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Freight Pulse & Law Update: Diesel Hits Record High, FMC Tightens Charge Complaints

Writer: Lanta LLC
Lanta LLC
Sep 4
2 min read

Freight conditions tightened sharply on Sept. 4. Record diesel, weather-driven port congestion, geopolitical disruption, and holiday capacity pressure are raising transportation costs while the FMC’s updated charge-complaint procedure gives shippers a clearer path to challenge questionable ocean fees.

What changed in the freight market?

  • Diesel: The U.S. average reached a record $5.85 per gallon, according to AAA’s national fuel data.

  • Ocean freight: Typhoons in North Asia pushed global port congestion to record levels, increasing the risk of rolled bookings, schedule delays, and higher freight rates.

  • Geopolitical risk: The global shipping risk index reached 8.3/10 as Strait of Hormuz, Red Sea, and Black Sea disruptions converged. Insurance and operating costs are moving higher.

  • Truckload: U.S. tender rejection rates climbed above 14% as Labor Day tightened available capacity.

  • Dry bulk: Capesize vessel shortages are driving a sharp increase in dry-bulk shipping rates.

FlowOps by Lanta dispatch dashboard showing real-time load visibility

What changed in FMC charge complaints?

Effective Sept. 1, 2026, demurrage and detention complaints under 46 U.S.C. § 41310 must include supporting documentation, including:

  • Bill of lading numbers

  • Carrier invoices

  • Payment status and other relevant evidence

The statute shifts the burden to the common carrier to establish that demurrage or detention charges were reasonable. The FMC may investigate, order refunds, and apply civil penalties when charges violate applicable law. Review the FMC complaint guidance before filing.

FlowOps by Lanta operations dashboard for inventory, orders, and dispatch visibility

Shipper action list

Document delays, denied appointments, gate closures, and port conditions as they occur. Keep transportation contracts, invoices, and bills of lading together. As carriers prepare for CVSA Brake Safety Week, verify carrier compliance and inspection readiness before tendering critical freight.

Lanta Logistics branded warehouse and transportation operation

For third party logistics providers and supply chain management companies, real-time visibility matters across inventory management for ecommerce, 3PL fulfillment services, and transportation. Lanta Logistics supports 3PL Maryland and Mid-Atlantic fulfillment from its Glen Burnie warehouse, including food-grade warehouse and Hazmat certified 3PL operations. Explore FlowOps by Lanta for connected logistics visibility.

Bottom line: Protect margins with disciplined documentation, flexible capacity planning, and a single operational view of every shipment.

 
 
 

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