Shipping Line Peak Season Surcharge - Seafreight

As advised back in June, Ports of Auckland have now confirmed and pushed through their price schedule for implementation of the first part of their VBS (Vehicle Booking System) Fee increases effective 1st January 2026. These increases will see sizeable hikes in VBS charges across the board, with intent to encourage carriers towards off-peak collections and operational cost recovery. Customers will see container cartage costs increase accordingly as of 1st January to recover these increases. Please get in touch with the Hobbs Global Team to discuss how we can better navigate your freight forwarding process to help minimize these costs where possible. Full pricing can be viewed under 'Receival and Delivery' at: Price schedules | Port of Auckland For details of our original post in June, see: Port of Auckland VBS Fee Increase - Hobbs Global

Due to the Super Typhoon Ragasa which has been progressing through parts of Asia, we have been notified of closures to several depots and ports throughout China. Services have been suspended in Shenzhen, Hong Kong and other parts of Southern China. Disruptions have been ongoing since Monday for export cargo with many containers unable to be returned/delivered to terminals. This disruption is expected to continue through the rest of this week as depots/ports navigate the backlog and limitations they're working in. Please expect delays in shipment movements throughout this time period. We will continue to monitor developments alongside our Chinese agents and provide updates as they become available. As always, any questions - please reach out to the Hobbs Global Team.

Last week, we had the privilege of attending the 29th Annual CBAFF (Customs Brokers Freight Forwarders Federation of NZ Inc.) Conference held in Napier.  The conference covers in depth discussion from industry expert panelists as well as being an opportunity to recognize individuals and teams who have contributed to the wider success of the industry. Many of you will have dealt with Mia Thomas who was nominated for and won the Generation Future Young Achievers Award. The Young Achievers Award acknowledges individuals under the age of 35 who have demonstrated growth and development in the logistics sector, including overcoming obstacles in advancing their career, building new skills, adapting to industry shifts or tackling complex challenges. Mia has done all this and more across multiple departments while working for Hobbs Global as she looks to build a very promising career in the freight industry. We are proud to have her as a part of our team! Well done Mia! If you'd like to read up further, follow the link below.  Young Achievers Award :: Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders Federation of New Zealand Inc