Corporate Moving update – June 2026
Global Corporate Moving continues to operate within a complex shipping and regulatory environment. Geopolitical developments, rising freight rates, capacity constraints and evolving environmental regulations are influencing shipping costs, transit times and service reliability across global trade routes. Organisations managing international relocations should remain attentive to changing market conditions and potential operational disruption.
Strait of Hormuz reopening remains uncertain
Recent reports suggest that the United States and Iran have reached a ceasefire-linked agreement that could support the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz following 107 days of disruption. While the announcement has been welcomed across the maritime sector, significant operational questions remain regarding mine clearance, traffic management, insurance arrangements, security measures and the long-term stability of the agreement.
Commercial shipping activity through the strait remains extremely limited. More than 500 vessels are reported to be waiting for greater clarity before resuming normal transit through the waterway. As a result, disruption across regional shipping networks continues to affect freight capacity, vessel deployment and routing decisions across wider global trades.
Container freight rates rise as early peak season develops
Container shipping markets have entered an early peak season, with freight rates increasing sharply across major trade lanes. The Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) has reached its highest level in recent years, while the Drewry World Container Index recorded significant increases across transpacific and Asia-Europe services.
Demand has been supported by businesses accelerating shipments ahead of potential tariff changes, inventory replenishment activity and preparations for major international sporting and retail events. At the same time, ongoing vessel diversions around Africa continue to absorb capacity that would otherwise be available across global container networks.
Carriers have successfully implemented peak season surcharges and higher freight rates, while maintaining tight capacity management. With only limited blank sailings currently planned on key routes, shipping lines continue to position vessels to benefit from stronger demand conditions.
Germany increases enforcement of vehicle shipping regulations
Authorities in Germany are now strictly enforcing regulations relating to fuel levels in passenger vehicles shipped by sea. Recent inspections at the Port of Hamburg resulted in fines of up to US$50,000 where vehicles contained residual fuel and were not declared in accordance with dangerous goods regulations.
Under current requirements, fuel tanks for gasoline-powered vehicles transported in containers must be completely emptied if shipped as non-dangerous goods. Vehicles containing fuel must be declared and transported under the relevant International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) requirements.
While enforcement activity has currently been reported in Hamburg, similar inspections may be introduced at other German ports. Organisations and relocating employees shipping vehicles should ensure all preparation requirements are fully met before export to avoid delays, penalties and additional costs.
UK Emissions Trading Scheme expands to maritime transport
From 1 July, the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) will expand to include maritime transport. The scheme will apply to vessels of at least 5,000 gross tonnes operating between UK ports and within UK waters.
The expansion forms part of the UK’s wider emissions reduction programme and will introduce additional compliance requirements for shipping operators. While the long-term objective is to reduce emissions across the sector, the industry continues to highlight the need for investment in alternative fuels, shore power infrastructure and emissions reduction technologies to support implementation.
As environmental regulations continue to evolve, shipping operators may face increasing administrative obligations and cost pressures that could influence freight pricing over time.
Shipping industry continues to strengthen ESG governance
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) programmes remain a growing focus across the shipping industry. Recent benchmarking of 48 global shipping companies found that governance structures are generally well established, although many organisations continue to face challenges translating ESG strategies into measurable environmental performance, supply chain transparency and operational outcomes.
The assessment identified significant variation across sectors and regions, with container shipping achieving the highest overall scores. Companies with stronger ESG capabilities are increasingly viewed as better positioned to meet customer requirements, secure financing and manage long-term operating costs.
As sustainability expectations continue to evolve across global supply chains, ESG performance is expected to remain an important area of focus for shipping operators and logistics providers.
Strategic considerations for organisations
Organisations managing international relocations should continue to monitor geopolitical developments, freight market conditions and regulatory changes closely. Early planning, flexible scheduling and close coordination with relocation providers remain important to maintain shipment visibility, manage costs and respond quickly to changing operating conditions across global moving programmes.
Santa Fe Relocation continues to monitor market developments and regional conditions closely to support informed decision-making across Corporate Moving programmes. For further guidance, please contact your designated Santa Fe consultant.
Henk Schutte
Group Move Supply Chain Manager
Santa Fe Relocation
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