WHAT’S THE LATEST

As of May 26, container demand out of Asia has surged post–May holiday while carrier capacity remains constrained. Space is critically tight out of China and Southeast Asia, with most vessels fully booked into late June. These conditions are expected to persist for at least the next 4–6 weeks.

WHAT WE KNOW

  • Capacity Pressure: Holiday-related blank sailings and Middle East reroutings have reduced overall capacity, extended transits, and tied up equipment. Carriers are gradually reinstating sailings, with some deploying ad hoc “extra loaders.”
  • Bookings & Allocations: Carriers are holding firm to weekly allocation limits. Volume above allocations is moving via spot or premium services.
  • Rolled Cargo Risk: Rollover activity is increasing, particularly for lower-priority shipments, dangerous goods, oversized cargo, and some heavier-weight containers.
  • Equipment Shortages: Empty 40’ High Cube containers are limited at several key origin ports.
  • Peak Season Risk: Early peak season is possible as shippers pull orders forward amid geopolitical and fuel-access concerns.

SEKO'S GUIDANCE

SEKO continues to work closely with carrier partners to secure additional space, deploy extra loaders where available, and protect customer allocations. 

To help mitigate disruption, SEKO recommends shippers:

  • Forecast & Book Early: Secure space 4–6 weeks ahead of target departure dates.
  • Consider Premium Options: Premium/expedited services are prioritized for space and equipment. 
  • Leverage Less-Than-Container Load (LCL) Solutions: LCL shipments are generally less exposed to rollovers; expedited consolidation options are available.
  • Use Air Freight Strategically: For time-critical cargo where extended ocean transits (30–40+ days) won’t meet delivery requirements. 

If you have questions, please contact your SEKO representative or email hello@sekologistics.com.