uruguay
- Rates are volatile depending on the origin; equipment shortage out of Columbia; Argentina space still full and rates are up
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Market is stable, but demand for perishables could affect general cargo capacity
Latin America To Middle East
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Rates are generally stable but space is volatile; conflict in Israel may potentially disrupt services in the region
- Some low rate carriers have sold out vessels weeks in advance as those services also call North Europe
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Capacity is available
Latin America To North America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Main volume destination for Latin America; West and East have space challenges; recommend booking in advance
- Rates are volatile depending on the origin, mostly trending up; some services are full weeks out
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Capacity is generally available
Latin America To Oceania
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- This lane is stable
- Equipment shortages out of Columbia
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Options are limited and require connections via Europe or Middle East
Latin America To South Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Rates are mostly trending flat to down; carriers look to reposition container equipment back to India
- Equipment shortage out of Columbia; Diwali Holiday in India
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Options are limited and require connections via Europe or Middle East
Middle East To Africa
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- High rates and tight space out of the Gulf; conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
- Rates are softening and space is available out of Turkey
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Israel is the exception to the mentioned market conditions
- Many airlines are cancelling flights due to the conflict in Israel; expect high spot market rates
Middle East To Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Rate are decreasing out of Turkey and holding out of the Gulf; space available overall
- Conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Israel is the exception to the mentioned market conditions
- Many airlines are cancelling flights due to the conflict in Israel; expect high spot market rates
Middle East To Europe
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Flat rates and open space out of Turkey; conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
- Tighter space out of the Gulf with some rate increases; this is one of the main volume destinations from Middle East
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Israel is the exception to the mentioned market conditions
- Many airlines are cancelling flights due to the conflict in Israel; expect high spot market rates
Middle East To Latin America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space fairly open out of the Gulf, stable rates; conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
- Rates are generally down out of Turkey; space is open
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Israel is the exception to the mentioned market conditions
- Many airlines are cancelling flights due to the conflict in Israel; expect high spot market rates
Middle East To North America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space fairly open out of the Gulf, stable rates; conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
- Rates are slowly trending up out of Turkey
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Israel is the exception to the mentioned market conditions
- Many airlines are cancelling flights due to the conflict in Israel; expect high spot market rates
Middle East To Oceania
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space fairly open out of the Gulf, stable rates; conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
- Space overall workable out of Turkey, rates are down
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Israel is the exception to the mentioned market conditions
- Many airlines are cancelling flights due to the conflict in Israel; expect high spot market rates
Middle East To South Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space fairly open out of the Gulf, stable rates; conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
- Rates are generally down out of Turkey; space is open
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- Israel is the exception to the mentioned market conditions
- Many airlines are cancelling flights due to the conflict in Israel; expect high spot market rates
North America To Africa
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Congestion persists at South Africa ports
- Conflicts in certain Africa regions such as Sudan continue to disrupt supply chains
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Capacity into Africa is stable
North America To Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Blank sailings will persist due to weak demand; slow steaming affecting schedule reliability
- New capacity entering market in Q4 2023 may further destabilise the trade
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Overall capacity into Asia is stable with ample space availability into major hubs
North America To Europe
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Significant vessel capacity on the U.S. East Coast outstripping demand; carriers downsising vessels to reduce capacity
- Stable U.S. Gulf and West Coast services; tight space ex. West Coast; Pacific Northwest supported via rail to East Coast
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- The transition to the winter schedule is complete; capacity is anticipated to remain stable
North America To Latin America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending up month over month
- U.S. East Coast space to both South America Coasts is stable; high season and rate increases are ongoing
- Improved space and service out of Gulf Coast; U.S. West Coast is indirect but space is mostly open
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Demand remains moderate, allowing easier access to capacity
North America To Middle East
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Regular blank sailings out of South Atlantic ports; tight space but more options from Northeast Coast
- Improving capacity out of U.S. West and Gulf Coasts; more carrier options, but space remains tight
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Capacity into the Middle East remains stable
North America To Oceania
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space is open for direct and indirect services out of U.S. West and Gulf Coasts; demand increases with high season
- Space tightening out of U.S. East Coast due to demand increase and capacity removal by CMA on PAD service
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Additional passenger flights are entering the market during Q4 2023
North America To South Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Blank sailings out of U.S. Southeast ports due to low eastbound demand; tighter space out of the Gulf with fewer options
- Added capacity out of U.S. West Coast; space still extremely tight due to dried fruit and nuts and growing season
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Capacity into South Asia has increased marginally as demand remains low
Oceania To Africa
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Capacity has been increased and pricing is stable
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
Oceania To Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Service is back to normal; space and equipment are available
- Rates are trending down
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Demand expected to increase on the Trans-Tasman market
Oceania To Europe
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space is becoming more available; rates are stable
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Ample capacity availability to most destinations
Oceania To Latin America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Continued capacity control from carriers and equipment repositioning continues to keep space tight
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
Oceania To Middle East
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Equipment is available
- Space is slowly opening up; conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
Air freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Ample capacity availability to most destinations
Oceania To North America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Space is available and rates are decreasing
- Further rate decreases could affect carrier sustainability too much and lead to capacity cuts
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Ample capacity availability to most destinations
Oceania To South Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- More carrier options have opened up in the market
- Steamship lines continue to decrease rates to maintain filing factors
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Ample capacity availability to most destinations
South Asia To Africa
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space is open and rates are stable to up out of India and Bangladesh; Diwali Holiday
- Pakistan rates are increasing and space is tight due to mango season
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- European and Middle Eastern airlines are adding flights
South Asia To Asia
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space is open and rates are stable to up out of India and Bangladesh; Diwali Holiday
- Pakistan rates are increasing and space is tight due to mango season
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Capacity is increasing as a result of new passenger flights
South Asia To Europe
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Demand is trending down out of India, along with rates; Bangladesh rates are stable; Diwali Holiday
- Pakistan rates are flat and space is tight due to mango season
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Capacity is increasing as a result of new passenger flights
South Asia To Latin America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space is open and rates are stable to up out of India and Bangladesh; Diwali Holiday
- Pakistan rates are increasing and space is tight due to mango season
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Capacity remains relatively low with limited options
- Lower cost options are available via Miami
South Asia To Middle East
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Space is open and rates are stable to up out of India and Bangladesh; Diwali Holiday
- Pakistan rates are stable, space tight due to mango season; conflict in Israel may disrupt services in the region
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Capacity is increasing as a result of new passenger flights
South Asia To North America
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is trending down month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- India rates are decreasing; Bangladesh rates are stable; high rates and tight space out of Pakistan due to mango season
- Blank sailings continue out of ISC; Diwali Holiday
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Passenger and freighter flights are increasing capacity
South Asia To Oceania
Ocean freight market update
- Capacity is flat month over month
- Spot rates are flat month over month
- Space is open out of India and Bangladesh; Diwali Holiday
- Pakistan rates are increasing and space is tight due to mango season
Air freight market update
- Capacity is trending up month over month
- Spot rates are trending down month over month
- Delhi and Bangalore have new services
Trade lane FAQs
Q: What are C.H. Robinson's definitions of ‘stable,’ ‘strained,’ and ‘critical’?
Stable: Green – Relatively open capacity and low spot market rates
Strained: Yellow – Capacity is tight and mid-level spot market rates
Critical: Red – Backlog of capacity and high spot market rates
Q: What do the terms and acronyms commonly used in market updates mean?
- Blank sailings – Blank sailings occur when a carrier has removed a vessel rotation from a given service string. This results in one week where there is no vessel sailing offered at the ports called on that particular service string.
- CY – Container Yard. A location where containers are stored temporarily during transit. It can be a port terminal, rail terminal, or trucker’s yard.
- Extra loader – An extra loader is a vessel that an ocean carrier has added to a service string to increase capacity in the short term. This vessel would not be part of the standard vessel rotation on that service string. It would be removed as soon as it is no longer required to meet excess demand.
- FEU – Forty Foot Equivalent Unit. The forty foot represents a 40′ container.
- GRI – General Rate Increase. This is one of the mechanisms ocean carriers can increase rates for ocean transport on a particular trade.
- IPI – Interior Point Intermodal. Also known as rail ramps, these are inland points to/from which carriers can offer service on a through bill of lading.
- PSS – Peak Season Surcharge. This surcharge is typically applied by ocean carriers during the peak shipping period on a given trade lane, where vessel space is either fully utilized or overbooked.
- Roll/roll pools – A “roll“ happens when a container booked on a given sailing/vessel is transferred by the steamship line to the following vessel serving the requested lane. A “roll pool” is created when a steamship line plans for a large number of containers to roll from one vessel to another.
- SSL – Steamship line or ocean carrier
- Steamship line alliance – Alliances occur when a group of steamship lines share vessel space on their service strings and manage services in agreement with each other. There are currently three steamship line alliances on the main east-west trades: the Ocean Alliance, 2M Alliance, and The Alliance.
- TEU – Twenty Foot Equivalent Unit. The twenty foot represents a 20′ container.
- Transshipment – This service offered transports cargo in two legs on two different vessels. The first vessel brings the container from the port of origin to the port of transshipment. The second vessel brings the container from the port of transshipment to the final destination port.
- VSA – Vessel Sharing Agreement. This is an agreement between steamship lines to share slots (space) on a service string or vessel.
Market Insight Videos
Wheeled v. grounded U.S. inland terminals
Explore the difference between wheeled and grounded U.S. inland terminals with Jenna Kuehn, Director of Global Forwarding Inland at C.H. Robinson.
The chassis shortage
Learn about the dynamics behind equipment shortages in the U.S. inland market with Jenna Kuehn, Director of Global Forwarding Inland at C.H. Robinson.
Watch Oceania’s airfreight market forecast
Help minimize supply chain disruptors, while providing ways your supply chain can tackle the peak season. Included are key solutions you can adopt to lift the strain on your business and reduce the impact it can have on operations.
Get a free global freight forwarding consultation
Discover how our deep expertise and seamless, multimodal set of global services can help you realize potential ocean and air savings.