As a potential strike at US east and Gulf coast ports looms, shipping lines are preparing for disruptions by announcing surcharges.

MSC will implement a $1,000 to $1,500 Emergency Operations Surcharge on shipments from Europe to the US and nearby regions starting 1 October. Similarly, CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd have announced surcharges ranging from $500 to $1,500 for shipments to and from the US, effective in October.

These surcharges signal possible rate increases in the event of a strike.

Lars Jensen, CEO of Vespucci Maritime, warned that a strike could disrupt global supply chains, particularly affecting Asia if the strike extends into the pre-Chinese New Year rush.

US exporters, especially in the automotive and agricultural sectors, are expected to face significant challenges, potentially causing increased food prices globally and supply chain issues in the auto industry.