Logistics News: Early June 2024

Jul 9, 2024

Logistics News: Early June 2024

Overview

  • Focus: Impact of market conditions on ocean and air freight rates.
  • Current Trends: Rise in container and air freight rates.

Container Freight Rates

  • Continuous Rise Since April:
    • Asia-bound routes to Europe and the US
    • North-South routes to South America and Africa
  • Cost: Exceeding $7,000 per 20 ft from Shanghai to the east coast of South America.
  • Contributing Factors:
    • Container Shortage: Due to geopolitical issues at the Suez Canal leading to rerouting via the Cape of Good Hope (adds ~2 weeks to voyages).
    • Inventory Buildup: By retailers due to impending 100% US tariff on EV imports from China (effective August).
    • Potential US-China Trade Tensions: If Trump wins the November presidential election.
  • Chassis Shortage: No significant shortage; only container shortage noted.
  • Outlook: Strong indications suggest container shortage might not last until the second half of the year.

Air Freight Rates

  • Rising in Off-Peak Season: Due to increased e-commerce demand, especially in Europe and the US.
  • Demand Surge: In Europe for the holiday season (early June to mid-August).
  • IATA Statistics:
    • Global air cargo demand rose 11% in Q2.
    • Air freight rates from Hong Kong and Shanghai up by 12.3% and 41.5% YoY.
    • Shipments from Dubai increased by 148% in early May compared to the previous year.
  • Route Adjustments: Shipping companies avoiding the Suez Canal due to Houthi attacks, opting for South Africa's Cape of Good Hope.
  • Combined Transportation: Increased switching from sea to air transport for quicker delivery times.
  • Outlook: Anticipation of tight air transportation space for the rest of the year.

Port Congestion and Freight Rates

  • Port of Singapore: Over 100 container vessels waiting offshore (up to 46 hrs).
    • Delay in unloading containers causing schedule disruptions.
    • Ocean freight rates (May 31): $6,185 per FT to West Coast US, $726 per 40 ft to East Coast US.
    • Significant increase in rates to Europe and the Mediterranean.
  • Port Measures: Attempting to ease congestion by reactivating previously inactive ports.
    • Full bookings from Asia to Europe/US for June.
  • Outlook: Peak season's impact on securing space.

KMTC Japan's Digital Innovation

  • New Initiative: Visualization of container inventory using digital tools.
    • Categories: Available, Some Available, Needs Confirmation.
  • Implications: Helps shippers and forwarders check space status and potentially leads to buying excess space.
  • Reception: High demand and supportive feedback from customers and representatives.
  • Future Prospects: Anticipated to be well-received with the introduction of new vessels.

Closing Notes

  • Further Information: Detailed video on ocean freight rates available via link in overview section.
  • Contact Information: For shipments to/from Thailand, contact Eno.
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