War Risk Fees: A New Kind of Surcharge

Global supply chains are tightening after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered a fresh wave of disruption across the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and adjacent air corridors. Ocean carriers are shifting networks to reduce exposure: multiple lines have paused bookings, suspended key transits (including the Strait of Hormuz and Suez-linked routings), and are sending more sailings around the Cape of Good Hope—adding roughly 10–15 days on Europe–Asia moves and absorbing meaningful vessel capacity.

A key new cost pressure is the return of “war risk” pricing. Carriers are now adding conflict-related surcharges on affected lanes, including a war risk surcharge (reported at $1,500 per standard container) and other emergency conflict surcharges reaching $2,000–$4,000 per container for certain Gulf/Red Sea trades. On the insurance side, some clubs are cancelling war risk cover for vessels operating in Iranian waters and nearby zones, compounding operational constraints.

TLC is actively mapping alternative routings, discharge options, and timing buffers so customers can protect service levels and landed costs. Keep freight moving—fast freight, handled with TLC. Reach out and we’ll build a resilient plan for your lanes.