November Global Air Cargo Volumes Grow as Shippers Maintain Conventional Shipping Cycles

Rising Air Cargo Volumes Despite Price Drops

November saw a surprising 5% increase in global air cargo volumes year over year, even though many anticipated a stagnant holiday season market. This growth came alongside declining air cargo spot rates, which fell 5% compared to the previous year. The average spot rate settled at $2.73 per kilogram, indicating a market rebalancing as carriers adjust capacity and pricing strategies.

Key Market Movements

• November’s air cargo volume increased by 5% YoY.
• The global average spot rate dropped by 5%, reaching $2.73/kg.
• Spot rates from Southeast Asia to North America declined sharply by 15% to $5.16/kg.
• Rates from Northeast Asia to North America fell by 5%, hitting $4.94/kg, but gained momentum month-over-month due to Black Friday promotions.
• The global dynamic load factor—measuring cargo volume relative to capacity—remained stable at 63%, unchanged from last year.

Why Volumes Rose: Staying True to the Cycle

The stronger-than-expected air cargo performance can be linked to many shippers adhering to their established shipment cycles, rather than deviating due to market uncertainties. This persistence helped support steady volumes through November, contrary to earlier forecasts that predicted flat or declining demand.

Another piece of the puzzle is the clearer picture around U.S. tariffs. Initially, tariff levels were thought to hover between 30% and 100%, but actual figures came in much lower, mostly in the low teens. This moderation eased some of the pressure airfreight markets were bracing for. While tariffs still impact shipments somewhat, the effect is less dramatic and hasn’t yet curbed consumer demand significantly.

Προκλήσεις στον ορίζοντα

That said, the landscape remains fluid. Many shippers have absorbed tariff increases without transferring all costs to consumers, leading to tighter margins. Inventory levels are also decreasing, hinting at the possibility that replenishing stock next year could amplify tariff effects on air cargo volumes.

E-commerce dynamics, particularly from China—which has been a powerhouse for air cargo growth—are becoming less robust. After nearly two and a half years of remarkable growth averaging around 40% year-over-year, China’s cross-border e-commerce sales flattened in October. This slowdown clouds the outlook for 2026, as a sustained decline or stagnation in e-commerce volumes could temper airfreight demand significantly.

Spot Rates and Capacity: The Supply-Demand Tango

The spot rate reductions across most trade lanes reflect carriers’ tactical move to boost market share, often at the expense of price discipline. This puts downward pressure on yields in an already challenging market.

For example, the Southeast Asia to North America lane saw a steep spot rate drop of 15%. This was influenced by increased carrier capacity chasing a near 50% growth in demand on inbound routes, coupled with softer volumes linked to new e-commerce import restrictions in critical Northeast Asia transit hubs. Conversely, the Northeast Asia to North America lane posted a 13% month-over-month rate increase due to Black Friday sales, even though the year-on-year rate declined.

What’s Next for Air Cargo Rates?

Looking forward, the industry anticipates modest, single-digit growth in demand, with supply expected to outpace this growth in 2026. This scenario will likely ignite more aggressive competition among freight forwarders seeking market share, potentially pushing airfreight rates further downward in favor of shippers.

Shippers and airlines alike are turning to data-driven pricing insights to better navigate these waters. This push for understanding spot rates and market trends exemplifies a highly dynamic environment where transparency becomes invaluable.

Implications for Logistics and Cargo Shipping

The current trends underscore the delicate balancing act carriers and logistics providers must manage: maintaining volume growth while grappling with rate reductions and evolving consumer demand.

From a logistics perspective, this makes platforms that offer transparent, flexible, and affordable cargo transportation services all the more essential. Whether it’s moving office equipment, transporting large pallets, or managing specialized freight, reliable platforms that connect shippers with competitive carriers can simplify complexities and optimize costs.

Services like GetTransport.com shine here, offering a global network for cargo shipments that caters to various needs—from home moves to bulky cargo delivery—making the transport process both efficient and budget-friendly.

Σύνοψη των βασικών γνώσεων

• November air cargo volumes exceeded expectations, growing 5% YoY.
• Spot rates declined but didn’t plummet, with carriers prioritizing market share over pricing.
• Moderate tariff impacts and adherence to traditional shipment cycles helped sustain volumes.
• E-commerce slowdown, especially from China, will be a critical factor shaping 2026 shipment trends.
• Supply is expected to surpass demand in the upcoming year, signaling potential rate pressure.

Τελικές σκέψεις

While expert reviews and market analyses give us a window into the air cargo sector’s twists and turns, nothing beats firsthand experience. Accessing the best deals globally on cargo shipping without blowing the budget or facing unwelcome surprises is a tall order—but that’s where platforms like GetTransport.com step in.

With its transparent pricing, extensive carrier options, and the ability to handle everything from small parcels to large freight, GetTransport.com empowers shippers to make smart, cost-effective transport choices. Whether you’re handling an international shipment, a local office move, or transporting bulky items, having a reliable logistics partner is invaluable.

Start planning your shipment with GetTransport.com and enjoy a world of convenience, affordability, and choice—Book your Ride on GetTransport.com.

How This Affects The Logistics Landscape

Though this particular surge in November air cargo volumes may have limited direct global impact, it highlights the importance of staying nimble in the logistics game. As supply outpaces demand into 2026, carriers may compete harder for contracts, translating into better rates and opportunities for shippers. The shift towards data transparency and forward-looking forecasting aligns perfectly with GetTransport.com’s mission to keep pace with evolving market dynamics and deliver reliable freight and shipment solutions worldwide.

Για την επόμενη μεταφορά φορτίου, προτιμήστε την ευκολία και την αξιοπιστία της GetTransport.com.