The ongoing situation in the Middle East continues to affect global shipping and air freight services, with disruption across parts of the region now being compounded by higher oil prices and rising fuel costs.

Sea Freight Service Update

The escalating security situation in the Middle East is now feeding through into global shipping costs, with carriers introducing emergency fuel surcharges across multiple trade lanes in response to higher oil prices and tightening fuel availability. These surcharges are being reviewed regularly and, in many cases, are expected to be reassessed every couple of weeks depending on market conditions.

As advised earlier this week, UK hauliers have introduced an emergency fuel surcharge to help offset the rapid rise in fuel prices and ensure that transport services can continue to operate reliably.

Services into and out of the Middle East remain suspended, with cargo effectively unable to move in or out of the main Gulf ports. However, for PFE customers, there is currently very little direct operational impact on the Asia and Indian Subcontinent services we utilise to the UK and Europe, which continue to route via the Cape of Good Hope.

We are not currently seeing any significant congestion at key transhipment ports, although this remains something to watch as networks continue to adjust. If fuel prices remain elevated, some carriers may also look to reduce sailing speeds in order to manage operating costs, which could lead to longer transit times.

Air Freight Service Update

Air freight services continue to face disruption as airspace restrictions remain in place across parts of the Middle East, although some major carriers have now resumed operating flights.

Reduced flight schedules are still limiting available capacity, and space is becoming an increasing challenge as more cargo competes for the flights that are moving. Volumes arriving into Heathrow and Stansted remain well below normal levels. Limited capacity, combined with higher fuel prices, is also putting upward pressure on rates.

Reduced flight availability and ongoing operational disruption is expected to continue to extend transit times, and we continue to have limited visibility on when schedules will fully stabilise.

We will keep affected customers informed of any changes to specific shipments.

Should you have any questions or concerns about your shipment, please get in touch with our Customer Service Team on 01376 533039 or email [email protected].
For Air Freight queries contact 01753 278020.