27 March 2026

Supply Chain Update: Impact of Middle East Conflict and Mainfreight’s Response

We are writing to update you on the ongoing supply chain disruptions linked to the current Middle East conflict and to outline how Mainfreight is positioned to support and protect your supply chain.
 

Current Market Situation

• We are actively engaging with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) to monitor developments and understand impacts across global trade lanes.
• Ongoing uncertainty continues to affect carrier capacity, transit times, and operating costs, with changes often being implemented at short notice. 
• Our teams will continue to do their best to notify you of any changes affecting your current bookings or shipments that are currently in transit.

 

Surcharges and Cost Impacts

Airlines and ocean carriers continue to introduce and adjust fuel‑ and war‑related surcharges with limited notice.
We are sharing the latest airline‑specific surcharge updates and have highlighted current war‑related surcharges being applied by shipping lines across affected trade lanes. These surcharge levels are changing frequently, and our teams are committed to keeping you informed with the most up‑to‑date information.

Click here to view airline surcharge and shipping line BAF tables
 

How Mainfreight Can Support You

We are available to work directly with you on a tailored supply chain review, looking beyond individual delayed shipments to understand broader cost and risk impacts across your global network.
 
This includes:

• Access to Mainfreight facilities and experienced teams on the ground in markets where cargo may be delayed or disrupted.
• The ability to hold stock in warehouses closer to market, providing flexibility where downstream supply may be constrained.
• Using LCL (Less-than Container Load) shipments to move smaller quantities into the most cost‑effective or strategically important markets - helping keep customers supplied and orders moving during periods of high cost or volatility.
• In parallel, developing longer‑term, lower‑cost bulk solutions, such as:

1. Full container loads
2. In‑market storage and distribution
3. Integrated solutions through our Mainfreight Transport and Mainfreight Warehousing divisions to support your supply chain

Next Steps

We will continue to provide visibility on surcharge movements, capacity changes, and routing options. If you would like support reviewing your supply chain - whether for shipments currently impacted or for broader forward planning - please reach out to your Mainfreight contact for a tailored discussion. We are here to help you manage both short‑term disruption and longer‑term supply chain resilience.