Maersk has announced an emergency freight increase following the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Maersk has announced an emergency freight increase for shipments to and from several Middle East ports following the escalation of security risks in the region and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The carrier said the situation has significantly disrupted service flows across Middle East corridors, prompting contingency measures including alternative routings and operational adjustments to maintain cargo movement and service continuity.

The Emergency Freight Increase will apply from March 2, 2026, covering shipments linked to the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia (Dammam and Jubail), Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq and Oman (Sohar). For Oman–Sohar, the increase will take effect from March 3.

Under the adjustment, rates will increase by USD 1,800 per 20-foot dry container, USD 3,000 per 40- and 45-foot dry containers and USD 3,800 per reefer and special equipment units. The charge will apply to bookings not yet shipped, cargo already on the water but not yet discharged or loaded in the affected ports, and all future bookings from the effective dates.

The surcharge will be payable by the freight-paying party and does not apply to cargo that is only transshipping through the impacted ports. Export cargo may also be exempt if the vessel’s final departure from the affected ports occurred before February 27, 2026.

Maersk said the adjustment is being implemented under the provisions of Clause 20 of its Bill of Lading, which allows modification of carriage terms under exceptional circumstances. The company added that it continues to monitor developments in the region and will update customers as the situation evolves.

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