Freight Pulse & Law Update: Port Congestion Tops Pandemic Peaks as Hormuz Reroutes Reshape Rates

Global container congestion has topped 4 million TEU, pushing delays back to pandemic-era levels. Secure capacity and audit import documentation before Q4.

What is driving the congestion?

Typhoons in China, European labor strikes, inland bottlenecks, and vessel bunching are clogging major gateways. North Asia holds more than half of the delayed capacity, with Shanghai and Ningbo facing long berthing queues. Cape of Good Hope diversions are also consuming vessel space and worsening Q4 reliability.

• More than 4 million TEU is delayed at anchor.

• North Asia holds the largest share of congestion.

• Diversions and yard pressure are extending transit times.

How are Hormuz restrictions changing freight rates?

The Strait of Hormuz remains severely restricted by military conflict. Maersk’s September operational update confirms booking suspensions, emergency pricing, and rerouting on affected Upper Gulf lanes, with charges reaching $4,800 per container on reefer, special, and dangerous-goods moves.

U.S. spot rates also moved higher across all equipment types, with dry van, reefer, and flatbed all rising as Q4 pressure builds.

What should shippers audit before Q4?

The CBP Heightened Import Disclosures ANPRM has a December 1, 2026 comment deadline and could expand supply chain tracing and importer data requirements. The Jones Act waiver runs through November 15, and FMCSA broker-transparency rulemaking remains under final White House review.

After CVSA Brake Safety Week, carriers should keep brake maintenance, annual inspection, DVIR, and driver qualification records audit-ready.

How can visibility reduce exposure?

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