Tariff Talk Thursday is Back!
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Tariff Talk Thursday is Back!
Visit our Events page for details or register here.
MAY 21, 2026
Container spot rates are rising sharply, signaling the start of an early peak shipping season. Instances of rollovers have increased, and carriers are prioritizing higher spot pricing over NAC contract rates, including the reintroduction of premium-tier bookings. Additional rate increases and peak season surcharges are expected in June. Early communication and visibility into shipping forecasts and purchase orders are recommended to provide the best routing options and meet delivery deadlines.
Ideal lead times are outlined below:
Asia Origin: Book a minimum of 3–4 weeks in advance of the CRD
All Other Origins: Book a minimum of 2–3 weeks in advance of the CRD
When booking an ocean shipment, keep the following considerations in mind:
In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court ruled that freight brokers can be held liable for negligently hiring unsafe motor carriers. The ruling significantly increases the financial and legal exposure for both shippers and brokers when selecting transportation partners, particularly if a hired carrier is involved in an accident. Industry experts expect the decision to lead to stricter carrier vetting standards across the logistics sector and further pressure on rogue operators. As a result, brokers are being strongly advised to conduct more thorough due diligence on carriers to help protect against negligent hiring claims in court.
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