Maersk Lowers Peak Season Surcharge on Asia–East Coast South America Route

Maersk announced a reduction in the Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) applicable to container shipments from the Far East to the east coast of South America, under scope code X4FS. The measure affects shipments bound for Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.

The new rate will take effect as of November 9, 2026, for cargo originating in Brunei, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Cambodia, South Korea, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, East Timor, Taiwan and Vietnam. For shipments originating specifically in South Korea, the update will take effect on November 20, 2026.

According to the published details, the PSS for 20-foot dry containers and 20-foot reefer units will be set at USD 500, while for 40-foot, 45-foot High Cube and 40-foot High Cube reefer containers the rate will be USD 1,000. The carrier specified that the change also applies to other equipment types, such as bulk containers, flat racks, open tops, tanks and twin decks.

Maersk stated that, for non-SPOT bookings, the rate will be determined based on the price calculation date (PCD), and that charges will be applied according to the place of freight payment. The company also noted that it periodically reviews its surcharges and that updated rates can be consulted on its rate inquiry platform.