Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are having a direct impact on the international air and sea freight market. You are likely already noticing this through rising rates, limited capacity, or longer transit times.
In this update, we clearly explain what is happening, what you can expect, and the best steps to take now.
Air Freight: Capacity under pressure
India & Southeast Asia
Several Gulf carriers, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad, have suspended their flights until further notice.
What does this mean for you?
- Reduced capacity to Europe
- Higher air freight rates
- Possible delays due to alternative routing
- Uncertainty in connecting hub links
Carriers that are still operating are facing network constraints. As a result, you are already seeing clear rate increases — and this pressure is expected to continue for the time being.
China
No flight cancellations have been announced for air freight from China at this time. However, this remains a dynamic situation. We monitor this daily to ensure you are not faced with any surprises.
What we do for you
For your current shipments, we provide:
- Confirmation of cargo transfer
- Active monitoring of flight schedules
- Direct communication in case of delays
- Investigation of alternative, efficient routings
Our goal is simple: to get your goods to Amsterdam (Europe) as quickly and reliably as possible, with minimal cost impact.
Ocean Freight: Additional pressure on rates and schedules
Many shipping lines were already avoiding the Suez Canal. Due to current developments, we expect further diversions and disruptions.
What should you take into account?
- War Risk Surcharges
- Rapid increases in spot rates
- Volatile sailing schedules
- Equipment imbalances
- Possible congestion at alternative hubs
Additional factor: Strait of Hormuz
A large portion of global oil trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz. If restrictions persist there, oil prices and bunker fuel costs could rise.
This could once again affect:
- Fuel surcharges
- Ocean freight rates
- Air freight rates
- Schedule reliability
What does this mean specifically for your planning?
You may experience:
- Longer transit times
- Higher rates
- Less predictable arrival dates
- Pressure on urgent shipments
- Sea-air delays via Jebel Ali
This requires forward thinking.
What is the best thing you can do now?
To maintain control over your supply chain, we advise:
✔ Share your forecast for the next 2–4 weeks
✔ Build in extra buffer time for urgent shipments
✔ Consider alternative routings
✔ Book capacity well in advance
✔ Check your insurance for war risk coverage
Planning ahead now prevents emergency measures later.
We will continue to monitor this for you
At Van der Helm Logistics, we monitor the situation daily. Thanks to our forwarding, customs, and warehousing expertise, we offer end-to-end solutions that take the burden off your organization. With our own warehouses, transport resources, and an in-house customs team, we maintain control over the process. That makes the difference when markets are under pressure.
As soon as a development has a direct impact on your shipments, you will hear from us immediately.
Do you have questions about a specific shipment or would you like to look ahead to the coming weeks together? Please feel free to contact your regular contact person at Van der Helm.