MSC raises emergency fuel surcharge amid rising marine fuel prices and supply disruptions

Mediterranean Shipping Company is raising its emergency fuel surcharge on cargo moving between Northern Europe, the Red Sea and East Africa for shipments with bill of lading dates from June 1 to June 15, 2026.

According to the carrier, the adjustment reflects a sharp rise in marine fuel prices and a wider reordering of bunker supply, which has left fuel harder to secure at some long-established sourcing points. MSC said the changes affect traffic in both directions and apply to...

For southbound freight, the surcharge from Scanbaltic to the Red Sea will be $200 per TEU for dry containers and $305 for reefers, while the East Africa service will carry $325 and $485 respectively. From Northern Europe, including the UK, to the Red Sea, the charge will be $140 per TEU for dry cargo and $210 for refrigerated units, rising to $260 and $390 for East Africa-bound boxes.

On the return leg, the Red Sea to Northern Europe route will attract the same $140 and $210 levels, while shipments to Scanbaltic will be charged $200 for dry cargo and $305 for reefers. MSC also set separate rates for movements to the West Mediterranean and Adriatic, and for services between Red Sea and East Africa ports.

For cargo out of East Africa, the carrier will levy $260 per TEU for dry boxes and $390 for reefers to Northern Europe, and $325 and $485 to Scanbaltic. East Africa cargo headed for the West Mediterranean and Adriatic will face a $220 dry-container charge and $335 for reefers, while the East Africa–Red Sea leg will be priced at $130 and $195.

The update comes as shipping lines continue to absorb volatility in fuel markets caused by instability in the Middle East, with carriers periodically revising surcharges to reflect their operating costs. MSC said the emergency fee will remain in place until June 15 unless it is altered again.

Source: Noah Wire Services