BOSTON -- Softer market conditions and high lift capacity eliminated most freight backlogs at major transit hubs around the world.

Fuel surcharges are drifting downward compared to last year. Carriers serving markets in China, the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia reported lower fuel costs, says Trans Global Logistics, a global logistics provider.

The firm says most Asia sites anticipate demand for air lift to build this month as factories begin to increase production prior to the end of the March quarter.