The ongoing instability in global trade policies, marked by rapidly changing tariffs, has created a highly uncertain environment for shipping lines and cargo owners. As a result, most are opting for short-term supply chain adjustments, deferring major long-term network decisions until the situation stabilizes.
Transpacific Routes: Noticeable Capacity Cuts
Analysis of scheduled vessel capacity for weeks 16–19 (a 4-week period beginning this week) reveals a clear downward trend in the Asia–North America trade lanes:
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Asia–NAWC (North America West Coast):
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Scheduled capacity dropped from 1.43 million TEU in week 10 to 1.29 million TEU in week 13, reaching 1.26 million TEU by week 15.
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This represents a 12% reduction over six weeks.
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Asia–NAEC (North America East Coast):
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Capacity fell from 1.01 million TEU to 867,000 TEU, a 14% decline over the same period.
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Blank Sailings Surge in Response to Tariffs
Figure 1 data illustrates the reaction of carriers through blank sailings (canceled voyages):
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Initially, 60,000 TEU was expected to be blanked for weeks 16–19.
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This surged to 250,000 TEU within a week and hit 367,800 TEU by week 15, indicating a sharp tactical response by carriers to rapidly shifting trade dynamics.
Transatlantic Trade Remains Stable
In contrast, Transatlantic shipping capacity remains steady, buoyed by a mutual 90-day tariff suspension announced by both the Trump administration and the EU, providing temporary relief and predictability in that corridor.
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Source: SEA INTELLIGENCE
