September Shipping Price Increase Summary: How to Handle the Changing International Freight Rates?

Recently, several major shipping lines have released notifications regarding rate adjustments for September, particularly focusing on peak season surcharge (PSS) and price changes across key routes to the Middle East, Africa, and South America. As the shipping market continues to fluctuate, these price changes could affect cross-border e-commerce, importers, and exporters. Below is a summary of the latest shipping company announcements, their potential impacts, and some recommendations for coping with these changes.

1. Major Shipping Line Price Adjustments

1. Maersk

Asia to Middle East Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) Adjustment
Starting from September 10, 2025, Maersk will apply a peak season surcharge (PSS) of $700 per container on routes from Asia to the Middle East. The affected regions include China, Hong Kong, Brunei, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and others, with destinations such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait.

Worldwide to French Polynesia PSS Adjustment
Another adjustment involves a PSS of $800 per container for shipments from Taiwan, the US, and other regions starting from September 5, 2025, to French Polynesia.

2. Hapag-Lloyd

Asia and Oceania to Southwest Africa PSS Adjustment
Starting from August 31, 2025, Hapag-Lloyd will implement a $400 per TEU PSS on shipments from Asia and Oceania to Southwest Africa. This applies to several ports, including Angola, Congo, Gabon, and others.

Asia and Oceania to West Africa PSS Adjustment
From August 25, 2025, Hapag-Lloyd will apply a $200 per TEU PSS on routes from Asia to West Africa, including destinations such as Mauritania, Senegal, Guinea, and Liberia.

Far East to East Coast South America GRI Adjustment
Starting September 1, 2025, Hapag-Lloyd will implement a $500 per container General Rate Increase (GRI) on all containers from the Far East to the East Coast of South America.

3. CMA CGM

Far East to Central and Southern West Africa Price Adjustment
Starting September 1, 2025, CMA CGM will increase prices on shipments from the Far East to Central and Southern West Africa by $250 per TEU.

Far East to East Africa Price Adjustment
From September 1, 2025, CMA CGM will increase prices by $150 per TEU to Kenya and $200 per TEU to Dar es Salaam and Mozambique.

2. Potential Impacts of Price Adjustments

Increased Cost Pressure
With multiple shipping lines raising their peak season surcharges and base rates, especially on routes to the Middle East, Africa, and South America, cross-border e-commerce and import/export businesses will face higher transportation costs.

Increased Market Uncertainty
Geopolitical risks and US tariff policies continue to impact the global shipping market, making it less predictable. Particularly on Europe and US routes, freight rates have been consistently declining and may continue to face downward pressure.

Volume Fluctuations
Price adjustments on certain routes could lead to fluctuations in shipping volumes. Changes in trade policies and shipping line strategies will directly affect market supply and demand.

3. How to Respond to Freight Rate Increases?

Plan Freight Budget in Advance
For cross-border e-commerce and import/export businesses, it is essential to stay updated on shipping companies’ rate adjustment notifications and revise freight budgets accordingly. Locking in rates early or choosing flexible shipping options can help mitigate cost fluctuations.

Diversify Shipping Options
Consider using different routes or shipping companies to avoid over-reliance on one particular line or route. This strategy helps reduce the risk of price hikes on specific routes.

Communicate Closely with Freight Forwarders
It is important for businesses to maintain close communication with freight forwarders to understand market changes and adjust shipping strategies accordingly. Opt for reliable shipping methods, such as DHL, UPS, or FCL (Full Container Load) shipping, to optimize logistics and reduce costs.

4. Conclusion

With the latest shipping price increases in September, businesses involved in cross-border e-commerce and import/export operations must remain vigilant. Understanding these changes, adapting shipping strategies, and partnering with professional freight forwarding companies will help maintain competitiveness in this fluctuating market.

Suggested Actions:

Stay Updated on Latest Shipping Company Notices: Keep a close eye on shipping line price adjustments and be prepared to make necessary budget changes.

Collaborate with Professional Freight Forwarders: Contact us for customized cross-border shipping solutions tailored to your needs. Our experts will provide optimized shipping routes and pricing.

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