If Christmas seems a long way off, now is the time to start thinking about it.
That may sound surprising in July, but experienced importers and exporters know that the second half of the year is when global supply chains face their greatest test. Businesses that plan ahead generally secure freight space, control costs, and keep stock flowing. Those that leave arrangements until the last minute often face higher freight rates, capacity shortages, and delivery delays.
As we pass the halfway mark of 2026, now is an ideal opportunity to review your shipping plans for the remainder of the year.
Understanding the Global Shipping Calendar
International freight operates in cycles, driven by retail demand, manufacturing schedules, and seasonal events.
The busiest period of the year typically runs from August through October, as retailers around the world build inventory for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas sales. Demand for both ocean freight and air freight rises sharply during this period, placing pressure on vessel space, aircraft capacity, and inland transport networks.
This year, those pressures are likely to be amplified by ongoing supply chain disruptions. Many shipping lines continue to avoid traditional Suez Canal routings and instead sail around Africa’s Cape of Good Hope, adding time and complexity to many trade lanes.
The result is simple: longer transit times and greater competition for available shipping space.
Why July Is a Critical Planning Month
For many importers, Christmas planning begins now.
Products intended for year-end retail sales often need to be shipped during July, August, or September to allow sufficient time for ocean transit, customs clearance, warehousing, and final distribution.
Businesses supplying electronics, fashion, toys, homewares, seasonal products, and consumer goods are already entering their busiest ordering period.
Importers who wait until October to secure freight space may find themselves competing with thousands of other businesses trying to move cargo during the peak season rush.
Don’t Forget Golden Week
One of the most important dates on the international shipping calendar is China’s Golden Week holiday, which runs from 01 to 07 October.
Many factories either close or operate with reduced staffing during this period. In the weeks leading up to the holiday, exporters rush to complete orders before production stops, creating a surge in demand for containers and vessel space.
After factories reopen, another wave of cargo enters the market, often creating congestion at ports and container terminals.
Importers should therefore build Golden Week into their planning and avoid relying on shipments that leave factories immediately before or after the holiday period.
Sea Freight or Air Freight?
One of the key decisions facing importers during peak season is whether to use sea freight, air freight, or a combination of both.
Sea freight remains the most economical option for large, heavy, or non-urgent shipments. It offers enormous capacity and is generally the preferred choice for bulk cargo, machinery, raw materials, and full container loads.
However, air freight can become a valuable risk-management tool when timing becomes critical.
Businesses often consider air freight when:
- Stock shortages threaten sales opportunities.
- Production delays have reduced available shipping time.
- Product launches depend on strict delivery deadlines.
- High-value goods justify the additional transport cost.
Increasingly, importers are also using hybrid sea-air solutions, where goods travel part of the journey by sea and part by air. This approach can significantly reduce transit times while keeping freight costs below those of a full airfreight movement.
Practical Steps for the Months Ahead
As we move into the second half of 2026, there are several actions businesses can take to improve supply chain performance:
- Book freight space earlier than usual.
- Forecast inventory requirements as accurately as possible.
- Allow additional transit time buffers.
- Review documentation and customs compliance procedures.
- Consider alternative transport modes where appropriate.
- Budget for potential peak-season surcharges and congestion costs.
- Maintain flexibility regarding ports, routes, and delivery schedules.
The companies that navigate peak season most successfully are rarely those reacting to problems. They are the ones that anticipated them months earlier.
Plan Ahead with Colless Young
The second half of the year always presents challenges for importers and exporters, but careful planning can make a significant difference to freight costs, transit times, and inventory availability.
At Colless Young, we help clients prepare for peak season by providing advice on freight scheduling, shipping options, capacity planning, transit times, and supply chain strategy. Whether your cargo moves by sea, air, or a combination of both, we can help you develop a shipping plan that supports your business objectives.
Also see this article from our archives: Dealing with Port Congestion – Delays and Charges
Before placing your next international order, talk to us about the available options.
Andrew 📞 +61 7 3890 0800 📧 enq@collessyoung.com.au
