Newsletter: June Shipping Outlook Strong Demand, Expanding Capacity, and Early Peak Season

West Coast Market Correction in Progress, East Coast Capacity Easing Soon

Spot market conditions on the U.S. West Coast are beginning to correct in June following sharp freight increases earlier this month. A surge in available capacity—driven by extra loader deployments—has eased pressure on space and is prompting some shippers to resume bookings. This shift is expected to continue as carriers work to balance supply and demand.

Over 70% of last week’s additional capacity was routed to the Pacific Southwest (PSW), driving the most notable changes in that lane. In contrast, the Pacific Northwest (PNW) has seen minimal new capacity, and the East Coast (USEC) has held steady with limited changes—though that’s about to shift.

Looking ahead, carriers plan to continue deploying extra loaders to PSW through late June. While additional East Coast capacity remains limited, MSC and ZIM are set to reinstate or enhance key service loops starting mid-month. This may gradually improve space availability and booking flexibility for USEC-bound cargo as we move deeper into peak season.

Additionally, many importers are actively diversifying their sourcing strategies, with countries like Mexico seeing increased volumes as businesses look to mitigate ongoing tariff exposure and geopolitical uncertainty tied to China-U.S. trade policy

Extra Loaders Drive Market Shift

Last week, carriers deployed substantial additional capacity—primarily to the Pacific Southwest—flooding the spot market with new space. This is the primary driver behind the recent rate correction and softening conditions on West Coast lanes. Additional extra loader activity is planned through the end of June, particularly to PSW, while capacity to the Pacific Northwest remains steady and limited.

U.S.–China Tariff Deal Framework Offers Supply Chain Relief

The U.S. and China have reached a preliminary agreement on a new tariff framework, offering much-needed clarity for importers and stabilizing trade relations for now. The deal follows high-level negotiations and aims to maintain the current truce while avoiding further escalations.

Key Takeaways:

• Rare earth exports resume: China will lift export restrictions on rare earth minerals and magnets, easing pressure on critical manufacturing inputs.

• 10% reduced-duty window: U.S. importers still benefit from the lower rate on eligible China-origin shipments through August 11.

• Short-term stability: No new tariff increases are expected in the near term, giving businesses a more predictable environment for planning and sourcing.

Presidential approval from both sides is pending, but the framework signals a more stable and cooperative phase in U.S.–China trade relations.

What This Means for You

• Market corrections are creating new shipping opportunities, especially for West Coast cargo

• Expect more flexible pricing and space options as capacity continues to increase

• East Coast improvements are coming, with upgraded services set to launch mid-month

• Now is a good time to re-evaluate shipping schedules and take advantage of improved availability

Need updated schedules or support with June bookings?

We’re monitoring the trends and have access to key space across multiple routes. Reach out today to secure your position.