📦 China: Mid-Autumn (25–27 Sep) + Golden Week (1–7 Oct)
Short gap between the two holidays → export rush, tighter ocean/air space, more blank sailings
Current Challenges in China-Europe Freight Transportation
China–Europe Freight Update The market remains under pressure on both ocean and air: Ocean Heavy congestion at Shanghai, Ningbo and Yantian following successive typhoons. Over 4.3 million TEU of global capacity is currently stranded. Longer waiting times, more vessel omissions and higher demurrage risk. Air China–Europe freighter capacity is down nearly 30% from June levels, largely driven by the drop in e-commerce volumes after the EU introduced a €3 duty on low-value parcels. Capacity at key e-commerce gateways (Madrid, Budapest, Liège) has fallen sharply. In this environment, flexible origin options and close factory coordination make a real difference.
8/31/20261 min read
Overview of the Freight Market
The freight market between China and Europe is currently facing significant challenges, impacting both ocean and air freight services. The disruption in transportation is largely due to a series of unfortunate events, including severe weather conditions and shifting market demands. This situation necessitates a keen analysis of ongoing circumstances in order to adapt and enhance freight operations.
Ocean Freight Situations
In the ocean transport sector, heavy congestion at key ports such as Shanghai, Ningbo, and Yantian has been exacerbated by consecutive typhoons. Consequently, over 4.3 million TEU of global capacity is now stranded, resulting in prolonged waiting times for vessels. This congestion not only leads to increased vessel omissions but also amplifies the risk of higher demurrage charges. Freight agents and businesses must be prepared to navigate this challenging environment by employing strategic planning and timely decision-making.
Air Freight Challenges
Turning to air freight, there has been a significant reduction in capacity, with reports indicating a nearly 30% decrease since June due to various factors. A significant contributor to this decline has been the introduction of a €3 duty on low-value parcels by the EU, which has notably curtailed e-commerce volumes. Key air freight gateways, including Madrid, Budapest, and Liège, have experienced dramatic drops in available capacity, further complicating the supply chain dynamics. It is imperative for companies to consider alternate options and maintain robust coordination with factories to mitigate these challenges.
Strategies for Navigating the Current Landscape
In light of these pressing issues, being flexible with origin options and enhancing factory coordination can lead to better outcomes in shipment management. Companies, such as CityCargo, are dedicated to supporting agents with practical solutions stemming from bustling regions like Shenzhen and South China. By leveraging available resources and proactively linking with logistics experts, stakeholders can optimize their freight operations even under duress.
In summary, the current landscape of freight transportation between China and Europe presents numerous hurdles. However, with strategic adjustments and comprehensive support, companies can achieve greater efficiency and resilience within their supply chains.
CITYCARGO (H.K) LIMITED
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