Freight Pulse & Law Update - 20:00

As of August 25, 2026, shippers face simultaneous Panama Canal capacity cuts, China port congestion, Hormuz service withdrawals, and tighter documentation expectations. Treat routing, equipment, and invoice exposure as active supply chain risks.

What changed on the global freight map?

The Panama Canal will reduce daily transits from 36 to 34 on September 4 and to 32 on September 15. Neopanamax capacity remains at nine daily slots, but Panamax slots fall to 23. Draft limits of 48 feet begin September 2, with 47.5 feet scheduled for October 1. Expect higher Asia–U.S. East and Gulf Coast routing risk, surcharges, and possible West Coast rail diversions.

China’s Shanghai, Ningbo, Qingdao, Yantian, Shekou, and Nansha gateways continue reporting multi-day vessel waits after typhoon disruptions and peak-season volume. Review cutoffs, transshipment connections, and alternate origin ports through current port advisories.

Major carriers have withdrawn or rerouted regular service through the Strait of Hormuz. Cape of Good Hope routing adds approximately two weeks on affected Asia–Europe legs and raises fuel, insurance, and inventory exposure. Monitor Reuters’ traffic reporting.

Key facts for shippers

• Reprice Panama-dependent lanes before September bookings.

• Build buffer stock for China-origin SKUs.

• Require written carrier confirmation for Gulf cargo.

• Confirm motor-carrier maintenance before CVSA Brake Safety Week ends August 29.

What does the FMC require now?

The FMC’s Part 541 rule still requires timely, detailed demurrage and detention invoices. The 30/30/30 framework covers issuance, disputes, and resolution. After World Shipping Council v. FMC, the specific §541.4 recipient restriction was removed; contracts and tariffs now largely determine invoice liability. Missing required data can eliminate payment obligations. Review the FMC guidance.

The reported Jones Act waiver extension runs August 17 through November 15, with narrower eligibility and voyage-specific CBP/MARAD procedures. Preserve vessel, cargo, port, and national-defense documentation, and follow the MARAD reporting requirements.

What should shippers do this week?

Use third party logistics providers with a warehouse management system and logistics software. Lanta Logistics provides 3PL fulfillment services, inventory management for ecommerce, 3PL Maryland coverage, Mid-Atlantic fulfillment, food-grade warehouse support, Hazmat certified 3PL coordination, and a Glen Burnie warehouse network.

FlowOps by Lanta gives supply chain management companies real-time visibility across inventory, dispatch, and exceptions. Contact Lanta Logistics before disruption becomes a service failure.