The global shipping market is entering its Peak Season 2026 as the Drewry World Container Index (WCI) rose 31 TP3T, reaching $2,286/FEU. The implementation of peak season surcharges (PSS), GRI, and EFS by major shipping lines has officially ended the short-term price reduction cycle.
In this context, many import and export businesses tend to seek the lowest spot prices to optimize logistics costs. However, the "sale hunting" strategy during peak season carries significant risks for the supply chain.
Low fares don't necessarily mean low costs.
In stable market conditions, the base fare typically accounts for the majority of total shipping costs. But when Peak Season begins, the cost structure changes significantly due to a series of variable surcharges such as:
- PSS (Peak Season Surcharge)
- GRI (General Rate Increase)
- BAF (fuel surcharge)
- Costs incurred due to container rolling.
According to market data, the difference between the "cheapest" quoted price and the actual total cost after multiple price rolls can be as much as $1,800–$2,400/FEU on the Asia-Europe route.
Besides container demurrage and warehousing costs, the biggest risk is supply chain disruption, which directly impacts delivery schedules, trade contracts, and the company's reputation.
Peak Season is a challenge in terms of operational capacity.
During peak season, the true value of a booking lies not in the lowest price, but in the ability to secure a seat and ensure a stable train schedule.
Competent freight forwarders typically possess:
- Stable booking limits with the shipping line.
- The ability to predict market fluctuations
- Experience in handling unforeseen situations
- Flexible operational monitoring and optimization system
Businesses therefore need to shift from a "buy price" mindset to a "buy stability" mindset to minimize logistics risks during Peak Season.
Effective logistics management during peak season
Instead of spreading bookings across multiple providers simply because of low prices, businesses should build long-term relationships with logistics partners who have consistent execution capabilities.
The key criteria to prioritize include:
- Ability to secure a ship slot
- Shipping schedule stability
- Processing speed
- Transparency regarding additional fees
- Logistics strategy consulting capabilities
This is the key factor that helps businesses maintain a stable supply chain during periods of significant market volatility.
Vietsun partners with businesses to optimize sea transport during the Peak Season.
With experience in international logistics and transportation, Vietsun provides flexible sea freight solutions to support businesses:
- Proactive booking planning
- Closely monitor freight rate fluctuations.
- Optimizing overall logistics costs
- Minimize the risk of container rollover and peak season disruptions.
Vietsun not only provides transportation services, but also partners with businesses in managing their supply chains more sustainably and efficiently.
📩 Contact Vietsun to build a more sustainable and efficient logistics model.
👉 View services and contact us for consultation at:
🌍 www.vietsunlogistic.com
📞 028 3826 9539 | 📧 admin@vietsunlogistic.com
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