Negotiating Season For Shipping Rates

It is that time of year again in the international shipping industry when the rates for carriers in the trans-Pacific will be negotiated for the upcoming shipping season. In many past years, a peak season surcharge has been added for shipping ocean freight from Asia to the US, due to the high demand of retailers stocking up for the upcoming holiday shopping season. The contract negotiating period for US imports from Asia is certainly very important for supply chains everywhere.

This year, there appears to be a change in supply and demand that might impact shipping rates. The Journal of Commerce reports that Maersk Line CEO Soren Skou recently announced that rates are going to increase in 2013. Skou attributes the higher rates to overcapacity from the high demand of global shipping and the uncertain container ships needed to meet the demand. While Maersk Line did not reveal any details on specific rate percentage increases, many economists argue that the demand for shipping in the trans-Pacific will be lower than what Skou predicted. Another shipping company forecasts that rates might increase $100 per 20-foot container or $200 per 40-foot container.

While carriers are negotiating the rates right now for shipping containers in 2013, it is important that you take action to try and gain a lower shipping rate. Contact a trusted freight forwarder today. They can provide you with shipping quotes immediately from multiple leading carriers. So if the shipping rates increase later, you can lock down on a low rate today and save money on shipping.