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Freight Pulse & Law Update: Transpacific Rates Surge, Shanghai Backlogs Grow, Jones Act Waiver Tightens

Writer: Lanta LLC
Lanta LLC
Aug 21
2 min read

Transpacific shippers are paying more while disruptions spread from Shanghai to Europe. Capacity cuts, typhoon-related backlog risk, German port labor disruption, and low Rhine water levels are making schedule reliability as important as demand.

Why are transpacific freight rates rising?

According to gCaptain, Shanghai–New York spot rates rose 9% to $9,507 per 40-foot container, while Shanghai–Los Angeles increased 9% to $6,802. Asia–Europe rates eased toward roughly $4,700–$5,000 per FEU, but congestion continues to drive volatility.

  • Asia–U.S. East Coast capacity fell 9% month over month.

  • Shanghai delays may reach 10 days for Christmas shipments.

  • Rhine restrictions are limiting barge capacity and adding inland surcharges.

FlowOps dispatch board showing real-time shipment visibility

What does the tighter Jones Act waiver require?

DHS extended the Jones Act waiver through November 15, 2026, but foreign-flag access now requires voyage-level documentation. Eligible cargo is limited to 237 HTS codes. Shippers must submit a Vessel Availability Request to DOW and MARAD, notify CBP, and file a MARAD report within 10 days after the voyage.

  • Covered cargo must load by 11:59 p.m. ET on November 15.

  • The CIT confirmed presidential authority to eliminate the $800 de minimis tariff exemption.

  • An IRS ruling rejects a related tax exemption for foreign ships using the waiver.

  • PHMSA HM-268 was published August 4; most provisions take effect September 3.

FlowOps inventory dashboard for SKU and warehouse visibility

How should shippers prepare for DOT enforcement?

Treat compliance as an operating control, not a paperwork afterthought. Review classifications, voyage records, hazmat response access, and truck readiness before cargo moves. CVSA Brake Safety Week runs August 23–29, focusing on brake drums and rotors.

  • Audit brake systems before dispatch.

  • Keep hazmat information immediately accessible.

  • Build alternate routings and extra lead time.

FlowOps warehouse operations dashboard with real-time activity

Lanta Logistics supports growing brands with 3PL fulfillment services, inventory management for ecommerce, warehouse management system workflows, and logistics software through FlowOps real-time visibility; delivered by experienced third party logistics providers and supply chain management companies from a food-grade warehouse and Hazmat certified 3PL in our Glen Burnie warehouse serving 3PL Maryland and Mid-Atlantic fulfillment. Contact Lanta Logistics.

 
 
 

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