Source: JoC

“China trade tariffs drove an early start to the ocean trans-Pacific peak season, but with the latest tranche of China trade tariffs increasing to 25 percent on Jan. 1, demand remains high.

The pending tariffs generated a front-loading of holiday season merchandise in late summer and early autumn. Now, the specter of 25 percent tariffs effective Jan. 1 is causing another round of front-loading of spring shipments that traditionally move in January-early February prior to Chinese New Year.

The general feeling in the trade is that imports will remain unusually strong through the end of the year. The Global Port Tracker published monthly by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates projects strong retail sales growth of more than 4 percent during the holiday season, which could lead to an early restocking of merchandise before Jan. 1.”

With vessels heavily overbooked, and some carriers announcing blank sailings, ocean freight carriers are advising shippers to place their bookings at least two weeks in advance of vessel departure. As such, we wish to formally advise all Delmar clientele to notify their suppliers and associates that booking arrangements should be made as early as possible for all of your impending shipments.

Additional information may be obtained by contacting your local Delmar representative.