Expect local prices to go up next month as a result of the Israeli-US war. Freight forwarding company, Island Cargo Support, has advised customers of an Emergency Bunker Surcharge affecting shipments from the US West Coast to the Pacific Islands, Australia and New Zealand.
The Bunker Adjustment Factor is $1,065 for a 20 ft container and $2,130 for a 40 ft. container. The rate increase will apply to all freight departing from the West Coast on or after April 13, 2026.
ICS said the adjustment is necessary due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East and the sudden increase in fuel costs.
It adds that fuel is one of the largest operating expenses for vessels. “When significant spikes occur, carriers implement an Emergency Bunker Surcharge rather than renegotiating long term freight rates,” customers were informed.
“We understand the impact that rate adjustments can have on your business, and we have worked diligently to keep these increases to a minimum.”
