SvenskaWe know that an uncertain global environment creates challenges for your logistics. That is why we at TKL Logistics keep you informed about the latest developments that may affect your shipments – and how we can help you navigate the new reality. Below are the most important updates at the moment.
Ocean Freight
Chinese New Year
Chinese New Year is one of the largest annual holidays in China. This year it falls on 17 February, and the official holiday period—during which the country is largely shut down—normally lasts for about one week. However, the impact on ocean freight extends over a much longer period.
Several weeks prior to the holiday, many factories scale down production or shut down entirely. This leads to increased booking pressure and strained capacity ahead of the holiday, as many shippers aim to dispatch cargo before the shutdown. During the Chinese New Year period itself, very few, and in some cases no, sailings depart from Chinese ports. Even after the holiday, it takes time for production, port operations, and shipping schedules to return to normal, which may result in extended lead times. These shutdowns also generally lead to upward pressure on ocean freight rates during this period.
Return to the Suez Canal
Due to a more stable situation in the Middle East region, carriers have begun testing the possibility of once again routing vessels through the Suez Canal. CMA CGM has been operating selected services via the canal since the end of last year, but recently decided to revert to routing via the Cape of Good Hope due to a more complex and unpredictable geopolitical situation.
Maersk, however, has after successful trial sailings resumed transits through the Suez Canal and has announced that they will restart the route on a limited number of services. If these sailings continue without incidents, more carriers are expected to follow and test a return to the route.
Operational Challenges at the Port of Gothenburg Due to Weather Conditions
During January, severe winter weather caused significant disruptions at the Port of Gothenburg, where APM Terminals was periodically forced to suspend operations. Although all production restrictions have now been lifted and terminal gates are open again, residual effects remain in the form of congestion, longer waiting times, and operational disruptions caused by backlogged cargo.
The adverse weather conditions have affected both import and export flows, increasing the risk of delays and rebookings. Against the backdrop of increased costs related to waiting times as well as container and equipment rentals, additional local charges may arise in connection with these disruptions.
Schenker Becomes DSV
As of 1 February 2026, Schenker in Sweden will formally become part of DSV Air & Sea AB, following DSV’s acquisition completed in 2025. For you as a customer, this will in practice mean no changes to our cooperation—we will continue to manage your agreements in the same way as today.
Any system or branding changes between Schenker and DSV will not affect our role as your independent freight forwarder, nor how you administer, book, or track your shipments. The main visible change may be that DSV Air & Sea AB will be stated as the consignor on transport documents going forward; otherwise, handling through us will continue as before.
Tariff Threats from the United States
U.S. President Donald Trump has recently once again raised the prospect of new tariffs against certain countries, including Sweden. This is linked to discussions concerning Greenland, but at present no new general tariffs have been implemented.
Following strong reactions from the European Union, the rhetoric has temporarily softened and the issue is currently in a political negotiation phase. At this stage, the situation represents continued uncertainty rather than immediate impact, and we recommend closely monitoring developments related to any potential new trade measures.
Update on EU Regulations
CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism)
The definitive CBAM phase is now underway. For those importing goods covered by the regulation, we would like to remind you of the importance of ensuring that the correct Y-code is stated in the customs declaration to enable smooth processing. There are currently four applicable codes:
- Y128: Companies registered as CBAM declarants; the CBAM account number must also be stated
- Y137: Importers who are not registered CBAM declarants and who import less than 50 tonnes of CBAM goods per year
- Y238: Companies that have applied to become CBAM declarants before 31 March 2026; the application number must be stated. This is a temporary code that will be phased out at a later stage
- Y237: Goods exempt from CBAM due to EU origin (returned goods)
We closely monitor developments and will continue to keep you informed of any changes that may affect your business. If you have any questions or concerns, you are—as always—very welcome to contact us at TKL Logistics.
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