What was reported

Demand for shipping remains strong, and delays at Asian ports are disrupting departures. Pressure on freight rates could continue through late October.

Even with more ships operating, space may not be available when you need to ship your goods. For businesses preparing for year-end sales, timing matters too.

Waiting for lower rates may make sense if you have enough inventory and a flexible schedule. But if you need to restock or meet a delivery deadline, storage costs and delays could outweigh the savings on freight.