Freight Market Update: The Iran conflict and new U.S. tariffs

The Iran Conflict

The Iran conflict is making freight more volatile, more expensive, and more delay-sensitive.

Although the conflict in Iran is not directly on the main China-Europe trade route, it is still affecting global logistics conditions. Higher security risk across the wider Middle East can influence vessel routing, insurance costs, port congestion, and available carrier capacity.

In response, some shipping lines may reroute or adjust schedules as a precaution, creating longer transit times and short-term disruption across multiple trade lanes.

• Rate volatility: Rates are now fluctuating almost weekly instead of every 15-20 days.
• Higher freight prices : Shipment costs have increased across the market.
• Transport cost increase: Container transport fees within China and at destination ports are up by an estimated 10%-15%. This is being attribute to the higher cost of oil/gas.
• Port delays: Delays across EU destination ports may add around 1-2 weeks for EU-UK containers.

U.S. Tariffs

U.S. tariffs are adding another layer of trade uncertainty for importers and exporters.

The temporary 10%-15% import duty for 150 days, effective February 24, together with the continued suspension of duty-free de minimis treatment for all countries, is making planning more complex across supply chains. In this environment, early coordination, flexible planning, and realistic delivery expectations are becoming even more important.

Our team is actively monitoring the situation and working closely with carrier partners to reduce disruption wherever possible. We will continue to share updates as new information becomes available.

If you are planning upcoming shipments, now is the time to secure space early.

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