Ocean Freight 2026: Why Rates Are Falling and How Businesses Can Save on Shipping

At the beginning of 2026, the global ocean logistics market entered a phase of active transformation. After a prolonged period of elevated shipping costs, analysts are reporting a decline in freight rates across key international routes. For Ukrainian companies engaged in import and export operations, this creates new opportunities to optimize expenses.

We are currently observing a “market correction”: available vessel capacity has increased due to the commissioning of new container ships, while demand has temporarily stabilized following the peak holiday seasons.

Three main ways to organize sea freight delivery to Ukraine

Direct contract with a shipping line

This is the path for large corporations with massive volumes (hundreds of containers per month). You work directly with giants such as Maersk or MSC.

• Advantages – the lowest price with very large volumes.
• Disadvantages – complex bureaucracy, the need for an in-house logistics department, lack of flexibility for smaller shipments.

International digital platforms

A modern solution for medium-sized businesses where rates can be compared online. It is convenient for price monitoring, but such services often do not take into account the specifics of Ukrainian logistics – delays at EU land borders or local customs nuances.

Comprehensive logistics operator GlobalPost

This is the most balanced option for Ukrainian businesses. You receive not just space in a container, but full support: from negotiations with the shipper in China to turnkey customs clearance in Ukraine.

• Flexibility – the ability to ship both full containers (FCL) and consolidated cargo (LCL) from 100 kg.
• Control – the operator handles transshipment in European ports and inland delivery.
• Expertise – up-to-date information on customs regulations and limits.
• Rate fixation – the opportunity to secure a low freight rate at the time of vessel departure.

Freight market comparison: 2025 vs 2026

How sea freight with GlobalPost works: step-by-step process

The transportation process consists of several transparent stages. First, you provide cargo details and ports. We analyze current carrier rates and offer the optimal route via ports in Poland or Romania. After confirmation, we book space on the vessel, collect the goods from the supplier, and control loading. Upon arrival at a European port, we arrange fast transshipment to trucks and delivery to Ukraine with customs clearance.

What to consider when choosing a sea carrier

• Reputation – experience working with shipping lines under martial law conditions.
• Transparency – no hidden charges (BAF, CAF) after arrival.
• Partner network – availability of verified warehouses in the ports of Gdansk, Gdynia, and Constanta.
• Turnkey service – the operator’s ability to independently handle customs procedures.

Shipping specifics from different regions

Shipping from China and Asia
This is the route currently seeing the largest rate reductions. Supplier payments to China and subsequent freight in 2026 have become more affordable. For electronics, it is better to choose express services; for raw materials – economy options.

Shipping from the USA
The US market is more stable but has strict documentation requirements. GlobalPost ensures regular vessel departures from major American ports.

Shipping from the UAE (Dubai)
A growing hub for re-export. Sea freight from the UAE via Mediterranean ports allows goods to be received from around the world at competitive rates.

Shipping from Japan and Korea
Specific destinations where proper cargo consolidation is essential. We offer regular services for importing equipment and auto parts.

Strategic conclusion: how importers should act in 2026

The current situation in the sea freight market is a classic “window of opportunity.” Lower freight rates at the beginning of 2026 allow Ukrainian companies not only to reduce product costs but also to stabilize supply chains after last year’s turbulence. However, it is important to remember that logistics remains dynamic: any changes in global trade volumes or new tactics by shipping lines to reduce sailings can quickly push prices up again.

To succeed in such conditions, businesses should follow three rules:

• Act promptly – secure current low rates while there is excess capacity in the market.
• Choose comprehensive service – work with operators who control the entire cargo route, including complex inland transport across EU borders.
• Analyze alternatives – sometimes a combination of sea freight and air freight for urgent items is more beneficial for the company’s overall Cash Flow.

GlobalPost continues to keep its finger on the pulse of global changes to provide our clients not just with delivery, but with a competitive advantage in the Ukrainian market.

Logistics solutions from GlobalPost

GlobalPost is a reliable partner that helps Ukrainian businesses build an efficient supply chain model. We work with leading shipping lines and courier services such as FedEx, DHL, and UPS, ensuring reliability.

Planning an international sea shipment?
The current rate reduction is the best time to place an order. If you run a business and need an accurate calculation including all customs duties, request a business delivery cost estimate.

If you are a private individual or entrepreneur who needs to send a small batch of goods or samples, check our terms on the page export and parcel delivery from Ukraine.