Ocean freight rates have doubled since March 2026 due to carriers tightening shipping capacity and removing vessels from major routes. - Container prices from China/East Asia to North America rose from $1,600-$1,700 in March to $2,800-$4,500 by mid-May.
- The Q3 trading season (July-September) may be disrupted as companies rush to ship goods early. - Demand could surge again in two months due to government tax refunds, boosting spending.
- China agreed to buy $17 billion of U.S. agricultural goods annually, aiding farmers amid tariffs.
The trend is expected to continue into June, with carriers planning further price increases and no plans to restore removed vessels.