Maersk increases ECS from Indian Subcontinent to Europe
Maersk Implements Emergency Contingency Surcharge Adjustments for Indian Subcontinent to Europe Trade Lanes
Maersk has announced an upcoming adjustment to its Emergency Contingency Surcharge (ECS) for shipments originating from the Indian Subcontinent and destined for North Europe and the Mediterranean, specifically impacting the E3W and E4W trade lanes.
These revised surcharges are scheduled to take effect from April 6, 2026 (Price Calculation Date), with an additional increase to be applied from April 20, 2026.
For shipments moving from North West India and Pakistan to North Europe (E3W), the ECS will be revised from USD 700 per container (20’/40′) to USD 1,000. Reefer rates will see a corresponding increase from USD 1,700 to USD 2,000.
On the E4W trade lane, which serves cargo to the Mediterranean, the ECS for dry containers will increase from the current range of USD 800–1,000 per container to USD 1,100–1,300. For reefer units, the surcharge will rise from USD 2,000 to USD 2,300.
This surcharge will be applicable across all container types, including out-of-gauge (OOG) cargo, shipper-owned containers (SOC), and non-operating reefers (NOR). Forty-foot special equipment will be charged at the same rate as standard dry containers.
Maersk has noted that these changes are contingent upon receiving necessary regulatory approvals and adhering to applicable notice periods. Customers will see the updated charges reflected in their invoices. The carrier emphasized that these adjustments are a response to persistent operational challenges and escalating cost pressures impacting these trade routes, and further updates may be issued depending on evolving market conditions.