The China–Australia shipping market continues to experience high demand, with all major trade lanes currently operating at full capacity and heavily booked. As a result, ocean freight rates remain on the rise, and we are expecting further increases from 1st July. The ongoing vessel schedule disruptions have significantly reduced space availability for shipments in early to mid July.
Given space is an issue, allowing us to speak with your Supplier on cargo availability as early as possible will help us plan and book space for your cargo. Please give us as much notice as possible so we can proactively plan and get you the best options.
There is some positive news on the horizon. Three additional liner services—COSCO A3X, Maersk Qilin, and ZIM CO1—are scheduled to commence in late July. These new services are expected to increase available capacity, improve schedule reliability, and help ease upward pressure on freight rates. The expected easing will take some time to flow through to the shipping market. More news to follow as these new services are introduced.
Peak Season Surcharge is also expected to go ahead in July based on what shipping lines are advertising , for example , we have confirmation that PSS have been implemented for the Taiwan – Australia lanes . However, many are still unconfirmed, and we will have further news after 1st July.
We will continue to monitor the market closely and keep you informed as further updates become available.