Freight Pulse & Law Update - 18:00

Global port congestion has climbed above 4.3 million TEU, exceeding pandemic-era peaks as East Asian typhoons, Red Sea diversions, and Middle East conflict disrupt vessel schedules and equipment flows.

Why are ocean costs still rising?

Shanghai–U.S. East Coast rates are reaching or exceeding $10,000 per 40-foot container on constrained, surcharge-inclusive sailings. The Panama Canal Authority will reduce September transit slots because of El Niño-related low rainfall, while carriers add canal adjustment fees.

• Prepare for higher landed costs and less reliable ETAs.

• Review West Coast-plus-rail and alternative routing options.

• Secure Q4 capacity before Golden Week demand tightens the market.

Sources: port congestion update, Panama Canal reporting.

What should domestic shippers do now?

Truckload rates are easing from post–July 4 highs but remain well above year-ago levels. Capacity is still tight in the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, and analysts expect a sharp reversal after Labor Day.

Lock in Q4 drayage and warehousing now. UPS has also changed domestic fuel-surcharge break points, increasing the effective minimum burden for many shipments.

Which 2026 rules require attention?

IMO changes already in force include mandatory container-loss reporting, PFOS firefighting-foam restrictions, and anti-harassment training expectations for seafarers. New Canadian Arctic and Norwegian Sea ECAs began March 1 with NOx Tier III implications. The UK ETS expanded to maritime on July 1 for ships of 5,000 GT or more.

During Brake Safety Week, August 23–29, DOT and CVSA inspectors are focusing on drums, rotors, air systems, and maintenance records.

How can shippers reduce exposure?

Use a 3PL Maryland partner for Mid-Atlantic fulfillment, port drayage, and flexible storage. Lanta Logistics operates a food-grade warehouse, Hazmat certified 3PL services, and a connected Glen Burnie warehouse. Its FlowOps logistics software supports inventory management for ecommerce, warehouse management system controls, and real-time visibility for third party logistics providers and supply chain management companies.

Explore Lanta services or book a FlowOps demo.

Source references:NTG Freight, Transportation Insight, IMO reporting guidance, UPS fuel surcharges.