Ocean freight carriers are notifying us of overbooked vessels, resulting in extremely limited space and equipment availability across many trade lanes. As the holiday season quickly approaches, this congestion is only expected to intensify.
If your business relies on timely deliveries during Q4, we strongly advise you to book your freight as early as possible. Many carriers are already fully booked weeks in advance, and delays in planning may result in missed shipping windows and disappointed customers.
Why Early Booking Matters Now More Than Ever
With global shipping demand surging and capacity stretched thin, the risk of delays has never been higher. Here’s what’s happening:
- Space is scarce: Carriers are prioritizing high-volume shippers and long-term contracts, making it harder to secure space on short notice.
- Equipment shortages: Containers, chassis, and even drivers are in limited supply—especially in inland and secondary ports.
- Trucker shortages: Driver availability continues to lag behind demand, creating bottlenecks in container pick-ups and deliveries.
- Holiday demand: The approaching holiday season puts extra pressure on the supply chain, pushing lead times even further out.
- Port congestion: Major U.S. and international ports are experiencing extended wait times, adding further delays for vessels and containers alike.
- Blank sailings and schedule changes: Carriers are also canceling or re-routing certain sailings, reducing flexibility for late bookings.
Plan Ahead with Jade International
Booking with Jade International well in advance ensures we can:
✅ Reserve space with trusted ocean carriers
✅ Secure truckers for drayage and pick-up
✅ Monitor schedules and avoid rolled shipments
✅ Communicate promptly on any disruptions or alternatives
We understand the importance of meeting your timelines, and our experienced Ocean Export Team is here to help you navigate the challenges of today’s volatile freight market.
Need Help? Contact Us Today!
If you have any upcoming shipments or questions about freight availability, reach out to our Ocean Export team as soon as possible:
Together, we can minimize delays and keep your cargo moving—even during the busiest time of the year.
