News

August 2025 freight & logistics market update

Sea freight: navigating with precision

Carriers are actively reconfiguring east–west rotations to align with the extended EU Emissions Trading System (ETS). Detours around high-risk zones in the Red Sea corridor are becoming more frequent, adding a new layer of complexity. However, improved rainfall has raised water levels at the Panama Canal, enhancing scheduling reliability and reducing transit restrictions.

Key takeaways:

• Demand: Stable, with increased interest in low-emission services.

• Capacity: Sufficient, but operationally tight due to re-routing and environmental fees.

• Rates: Trending gently upward, driven by environmental surcharges and security premiums.

Route insights:

• China to Netherlands: Red Sea risk surcharges push shippers to reserve space earlier.

• USA to Netherlands: Better water levels at the Canal support improved transit stability.

August outlook: Carbon fees are here to stay. Red Sea disruptions could tighten space; book early and allow extra buffer for Rotterdam arrivals.

Air freight: elevated logistics, grounded in sustainability

With the EU Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandate now live, green surcharges have become standard across all EU hub departures. Simultaneously, heatwaves are triggering sporadic delays at major European airports due to runway and handling restrictions.

Key takeaways:

• Demand: Steady, with RFQs increasingly requesting low-carbon air solutions.

• Capacity: Strong, but vulnerable to weather-based time slot limitations.

• Rates: Stable overall; SAF fees introduce predictable surcharges.

Route insights:

• China to Netherlands: SAF-aligned options gaining traction with e-commerce and tech brands.

• USA to Netherlands: Comfortable space and fee flexibility for long-term, sustainable contracts.

August outlook: Minimal rate fluctuations expected. Plan ahead for heat-sensitive cargo, especially through major European airports.

Road freight: shifting gears in a regulated world

The final stage of the EU Mobility Package has arrived. Cross-border fleets must now implement second-generation smart tachographs, while stricter wage posting rules are enforced. Simultaneously, electric freight vehicles are entering Dutch regional routes, signaling the future of zero-emission trucking.

Key takeaways:

• Demand: Uneven—slower in the Northwest, growing in Southern and Eastern Europe.

• Capacity: Generally sufficient; delays may occur due to roadside compliance checks.

• Rates: Stable, with slight upward pressure from fleet upgrades and regulatory costs.

Route insights:

• Netherlands to Spain: Electric rigs now serve Iberian hubs with quieter, low-emission freight.

• Netherlands to Turkey: Border clearance times are longer due to additional digital documentation.

August outlook: Carriers efficient with compliance will deliver a competitive advantage. Factor in lead time extensions—especially during holidays.

Warehousing: smarter, greener, more resilient

Warehouse operators are accelerating automation and energy strategies in response to labour shortages and temperature extremes. Dutch facilities are now implementing goods-to-person robotics, while investments in rooftop solar and battery storage help reduce the impact of volatile energy costs.

Key takeaways:

• Demand: Strong—fuelled by omnichannel retail and safety stock planning.

• Capacity: Tight at key ports; expansion continues in tech-enabled secondary hubs.

• Rates: Holding firm; automated and energy-resilient spaces command a premium.

Market snapshot:

• Robotic picking and AI-based slotting systems are moving from test phases to full-scale operations.

• Energy investments are now critical for maintaining cooling performance during heatwaves.

August outlook: Book warehouse slots early near Rotterdam and Antwerp to avoid Q4 congestion. Expect continued growth in automation and sustainability investments.

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