China-to-U.S. freight bookings surge to 228,000 TEUs, spot rates from Shanghai to LA jump 16% to $3,136, air cargo flights rise 18% after 90-day tariff cut agreement.

China-to-U.S. freight bookings surge to 228,000 TEUs, spot rates from Shanghai to LA jump 16% to $3,136, air cargo flights rise 18% after 90-day tariff cut agreement.

A temporary trade truce between the United States and China has led to a significant surge in freight bookings from China to the U.S. Container-tracking data shows that bookings more than doubled in the week beginning May 12, reaching approximately 228,000 TEUs [3]. This surge is a direct result of the 90-day tariff cut agreement, which has allowed exporters to avoid steep tariffs.

The agreement, reached on May 12, saw the U.S. and China sharply reduce their tariffs for 90 days. The U.S. scaled back its tariffs from 145% to 30%, while China lowered its duties on American imports from 125% to 10% [2]. This reduction has led to a rebound in trade, with container ship bookings surging by nearly 300% [2].

The increased demand has also driven up spot rates. Spot rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles jumped by 16% to $3,136 per forty-foot equivalent unit for the week ending May 15, according to the Drewry World Container Index [3]. This is the largest increase for the route this year.

In addition to the surge in sea freight, air cargo flights also saw an increase of almost 18% [3]. This rise in air cargo is likely due to the same factors, as exporters rush to take advantage of the temporary tariff reduction.

The Port of Los Angeles, one of the busiest ports on the West Coast, is also expecting to see an uptick in bookings from Asia. Executive Director Gene Seroka stated that while there will likely be an increase in origin bookings, especially from China, he does not expect a surge that would significantly impact the port [1].

Looking ahead, cargo flows for June and July remain uncertain, as many shippers are still waiting for more clarity on the trade agreement. However, the current surge in bookings is likely to lead to supply chain disruptions in the coming months [3].

References:
[1] https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/port-of-los-angeles-china-tariff-west-coast-cargo-volumes-april/748545/
[2] https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/business/cargo-bookings-from-china-to-us-surges-300-following-tariff-pause/articleshow/121182006.cms
[3] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-21/china-us-trade-soars-as-exporters-race-to-hit-trade-truce-window