Red Sea Route Diversion Extends Transit Time & Raises Export Cost For Heavy Trucks & Semi Trailers

Date: August 18, 2026 Major shipping lines including MSC, Maersk and CMA CGM continue to suspend Suez Canal passage due to persistent risks in the Red Sea. Most vessels divert via the Cape of Good Hope. For Chinese exporters of heavy-duty trucks and semi-trailers, the voyage time to Europe has extended to around 58 days, nearly 22 days longer than the original schedule. Ocean freight rates on Asia-Europe routes have increased by an average of 38%. Ro-Ro ship and flat rack container space for transporting trailers and trucks remains tight. International logistics experts advise overseas buyers to place orders in advance to avoid delivery delays. Growing demand for lowbed trailers, tank trailers and cargo semi-trailers is observed across Europe, Africa and Middle East markets amid ongoing supply chain adjustments.