The Shipping Outlook - Newsletter Archive
Welcome to The Shipping Outlook archive, a record of every edition of our fortnightly market update. We share these to keep importers and exporters informed as conditions shift across global and local supply chains, focusing on what's changing, what we're seeing on the ground, and what it means for you.
Browse past editions below for our read on freight rates, surcharges, port congestion, and the trends shaping trade into and out of Australia. Want the next one delivered to your inbox? Subscribe below.
30 June 2026 - Freight rates continue to climb as carriers introduce new surcharges and vessel schedules remain volatile. Here's what importers and exporters need to know to stay ahead. Read more.
15 June 2026 - The shipping market has become noticeably more difficult over the past two weeks, with freight rates climbing quickly and congestion spreading through several major ports and transhipment hubs. Read more.
29 May 2026 - As we move further into June, freight markets are starting to feel a little tighter, with available space becoming harder to secure on some trade lanes and booking lead times continuing to extend. Read more.
15 May 2026 - China-Australia volumes pick up and carriers hold capacity tight as the market firms again, alongside strong Fremantle trade figures, the 2026-27 Federal Budget's impact on importers, carrier profit results, and the end of the BMSB biosecurity season. Read more.
30 April 2026 - Carrier-led rate increases and tightening space into May, escalating Hormuz tensions, and persistent port congestion, alongside WA's $1.1bn Westport commitment and the new Trade Resilience Service for exporters. Read more.
15 April 2026 - Airfreight rates surge and schedule reliability slips as capacity tightens, with sea freight steady but surcharged, port congestion spreading from Shanghai to Europe, and a look at ASEAN sourcing and LCL shipping. Read more.
March 2026 - Our debut edition features commentary on fuel driven surcharges across every freight mode, the new Australia–EU trade deal, Singapore congestion, and the 2026 outlook for importers and exporters. Read more.