Freight Pulse & Law Update: Transpac Rates Surge as New Customs and Jones Act Rules Take Effect

August 13, 2026

Transpacific ocean freight is splitting sharply from Asia–Europe trade. Asia–U.S. East Coast spot rates have climbed to approximately $9,400 per FEU, while Asia–Europe pricing continues to cool. At the same time, new Jones Act and customs-payment requirements are changing how shippers plan cargo, compliance, and cash flow.

Why are transpacific rates rising?

The latest Xeneta data puts the Far East–U.S. East Coast market average at $10,249 per FEU on August 12. Far East–North Europe stood at $4,909 per FEU, with the Mediterranean at $5,846.

Key market signals:

• Far East–U.S. East Coast spot rates: roughly $9,400–$10,249 per FEU

• Far East–U.S. West Coast: $6,965 per FEU

• Far East–North Europe: $4,909 per FEU

• Long-term transpacific rates have risen about 40% since late February

Carriers retain pricing power as disruptions, capacity constraints, and front-loaded demand support transpacific rates. Shippers should avoid inflexible annual commitments and negotiate shorter terms with adjustment mechanisms.

What legal changes took effect?

President Trump’s 90-day Jones Act waiver extension begins August 17 and narrows eligibility to energy and agricultural commodities. Foreign-flag voyages now require case-by-case review and consultation with MARAD.

Separately, IRS 2026 guidance keeps personal exemptions at zero and ends certain residential energy credits after 2025. These tax changes are separate from the Jones Act waiver.

Since August 5, CBP’s PSC rule requires electronic ACH payment for increased duties, taxes, or fees. Checks, cash, and partial payments are no longer accepted.

What should shippers do now?

Update landed-cost models, review commodity classifications, enroll in ACH, and confirm broker workflows. Third party logistics providers should connect compliance activity to a warehouse management system and logistics software for auditable inventory and shipment visibility.

Lanta Logistics supports 3PL Maryland and Mid-Atlantic fulfillment from its Glen Burnie warehouse, including food-grade warehousing and Hazmat certified 3PL services. FlowOps provides real-time visibility across inventory, fulfillment, transportation, and supply chain management.