MSC Implements Global Route Surcharges

Bassyonni

Published: March 9, 2026 12:04 PM ET

MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has announced significant adjustments to their freight rates and surcharges on various trade routes. These changes will take effect in mid-March and early April 2026. The updates are part of MSC’s efforts to manage pricing amidst a changing global shipping landscape.

New Freight Rates from India and Pakistan to Europe

Starting March 16, 2026, MSC will implement new freight rates for containers shipped from India and Pakistan to Europe. Key rates include:

$2,150 for a 20-foot and 40-foot container from Nhava Sheva to Antwerp
$2,250 per container from Nhava Sheva to Valencia
Higher rates will apply for shipments from Ennore and Kolkata to various European destinations

These updated rates will be in effect until March 31, 2026.

Emergency Fuel Surcharge Implementation

As part of the adjustments, an Emergency Fuel Surcharge will be applied starting March 16, 2026. This surcharge affects routes from Northern Europe to the Indian Subcontinent, with rates set at:

$100 per TEU for dry units
$150 per TEU for reefer units

Peak Season Surcharge for Southern Africa

Additionally, a Peak Season Surcharge will come into effect from April 2, 2026, for shipments from Europe to Southern Africa. The specifics of this surcharge include:

$125 per TEU to South Africa
$150 per TEU to Namibia
$250 per TEU to Mozambique

Reefer containers shipping to Namibia and Mozambique will incur even higher charges. MSC has cited strong demand in the Europe to Southern Africa market as the driving force behind this surcharge.

Additional Charges and Fees

Beyond the new freight rates and surcharges, MSC will also impose additional Emergency Fuel Surcharges on various routes connecting Northern Europe. These routes include destinations such as Italy, the Red Sea, East Africa, West Mediterranean, Adriatic, Australia, and New Zealand. Rates will vary by route and container type.

It’s important to note that these charges are supplementary to existing fees, such as bunker recovery charges, emissions trading system fees, and terminal handling charges. The updated rates apply to all freight-all-kinds cargo, excluding International Maritime Organization (IMO) category commodities and high-value goods.