Shipping line tariffs have become a growing concern for importers and exporters in 2025. Following port tariff hikes, many carriers have increased base rates and added multiple surcharges, significantly affecting international ocean freight costs.

1. Key trends in shipping line tariff adjustments

Most major carriers (Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, ONE, HMM) have announced freight rate changes since Q1/2025. Main trends include:

• General Rate Increases (GRIs) ranging from $100 to $300 per container, depending on the route.
• Implementation of Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) on North America and Europe-bound routes.
• Higher Bunker Adjustment Factors (BAF) due to rising marine fuel prices.
• New Green Surcharges to comply with IMO 2023 emission standards.

2. Real-world examples

• Vietnam – Los Angeles route: Freight for 40’ container jumped from $2,600 to $3,100 in just 2 months.
• Vietnam – Hamburg route: Emission surcharge of $75/container introduced in February 2025.
• Maersk & MSC: Testing weekly index-based pricing for dynamic rate adjustments.

3. Why are carriers increasing rates?

Carriers cite several reasons for rate hikes:

1. Fuel cost surge: Bunker fuel prices have risen over 18% compared to early 2024.
2. Emission compliance costs: Use of low-sulfur fuel and installation of scrubbers are mandatory.
3. Demand-supply imbalance: Freight demand is recovering faster than shipping capacity.
4. Geopolitical risks: Detours to avoid Suez Canal or Red Sea increase transit times and fuel usage.

4. How are businesses impacted?

Increased freight costs mean higher product prices and thinner margins—particularly for SMEs. Specific impacts include:

• Higher input costs for imported raw materials.
• Lower profitability for export goods.
• Challenges in quoting fixed prices to international clients.

5. Tips for business adaptation

• Secure early booking rates: Lock in monthly or quarterly contracts when forecasts are stable.
• Compare carriers: Avoid over-reliance on one carrier; get multiple quotes through forwarders.
• Optimize container usage: Maximize cubic utilization to reduce LCL shipments.
• Explore alternative routes: Consider indirect or transshipment routes to cut freight costs.

6. Conclusion

Carrier freight rates in 2025 will remain volatile due to fuel markets, environmental regulations, and global tensions. Businesses must adopt agile logistics strategies, closely monitor surcharges, and build relationships with reliable freight partners to maintain stable supply chains and competitive pricing in a challenging environment.