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Elevated Bunker Prices Trigger Emergency Surcharges in Ocean Freight

9 May 2026
3 sources

High bunker fuel prices are prompting emergency bunker surcharges from carriers, with rate hikes forecasted through Q2 2026.

According to DHL Global Forwarding's market update, soaring bunker prices have led to emergency surcharges, with further ocean freight rate increases projected for Q2 2026. Additional fees include chassis ($75–150 per container), port congestion ($200–500), and peak season surcharges ($500–2000 per container). Fleet growth of 7% YoY is offset by port bottlenecks and Suez diversions, curbing effective capacity.

Source:

dhl.com

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