BE PREPARED - Carrier Capacity Concerns Before CNY

It is never too early to review your logistics program and forecasts for freight routing up to and prior to Chinese New Year. This year, Chinese New Year begins on January 23, 2012. Historically, bookings become tight as importers work to route freight prior to the holiday. For 2012, added challenges are expected as carriers cut capacity to both the US East and West coasts.

Liberty forwarding partners have been in contact with carriers in Asia discussing their expectations for cargo movement through January 2012. Currently AWS to the East Coast is 85-95% full and routing to the West Coast is 100% full on many lines. Through recent Global Facts, Liberty has been keeping clients up to date as carriers cut capacity and change routings / services. It is anticipated that these trends will continue.

Liberty recommends that all importers review their forecasts now for cargo departing from Asia prior to CNY 2012. There is concern that capacity cuts, combined with an early Chinese New Year holiday, may put considerable pressure on capacity. Providing a copy of your forecast to your Liberty account representative will allow us to plan together and take a proactive approach to these potential challenges.

For any questions and to discuss plans for handling your upcoming ocean imports, please contact your Liberty account representative.