Regardless of supply and demand, there are several elements, or the combination of these, that intervene in the maritime freight rates volatility. It is important to consider that the maritime mode currently accounts for 80% of the world’s total freight transport. Some of the main factors that can determine the costs of this type of services are:

Geopolitical conditions: among the consequences of war conflicts are changes in routes, increased risks and generation of higher insurance premiums, factors that also impact freight rates. Due to the persistence of conflicts in Israel, the maritime freight price on the Asia-Mexico route has increased by 235%.

Fuel prices: represent a significant portion of operating costs. If crude oil prices rise, costs are passed on to rates. It is worth remembering that in 2022, in just six months, the marine diesel price increased 90%, which represented a challenge for carriers. On that occasion, this disproportionate increase was mainly due to trade restrictions caused by the war in Russia.

Port management and land logistics: problems in ports such as strikes and lack of personnel or congestion, among others, can delay operations, generate delays and increase tariffs. In 2024, some ports in Brazil and Argentina recorded increases of around 250% compared to the previous year, due to work stoppages and congestion that limited the flow of exports.

Seasonality: seasons such as Black Friday and Christmas present an increase in the demand for transportation and consequently a growth in rates. Due to the increase in online sales at Christmas time, ocean freight costs rise up to 10 times their regular price.

Technology: route efficiency improvement or fuel usage can reduce costs. With technological advances and the digitization of various processes, the time delivery of goods, the shipping costs, and even greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced by up to 20%. 

Thanks to its knowledge, planning capability and alliances around the world, ED Forwarding, member of the PSA Group, offers its clients the best international maritime alternatives so that their products reach their final destination in the best conditions, on time and at a fair price.