Tariff pressures and market volatility shift freight control to Asia

A growing share of containerised cargo from Asia to the United States is now being booked and controlled at origin. The share of origin-controlled cargo, is gathering momentum in response to persistent tariff uncertainties, volatile freight rates, and changing procurement strategies.

With tariffs imposed during the Trump administration showing signs of permanence, US buyers are reevaluating how and where they manage their freight contracts. Rather than importing under free-on-board (FOB) terms—the buyer takes control of goods at the port of departure—more shipments are being handled under terms such as CIF (cost, insurance, and freight) or DDP (delivered duty paid), placing transport responsibility with the seller and shifting freight booking power to Asia.

Changing trade patterns and the rise of origin-controlled cargo

The growth of origin-controlled cargo could reshape eastbound trans-Pacific trade, as more exporters in China and other parts of Asia book freight directly with carriers. This shift has been building gradually, with carriers noting steady growth in Asia-nominated shipments. Anecdotal comments from carriers suggest that origin-controlled shipments account for over a third of total volume, up from just 20% in previous years. And that figure could rise to 40–45% if current trends persist.

This rebalancing is being driven by the complexity and unpredictability of US tariffs, which have made DDP terms more appealing—particularly for smaller importers looking to avoid customs duties and associated uncertainties. Under DDP, the seller manages all logistics and import formalities, offering buyers a simplified and fixed-cost delivery model.

Strategic implications for importers and global supply chains

Market volatility is another contributor. Fluctuating freight rates are making it harder for importers to negotiate long-term contracts or manage budgets effectively. In this climate, exporters are increasingly taking control of shipping to safeguard margins, avoid rate spikes, and maintain control over customer delivery timelines.

For experienced importers, this trend is not entirely new. When freight markets are stable, they may prefer FOB purchasing, but when rates spike, capacity tightens, or customs costs become less predictable, many revert to CIF or DDP models, pushing freight responsibility back to suppliers who must meet strict cost and service-level conditions.

To stay ahead of these shifting dynamics, businesses must evaluate where freight decisions are best made. Logicall local offices support clients on both sides of the Pacific, offering tailored solutions that align with evolving sourcing models, whether you control shipments at origin or destination.

Our teams in Asia or North America are ready to explore strategies that deliver clarity, cost-efficiency, and resilience in your supply chain.