Topic “freight rates” — Exporter Magazine

High Street chain Argos is suing A P Moller-Maersk, the world’s largest container shipping company, for more than USD$13 million (NZD$18 million), according to the Independent. Danish carrier Maersk Line has told customers it is getting ready to levy a surcharge of US$750 (NZ$ 1,079) per TEU and a $1,000 per FEU as well as a $1,200 per 40-foot high cube surcharge on Asia-to-north Europe from July 15, citing space constraints and equipment shortages, according to the Shipping Gazette. From July 1, there will be an increase of US$250 (NZ$376) per TEU on cargo from south east Asia, that is Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and Singapore bound for Australia. This will be followed by a July 15 increase on cargo from Asia for New Zealand of US$250 per TEU, US$500 per FEU and for 40-foot high cube. The United States Australasia Discussion Agreement (USADA) member lines have called for a general rate increase of US$150 (NZ$209) per TEU and $300 (NZ$419) per FEU to apply on dry and refrigerated shipments moving from the United States to Australia and New Zealand.