Maersk has officially announced an increase to its Emergency Contingency Surcharge (ECS) for shipments moving from the Indian Subcontinent to North Europe and the Mediterranean. This rate update specifically impacts the E3W and E4W trade lanes.
The revised surcharge takes effect on April 6, 2026, based on the Price Calculation Date. Maersk noted that further rate increases will be applied starting April 20, 2026. The carrier attributes these ongoing adjustments to operational challenges and sustained cost pressures affecting the global trade lanes.
Shippers moving cargo out of the Indian Subcontinent must adjust their logistics budgets for the following increases:
-
North West India and Pakistan to North Europe (E3W): The ECS for standard dry containers (20 foot and 40 foot) will rise from USD 700 to USD 1,000. Reefer rates will increase from USD 1,700 to USD 2,000.
-
Indian Subcontinent to the Mediterranean (E4W): The ECS for dry containers will increase from the current USD 800 to 1,000 range up to USD 1,100 to 1,300. Reefer rates will rise from USD 2,000 to USD 2,300.
The updated ECS applies to all container types. This broad scope includes out of gauge (OOG) cargo, shipper owned containers (SOC), and non operating reefers (NOR). Special 40 foot equipment will incur charges at the same level as standard dry containers.
ALSO READ:Maersk introduced PSS for US Gulf to South America’s West Coast
All changes remain subject to regulatory approvals and mandatory notice periods. Maersk indicated that the updated charges will be reflected directly in customer invoices, adding that further rate updates may follow depending on shifting market conditions.