Corporate Moving update May 2025

Shipping conditions are showing signs of volatility and recovery in equal measure. While the Red Sea ceasefire has introduced cautious optimism around ocean freight costs, operational risks, customs enforcement, and carrier restrictions continue to affect corporate moves. Ongoing shifts in shipping alliances, capacity constraints, and regulatory measures remain key concerns for relocating employees and the companies supporting them.

Red Sea ceasefire offers cautious optimism but no immediate relief

A recent ceasefire agreement in the Red Sea has raised hopes for reduced freight rates, as vessels may once again be able to transit directly rather than diverting around the Cape of Good Hope. However, major carriers remain hesitant to return to this route without concrete security guarantees. As a result, transit times remain extended, and overcapacity has yet to materialise in a way that benefits shippers. While analysts anticipate rate drops if traffic resumes, current pricing remains elevated on several key trade lanes.

Shipping lines and customs increase scrutiny and restrictions

Authorities in the United States have intensified inspections of containers at the Port of New York and New Jersey, following the discovery of stolen vehicles and undeclared hazardous materials. The increased oversight, particularly of cars shipped in containers, has introduced delays and additional risk for corporate shipments involving personal vehicles. At the same time, container quality remains an issue, with some relocations delayed due to unsuitable units being rejected at port. Businesses are advised to confirm container conditions and customs protocols early in the planning process.

China–EU freight rates show signs of rebounding

Spot rates on Asia–Europe routes have started to rise following a brief post-Lunar New Year dip. Higher volumes of automotive and electronics shipments into Germany and France are contributing to renewed pressure on capacity, which may lead to price adjustments on key relocation lanes into the EU.

Alliance shifts continue to affect schedules and reliability

Ongoing changes in global shipping alliances, including the rollout of the Maersk–Hapag-Lloyd Gemini Cooperation, are reshaping transit patterns on major east–west routes. While the shift promises improved long-term reliability, in the short term it has led to reduced direct service options and more complex transshipments via hub ports. As the new alliance structure stabilises, corporate customers should continue to expect schedule inconsistencies and longer lead times.

Trans-Pacific contract season introduces two-tiered pricing risks

Annual contracts on Asia–U.S. routes are being finalised, with large-volume shippers securing softer rates. However, spot pricing remains elevated for ad hoc or late-booked relocations, particularly via the Panama Canal, where capacity restrictions from prolonged drought conditions continue to affect routing.

New surcharges, compliance fees, and lithium battery challenges

Work disruption surcharges remain in place for U.S.-bound shipments, and additional fees have been applied to compensate for geopolitical risks and volatile fuel costs. Carriers are also applying carbon-related charges in line with new environmental regulations. Separately, lithium-ion battery policies remain inconsistent across carriers, particularly for items such as e-scooters, laptops, and power tools. Misdeclared items continue to pose a compliance risk and may result in rejected shipments or fines. Clients should always confirm restrictions in advance and seek expert support if uncertain.

Filip Leibl, Group Operations Manager at Santa Fe Relocation, comments,

“Security and reliability are in flux across many major trade routes, and we’re working hard behind the scenes to give our clients as much certainty as possible. Early planning, documentation readiness, and flexibility remain the best defences in today’s environment.”

Regional disruptions compound planning complexity

Following earlier strikes in France and storm-related disruption in Valencia, port congestion continues to ripple across Europe. Antwerp and Rotterdam remain under pressure from rerouted shipments. In North America, while strikes on the East Coast have been suspended, capacity remains tight, and surcharges persist. Asia and Middle East shipments remain affected by rerouting and variable port coverage, with backlogs expected to continue throughout Q2. Latin America also continues to report customs processing delays that can push shipments beyond free storage periods, creating unexpected costs.

Container equipment shortages persist in secondary markets

While overall global availability has improved, shortages are emerging in smaller or inland markets — especially in Africa, South America, and parts of Eastern Europe. These gaps can affect container availability at origin or cause bottlenecks at delivery locations.

EU ports pilot pre-clearance data system

A new EU-wide customs pre-arrival system is being tested at ports including Rotterdam and Hamburg. Though still in its pilot phase, the initiative points to upcoming documentation tightening across EU ports. Clients should expect more rigorous data checks later in 2025.

Strategic recommendations for businesses

• Plan early: Transit schedules remain unpredictable. Advance bookings reduce the risk of delays and price fluctuations.
• Confirm container quality and customs compliance: Avoid surprises at port by ensuring that documentation and equipment meet requirements.
• Watch for new surcharges: Shipping lines are passing on risk via fees. Budget accordingly for fuel, carbon, and disruption costs.
• Avoid restricted items: Lithium batteries and personal vehicles now attract higher scrutiny. Check restrictions before packing.
• Stay close to your provider: Santa Fe continues to monitor global developments and will advise you on the best routes, timing, and mitigation strategies.

For tailored guidance, please contact your Santa Fe Relocation consultant.

At Santa Fe Relocation, we are dedicated to supporting our clients through these developments with timely updates and strategic advice. Our team remains vigilant, monitoring industry changes to deliver tailored solutions that ensure business continuity. For further assistance or personalised guidance, please contact your designated Santa Fe Relocation consultant.

Filip Leibl
Group Operations Manager
Santa Fe Relocation

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