The end of the year is encroaching, which means it’s almost silly season – bringing the freight forwarding industry into another peak season.
This year’s peak period looks a little different than last year. The familiar pressure of Christmas and Chinese New Year remains, but overall demand has softened, giving businesses a chance to catch their breath.
A shift in market dynamics
This year’s peak season is noticeably quieter than last year.
Freight rates have remained moderate, supported by an oversupply of capacity across key trade lanes. TS Lines has expanded its network by adding extra vessels, while MSC has deployed larger ships into the Australian market, easing the usual strain on space and availability.
For many importers, this means less urgency around securing bookings and a more predictable environment for moving cargo.
However, the changing landscape also highlights the need for continued flexibility and awareness as global shipping patterns evolve.
Port conditions and global delays
Domestically, Australian ports are performing well, with no major congestion or berthing issues reported. Minor disruptions have occurred, such as brief port blockages in Brisbane and Melbourne linked to protest activity, but these have had limited operational impact.
Internationally, challenges continue in several regions.
The Port of Singapore is currently experiencing heavy congestion, resulting in delays of two to four weeks for some carriers. Earlier in the season, typhoons across North-East Asia disrupted schedules by up to two weeks, though most services have now stabilised.
Even in calmer markets, these incidents serve as a reminder that supply chains remain sensitive to global events and weather patterns.
Three peak logistics periods to prepare for
Beyond the immediate holiday rush, there are three major logistics peaks to plan for in 2025 and early 2026. Understanding these periods and their effects can help businesses stay resilient and responsive all year round.
Black Friday + Cyber Monday – November 28th and December 1st, 2025
The global retail surge begins here. Online and in-store sales skyrocket, challenging logistics providers to balance inventory management, last-mile delivery and returns at a record pace.
Christmas + New Year holidays – Late December 2025 to early January 2026
One of the busiest periods globally. Retailers race to meet year-end sales targets and restock inventory. Carriers face extreme capacity strain and weather-related challenges, requiring tight planning and coordination.
Chinese New Year – February 17th to March 3rd, 2026
Factories across China close for up to two weeks, slowing or halting production. The impact extends globally, with reduced export volumes and limited manufacturing capacity. Businesses are encouraged to ship early and secure bookings well in advance.
Global factors influencing 2025
A number of international developments are shaping freight conditions this season:
- Red Sea disruption – The main shipping route remains closed, with no clear timeline for reopening. Transit times from Europe to Australia continue to be longer and more costly.
- U.S. tariffs – New and ongoing tariffs have contributed to a global slowdown in containerised freight, keeping rates lower and competition for cargo space subdued.
- Sustainability measures – The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is currently meeting to discuss net-zero targets and cleaner fuel adoption, including a transition towards LNG-powered vessels. These initiatives are set to influence long-term shipping practices and fleet investments worldwide.
How Stockwells is supporting clients through peak periods
Stockwells continues to provide proactive communication, adaptable strategies and hands-on service, even as market conditions shift.
Our team continues to monitor global shipping networks closely, communicating directly with clients to flag potential changes and offer proactive solutions.
We remain focused on keeping supply chains running smoothly and efficiently, whether it’s identifying alternate routes, managing warehousing overflow or adjusting transit expectations.
Consistency and communication are key, especially during the busiest time of year.
Planning ahead remains essential
Even with extra space available, the best way to manage peak season is to plan well in advance.
We recommend building at least a one-month buffer into your shipment timelines. Unexpected disruptions such as port congestion, industrial action or weather can occur at any time and often without warning.
Businesses that work closely with their suppliers and warehouses to confirm schedules are better positioned to avoid stock shortages and delivery delays.
A small amount of forward planning can make a significant difference in maintaining supply chain continuity.
The bottom line
While 2025’s peak season is more manageable than last year’s, preparation remains critical.
Staying informed, building flexibility into supply chains and partnering with an experienced freight forwarder can help businesses stay ahead of potential disruptions.
Stockwells continues to prioritise reliability and transparency to ensure our clients’ cargo moves safely and efficiently through the busiest time of the year.
The sooner you start planning, the smoother your season will be.
Talk to our team today about securing space, managing warehousing overflow and ensuring your supply chain is ready for the months ahead.