WITH CHINA-AUSTRALIA rates in something like freefall since the first week of January and other Asian trades gradually following suit, carriers are rushing to try more GRIs, rate restorations and surcharge boosts.

From USD 4,294/FEU at week commencing 6 January the Shanghai Containerised Freight Index for spot rates has been on a steady decline. By the first week of February it was down to USD 2,738/FEU and by w/c 2 March it was USD 1,490/FEU, or 745/TEU for a Shanghai-Port Botany shipment. At that level lines are clearly losing money.

Nevertheless there have been few if any new voyage blankings or schedule slides notified.

“It really is the case of all the lines constantly re-viewing every charge they apply and rethinking what other charges they could apply as the world changes around us … it’s never ending !” a forwarder told DCN

MSC has announced a rate restoration from North Asia to East Coast Australia, effective 15 March and applicable at USD 300/TEU. Specifically it applies to shipments from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and Taiwan to Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Bell Bay.

The Swiss/Italian carrier has also announced increases in a raft of surcharges (notified on Monday), following a review:

These are applicable from 1 March excluding USA (proforma sailing date) and 1 April for USA (last container gate-in date)

Telex Release Fee:

· $140 AUD per Bill of Lading

Late Payment Fee:

· $150 USD per Bill of Lading

Late Shipping Instruction Fee:

· $100 AUD per Bill of Lading

Manifest Corrector / Bill of Lading Amendment Fee:

· $100 AUD per Bill of Lading

Certificate Documentation Fee (new):

· $100 AUD per Bill of Lading

Switch Bill of Lading Fee:

· $175 AUD per Bill of Lading

ANL will be implementing a rate restoration program from 15 March 2025, at USD 300 per 20’ dry/reefer & USD 600 per 40’ dry/reefer for all shipment from North East Asia to Australia East Coast. This increase will apply on top of current Spot/FAK rates subject to all applicable surcharges valid on time of shipment.

The line will be implementing a further rate restoration from 1 April, at the same quantum, i.e. USD 300 per 20’ dry/reefer & USD600 per 40’ dry/reefer for all shipment from North East Asia to Australia & New Zealand.

ANL also advised that due to increased container costs, the Export Australia Demurrage & Detention tariff has been revised to the following levels as of 1 April:

Most lines have now issued notice of their BAF, CAF, MRF and similar charges applicable from 1 April. Shippers should consult their carrier websites.

Neptune Pacific Direct Line is updating its Dangerous Goods (DG) Surcharges effective 1 April 2025.

The rates below are applicable to all trades (excluding South Pacific to/from U.S.A. and imports from Europe and Asia). All hazardous cargo bookings are subject to DG Desk approval.