Recently, the globally renowned shipping company Maersk announced a series of adjustments to its Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) on its official website, effective from October 1, 2024. These adjustments primarily affect routes from mainland China and Hong Kong to multiple African countries, drawing widespread attention in the industry.

According to the notice, Maersk will adjust the PSS for 20-foot, 40-foot, and 45-foot standard dry containers (HDRY) from China and Hong Kong to Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Benin, Ghana, C?te dIvoire, Niger, Togo, Angola, Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Namibia, Central African Republic, Chad, Guinea, Mauritania, Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Cape Verde, and Mali, effective October 1, 2024.

Specific rate details are as follows:

• Partial rates from Shanghai, China (CNSGH) to Apapa Port, Nigeria (NGAPP) have been listed in the notice. Maersk stated that these rates may be adjusted in the future, and updated notices will be issued promptly.

Additionally, Maersk announced increases to the PSS for the following routes:

• Routes from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan to Kenya and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. It is important to note that the PSS does not apply to non-operating reefer containers.

Specific rate details are as follows:

• Some rate details from Shanghai, China, to Mombasa Port, Kenya, have also been announced, effective from October 1, 2024, until further notice. Maersk emphasized that these rates may change in the future, and the company will issue relevant notices to inform customers promptly.

These PSS adjustments reflect the dynamic changes in the global shipping market and Maersks rapid response to market demand and cost fluctuations. The PSS is typically charged during peak shipping seasons to address challenges such as tight capacity, rising fuel costs, and increased operational expenses.

Industry analysts note that the African market has become increasingly important in global trade in recent years, particularly with the deepening economic and trade relations between China and African countries. This freight rate adjustment may impact Chinese exporters to Africa.import and exportBusinesses need to closely monitor this development and plan logistics and costs in advance.

For cargo owners and logistics service providers, obtaining timely information about shipping companies rate adjustments and properly scheduling shipment times and transportation methods is particularly crucial. As a global leader in shipping, Maersks rate policies often serve as a bellwether, with other shipping companies potentially following suit based on market conditions.

Maersk specifically reminded customers in the notice that future rates may change and advised them to stay updated through the companys official website and channels for accurate freight information. The company stated its commitment to providing high-quality services while ensuring transparency and timeliness of information.

Additionally, experts recommend that companies facing global shipping market uncertainties should proactively take countermeasures. These include exploring diversified logistics channels to mitigate transportation risks, establishing long-term partnerships with shipping companies for more stable rates and space guarantees, and utilizing digital tools to enhance supply chain visibility and efficiency.

With the gradual recovery of the global economy and increased international trade activities, the supply-demand balance in shipping markets will continue to face challenges. Factors like capacity shortages, port congestion, and COVID-19 resurgences may impact shipping rates and logistics timelines. Companies must remain vigilant and adapt strategies flexibly to the evolving market environment.