A plethora of new charges taking effect September 1 are expected to increase freight costs by more than 12%. The increase results from the combination of peak season surcharges, initially expected to take effect this month, and Bunker Adjustment Factor (fuel surcharge, referred to as “BAF”).

Rising costs also create new hurdles for logistics, making effective coordination between shippers paramount to avoid additional fees. Rail yards, for example, which previously permitted up to 6 days for container pick-up, are now penalizing customers after just 2 days.