Importers frontload now to avert higher fuel surcharges and tariff bills later
- SCFI global spot rate index has jumped 40% in the past month; Drewry’s WCI global index has surged by 50%
- Peak season has begun early this year. Importers are frontloading ahead of potentially higher fuel surcharges and soon-to-be increased US tariffs
- Liners initially raised spot rates to offset higher fuel bills but demand has been so strong that higher rates should lift liner profits starting in 3Q26
Peak season has begun early this year as importers seek to avoid potentially higher costs if they wait. The accelerated timing has heightened demand for container shipping, allowing liners to charge higher spot rates
