Asia-U.S. container shipping lines see a strong summer ahead in terms of cargo traffic, as suggested in U.S. consumer spending and retail sales trends, and confirmed in carrier forward bookings.
    In preparation, member lines in the Transpacific Stabilization Agreement (TSA) are recommending a peak season surcharge (PSS) in the amount of US$600 per 40-foot container (FEU) – and proportionate levels for other equipment sizes – to take effect June 10, 2012. The PSS is intended to cover extraordinary seasonal costs associated with anticipated cargo surges that can require leasing of vessel and equipment capacity, routing or schedule changes, special port terminal or inland transportation arrangements, added staffing or other measures to cover short-term contingencies.
    “The lines see a strong outlook for the coming months, with utilization already in the 95% range,” explained TSA executive administrator Brian M. Conrad. “At the same time, they continue to dig out after a long period of serious financial losses, and want to be sure they are well-positioned to ramp up services as the trade rebounds.”

(source:transportweekly)