When global demand surges, international logistics enters what many shippers know as the peak shipping season. Space tightens, schedules become less predictable, and freight rates can shift quickly.
In today’s post, we’ll take a closer look at what actually happens during peak season. Why it matters, and how you can keep your cargo moving smoothly regardless of its destination.
What is peak season in international shipping?
The peak season refers to periods when shipping volumes increase significantly. This surge usually comes from retail restocking, holiday sales, manufacturing cycles, and e-commerce demand for prime online sales.
While peak seasons are predictable to a degree, global factors such as port congestion, fuel price fluctuations, or geopolitical disruptions can significantly intensify the pressure.
Typical peak shipping season timeline by region
Although every region experiences its own shipping rhythms, below are the most common peak periods for China-origin freight:
1. United States & Canada
- Mid-July to late November
- Driven by back-to-school, Amazon Prime events, and holiday retail buildup. Canada generally mirrors the US cycle due to similar retail calendars.
2. Europe & the UK
- August to early December
- Demand begins slightly later than in North America, but pressure remains high throughout the fall. Port congestion, tightened road freight regulations, and holiday restrictions all contribute to delays during this period.
3. Middle East
- August to November
- Peak volumes rise as retailers prepare for seasonal sales. In addition, many infrastructure and construction projects schedule heavy shipments before the endof the year, adding further pressure to transport capacity.
4. Mexico & Greater North America
- July to October
- Mexico’s peak starts earlier due to automotive production schedules and increased cross-border movement connected to US retail restocking.
5. China (Origin)
China experiences two distinct peak seasons:
- September to early October, as exporters rush to ship before Golden Week
- Late November to the weeks before the Chinese New Year, when factories push to complete all pending orders before the long holiday closures
These periods bring tighter space, earlier cut-offs, and steeper rate increases.
Understanding these cycles helps importers plan ahead, book earlier, and avoid the most expensive weeks.
How peak season affects different types of cargo
Not all shipments experience peak season the same way.
1. General cargo
Most exposed to rate increases and space shortages. Early booking is essential, especially for FCL.
2. Oversized cargo
Large or heavy pieces may require:
- Advance surveys
- Specialized equipment
- Limited sailing windows
- Expect longer preparation times and reduced availability.
3. Special containers (reefer, flat racks, open tops)
These units are limited year-round—and in peak season, demand spikes sharply. Alternative routing or mixed-mode solutions may be necessary.
4. Dangerous goods
DG shipments face stricter documentation checks, and carriers often cap DG volumes during high-pressure weeks. Any paperwork issue can delay a shipment for days.
Practical tips to ship smoothly during peak season
Success during the peak shipping season relies far more on preparation than on luck. Here are proven strategies used by experienced importers:
1. Book early—much earlier than you think
During peak season, carriers fill up quickly. To secure space and avoid premium surcharges, aim to book:
- FCL shipping: 3–4 weeks in advance
- Air freight: 7–10 days in advance
- LCL sea freight: 12–14 days before cut-off
Early bookings not only protect your schedule but also increase your chances of securing better rates.
2. Keep your purchase orders realistic
Factories often promise ambitious production timelines during peak season. To avoid last-minute delays at the origin, establish:
- Clear ex-factory dates
- Penalties for late production
- Priority levels for urgent SKUs
These measures help maintain order and prevent bottlenecks before your cargo even reaches the port.
3. Use flexible routing
When major hubs like Shanghai, Shenzhen, Rotterdam, or Los Angeles/Long Beach become congested, alternative routes can save days:
- Ningbo or Xiamen instead of Shanghai
- Tacoma or Oakland instead of Los Angeles
- Antwerp instead of Rotterdam
Small routing adjustments can often lead to much smoother transit during peak weeks.
4. Mix transport modes when it makes sense
For time-sensitive shipments during peak season, consider hybrid transport solutions:
- Sea + air combinations
- Express LCL options
The goal is to bypass bottlenecks and maintain reliable delivery timelines.
5. Strengthen packaging and documentation
Cargo that lacks proper packing or documentation is frequently sidelined during congested periods. Double-check:
- Correct HS codes
- Carton sizes that meet carrier requirements
- Complete documentation
- Proper palletization and labeling
Good preparation minimizes the risk of rejections, delays, or additional fees.
6. Maintain transparent communication with your forwarder
During the peak season, conditions change rapidly. A proactive freight forwarder should:
- Update you on space availability
- Offer alternative routes or modes
- Alert you to potential bottlenecks early
- Provide accurate schedules and cut-off times
If communication goes quiet during peak season, it’s a warning sign.
Why work with Airsupply logistics?
Most bottlenecks during peak season begin at the point of origin. It is where Airsupply, an experienced China-based freight forwarder, makes a meaningful difference.
With deep local expertise and established carrier partnerships, we offer:
- Secure space through long-term carrier relationships
- Prioritize urgent bookings
- Provide real-time updates from factories and ports
- Suggest alternative ports or modes
- Consolidate cargo from multiple suppliers
- Pre-inspect goods before booking
- Manage customs, labeling, and repacking at origin
Whether you’re facing tight schedules, struggling to secure space, or simply need a reliable logistics partner in China, our team is ready to help.
