Dimerco’s October Freight Report Signals Major Disruptions in Global Supply Chains

Surging Air Freight, Blank Sailings, and U.S. Strikes Set to Disrupt Global Shipping

TAIPEI, TAIWAN, September 27, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Dimerco, a leading global logistics and supply chain provider, today released its Asia-Pacific Monthly Freight Report for October 2024. The report provides crucial insights into the evolving freight market dynamics across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond and covers economic conditions, air and ocean freight outlooks, and major challenges that will shape global trade as the year draws to a close.

With global supply chains under increasing strain, the report offers timely analysis of factors including the contraction in global manufacturing, rising air freight demand, and potential labor strikes in the U.S., all of which are poised to disrupt shipping and logistics operations in the coming months.

Key Insights from the Report:
=> Global Manufacturing Contraction: The Global Manufacturing PMI declined to 49.5 in August, continuing its contractionary trend. The decline reflects weakening demand and a broad slowdown in both developed and emerging markets, with China’s export figures falling for the first time in 2024.

=> Air Freight Surge Expected: Air freight volumes are set to surge, driven by preparations for major online shopping festivals and a potential U.S. dockworker strike on October 1. The report anticipates tightening capacity across Intra-Asia routes, with air freight expected to absorb much of the overflow from ocean freight in response to labor disruptions.

=> Ocean Freight Disruptions and Falling Rates: Blank sailings (canceled voyages) are set to disrupt shipping, with a 1.5x increase in cancellations between late September and October. However, ocean freight rates, particularly on Trans-Pacific Eastbound (TPEB) and Europe-bound routes, are dropping as carriers deploy extra loaders to handle early shipments ahead of China’s Golden Week. The potential East and Gulf Coast port strike in the U.S. is further accelerating cargo movements.

=> Spotlight on Southeast Asia and China: Southeast Asia and China are expected to experience significant freight shifts during Golden Week, with tight capacity anticipated on both air and ocean routes. Taiwan’s high-tech sectors continue to drive exports, despite slowing eCommerce demand and broader economic pressures.

=> Potential U.S. Labor Strike: The potential International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) strike on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts looms large. A strike could impact up to 49% of U.S. imports. In response, companies are rerouting shipments to the West Coast to pre-empt disruptions. The report provides insights into how these contingency plans are unfolding as global trade braces for the potential impact.

Dimerco’s Perspective and Solution:
“As we approach the final quarter of 2024, the freight market is showing signs of increasing volatility.” said Kathy Liu, VP of Global Sales and Marketing at Dimerco Express Group.

“Our October report highlights the surge in air freight demand expected in the coming weeks, driven by peak season preparations and the potential disruption from U.S. port strikes. Capacity across Intra-Asia routes will tighten, and shippers must act swiftly to secure space, especially for high-value or time-sensitive cargo. Those who delay may face significant challenges as we head into the busiest period of the year.”

In order to assist customers to mitigate these risks, Dimerco Express Group is proactively offering a two-pronged solution that includes a dedicated Air/Truck service option and a Transloading & Trucking option. Full details of these options are available in Dimerco’s Strike Preparation Page.

Download the full October 2024 Freight Report.

About Dimerco:
Dimerco Express Group is a global provider of integrated logistics, transportation, and supply chain solutions. With a focus on delivering innovative and efficient services, Dimerco combines extensive industry expertise with advanced technology to meet the evolving needs of its customers. The company operates in key markets around the world, helping clients navigate the complexities of international trade while adhering to the highest standards of sustainability and corporate responsibility. For more information, visit Dimerco's website.

Gitte Willemsens
CHARLIE PESTI
gitte.w@pesti.io
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