Corporate Moving update – January 2026

Shipping and logistics conditions continue to shift, with implications for corporate relocations across sea and air freight. A gradual return to Suez Canal routing, evolving carrier behaviour, and renewed focus on sustainability are shaping both cost and operational planning for organisations managing international moves.

Gradual return to Suez routing

Shipping lines are beginning a cautious reintroduction of Suez Canal transits. In the week ending 11th January, 26 containerships passed through Suez, the highest weekly total in 5 weeks. This follows limited activity earlier in the month and signals a tentative change in carrier confidence.

Several major lines are testing the route. CMA CGM, APL and MSC have deployed larger vessels via Suez, while Maersk has trialled the route on its US–Middle East service as a strategic assessment. Despite this progress, overall transit volumes remain well below pre-crisis norms, and a significant number of voyages continue to divert via the Cape of Good Hope.

For corporate moves, this transition phase introduces complexity. As services are rebalanced, vessel schedules are being adjusted, and blank sailings may be implemented. Arrivals into Europe are becoming more clustered, increasing the risk of congestion at major ports and potential delays to household goods shipments.

Freight rates and operational volatility

Shorter Suez routings may ease some cost pressure over time, but freight rates are expected to remain volatile in the near term. Carriers are actively rebalancing capacity and revising schedules, which can affect container availability and pricing at short notice. The pace at which lines commit fully back to Suez will be influenced by insurance considerations, competitor actions and market response.

For Global Mobility and HR teams, this means transit times and budgets remain exposed to fluctuation as the market adjusts.

Air cargo outlook and implications for moving

Air cargo capacity continues to expand. Industry forecasts indicate global air cargo volumes are expected to reach 71.6 million tonnes in 2026, supported by growth in time-sensitive shipments and e-commerce. Airline cargo revenues are projected to increase alongside improved operating margins.

Greater capacity and competition in air freight may place downward pressure on rates over time. While air remains a niche solution for corporate moving, particularly for critical or delayed items, improved market conditions could offer more viable options in specific cases.

Sustainability developments in maritime transport

Decarbonisation initiatives are progressing across the maritime sector. Recent analysis indicates that adopting methanol as a primary fuel on specific European routes could significantly reduce emissions while avoiding long-term regulatory costs linked to EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime requirements. Ferry operators are already committing to methanol-powered vessels, with deliveries planned later this decade.

In parallel, logistics providers and carriers are collaborating on alternative fuels. Joint biofuel programmes between global forwarders and shipping lines are enabling measurable emissions reductions for ocean freight, with models that allow customers to participate through certified fuel usage schemes.

While these initiatives involve higher upfront costs, they point to a structural shift that will increasingly influence carrier selection and relocation policy decisions.

Port and terminal constraints remain a practical driver of delays

Operational updates from major logistics providers continue to flag berth congestion, vessel bunching and high yard utilisation in parts of the network. Even when ocean legs run broadly to plan, these port-side constraints can delay container release, onward transport and final delivery windows for household goods moves.

Strategic guidance for organisations

Businesses planning international relocations should take practical steps to manage operational risk:

• Plan early and secure capacity. Congestion, routing changes, and equipment shortages continue to affect transit times. Early booking provides more flexibility.
• Strengthen documentation and compliance. ICS2 requirements and evolving customs rules reinforce the need for complete, accurate paperwork before departure.
• Budget for potential surcharges and delays. Low water surcharges, port congestion, and container replacements can introduce unexpected costs.
• Stay close to your relocation partner. Regular communication allows faster route adjustments, earlier visibility of risks, and proactive case management across shipments.

At Santa Fe Relocation, we continue to monitor global shipping markets, policy changes and industry innovations to provide our clients with accurate intelligence and practical solutions.

Henk Schutte
Global Move Supply Chain Manager
henk.schutte@santaferelo.com

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