Matson Logistics has observed an increasing number of shippers opting to transfer their cargo from air freight to ocean shipping. This trend is primarily driven by the sustained high cost of jet fuel, which makes air cargo a more expensive option for many businesses. The logistics provider noted this shift occurring during the first quarter of 2026 and anticipates that this migration of freight between transport modes will continue in the foreseeable future.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this development suggests a potential increase in demand for ocean freight capacity, particularly on key trade lanes where air cargo has traditionally been a faster, albeit pricier, alternative. Forwarders should monitor ocean freight rates and available capacity closely, as a significant influx of cargo could impact pricing and transit times. This shift also highlights the importance of offering flexible, multimodal solutions to clients, enabling them to optimize their supply chains based on current market conditions and cost pressures. Shippers may seek more robust ocean freight booking options and potentially longer lead times to secure space.
