CMA CGM postpones peak season surcharges for U.S. routes

In a major update for ocean shippers, CMA CGM is deferring peak season surcharges on several routes to the United States. The news, first reported by Yahoo Finance, highlights the fourth postponement of a $1,000 surcharge on service departing from the Indian subcontinent, the Middle East Gulf, the Red Sea and Egypt to the U.S. Eastern and Gulf Coast.

Also read: CMA CGM delays key U.S. shipping surcharge amid contract talks

The French shipping giant’s surcharge is thought to reflect the increased costs of maintaining operations amid security concerns in the Red Sea, where CMA CGM vessels remain one of the few still sailing despite the risks posed by attacks by Houthi rebels in Yemen. One of the carriers. The company has aligned with global early-loading trends ahead of the Lunar New Year, when Asian factories typically close for extended periods starting on January 29. The strategic move comes at a time when ocean carrier alliances and vessel-sharing agreements are transitioning, helping to unlock potential delays and congestion.

The $1,200 surcharge that took effect on February 15 highlights the continued volatility in transportation costs, with alliance restructuring and other factors further complicating shippers’ situation. CMA CGM, a member of the Ocean Alliance with partners including China COSCO Shipping Lines and Evergreen Line, said the surcharges will remain in effect until further notice to ensure they are in line with global shipping dynamics and the recently signed agreement with the International Longshoremen’s Association to cover the eastern major Labor agreements at ports remain in sync. Coastal and Gulf areas.

The announcement underscores the dynamic nature of global trade logistics as carriers such as CMA CGM navigate geopolitical challenges and operational shifts while trying to stabilize supply chains during the upcoming peak season.

Source: IndexBox Market Intelligence Platform