Corporate Moving update – September 2025
Market conditions and shipping disruptions
Global relocations remain under pressure as shipping lines reconfigure services under new alliances. Carriers continue to withdraw or reroute vessels with little warning, creating uncertainty for movers and shippers. Quotes are often based on services that later change, forcing bookings onto alternative vessels at higher cost and longer transit times.
In the transpacific trade. Reports cite a 50% drop in volumes following renewed tariffs, driving carriers to consolidate services and add new surcharges. Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz also remain a risk, with any closure likely to trigger immediate delays and cost increases for Middle East destinations.
Congestion at UK, European, and Asian ports is intensifying. Low Water Surcharges are now applied on shipments to Canada via the St. Lawrence River, reflecting the impact of reduced water levels on cargo capacity. Transit times have become unpredictable, with routes such as Southampton to Sydney ranging from 56 to 89 days depending on vessel selection. Rollovers, where containers miss their intended sailing, are increasingly common and beyond the control of movers.
For shipments to Oceania, Asia, and the Middle East, diversions around the Cape of Good Hope remain the norm, with extended transit times and omitted ports. Mediterranean services are also being cut back as carriers reallocate vessels. Backlogs at transhipment hubs in Asia continue to cause delays, with some containers rolled multiple times before loading.
Industry developments: Sustainability and collaboration
In September, FEDEMAC and the FIDI Global Alliance are launching a joint sustainability reporting tool for small and medium-sized enterprises in the moving industry. The platform, aligned with EU standards, will make it easier for SMEs to measure and report their sustainability performance, including carbon footprints. This is a step towards greater transparency across the relocation industry and responds to the growing regulatory and client demand for consistent reporting.
Santa Fe supports this initiative as part of the broader drive to embed sustainability into Corporate Moving. The tool complements existing carbon measurement platforms and will help raise reporting standards across the industry. To see how Santa Fe’s own sustainability strategy aligns with these wider industry developments, explore our latest Sustainability Report here:
Industry leadership: Priorities for the coming years
Cédric Castro, CEO of the MOBILITAS Group, began his tenure as FIDI President at the 2025 Dubrovnik conference. While we have already shared the news of his appointment, his opening remarks are important for the sector. He emphasised three areas that directly influence Corporate Moving:
- FIDI Academy: Continued investment in training and development to raise service quality across the relocation industry.
- FIDI Netting: Expansion of the settlement platform that improves financial efficiency and reduces risk for affiliates.
- FIDI 2026 Osaka: Preparations for the next global conference, with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
These priorities highlight the importance of capability, financial stability and shared standards in supporting corporate relocations worldwide.
Strategic recommendations for businesses
- Book early: Allow longer lead times for relocations to secure capacity and minimise exposure to rollovers.
- Stay flexible: Be prepared for changes to routes, ports of call, or transit times.
- Budget for surcharges: Factor in new fees such as Low Water Surcharges and short-notice carrier adjustments.
- Engage on sustainability: Monitor the roll-out of the FEDEMAC–FIDI tool and strengthen internal reporting to align with industry expectations.
- Work with experienced providers: Relocation partners who track these changes daily can provide the best options and guidance.
At Santa Fe Relocation, we continue to monitor global shipping markets, industry collaborations, and regulatory changes to provide clients with timely intelligence and practical solutions.
Henk Schutte
Head of Logistics
henk.schutte@SantaFeRelo.com
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