25 March 2026

Americas Market Update - Persian Gulf & Middle East

Last week saw the introduction of US and Canada emergency inland fuel fees to go along with the emergency bunker surcharges previously announced on many ocean tradelanes.  These new fees are intended to cover the increase in fuel cost for trains and terminal operations.   The situation remains fluid as the carriers continue to adjust both sets of fees based on changing market conditions.  

The global effects of the conflict in the Middle East on global shipping have so far been contained to fuel issues.  Congestion has not taken hold at nearby transshipment ports and overall demand has not seen any significant increases or decreases.  This can of course change along with the situation and the longer the conflict carries on, the chances increase that widespread congestion takes hold and demand starts to spike.  As always please contact your local Mainfreight team with any questions. 

As a result of the conflict in the Persian Gulf and Middle East, the ocean carriers have begun implementing War Risk and Emergency Fuel surcharges.  These temporary additional fees are intended to cover the carriers’ additional operational costs incurred from having to divert services away from the region as well as costs associated with securing and distributing bunker fuel across their network while there is limited access to the Strait of Hormuz. 
 
These additional fees will begin being passed along beginning in April.  Full container shipments will be charged on a per TEU basis.  LCL shipments will be assessed fees on a weight/measure basis.
 
For specific fees and effective dates please contact your local Mainfreight team.
 
War Risk Surcharge - For diversion of services away from and around the Middle East and Red Sea
Emergency Fuel Surcharge - Additional costs of bunker fuel procurement/distribution
Emergency Inland Surcharge - For additional rail fuel costs incurred on bookings originating or terminating at an inland rail terminal

If you have any additional questions, whether related to global or domestic freight movements, please do not hesitate to contact your local Mainfreight team.