New data shows Suez route transits rose 27% in August

More Suez transits cut Asia-Europe ocean transit by roughly ten days versus the Cape route. Faster ocean service pulls volume away from air and Sea & Air lanes that shippers used only when speed mattered, while effective capacity on Europe trades rises and pressures ocean rates downward. If you ship outbound to Europe, this is the moment to re-run air versus ocean total landed cost against your current contracted rates. Because carriers are returning selectively, service reliability varies widely by line and string, so confirm actual sailing schedules, war-risk surcharges and insurance terms before booking, and keep a contingency for renewed diversions.