HAMBURG/COPENHAGEN – In a move signaling a challenging fourth quarter for global shippers, leading ocean carriers including Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have announced significant Peak Season Surcharges (PSS) and General Rate Increases (GRI) effective from late September and early October 2025. This decision comes as the industry grapples with a combination of heightened pre-holiday demand and persistent operational disruptions in vital maritime corridors.

The rate adjustments are primarily attributed to the ongoing instability in the Red Sea region and renewed tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. These geopolitical challenges have forced vessel diversions around Africa's Cape of Good Hope to avoid conflict zones, significantly extending transit times by an average of 10-14 days. The longer voyages have absorbed vessel capacity and created equipment imbalances, leading to increased operational costs which are now being passed on to shippers.

According to recent circulars, the new surcharges will impact major trade lanes from Asia to Europe and North America. Shippers can expect increases ranging from $500 to over $1,000 per FEU (Forty-foot Equivalent Unit), depending on the specific carrier, origin, and destination.

Impact on Shippers:

• Increased Freight Costs: The most immediate effect will be a sharp rise in shipping expenses, impacting bottom lines just as businesses stock up for the critical holiday season.
• Longer & Less Predictable Transit Times: Rerouting away from the Suez Canal continues to add weeks to delivery schedules, making supply chain planning more complex and less reliable.
• Potential for Rolled Cargo: With capacity tightening, there is a higher risk of cargo being "rolled" to a later sailing if vessels are overbooked, further compounding delays.

How Gravitas International Logistics is Responding:

Navigating this volatile market requires proactive and strategic logistics planning. At Gravitas International Logistics, we are working closely with our clients to mitigate the impact of these disruptions. Our approach includes:

• Advanced Booking: Securing vessel space well in advance to minimize the risk of rolled cargo.
• Carrier Diversification: Leveraging our strong relationships with a network of carriers to find the most competitive rates and reliable schedules available.
• Exploring Alternative Modes: For time-sensitive cargo, we are analyzing the viability of Sea-Air or Rail Freight solutions to bypass the most congested ocean routes.
• Transparent Communication: Providing our clients with the latest intelligence and transparent cost breakdowns to allow for informed decision-making.

We urge all businesses involved in international shipping to review their Q4 logistics budgets and timelines immediately. For a detailed analysis of how these new surcharges will affect your specific supply chain, please contact your Gravitas International Logistics representative.

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