Maersk Announces Peak Season Surcharge Revision for Shipments to North America

Published: 2026/01/07 11:54:47

Overview of the Surcharge Revision

Maersk has announced a revision to its Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) for shipments originating from the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Bhutan, India, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Sri Lanka, maldives, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, destined for the East Coast and Gulf regions of the United States and Canada. The revised surcharge will be effective from February 5, 2026, until further notice. This adjustment aims to accommodate increased demand and ensure continued reliable service during peak shipping seasons.[[1]]

Affected Regions and Destinations

The revised PSS applies to cargo moving from the following countries:

• United Arab Emirates
• Bangladesh
• Bahrain
• Bhutan
• India
• Iraq
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• Sri Lanka
• Maldives
• Nepal
• Oman
• Pakistan
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Yemen

These shipments are destined for the East Coast and Gulf regions of both the United States and Canada.

Important Considerations

• The PSS is subject to other applicable surcharges, including local charges and contingency charges.
• The surcharge does not affect tariffs or regulations filed with local authorities.
• For shipments governed by the US Shipping Act or China Maritime Regulations, any variations from the published Maersk tariff must be included in a valid service contract filed with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) or the Shanghai Shipping Exchange.

What is a Peak Season Surcharge?

A Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) is a temporary fee imposed by shipping lines during periods of high demand. These surcharges help carriers manage increased costs associated with congestion, equipment imbalances, and the need for additional resources to maintain service levels. [[3]] PSS adjustments are common in the shipping industry and are a direct response to market conditions.

Implications for Shippers

Shippers should factor the revised PSS into their overall shipping costs. It’s crucial to plan shipments in advance and consider potential delays during peak seasons. Understanding these surcharges and their impact is essential for effective supply chain management. Maersk, as a leading global integrated logistics company, offers a range of services to help businesses navigate these complexities. [[2]]

Looking Ahead

Maersk remains committed to providing reliable and efficient shipping solutions. The company will continue to monitor market conditions and adjust surcharges as needed to ensure service quality. Shippers are encouraged to stay informed about any further updates or changes to the PSS.