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Harders October Newsletter


Are you looking for a quality 3PL in Sydney? 

Due to customer demand, Harders Contract Logistics are in the process of completing a Sydney industrial property market review and analysing several good immediately available warehouse options. 

This is an exciting development after the successful go-live of Harders Contract Logistics’ 12,500 pallet position Truganina, Melbourne site 10 months ago.

Sydney sites that are under review are in the western industrial suburbs like Kemps Creek, Horsley Park and Eastern Creek and range in size from 8,000 – 12,000 sqm.

Jacques Roux, CCO – HCL commented:
“Looking at the current Sydney site options and availability, it is highly likely that HCL will be able to enter into a high-quality existing (brownfield) and pallet-racked facility early in 2025.”

Harders Contract Logistics strategic plan is to establish several third-party (3PL) or contract logistics sites across Australia and New Zealand over the next five (5) years, supported by world-class technology, offering end-to-end supply chain services and customer visibility from origin overseas, local warehousing and order fulfilment, all the way through to final mile delivery and POD. 

Several conversations with existing freight forwarding and contract logistics customers have already begun, and there is certainly some good interest.

Please reach out to your Harders Key Account Managers, Sales Managers or to Jacques directly on 0418 867 192 for a confidential conversation.


Air Freight Update

The suspension of US port strikes until next year has helped relieve some of air cargo’s peak season capacity concerns but questions remain regarding just how busy the next few months will be.It might lead to a spike in charter demand and acute capacity shortages on scheduled flights, leading to a high-rate increase.

Airfreight spot rates on global basis edged up in the first week of October to their highest level of the year despite volumes out of Asia declining due to the Golden Week holiday.

Most destinations outside of Asia are challenged when freighter aircraft is required.

Pricing considerations are crucial in this dynamic market. Rates are on the rise due to high demand and limited capacity, especially during high season. Fuel surcharges and geopolitical factors are also contributing to fluctuating costs.

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

Global shipping continues to experience significant disruptions, particularly affecting trade routes between Asia, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas. Delays in the Red Sea and Panama Canal are still impacting shipping schedules, despite being away from the immediate spotlight.

On the Europe to Oceania routes direct carriers, CMA and MSC have responded by adjusting schedules, skipping ports, due to congestion in Australia and Europe arising due to adverse weather conditions.

The new MSC KOALA service to Fremantle is expected to ease congestion on the China-Southeast Asia route.

Meanwhile, the recently averted ILA strike has caused delays as many ships were awaiting to berth, though rate surcharges linked to the strike have been suspended.

2024 is set to be a record year for imports from China, with a 16.4% increase year-to-date.

This surge in demand is driving additional vessels to be deployed, especially in September and October as extra loaders were introduced from the Northeast Asia to Oceania trade lanes to assist to balance supply and demand.

Despite these strategic adjustments freight rates will continue to fluctuate, especially in the Asia-Oceania trade, where rates continue to rise with regular fortnightly adjustments via the Rate Restorations being implemented.

While the larger trades in the Transpacific continue a weekly decline in freight rates as a result of softening demand, Asia to Oceania trade lane remains strong and rate increases are likely to continue.

The latest announced for November 1 from Northeast Asia to Australia at a quantum of USD 300 per teu.

It will be crucial to allow for at least a three to four week booking window as Peak Season is well under way. This time frame ensures that there is sufficient time between receiving the order, placing the booking, and securing the vessel and equipment.

Please continue to contact our experienced team of professionals who will continue to navigate through these challenges by matching the right sailings with competitive options to meet your supply chain requirements.

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