The Pro Kinetics team is pleased to share our latest snapshot of the ocean-freight market for Australian food and perishable exporters.
While global spot rates are easing, local conditions remain dynamic, with equipment availability, port windows, and regulatory changes shaping the landscape.
Key Market Insights
Ocean Freight
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Global spot indices are down around 60–70% from mid-2022 highs.
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For Australia/NZ exporters, relief is limited by seasonal peaks, blank sailings, and carrier surcharges.
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Overall freight rates remain stable despite global softening.
Reefers & Perishables
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Reefer demand remains firm, especially for 20RF units.
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Maersk has announced tighter access to 20RF containers, keeping upward pressure on premiums.
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Limited equipment growth, coupled with strong meat, dairy and produce exports, is sustaining a “juggling act” for commitments.
Beef & Lamb Exports
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August shipments approached 135,500 tonnes, driven by US demand.
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Reefer space and portside cold-chain capacity continue to be the main pinch points.
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Small stock volumes have dipped as higher costs curb production.
Ports & Terminals
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Bunching and congestion vary across terminals and service strings.
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Pro Kinetics is actively managing port windows and reviewing multi-carrier solutions to reduce dwell risk.
Regulatory Watch – USTR Section 301 Levies
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From 14 October, the US Treasury will apply levies on Chinese-built or operated vessels:
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$50/tonne (Chinese owned/operated)
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$18/tonne (Chinese built)
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$120/container (Chinese-built landed containers)
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Ships under 4,000 TEU are exempt.
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No immediate surcharges are expected ex-Australia, but we’re monitoring how carriers realign their fleets.
Risks to Watch (Next 4–12 Weeks)
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Carrier blank sailings around China’s Golden Week.
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Weather-related harvest disruptions affecting equipment supply and space.
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Beef export spikes to the US may tighten reefer availability.
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Chinese New Year 2026 could push demand earlier as shippers avoid transit blackouts.
Pro Kinetics’ Tactical Playbook
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Book reefers 4–6 weeks ahead of ETD during peak periods.
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Use rolling monthly contracts to smooth exposure.
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Build contingency plans: alternate ports and shipping lines.
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Maintain clear, ongoing communication with all parties.
Looking Ahead to Q4 2025
The market remains fluid, with equipment and space still at a premium for perishable exporters. Pro Kinetics will continue to monitor capacity, regulatory developments, and carrier behaviour to support customers with timely, reliable solutions.
