Since early March, air freight rates on U.S. routes have ended the sluggish trend of the past two months, rapidly rising from just over ten yuan per kilogram to more than forty yuan in just one week. The sharp increase in rates has provided some relief to charter and block space operators, who had been under immense pressure. In the past two months, many charter operators have suffered losses in the tens of millions per month. In fact, by the end of February, rates for some airlines on U.S. routes had dropped to single digits.

So, what are the reasons behind this recent surge in U.S. air freight rates?

First, since early February, following the end of the Chinese New Year, the United States suddenly imposed a 20% tariff on Chinese goods and temporarily revoked the tariff exemption policy for e-commerce parcels valued under $800. This move left the market—platforms, sellers, and logistics service providers—uncertain and waiting for details on the U.S. tariff policy. Everyone was adjusting their pricing strategies based on the customs tax standards. As a result, shipments to the U.S. in February generally decreased, and some sea shipments originally scheduled for February were delayed until after March. However, if these goods were not shipped soon, overseas inventory would face the risk of running out, making air freight the fastest option for replenishment.

Additionally, airlines have also taken this opportunity to significantly raise rates, hoping to give a “boost” to freight forwarders who had already signed charter or block space agreements. This would help stabilize market expectations of rising prices and effectively avoid widespread contract breaches, thereby protecting the interests of contracted agents.

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WeChat Public Account: Cross-border E-commerce Logistics Baixiaosheng