Matson Logistics expects to see a continued shift of cargo from air freight to ocean transportation as businesses seek lower shipping costs and more efficient supply chain management amid changing global trade conditions.
The company said rising air cargo rates, improving ocean freight reliability, and evolving inventory strategies are encouraging shippers to move more goods through maritime transport channels. Industries handling non-urgent cargo are increasingly opting for sea freight to manage logistics expenses and improve cost efficiency.
Logistics experts noted that many importers and exporters are reassessing transportation modes as global supply chains stabilise after years of disruption caused by pandemic-related bottlenecks and geopolitical tensions. Improved vessel schedules and increased shipping capacity have also supported the transition toward ocean freight.
The air-to-ocean cargo shift is particularly visible in sectors such as retail, consumer goods, electronics, apparel, and industrial products, where companies are focusing on balancing delivery timelines with transportation costs. Businesses are also investing more in inventory planning and multimodal logistics strategies to reduce dependence on premium air freight services.
Industry analysts said ocean carriers and logistics providers could benefit from stronger cargo volumes if the trend continues, although demand patterns may remain sensitive to economic conditions, fuel costs, and geopolitical developments affecting global trade routes.
Matson Logistics indicated that while air cargo will continue to play a critical role for high-value and time-sensitive shipments, ocean freight is likely to capture a larger share of global cargo movement in the coming months as shippers prioritise cost optimisation and supply chain resilience.