Ocean carriers are stepping up artificial capacity management in 2026 as container demand growth of 3-4 per cent trails net fleet expansion of 6-8 per cent, reported AI Copilot.
The imbalance leaves an implied oversupply of up to five per cent before interventions, prompting alliances to cancel sailings to stabilise spot rates. February 2026 saw 107 blank sailings, a 38 per cent increase on earlier projections. Transpacific eastbound services absorbed 58 per cent of second quarter cancellations, while Asia-Europe and Mediterranean trades accounted for about 32 per cent. Global vessel capacity is forecast to rise 46 per cent compared with pre-Covid levels, forcing carriers to defend rate levels during contract talks. The influx of new mega-ships has intensified pressure to intervene continuously.
While the tactic supports profitability, it creates volatility for shippers. Artificial scarcity extends transit times by seven to 14 days and undermines schedule reliability. Beneficial cargo owners are advised to adopt multi-carrier strategies, diversify routing and balance contract and spot rates to mitigate risks from sudden capacity withdrawals.
https://www.shippingazette.com/news?news_id=9260500000337
2026/5/15 13:45:00