News / The UK now 'a micro-climate in Europe' when it comes to shipping

UK trade is beginning to feel increasingly isolated from global markets, but confusion rages over the source of the difficulties as Brexit, Covid-19 and empty-box shortages take a bite.

One forwarder told The Loadstar Asian carriers were adding a $1,000 surcharge per 40ft to service the UK, with even higher surcharges on the prepaid spot market, claiming the country is seen as a “nuisance”.

“This is tied to Brexit and the pandemic, but carriers now see the UK as a feeder port that’s ...