Importers shipping from West India to the US East Coast should prepare for tighter capacity conditions following Mediterranean Shipping Co.’s (MSC) decision to discontinue its Indus Express service.
The withdrawal removes a significant amount of space from the market, with an estimated 6,000 TEUs now needing to be absorbed by other carriers. As a result, shippers may experience reduced space availability, increased competition for bookings, and upward pressure on freight rates and surcharges in the coming weeks.
Adding to the challenge, congestion at Nhava Sheva Port continues, contributing to operational delays and potential disruptions to vessel schedules.
What Importers Should Do
To help minimize impacts, we recommend:
- Planning shipments and placing bookings 2–3 weeks in advance
- Remaining flexible on carrier and routing options
- Monitoring for potential rate increases and surcharges
- Securing space early for time-sensitive and peak season cargo
While overall India–US East Coast demand remains softer than previous years, carriers continue to adjust capacity to better align with market conditions. The removal of MSC’s Indus Express service is expected to tighten available space from West India, making proactive planning increasingly important.
Through our diversified carrier strategy and contracts with multiple ocean carriers, Mohawk Global can provide alternative routing and service options to help keep freight moving despite capacity constraints, congestion, and changing market conditions.
If you have questions about your shipments or need assistance securing capacity, reach out India Center of Excellence experts today.