BOSTON, Nov. 4 -- Airlift capacity throughout the Asia Pacific has been relatively static but rising fuel prices and delays in major ports are trouble spots, a major freight forwarder said this week.
In its monthly report on airlift conditions, Trans Global Logistics says escalating fuel surcharges, strong demand for space fueled by delays at Long Beach and higher export volume from Asia
Peak season conditions exist in most markets with the greatest demand in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Korea, Trans Global says. Charter space is limited and the cost of a charter is more than $400,000, the firm says.
In Shanghai, new capacity is helping to handle the significant growth of export volume. But Hong Kong is struggling to meet demand as lift capacity is down about one-third.
"As you make plans to move your shipments during
the next few weeks, anticipate longer transit times and higher costs
for space and fuel. If you have large-sized or "hot" shipments, try to
book them as early as possible," Trans Global says.