Freight market update - 31 July 2025

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• The U.S. will impose a 30% tariff on imports from the European Union and Mexico starting August 1st.

• President Trump recently hinted at introducing a broad 15% to 20% tariff on most U.S. trading partners, up from the current 10%.

• EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič warned that the U.S. proposal could severely damage the €4.4 billion daily trade flow between the EU and U.S.

• Carriers have raised freight rates in the second half of July, with MSC and CMA announcing additional General Rate Increases (GRIs) on East Coast routes.

• Key carriers have either reduced or completely withdrawn their long-term Peak Season Surcharges (PSS).

• Capacity remains stable, operating between 84% and 91%, though blank sailings are now irregular and unpredictable.

• Rates across India and Bangladesh remain firm in the second half of July, though signs of stabilization are emerging with major carriers.

• Inland Container Depots (ICDs) in India are facing tight equipment availability, especially for HMM, HPL, and ONE.

• Weather-related stoppages at Mundra and Kandla ports are causing vessel delays of 6–12 hours.

• North America’s freight and logistics industry is a critical pillar of the global supply chain, serving industries from e-commerce to pharmaceuticals.

• In 2024, the market is valued at US$ 1.5 trillion, with projected growth to US$ 2.0 trillion by 2031.

• The market is set to grow at a 4.0% CAGR from 2024 to 2031.

Read on for more in-depth updates.

Asia → North America

US/CA

Transpacific Trends and Market Updates

• Demand has remained flat throughout July, with no anticipated increase in shipment volumes.
• Shippers shouldn't expect congestion but also shouldn't rely on demand-driven rate drops.
• Carriers have raised freight rates in the second half of July, with MSC and CMA announcing additional General Rate Increases (GRIs) on East Coast routes.
• Budget for higher freight costs even if your volume hasn't increased—GRIs are still being pushed through.
• Key carriers have either reduced or completely withdrawn their long-term Peak Season Surcharges (PSS).
• This may slightly ease overall freight costs, particularly for long-term contracts.
• Capacity remains stable, operating between 84% and 91%, though blank sailings are now irregular and unpredictable.
• Plan shipping schedules carefully—blank sailings may pop up without warning.
• Any additional capacity introduced during the tariff pause has now been fully removed, bringing supply back to average levels.
• Don’t expect excess space. Always secure bookings early to avoid rollovers.
• Data indicates carriers responded to the tariff pause by temporarily adding space, then pulled back capacity once demand showed no signs of growth.
• Carriers are adjusting quickly. So shippers must stay agile and informed to avoid disruptions.
• Rates across India and Bangladesh remain firm in the second half of July, though signs of stabilization are emerging with major carriers.
• Shippers should still expect elevated pricing, but rate hikes may be slowing. So always monitor for potential negotiation opportunities.
• Inland Container Depots (ICDs) in India are facing tight equipment availability, especially for HMM, HPL, and ONE.
• Secure containers early and consider alternate carriers or depots to avoid equipment shortages.
• North India remains a high-demand zone, with capacity stretched and some reports of cargo rollovers.
• Plan buffer days for critical shipments and prioritize confirmed space bookings.
• Weather-related stoppages at Mundra and Kandla ports are causing vessel delays of 6–12 hours.
• Factor in minor transit delays and keep customers informed of potential disruptions.
• Colombo transshipment flows are facing continued disruption due to high yard density and adverse weather.
• Expect transshipment delays if your cargo is routed via Colombo—explore alternate routing if urgent.
• Chittagong is experiencing congestion from recent heavy rains and prior industrial action, with full yards affecting berthing schedules.
• Delays at Chittagong are likely—stay flexible and in close contact with local handlers.
• Shippers are strongly advised to book at least two weeks in advance to secure preferred sailings.
• Advance booking is now essential to avoid missed sailings and last-minute surprises.

Central China

• Shanghai (SHA): Space is generally open, but weekend departures are tighter; booking at least 5 days in advance is recommended.
• Plan shipments early in the week to avoid delays and ensure space availability.

North China

• Tianjin (TSN): Export demand is high, but space is available with 4–5 days' notice, especially on freighter services.
• Shippers should act quickly and lock in freighter capacity early for urgent cargo.
• Dalian / Beijing (DLC / PEK): Spot bookings continue for dense cargo, but larger volumes need more lead time and flexibility.
• Adjust timelines and be flexible with routing if shipping larger loads.
• Qingdao (TAO): Adequate capacity to both East and West Coasts; booking is based on cargo type and route.
• Work closely with forwarders to match cargo profiles with available options.

South China

• Guangzhou (CAN): Operations are normal, but weather may impact final uplift; early reconfirmation is key.
• Shippers should monitor forecasts and confirm bookings early to avoid delays.
• Shenzhen (SZX): Market remains steady; deferred space is allocated case by case.
• Be prepared for conditional approvals—keep communication open with carriers.
• Xiamen (XMN): Uplift capacity remains stable; bookings should follow updated carrier schedules.
• Stay updated on carrier schedules to avoid last-minute issues.

Turkey → North America

• North America’s freight and logistics industry is a critical pillar of the global supply chain, serving industries from e-commerce to pharmaceuticals.
• Shippers can count on this region for reliable, scalable logistics support across diverse sectors.
• In 2024, the market is valued at US$ 1.5 trillion, with projected growth to US$ 2.0 trillion by 2031.
• Expect increasing investment and competition—look for improved services and infrastructure.
• The market is set to grow at a 4.0% CAGR from 2024 to 2031.
• Stable and steady expansion signals long-term growth opportunities for logistics providers and partners.
• Core market services include transportation, warehousing, inventory management, and value-added packaging/distribution.
• Companies should look for full-service logistics partners to streamline operations.
• Growth is being fueled by rising e-commerce, booming manufacturing and auto sectors, and higher demand for on-demand delivery.
• Shippers must adapt to faster delivery models and increased demand variability.
• AI, automation, and digital transformation are reshaping logistics operations.
• Investing in smart logistics tech will be key to staying competitive and reducing costs.
• Canada and the U.S. lead due to strong infrastructure, geographic scale, and economic strength.
• Regional hubs in these countries offer strategic advantages for cross-border and domestic distribution.
• Cross-border trade between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico is a major growth driver.
• Shippers can benefit from optimized trade routes and reduced transit times by leveraging nearshoring and cross-border logistics.

North America → Turkey

• The U.S. will impose a 30% tariff on imports from the European Union and Mexico starting August 1st.
• Shippers should prepare for higher landed costs and potential disruptions in goods moving between the U.S., EU, and Mexico.
• President Trump recently hinted at introducing a broad 15% to 20% tariff on most U.S. trading partners, up from the current 10%.
• Shippers should brace for further cost increases across a wider range of imports and diversify sourcing where possible.
• EU officials are drafting retaliatory tariffs targeting €72 billion worth of U.S. exports.
• Expect rising tension in transatlantic trade and potential delays or increased costs for U.S. exporters.
• EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič warned that the U.S. proposal could severely damage the €4.4 billion daily trade flow between the EU and U.S.
• Businesses engaged in EU–U.S. trade should prepare for volume drops, shifting routes, or contract renegotiations.
• U.S. authorities argue the tariffs aim to correct long-standing trade imbalances, though key sectors like pharmaceuticals, autos, and steel could be hit hard.
• Shippers in these industries should closely monitor policy changes and consider alternative markets or suppliers.

Terminal Updates

Vessels heading to North America via the North Atlantic Sea are expected to have a change in schedule due to severe weather conditions.

New York:

• The waiting time for all vessels calling APMT is up to 6 hours. Maher Terminals LLC reports vessel waiting times averaging around 6 hours.
• Average gate turn times are 54 minutes for single transactions and 84 minutes for double transactions at APMT terminals and 35 minutes for Maher Terminals.
• The average import rail dwell time is 1 day at APMT and 1 day at Maher Terminals.
• The last 2 cranes on APMT East berth to be operational by end of summer.

Norfolk:

• 7 hour waiting time for a berth for Gemini and Non-Gemini Vessels.
• Average gate turn times are 28 / 40 minutes for single and double transactions at NIT, and 36 / 54 minutes for single and double transactions at VIG.
• The average Import dwell time is 4.1 days.
• Crane #4 at NIT remains out of service since April 16 with no current update.

Charleston Terminal:

• 18 hours waiting time for Gemini and non-Gemini vessels at Wando Welch Terminal.
• 3 hours waiting time at North Charleston Terminal.
• Average truck turn times are 18 / 20 / 15 minutes at Wando Welch Terminal, North Charleston Terminal, and Leatherman Terminal respectively.
• Average Import dwell time is 1.6 days at North Charleston Container Terminal.
• Average Import dwell time is 1.6 days at Wando Welch Container Terminal.

Savannah:

• The average waiting time for vessel berth is 0.7 days for class 1 and 1 day for class 2 vessels.
• Average gate turn times are 33 / 50 minutes for single and double transactions respectively.
• Import dwell time is 6.8 days. Rail dwell time is 1 day.

Houston:

• Waiting time is up to 3 hours at Barbours Cut Terminal and 3 hours at Bayport Container Terminal.
• Average gate turn times are 33 / 53 minutes at Barbours Cut and 29 / 47 minutes at Bayport for single and double transactions respectively.
• Loaded import dwell time is 3.6 days at Barbours Cut and 3.5 days at Bayport.
• Yard utilization at Barbours Cut Terminal remains high.
• To maintain terminal fluidity, the Port of Houston is adjusting receiving days and cut-off times on short notice.
• Effective August 1, 2025, Excessive Import Dwell Fees will be applied to loaded refrigerated (reefer) import containers once free time expires.
• These fees will also apply during terminal truck gate closures due to scheduled terminal shutdowns.

Oakland:

• No waiting time at Oakland International Container Terminal (OICT).
• Average gate turn time is 84 minutes for OICT.
• Average import deliveries can take up to 4 days at OICT.
• Oakland International Container Terminal has 2 cranes out of order.
• The Oakland International Container Terminal will be closed on July 2 and 7, 2025.

Seattle-Tacoma:

• No waiting time at Husky Terminal or Washington United Terminal in Tacoma.
• No waiting time in Seattle.
• Import rail dwell is 2.3 days at Husky and 3 days at T18.
• The average gate turn times are 47 minutes for T18.
• Average gate turn times are 43 / 72 minutes for single and double transactions at Husky.
• Husky will offer hoot gates on July 14, 15, and 16, 2025.
• T18 and HUSKY will be closed on July 4 and 7, 2025.

Los Angeles/Long Beach:

• All terminal gates are running as published and in line with the Pier Pass program.
• Port of Los Angeles dwell time for local import cargo is 3.0 days; on-dock rail dwell is 3.0 days.
• Import units on the street are averaging 3.3 / 4.9 days for 20 ft and 40+ ft containers respectively.
• Port of Long Beach dwell times for local imports remain at 4-8 days.
• Average terminal gate turn time is between 44 - 51 minutes, depending on the terminal.

Chassis Pools

All pools are operating as normal except:

1. Chicago – Constrained on 20’ and 40’ chassis.
2. Detroit – Deficit on 45’ Chassis.
3. Kansas City - Constrained on 20’ chassis, Deficit on 40’ chassis.

Intermodal Operations

Truck power can be secured within 1-3 days for the majority of locations, including marine terminals, rail ramps, and depots.

Port Status

Final Thoughts

In light of the latest updates and trends, the market is currently in the course of showing robust performance and is equipped with ample capacity and resources. Individuals and businesses involved in import/export activities must stay well-informed about market dynamics and strategies to make informed decisions.

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience with your import/export operations, it is recommended to seek guidance from industry experts. Taking proactive measures and staying proactive in your approach will help you navigate the market effectively. We greatly appreciate your continued readership and encourage you to subscribe to our weekly market updates to stay abreast of the latest developments and insights.