Situation

The situation remains tense, with vessels fully booked and securing space generally requiring a lead time of three to four weeks. Carriers are actively managing capacity, thus successfully preventing spot rates from falling. This is the result of strategic capacity management rather than a dramatic surge in demand. Meanwhile, market uncertainties regarding trade with the US persist.

Obstacles

One major source of uncertainty remains the development of fuel costs, which are tied to the volatile situation in the Middle East. Customers are facing higher bunker costs, which could potentially lead to fuel shortages. This could happen worldwide.

Outlook
The Middle East crisis is also having an impact on transatlantic trade, evolving from a regional issue into a global one. We anticipate that these conditions will persist for several more weeks.

Main Ports: North Europe to US East Coast

^{Source: Market average rates for 40‘ containers according to www.xeneta.com}

Main Ports: North Europe to US West Coast