In 2026, freight markets continue to be influenced by several factors, including global supply and demand, carrier capacity, currency movements, and bunker fuel prices. For Australian importers and exporters, understanding how these factors interact is becoming increasingly important when managing total trade and logistics costs.
The Australian dollar has remained relatively soft against the US dollar in recent weeks, which affects businesses differently depending on the direction of trade and currency exposure. Since most international freight and shipping-related charges are priced in USD, movements in exchange rates can significantly influence the overall cost of imports and exports.
At the same time, bunker fuel prices remain elevated due to ongoing energy market adjustments, placing additional pressure on shipping line operating costs. Shipping lines continue to review and adjust BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor) and EBS (Emergency Bunker Surcharges), even during periods where base freight rates appear relatively stable.
While currency movements may not directly drive freight pricing itself — which is still largely influenced by market supply and demand — exchange rates do have a major impact on the overall cost of doing business. For Australian businesses paying freight in AUD, the current USD to AUD environment may provide some short-term benefit on inbound trade. However, movements from AUD to USD continue to increase cost pressure for businesses exposed to USD-based expenses.
As a result, many importers and exporters are finding cost planning more complex, with freight, fuel, and currency all contributing to fluctuations in total landed costs.
What You Should Be Doing Now
• Monitor AUD/USD trends alongside freight market changes
• Track bunker-related surcharges regularly
• Focus on total landed cost — not just base freight
• Review currency exposure across imports and export transactions
• Adjust pricing strategies in line with changing operational costs
Freight markets in 2026 continue to be influenced by multiple global factors, with fuel and currency playing an important role in the overall cost of trade. Businesses that closely monitor market conditions and manage exposure proactively will be better positioned to maintain stability and protect margins.
Source: RBA FX Trends, Global Bunker Market Updates & Industry Freight Reports (April 2026)
Disclaimer: Market information referenced is based on publicly available sources believed to be reliable at the time of writing; however, accuracy and future market movements cannot be guaranteed.