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Seasonal weather continues to influence ocean operations across parts of Asia Pacific, with ripple effects – including schedule adjustments, congestion, and capacity constraints - being felt across Europe. While we are seeing gradual improvements in vessel flow and port performance, we continue to focus on recovery. Our teams remain on hand to support with maintaining as much flexibility on Asia-Europe planning as possible and we are actively working on solutions for customers, so please don't hesitate to reach out to discuss options for your cargo. Get more information here.
As China returns to full production following the Golden Week national holiday period, which ends on 7th October, supply chains typically experience a period of adjustment as factories resume operations and cargo volumes gradually return to normal levels. Customers are encouraged to review inventory positions, confirm shipment forecasts, and secure capacity for critical cargo early, helping to minimise the impact of any post-holiday fluctuations and maintain continuity as supply chains prepare for year-end demand.
Across North Europe, operational conditions remain largely stable, although customers should continue to monitor cargo milestones closely and build flexibility into planning. Recent disruption affecting refrigerated cargo handling in Rotterdam highlighted the importance of proactive coordination for temperature-sensitive supply chains, particularly as fresh and frozen cargo volumes remain elevated. Customers moving refrigerated cargo are encouraged to secure inland transportation early and maintain close visibility of cargo status to support smooth collection and onward distribution.
In the Baltic region, ongoing network optimisation and terminal performance assessments are focused on strengthening long-term schedule reliability and improving cargo flow through key gateways. While these initiatives are designed to enhance service consistency, customers using Baltic and North European corridors may experience occasional schedule adjustments as operational frameworks are refined.
To stay updated on the latest information on your cargo, you can receive ETA notifications for your cargo by signing up here.
The EU's customs reform took a major step forward with the publication of the revised Union Customs Code (UCC) this September, ahead of its application from September 2027. The reforms will introduce a new EU Customs Authority and Customs Data Hub, creating a more digital and risk-based customs environment. New concepts such as "Trust and Check Traders" will allow qualifying businesses to self-declare customs activities, while importers will face broader responsibilities for complying with both customs and non-customs EU legislation.
E-commerce businesses are also affected, with new rules already in force, including the removal of the €150 duty exemption threshold and greater importer responsibilities for online platforms. While implementation will continue through 2034, businesses should start assessing their supply chains, compliance obligations, and eligibility for programmes such as Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) and Trust and Check status.
European businesses will need to take another look at their products to assess whether they are in scope of the EU Deforestation Regulation. Recently, the European Commission published amends to Annex I to the EUDR, covering the commodity codes that are impacted by the regulation. Update includes removal of several articles, and addition of other products, such as soluble coffee and certain derivatives of palm oil. The newly added products become subject to the EUDR from 30 December 2027. The amendment also includes exemptions for waste, used and second-hand products, certain packaging material, medicinal uses, samples and products used for analysis, examination or testing.
In another set of updates, the dual-use control-list has seen its annual update earlier in September. Traders of dual use goods should re-screen controlled goods and technology against the updated list – manufacturers of semiconductors, advanced computing integrated circuits, and electronic assemblies, among others, will be impacted by the updates. The updated EU control list enters into force upon publication in the Official Journal after the usual two-month scrutiny period for the Council and the European Parliament.
Please don't hesitate to reach out to our Global Trade and Customs Consultants if you require support.
In air freight, demand remains resilient heading into the final months of 2026, supported by expanding global trade and continued investment in AI infrastructure. Demand for semiconductors, servers, and data-centre equipment is becoming one of the industry's strongest growth drivers (particularly on Asia-Europe corridors) and keeping capacity tight on key trade lanes. For supply chain leaders, this means planning ahead for seasonal peaks, securing capacity earlier for time-sensitive shipments and prioritising air freight for high-value or business-critical cargo where reliability and speed are essential.
European businesses are also navigating structural changes following the removal of the EU's de minimis exemption in July. While direct low-value e-commerce shipments have declined, demand remains strong for technology, machinery, and industrial products moving into Europe, and many companies are shifting towards regional inventory and fulfilment models to improve resilience.
Please click here to find helpful information about Maersk Air Cargo and our services to and from Europe.
Elsewhere, inland operations in Southern Europe are being affected by infrastructure works at the Port of Valencia, where rail services are experiencing disruption from 25th September through to 7th November. To maintain cargo flows, Maersk has implemented an alternative rail solution via the Silla Intermodal Terminal outside Valencia, supported by truck shuttle operations between the port and terminal. Customers using rail connections through Valencia should plan for potential additional transit complexity and engage early with their Maersk representative to secure inland capacity and minimise disruption. Read more here.
For more information on ways to connect seamlessly with our rail, road, and barge solutions across Europe, please visit our inland transportation services in Europe.
