Global Alert: Ocean Freight Rates Set to Surge in December

The global shipping market is entering a new wave of price volatility. MSC has officially announced a comprehensive freight rate increase for routes from the Far East to Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Black Sea, effective December 1st.

A 40HQ freight rate has already risen to USD $3,100, marking a 50% surge within just two weeks. Market analysts expect Maersk, CMA CGM, and other carriers to follow, intensifying logistics pressure during the year-end peak season.

Why Are Freight Rates Increasing?

Several contributing factors are driving the upward trend:

1. Ongoing Red Sea Crisis

• Vessels are detouring around Africa
• Capacity reductions of up to 20%

2. EU Carbon Tariff Enforcement

• Carbon emission surcharge implementation
• Additional cost layers applied by shipping lines

3. Peak Season Demand and Blank Sailings

• Strong booking volume during holiday replenishment
• Space availability continues to tighten rapidly

Recommended Actions for Cross-Border Sellers

To maintain supply stability and cost control, Global Vertical Shipping advises the following priority measures:

1. Secure Space Immediately

• Confirm December space allocations within the next 3 days
• Consider logistics insurance for added risk protection

2. Split Shipments and Consider Secondary Ports

• Reduce congestion risk
• Improve routing flexibility

3. Request Detailed Surcharge Breakdown

• Require formal itemized quotations
• Avoid non-standard fee additions

4. Utilize Overseas Warehousing and Air Replenishment

• Pre-stock fast-moving products
• Use air freight selectively to prevent stockouts

5. Track Carrier Announcements and Prepare Alternatives

• Maintain backup route planning
• Build diversified freight forwarding resources

Industry Forecast

• The upward pricing trend may continue until mid-January 2026
• Red Sea disruptions and carbon surcharge mechanisms
• Freight rates expected to remain volatile at elevated levels

Strategic Timing Recommendation

The period before November 25th represents the optimal window
to lock in lower December freight rates before further increases take effect.

Companies acting quickly will secure cost advantages and maintain inventory continuity, while slower movers may face higher logistics pressure and reduced margins.

Need Space, Routing Guidance, or Customized Quotes?

Global Vertical Shipping provides:

• Route design and optimization
• Competitive freight rate solutions
• Space reservation support
• Multimodal strategic planning
• Risk-managed logistics execution

Contact us for tailored assistance based on your market, cargo category, and shipping cycle.

Global Vertical Shipping

Your stabilizer in global cross-border logistics.