A. P. Moller – Maersk is implementing temporary intermodal fuel fees on landside transportation starting April 1, 2026, to offset rising energy costs driven by Middle East security concerns. In the UK, truck and rail fees will reach 5.7% by July 1, while FMC shipments face a 10.1% fee starting July 21, 2026.
Why is Maersk introducing new intermodal fuel fees?
Maersk is reacting to a surge in global energy prices caused by evolving security risks in the Middle East. According to an official company announcement, these geopolitical tensions impact worldwide fuel availability and create an unprecedented cost environment for landside and intermodal operations.
The company noted that approximately 20% of the world’s fuel passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Any disruption in this corridor directly affects energy stability, forcing logistics providers to adjust pricing to maintain service continuity and safeguard cargo integrity.
To manage these costs, Maersk will implement an Intermodal Fuel Fee (EFS/IFS). This fee is not permanent; the company stated it will review the value monthly and may adjust rates further as market conditions evolve.
How much will the new UK fuel surcharges cost?
The financial impact of these adjustments depends on the type of shipment and the mode of transport. Maersk has outlined specific rates for the United Kingdom that take effect throughout mid-2026.
For standard UK truck or rail services, the fee is set at 5.7% effective July 1. However, shippers using FMC (Federal Maritime Commission) services will face a significantly higher rate of 10.1% starting July 21, 2026.
The following table compares the upcoming UK rates based on Maersk’s provided data:
| Shipment Type | Effective Date | Fee Rate |
|---|---|---|
| UK Truck or Rail | July 1, 2026 | 5.7% |
| FMC Shipments | July 21, 2026 | 10.1% |
Customers with bespoke pricing may see different rates. Maersk advised these clients to contact their specific account managers for accurate figures.
Understanding the calculation discrepancies
Shippers must distinguish between how these fees are applied to different booking types. For containers booked on a port (CY) B/L, the calculation is based on the delivery or collection date. This differs from the standard ETD-based calculation used for non-FMC shipments, meaning timing is critical for budgeting.
What geopolitical risks are driving these energy price hikes?
The primary driver is the security situation in the Middle East. Because the Strait of Hormuz is a critical choke point for global energy, regional instability creates immediate ripples in the logistics market. When fuel availability becomes uncertain, the cost to move goods via land and rail rises to compensate for market volatility.
This trend highlights a growing reliance on geopolitical stability for predictable shipping costs. As long as energy markets remain sensitive to Middle Eastern security, intermodal transportation providers will likely continue using variable fuel surcharges to protect their networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Maersk’s new fuel fees begin?
The price calculation date for the new intermodal fuel fees starts on April 1, 2026.
Why is the FMC fee higher than the truck/rail fee?
While Maersk has not specified the exact reason for the gap, the FMC rate is set at 10.1%, whereas the standard UK truck and rail rate is 5.7%.
Will these fuel fees stay the same?
No. Maersk stated that the fees will be reviewed monthly and may change based on energy market volatility.
Stay informed on the latest logistics trends. Subscribe to our newsletter or leave a comment below to share how energy volatility is affecting your supply chain.
