Air freight market conditions from the Indian Sub Continent are currently extremely busy, with demand often exceeding the uplift capacity.

As with any squeeze on capacity, carriers are having to prioritise shipments, pricing is fluctuating and the industry is reporting delays in cargo departing.

A number of factors have contributed to the current conditions, including the upturn in US and some European economies, backlogs at Middle East hub operations due to severe weather conditions at the end of March, and the switch to air freight from ocean freight consignments due to container shortages.

The situation is not expected to improve in the near future if the current threat of strikes by dominant dockworker unions goes ahead in India. Currently, the Indian government is making vigorous efforts to block an indefinite nationwide strike planned for April 19th.

Senior officials from the ministries of labour and shipping will enter talks with union representatives on April 17th, to review the workers’ charter of demands, according to the latest government communication.

Uniserve have extensive carrier agreements in place, which currently allow us to continue to move our customers shipments. However, our advice is to book as early as possible to avoid delays.

If you would like further information on the current market conditions, or would like to talk to us about our award winning airfreight services, then please contact your local Uniserve representative or alternatively email info@ugroup.co.uk.