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Congestion Returns! Global Ocean Capacity Down 10%, Air Freight Prices Spike

Views: 0     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2026-03-09      Origin: Site

Escalating U.S.-Iran tensions and turmoil in the Strait of Hormuz are severely disrupting global shipping and airfreight. Vessels are piling up outside Middle Eastern ports, cutting effective ocean capacity by 10%, while restricted airspace has tightened Europe-bound air capacity and sent spot prices soaring.


For shippers needing stability amid chaos, securing a competitive DDP shipping rate and a timely free quote is essential — just leave message for real-time support.

Strait of Hormuz

1. Congestion Returns: Global Ocean Capacity Down 10%

As conflict expands, security risks have caused mass vessel anchoring outside Middle Eastern ports, reviving pandemic-style congestion.


Many ships avoid docking due to safety fears, creating long queues with average waiting times of 1–2 weeks.


Industry estimates show global container capacity has dropped by ~10%, tightening supply and pushing shipping rates higher.


A potential “revenge buying” wave after the conflict could further drive congestion and rate hikes.


China’s EC container futures have jumped nearly 50%, and major carriers plan $500–1000/FEU increases on North American routes from March 10.


Multiple risks — tariffs, the Russia-Ukraine war, and Mideast tensions — guarantee continued volatility in shipping rates.
If you need a fast & free shipping quote from China to the US, Canada, or Europe, please leave us a message with your details. We will reply to you within 1 hour.

2. Airfreight Surges: Europe Routes See Extreme Volatility

Middle Eastern airlines account for 13% of global air cargo capacity, and up to 17% is affected when all carriers using the region are included.


More than 3,400 flights have been canceled or rerouted, adding 1–3 hours to Asia-Europe journeys. Longer flights reduce cargo weight limits, worsening capacity shortages.


Europe route air spot prices have spiked 150–200% for urgent shipments, while US routes remain relatively stable.


By contrast, near-term ocean capacity remains loose, with actual transaction levels below carrier announcements.


Long-term trends will depend on TPM contract negotiations and Q2 cargo volume recovery.


To protect your supply chain, lock in a DDP shipping rate early and get a free quote before prices rise further — simply leave message with your cargo details.



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