But no pandemic high: Asia-US container rate at $9,600

With transpacific ocean rates sitting near peak-season highs, the gap between sea and air narrows. On lanes where Asian port congestion is stretching transit times, Sea & Air transshipment or direct air can become a defensible choice once total landed cost is measured rather than base freight alone. Exporters and cross-border sellers should re-price now, comparing fully loaded ocean cost (congestion delays, inland connection) against current air quotes on the same basis. For Q4 volumes, securing capacity matters more than shaving unit rates, so share November-December forecasts early to keep alternative routings open.