Year-end shipping can bring higher costs and tighter schedules. If your project allows, ask your appointed freight forwarder to compare December departures with January options before booking.
Recent figures show why planning matters: Drewry’s global container index rose 2% in the week ending October 22, while Freightos reported a 19% weekly increase in China–North America air rates in its October 20 update. These benchmarks reflect particular markets; they are not U.S.–Gulf furniture-freight quotations.
January savings are not guaranteed. Some holiday surcharges continue after New Year—for example, Amazon Shipping’s U.S. parcel surcharge runs through January 16. Parcel charges do not apply automatically to furniture freight, and Asia-linked shipments may also face pre-Lunar New Year pressure.
Before you book
- Confirm the factory’s ready date, packed dimensions and weight.
- Compare the same route and service, including surcharges, destination fees, insurance and exclusions.
- Check rate expiry, holiday closures and delivery timing.
- Include storage and extra handling when comparing departure dates; a freight saving can disappear elsewhere.
For flexible projects, January may offer a useful alternative. For time-sensitive installations, protect the delivery schedule rather than relying on a possible rate reduction.
AFS supplies EXW at the named manufacturer’s factory warehouse/address, USA, Incoterms 2020. Buyers appoint their freight providers; any manufacturer loading or export services require written confirmation.
Share your product requirements and required dates early so production and collection planning can align.
Sources: Drewry (October 22); Freightos (October 20 update); Amazon Shipping 2026 peak surcharges; Maersk holiday-planning guidance. Market information checked October 27, 2026. Rates and availability can change.