Carriers Announce July GRIs As Asia-Europe Capacity Tightens

Ocean freight rates on Asia to Europe services look set to rise again, with several major carriers already announcing General Rate Increases from 1 July.

While the level of increase will differ depending on the route and carrier, the overall direction of the market remains clear. Demand is currently outweighing available capacity, giving carriers the ability to push through further rate increases across key trade lanes.

Capacity and equipment availability remain tight across Asia. Reports indicate that services are operating close to full capacity, with only three blanked sailings expected this week across the major carrier networks. This leaves very little room for additional demand and is making it increasingly difficult for shippers to secure space at short notice.

In many cases, carriers are unable to accept new bookings until July sailings at the earliest. As a result, early planning is becoming increasingly important. Importers should book as far in advance as possible to help protect the risk of disruption.

There is still uncertainty over how long the current market conditions will continue. It remains difficult to determine whether the recent surge in demand is the result of an early peak season, with importers front-loading orders, or whether volumes will remain elevated through to Golden Week in October.

Some industry analysts believe the peak of the current season could pass by the end of July. However, until there is a clearer shift in market conditions, shippers should prepare for continued volatility, limited space, tight equipment availability, and further upward pressure on freight rates.

Westbound continues to work closely with our carrier partners to source space and equipment. We are doing everything we can to support customers, minimise disruption, and keep supply chains moving during this challenging period.