Shipping Rates Surge: How to Handle the Upcoming Cost Challenges in Q4?

Recently, the global shipping market has seen significant changes. Factors such as U.S.-China tariff policies, geopolitical tensions, and market supply-demand fluctuations have caused notable volatility in shipping rates. As an international logistics company, we provide a timely analysis of the latest market trends and offer practical strategies to help you reduce costs and improve efficiency.

Shipping Rates Update: Major Shifts in the Global Shipping Market

According to the Shanghai Shipping Exchange (SCFI), the Shanghai Export Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) has rebounded by 4.1%, reaching 1160.42 points as of October 11, 2025. The rates on the four major ocean freight routes have all increased, with particularly significant changes on the Europe-U.S. routes:

Europe Route: Up by 10%

Mediterranean Route: Up by 4.9%

U.S. West Coast: Up by 0.5%

U.S. East Coast: Up by 2.8%

Additionally, several shipping companies have announced new rate adjustments:

CMA CGM: From October 15 to 31, a new FAK (Freight All Kinds) rate will apply for Asia-Mediterranean/North Africa routes, with another rate increase starting November 1.

Hapag-Lloyd: For Far East to Northern Europe, rates are $1200 for 20' containers and $2000 for 40' containers; for Far East to Mediterranean routes, rates range from $2150 to $2700 depending on the destination.

MSC: For Asia-Northern Europe routes, rates are $1320 for 20' containers and $2200 for 40' containers; for the Western Mediterranean, rates are $2300 for 20' and $2700 for 40'.

Maersk: Starting November 1, a seasonal surcharge (PSS) will apply for Far East to Middle East routes.

Why Shipping Rate Increases Are Crucial for Your Business

Rising Logistics Costs
As shipping rates increase, your transportation costs will be directly impacted. For importers and exporters, sea freight costs are a major factor in cost management, and knowing how to handle these changes is critical.

Tighter Shipping Capacity & High Demand
Shipping companies are cutting sailings and adjusting routes, which has led to tighter shipping capacity. With the holiday season approaching, demand for shipping will continue to surge, making it harder to secure space.

Market Uncertainty
The ongoing trade policies between the U.S. and China, as well as geopolitical issues, may continue to affect future shipping rate trends. It’s crucial for shippers and logistics decision-makers to stay aware of these developments to make informed adjustments.

Our Recommendations: How to Address the Shipping Rate Hikes

Plan and Book Early
Booking early and securing space ahead of rate hikes is an effective strategy to manage rising costs. We offer priority booking services to help you lock in competitive rates even during peak seasons.

Optimize Your Shipping Strategy
Based on your cargo type and destination, we help you choose the best routes and transport modes. We’ll recommend the most cost-effective solutions based on real-time market changes to ensure your goods arrive on time and safely.

Track Shipping Rate Trends
Shipping rates and market conditions change rapidly. We monitor the latest data and provide real-time updates, allowing our clients to stay ahead of rate fluctuations and take prompt action when necessary.

Comprehensive Communication and Support
Staying up-to-date with the latest rate adjustments and policies is vital for creating an efficient logistics plan. Our team provides comprehensive support, ensuring your operations run smoothly.

Contact Us for Tailored Logistics Solutions

As shipping rates continue to rise, timely logistics planning and professional freight forwarding services are key to your business success. Whether you’re facing rate adjustments or increased demand during the peak season, our team is here to help you optimize your logistics strategy and reduce shipping costs.

📩 Contact us today for the latest rate updates and customized shipping solutions