Why you should lock peak-season space 6–8 weeks ahead
Illustration: original graphic by AYC International Logistics (CC0 1.0, free to reuse).
Every year from late Q3 to before Chinese New Year is the traditional peak season for cross-border logistics. Many shippers only book space once “the goods are ready,” then find space tight or rates higher. AYC recommends starting space locking at least 6–8 weeks before your ship date.
Why this lead time
- Carrier release rhythm: major carriers open bookable space 4–6 weeks ahead; popular lanes are locked earlier by contract customers.
- Rollover risk: booking close to the cut-off risks being rolled to the next sailing (often +7–10 days) when full.
- Last-mile lead time: overseas warehouse appointments and trucking fill up closer to the date.
What early locking buys you
| You get | Notes |
|---|---|
| Space priority | protected first when peak sailings overflow |
| Price anchor | early-locked rates usually beat spot bookings |
| Predictable schedule | sailing, customs, last-mile planned in one pass |
Tips
- Set your “space-lock start date” 6–8 weeks before the ship date
- Sign a 3–6 month contract for large FCL volumes to secure space
- For LCL, watch weekly rate sheets and mix carriers flexibly
Need a peak-season plan? Contact AYC sales.
Sources / References
- UNCTAD. Review of Maritime Transport: in 2024 global port container throughput reached 920.3 million TEU, up 6.9% year-on-year — far above 2022 and 2023 (each about +0.6%) — reflecting capacity pressure from peak-season and restocking demand. UNCTAD Data Hub. Retrieved 2026-09-14. https://unctadstat.unctad.org/fr/insights/theme/109
- Shanghai Shipping Exchange. Methodology note for the Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI): published every Friday, base 1000 points, reflecting spot-market rate swings. Retrieved 2026-09-14. https://en.sse.net.cn/eninfo/Bulletin/202411/t20241129_1397554.shtml