U.S.-China Tariff Resumption Approaches: Why Are Asia–U.S. Sailings Being Canceled?

This article explains the recent surge in “blank sailings” on the trans-Pacific route ahead of the U.S.-China tariff reinstatement in August 2025.

This is not just a pricing issue—it’s a trend that could directly affect your future logistics planning.

Panic Shipping Is Over

First, note that the U.S. will resume additional tariffs on Chinese goods starting August 12.

This led to last-minute shipping activity from May to June to avoid tariffs.


However, cargo from Southeast Asia (like Vietnam or Thailand) arriving after August 1 is now seeing a sharp drop in demand in late July.

Some forwarders are reporting, “There’s nothing left to load.”

Blank Sailings Are Surging

According to eeSea, 175,000 TEU worth of sailings from Asia to the U.S. West Coast were canceled in July, which is a 11% cancellation rate, up from 9% in June.

This has affected ports in southern China and transshipment hubs in Southeast Asia, putting the entire route into a “pause mode.”

Rates Now Dropping: Spot Pricing Volatile

It’s common wisdom that “fewer sailings mean higher rates.”

Indeed, spot rates briefly rose to around $2,500/FEU in mid-July.

Freight Right CEO Khachatryan noted, “Capacity cuts pushed rates higher.”


However, on-the-ground sentiment differs.

Spot rates are dropping to $1,700–1,800.

Platts reported $1,733/FEU on July 16, while Drewry’s Shanghai–LA rate stood at $2,817/FEU, but supply-demand mismatch remains evident.

“Off-Peak Season” Likely to Extend into Fall

Many U.S. importers already stocked up in advance to beat the tariffs.

Tejwani, CEO of 365 Logistics, said, “Demand will remain soft post-August. With inventory in place, further imports aren’t likely.”


In other words, a transport volume lull may extend into the fall.

Conclusion

What matters now is forecasting and intelligence.

Which routes are seeing reductions? Which ports still have sailings?

You must track this data accurately and update client recommendations accordingly.


“We thought it would ship, but it got canceled” will damage your trust.

In H2 2025, it’s all about navigating this “ocean of blanks.”

Sound decisions could determine your company’s fate.