IHSA Shippers Association

The ongoing trade war between Washington and Beijing, including decoupling tariff rates and USTR 301 increases in port fees and charges, is causing uncertainty and delaying the signing of annual service contracts between ocean carriers and importers, primarily in the eastbound trans-Pacific trade. When will we see a reduction in the tariffs with China? As Yogi Berra once…

We've seen some interesting movements in ocean freight rates lately. It seems like carrier capacity control has been a bit lacking since the Chinese New Year, with a 14% year-over-year increase in capacity. To get those spot rates back in line, carriers are starting to blank/void sailings, which is something we're already observing. And hold onto your hats, because carriers…

The U.S. government has proposed some major trade actions targeting China's dominance in the maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors. Both the Biden and Trump administrations have been investigating this issue, and now things are heating up. The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has proposed some hefty fees on Chinese-built vessels entering U.S. ports. They're also…

As we head into 2025-26, the question on some shipper's mind is: contract or spot rates? While spot rates might seem tempting with their short-term savings, history shows that contract rates are the true winners of the long-term race. Don't be fooled by the lure of a few dollars saved today, as it could lead to millions lost down the road. Why Contract Rates Reign…

Your Executive Director here, back with another update from the ever-exciting world of ocean freight. If there's one thing we've learned, it's to expect the unexpected! Just when we thought we had a handle on things, the ILWU and USMX threw us a curveball with their tentative agreement. Now, the challenge is getting it finalized. But that's not the only wave we're…

As we sail into the new year, it's time to batten down the hatches and prepare for some potential choppy waters. Here's the latest on the looming port strikes and a rundown of what you need to know about the 2025-26 shipping season. Port Strikes: A Storm on the Horizon? Remember the port strike in October? Well, we might be facing another one soon. The current contract…

The year 2025 is shaping up to potentially be a wild ride in container shipping. From potential strikes to looming increased tariffs and Chinese New Year, there's a lot to keep an eye on. Let's break down the key challenges and see how they might impact your supply chains. East Coast Showdown: The ILA Contract Negotiations The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA)…

The ongoing strike by dockworkers on the U.S. East Coast has brought maritime trade to a standstill, leaving many to wonder: why hasn't a resolution been reached? While it appears counterintuitive, several factors incentivize both the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to prolong the strike. Why the Strike Drags…

The shipping industry is buzzing.  Rates are climbing, carriers are thriving and shippers are feeling the pinch. Is it 2020 all over again?  While the current market may feel familiar, understanding your options is key to navigating these turbulent waters. Let’s dive into the difference between spot rates and contract rates to help you make informed shipping decisions. Spot…