Ocean and Key Ports Update
Europe: Demand from North Europe and the Mediterranean remains high, with the first round of East-West Network vessels sailing at full capacity. In the East Mediterranean, cargo volumes exceed the available space on feeder services, which we expect to continue through Q2. To help manage this, we have introduced multiple service options to keep your cargo moving. We recommend booking to Charleston and Savannah on our upgraded TA2 service for transatlantic shipments. Additionally, the TA10 service, offering direct sailings from Turkey to the U.S. East Coast, is now available for booking. For shipments into Canada, expect multiple blank sailings on the CAE service, including an unplanned blanking due to the CMA Paranagua being dry-docked for repairs. No contingencies are currently in place, and we aim to clear backlogged cargo by May.
Indian Subcontinent, Middle East and Africa:
In the India, Pakistan, Middle East markets, demand continues to strengthen, supporting our enhanced network. In response to the robust conditions, we implemented a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) on March 23rd. In the West Africa market, recent network changes have led to longer transit times than our previous service offering, impacting overall efficiency. Additionally, space availability remains limited, and given current ocean product structures, significant improvements are unlikely in the short term. We are closely monitoring market conditions and will provide updates on any potential adjustments.
In the East Africa market, demand remains strong in the garment and coffee segments, driving stable performance. We expect this momentum to continue, ensuring reliable service and capacity for our customers in this market.
Asia Pacific: Our East-West network (Network of the Future) officially launched on February 1st, with the first sailings successfully calling North American ports. So far, we have no planned blank sailings, ensuring consistent service for our customers. Moving forward, all new bookings on our Transpacific network will be placed on the East-West Network (Network of the Future).
As we roll out the new network, we’ve fine-tuned our network to enhance reliability and efficiency. One key adjustment includes an updated TP11 rotation, where port calls at Charleston and Savannah have been swapped to better serve your supply chain needs. If you have any questions about these changes, please reach out to your local customer service or sales representative. Demand remains high from all Asia Pacific origins into both the East and West Coasts of North America. Space availability may be impacted, so we strongly recommend booking early to secure your shipments in the coming months.
Intra Americas: As the first quarter ends, the launch of our new East-West network is bringing new benefits to our Intra-Americas (IAM) customers, even though the IAM market itself is not part of the new network’s scope. The introduction of shuttle services is enhancing coverage and providing much-needed relief for regional connectivity. The America Shuttle 1 (AM1) now links Cartagena with Miami and Jacksonville, while the America Shuttle 2 (AM2) provides a new connection between Cartagena, Tampa, New Orleans, and Progreso, Mexico. Additionally, two mainliner services, TP12 and TP15, are improving access between Latin America, the U.S. East Coast (USEC), and the U.S. Gulf Coast (USGC).
These new services enhance efficiency and reduce costs for customers. The TP12 service offers a direct connection between East Coast South America (ECSA) and Norfolk via Cartagena, eliminating the need for a costly barge transfer from Philadelphia. The TP15 service strengthens connectivity from Houston to the West Coast of South America via Balboa and Mobile to ECSA via Cartagena. The AM2 shuttle introduces a much-needed reefer connection between Tampa, Progreso, New Orleans, and Cartagena, opening new trade lanes for perishable goods. The AM1 shuttle ensures fast transit times of just 4-6 days between Cartagena, Miami, and Jacksonville, supporting time-sensitive shipments.
To receive the latest updates on your cargo, sign up for ETA notifications or check schedules on Maersk.com. For operational updates in our “Weekly Reader,” subscribe to our advisories at Maersk.com/newsletter.
Update on the USTR Section 301 review
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is currently reviewing proposed actions under Section 301 related to China’s role in the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. This investigation could lead to new trade measures, such as tariffs or restrictions, which may impact shipping costs and supply chain dynamics for businesses relying on these services.
At Maersk we support efforts to strengthen the U.S. shipbuilding and maritime sector while also ensuring that global trade remains efficient and predictable. As one of the world’s largest ocean carriers, we have engaged with the USTR to represent the best interests of our customers and have contributed to the World Shipping Council’s response to the proposal.
While the outcome of this review remains uncertain, we are closely monitoring developments. If new regulations are introduced, we will work with customers to develop contingency plans and minimize potential disruptions to their supply chains. We remain committed to keeping you informed and providing solutions tailored to your logistics needs.
Inland Update
The U.S. drayage market continues to experience network challenges at key hubs, affecting container pickups and returns. In Long Beach, the TTI Port Terminal introduced a new appointment system in early February, which has led to difficulties for truck drivers, resulting in unsuccessful import container pickups and challenges in scheduling containers beyond the last free day (LFD). Meanwhile, at APMT Pier 400 in Los Angeles, limited empty return appointments have added further strain. We are actively working with the terminal to secure as many return slots as possible.
Congestion remains in the Ports of New York and New Jersey due to high import volumes, holiday scheduling, and adverse weather conditions. These disruptions make it difficult for carriers to return empty containers, increasing the risk of late fees for empty returns and import retrievals.
Despite these challenges, we continue to provide reliable inland solutions. Drayage capacity across our 12+ operating markets, including our services under HUDD and Maersk Performance Team, remains fluid, ensuring efficient deliveries for customers. Additionally, our third-party Carrier Haulage network, which includes more than 75 preferred carriers, continues to provide seamless inland transportation across all major U.S. markets. Customers shipping under Maersk Carrier Haulage benefit from an added layer of protection, as we remain responsible for delivering cargo before the last free day, helping to mitigate disruptions caused by congestion
For customers in the Midwest, we have plenty of capacity available at the Maersk Elwood Depot near the Chicago rail ramps, offering secure container storage regardless of the bill of lading operator. We remain committed to providing the most efficient inland solutions as we navigate these ongoing challenges. If you need assistance securing capacity or managing inland disruptions, please get in touch with your Maersk representative.
Less than Container Load (LCL)
With potential tariff changes and shifting trade policies—Less than Container Load (LCL) remains a smart option for businesses looking to balance costs, inventory flow, and transit time. Many customers are moving partial order sizes while tariff policies are being finalized, allowing them to maintain product flow while minimizing potential duty overpayments.
Our LCL product exclusively rides on the new East-West (Network of the Future) network, benefiting from our ambition of 90%+ on-time performance. As businesses focus more on inventory agility, LCL demand is expected to rise.
Looking ahead, expanded consolidation and deconsolidation hubs will continue to improve transit efficiency, while our exclusive LCL asset-based program will provide enhanced shipment visibility. Customers frequently tell us they need flexibility for seasonal fluctuations and a more diversified supply chain. LCL offers a cost-effective and reliable solution to meet these needs, ensuring smoother logistics operations in the current market.
Ground Freight Update
Mexico: Recent tariff changes, including a 25% tariff on various goods from Mexico, have introduced challenges for cross-border logistics like increasing costs and adding complexity to supply chains. Maersk is optimizing routing and leveraging its network to help customers find cost-effective alternatives while providing up-to-date regulatory guidance. With the situation remaining fluid, we recommend reviewing your supply chain strategy to minimize disruptions. Our Ground Freight team is available to support you with tailored solutions.
At the same time, customs clearance at the U.S.-Mexico border has improved, thanks to streamlined documentation processes and enhanced compliance measures. These updates are reducing transit times and lowering the risk of delays. Maersk is refining its customs brokerage services to take full advantage of these improvements, ensuring smoother and more predictable cross-border shipments. Staying informed on the latest regulations and leveraging our clearance services can help you avoid unnecessary hold-ups.
Mexico’s ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including significant highway investments, are set to improve connectivity and support economic growth. These enhancements will help reduce transit times and increase efficiency for ground freight operations. We are aligning our logistics services with these developments by optimizing routes and expanding capacity where needed. As these upgrades take effect, we encourage you to explore how our Ground Freight network can help you take advantage of the improved infrastructure.
Canada:
Beginning April 2, 2025, the United States announced a 25% tariff on various goods imported from Canada, which could slow cross-border trade as businesses adjust to rising costs. In response, the Canadian government is introducing reciprocal 25% tariffs on $29.8 billion worth of U.S. goods, affecting products that qualify as U.S.-origin under CUSMA’s country of origin marking regulations.
These changes will add complexity to cross-border logistics, impacting pricing and transit times. We are actively optimizing routing and leveraging our network to help customers find cost-effective alternatives while providing timely regulatory updates. Given the volatility of the situation, we encourage you to review your supply chain strategy and assess potential cost impacts. Our Ground Freight team is available to support you with contingency planning and alternative transport solutions to minimize disruptions.
Warehousing Update
Ongoing and potential tariffs are driving shifts in inventory strategies, with many businesses accelerating imports and securing additional storage space to mitigate supply chain risks. We are actively working with our customers to identify additional storage capacity within our network, prioritizing existing facilities with available space. We are also helping businesses develop more agile warehousing strategies, including exploring new locations within the U.S. to increase flexibility and resilience.
Customs Update
As referenced throughout this market update, recent tariff changes impact trade in and out of the US, adding complexity to customs compliance and supply chain management. In the U.S., the 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, including derivative products, took effect on March 12, 2025. Importers must now provide detailed origin reporting, including smelting and casting locations, to comply with new Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. Additionally, the EU has reinstated tariffs on certain U.S. goods, effective April 1, 2025, with further countermeasures expected by mid-April.
Businesses importing from or exporting to the EU should review their classifications and cost structures accordingly.
In Mexico, the logistics market is facing significant challenges due to new tariffs on textile and apparel products. The Mexican government has imposed a 35% tariff on 138 apparel categories and a 15% tariff on 17 textile categories, while also restricting the IMMEX Program, which previously allowed duty-free imports for manufacturers. These measures, designed to protect local industries, have increased costs and disrupted supply chains. Additionally, broader international protectionist policies are reshaping trade flows, making it critical for businesses to reassess sourcing and pricing strategies.
We are actively supporting customers in navigating these changes. Our customs compliance team is providing guidance on documentation requirements and tariff classifications to help prevent delays at the border. We are also working with customers to explore cost-saving opportunities, including optimizing logistics processes to offset increased duties. Given the ongoing disruptions, we are committed to providing regular updates to help you plan ahead.
With these tariff adjustments expected to impact trade for the foreseeable future, staying informed and proactive is essential. Our team is available to assist with customs compliance, duty mitigation strategies, and supply chain adjustments to ensure your operations remain efficient and compliant. For assistance regarding US regulations, please contact us at: compliance.mcsi.nam@maersk.com. For inquiries related to Canadian regulations, reach out to compliance.ca.mcsi.nam@maersk.com.
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