Freight Pulse & Law Update - 20:00: Transpac Rates Hit $9,400, Jones Act Waiver Tightens

Transpacific container costs are climbing while maritime and hazardous-materials rules tighten. Asia–U.S. East Coast spot rates reached approximately $9,400 per FEU on August 11, while West Coast rates approached $7,400, according to Freightos and FreightWaves reporting.

Why are transpacific rates still rising?

Carriers are blanking sailings and controlling vessel deployment to preserve pricing through an extended U.S. peak season. Demand has remained elevated beyond earlier forecasts, keeping capacity constrained on both coasts.

• East Coast: approximately $9,400/FEU, a new seasonal high

• West Coast: approximately $7,400/FEU, up about $1,300 since early August

• Primary pressure: sustained demand, blank sailings, and limited effective capacity

What changes under the Jones Act waiver?

The administration extended the waiver for 90 days, from August 17 through November 15, 2026, but narrowed eligibility to energy and agriculture commodities. Each voyage now requires a case-by-case review of suitable Jones Act vessel availability through MARAD and CBP processes.

The IRS also ruled that foreign vessels operating under the waiver cannot claim the Section 883 exemption for this domestic income. Operators must report qualifying voyage income on Form 1120-F.

What should hazmat shippers prepare for?

PHMSA finalized the first nine HM-268 rules. Eight take effect September 3, 2026; HM-268E follows on December 2. Updates address electronic emergency-response information, limited-quantity marks, lithium-battery materials of trade, packaging, and registration procedures. Review the Federal Register rule and update compliance workflows.

Third party logistics providers and supply chain management companies should connect logistics software, a warehouse management system, and 3PL fulfillment services before costs and documentation requirements compound. Lanta Logistics and FlowOps provide real-time visibility from inbound freight through fulfillment and final delivery.