Air Freight Market Update
Market experiences fluctuations in demand, capacity adjustments, and shifting trade policies.
Capacity is growing at a moderate pace, with passenger aircraft contributing significantly to this growth as airlines increase schedules in preparation for the summer season.
Limited cargo capacity growth and ongoing uncertainty are widening the gap between fixed and floating rates, adding pressure to pricing dynamics specially in Asia.
Whatever your cargo size, type, or deadline, we deliver the best rate and service combinations to meet your needs.
We have weekly consoles from USA, Europe, China, and South Africa into AU. Please contact our team of supply chain professionals who will continue to provide you with the most competitive options to support your supply chain needs.
Sea Freight Market Update
As we move through the second quarter of 2025, the sea freight market from Asia to Oceania continues to face challenges tied to imbalances in supply and demand.
Carriers are responding to softer-than-expected booking volumes by implementing blank sailings and port omissions, significantly impacting schedule reliability across the region. China upcoming Labour Day Holidays from May 1 to May 5 2025 will influence the market and softer demand is expected.
Key Market Developments:
Blank Sailings on the Rise
Shipping lines are actively managing capacity through blank sailings to stabilise rates and address the current shortfall in demand. This strategic withdrawal of services is affecting key Northeast Asia-Oceania routes, with noticeable service reductions over the past month. The first half of May will see at least three blank sailings and we may see more to come if demand remains weak.
Port Omissions Causing Additional Disruption
In an attempt to restore schedule reliability and optimize vessel utilization, carriers are omitting certain ports—particularly in Northeast Asia and Australia. These changes are often announced with limited notice, leading to unforeseen delays and transshipment challenges.
Lead Time Impact: Buffer Up to 2–3 Weeks
The combination of blank sailings and port omissions is leading to significant delays, with cargo frequently being rolled to subsequent sailings or rerouted through alternate hubs. We strongly recommend building a buffer of 2 to 3 weeks into your lead times to account for these disruptions.
Our Advice:
- Plan ahead: Book shipments as early as possible and consider flexible routing options.
- Stay informed: We will continue to provide frequent updates on sailing schedules and port changes.
- Communicate forecasts: Share your upcoming booking forecasts with us to help secure space during constrained periods and to mitigate delays.
We recognize the challenges that these disruptions may present and are committed to offering you the most current insights and solutions.
Please contact your Key Account Manager for customized planning support tailored to your needs.
We sincerely value your continued trust in Harders to manage your shipments and help you navigate through these challenging times.
Harders Contract Logistics
Harders expands into contract logistics with nConnect, enabling seamless warehouse management through Blue Yonder WMS.
Harders partnered with nConnect to implement and manage its dedicated WMS environment. The Blue Yonder WMS was tailored to support the complexities of a multi-client 3PL warehouse operation. With deep expertise in 3PL logistics, nConnect mitigated risks associated with launching a new site system, allowing HARDERS Contract Logistics to focus on serving its clients with confidence.
nConnect handled WMS configuration, master data migration, and seamless integration with clients and carriers. Through a dedicated training program and on-site hypercare support, they ensured a smooth go-live, driving swift adoption and operational efficiency for the HCL team.
Download the nConnect case study
