Freight Pulse & Law Update: Typhoon Saudel Hits China Ports, Jones Act Waiver Tightens

Super Typhoon Saudel has suspended operations at Shanghai and Ningbo-Zhoushan, China’s largest container gateways, through the weekend. Expect berth backlogs, stranded capacity, blank sailings, and rolling delays on trans-Pacific routes.

What is the immediate freight impact?

Port congestion is building as vessels wait offshore and terminals work through weather-related closures. Shippers should:

• Verify carrier schedules before booking.

• Add buffer time to Asia-to-North America transit plans.

• Prepare for rolled cargo and equipment imbalances.

• Re-forecast inventory needs for early September.

The Typhoon Saudel operational advisory reports significant disruption across East China.

Why are rates and routing risks rising?

Iran-related disruption in the Strait of Hormuz continues to push daily vessel traffic into single digits. Iranian forces have blocked or controlled dozens of vessels since August, while container spot rates have risen more than 100% as fuel and security costs surge. Brands using Asia–Middle East or energy-linked lanes should re-forecast both rates and delivery windows.

DHS extended the Jones Act waiver through November 15, 2026, but narrowed coverage from more than 600 HTS codes to 237, primarily energy and fertilizer products. Foreign-flag movements now require a pre-voyage Vessel Availability Request to the Department of War and MARAD. Authorization applies only when no coastwise-qualified U.S. vessel is available.

India restored its 2018 cabotage relaxations for specified cargo, keeping foreign-flag capacity available between Indian ports. Meanwhile, unbooked LPG tankers face up to eight-day waits at the Panama Canal; South Korea began its first Arctic shipping trial in a decade; and Turkish and Somali forces freed a hijacked cargo vessel.

What should logistics teams do now?

Re-check Jones Act eligibility documentation, confirm carrier availability, and expect volatile spot rates through early September. Monitor DOT and CVSA brake inspections as roadside enforcement can remove equipment from service and disrupt fulfillment.

Lanta Logistics and FlowOps provide real-time supply chain visibility for 3PL, transportation, and fulfillment operations.