CMA CGM, a major container shipping line, has announced a delay in the implementation of its low water surcharge (LWS) for shipments originating from the west coast of South America. The surcharge, initially slated to take effect on September 1, will now be applied from October 1. This fee, set at US$150 per twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU), will impact all cargo destined for North Europe, the Mediterranean, North Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, the Middle East Gulf, the Red Sea, South Africa, West Africa, the Central America East Coast, the Caribbean, Leeward and Windward Islands, and Mexico.
For freight forwarders and shippers, this postponement offers a short-term benefit by delaying an additional cost factor. While the surcharge is still expected, the extra month provides more time to adjust pricing strategies, communicate with clients, and potentially finalize existing bookings before the new fee takes effect. It is crucial for operations managers to update their systems and inform relevant parties about the revised implementation date to avoid unexpected charges.
