May 2021 Situation Report: Freight Trends

Some trends to be aware of with respect to freight pricing.

The chart below tracks the average rate for shipments from China to the US East Coast.

Note the sharp increase beginning in May.

We can see similar trending for Trans Pacific East Bound to US West Coast.

The developing concern is a rapidly increasing trend on the transatlantic trades.

This trade has been largely unaffected by the rate inflation that has been present in the Pacific.

Although the rate chart above tracks US imports, the rate pressure is bleeding over onto East Bound traffic.

We are seeing rate increases across all trade lanes along with new surcharges (congestion) and the ongoing capacity challenges.

We are always striving to stay a step ahead to keep your freight moving and keep you informed.

As always – call us anytime with any questions or concerns.