Freight Pulse & Law: Peak Rates Surge, Fuel Waivers Pending, and New Rules Shaping 2026 Shipping

Freight markets are splitting by lane while new trade and liability rules raise the cost of getting compliance wrong. Here is the August 10, 2026 Freight Pulse.

Transpacific Rates Stay Hot

Asia–U.S. East Coast rates remain near $9,000 per FEU. West Coast pricing, which had eased toward $6,000, rebounded above $7,000 after carriers introduced August general rate increases. Front-loaded demand, tight inventory, tariff uncertainty, and port disruption are keeping the transpacific peak season running longer than expected. Budget for volatility and secure capacity earlier.

Asia–North Europe rates tell a different story. Pricing sits near $5,000 per FEU, about 14% below its July peak. Asia–Mediterranean rates are near $6,000, down approximately 16%. Cooling demand may offer relief, but blank sailings and weather-related congestion can quickly reverse the trend. (Freightos market update)

Fuel and Hormuz Risk Remain Fluid

The Jones Act fuel waiver is scheduled to expire August 16, but the White House is expected to extend it. Continued flexibility could support coastal fuel movements and moderate pressure on bunker markets. Meanwhile, reports of tolls and blocked passage in the Strait of Hormuz remain fluid. A proposed reopening arrangement reportedly includes no tolls, but mines, security restrictions, and insurer caution could delay normal traffic. (Reuters)

Compliance Rules Tighten

New Section 301 tariffs now affect imports from 60 economies, generally adding 10% or 12.5% duties. UFLPA Entity List additions further increase forced-labor detention risk. China’s revised Maritime Code also applies mandatory PRC cargo-carriage rules when loading or discharge occurs in China, challenging foreign-law clauses. Finally, the IATA Direct Air Waybill framework shifts more contractual exposure to forwarders, especially for cargo data, dangerous goods, and packaging.

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