Speaking at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges Breakbulk Summit, attendees heard that although economic indicators at the start of 2026 had pointed to a soft year for the breakbulk market, busy US carriers have overturned that expectation, with actual trade performing better than initially judged. Uncertainty over green fuel pathways remains a key concern for the industry.
What Happened
According to information from the summit, breakbulk trade in 2026 has not weakened as early-year economic indicators had suggested. US carriers have remained busy, serving as the main support for the market. Summit attendees noted that this performance exceeded expectations based on macroeconomic indicators.
The summit also discussed uncertainty around green fuels. Although specific policy details and investment scales were not disclosed, attendees generally agreed that the choice of alternative fuel routes and cost prospects remain unclear, bringing variables to fleet renewal and long-term capacity planning.
Background
The breakbulk market is typically closely tied to infrastructure, energy and large equipment project cycles. At the start of 2026, several economic indicators pointed to slowing demand, but cargo activity toward the US remained resilient. Meanwhile, the global shipping industry is under pressure to transition to green fuels, with fuel technology routes and regulatory frameworks not yet settled, making shipowners cautious in investment decisions.
Impact on Shippers
For Chinese cross-border e-commerce sellers and foreign trade factories exporting to the US, the strength of the breakbulk market mainly affects space supply and rates for oversized, heavy and project cargo. Busy US carriers mean space on relevant routes may be tight, and exporters of oversized cargo need to secure space in advance. Green fuel uncertainty does not directly change rates in the short term, but may raise shipowners' compliance costs and feed through to freight rates in the medium to long term. On customs clearance, stricter US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements mean shippers must ensure documentation compliance.
Recommendations
Shippers of oversized or project cargo to the US are advised to confirm space and schedules with carriers in advance and allow buffer time; at the same time, check US customs clearance documents and monitor the latest CBP compliance requirements to avoid delays caused by documentation issues. For long-term contracts, consider negotiating rate-lock mechanisms with carriers to cope with volatility from fuel cost uncertainty.