
Maersk will increase its Emergency Contingency Surcharge (ECS) on the S5S trade connecting the Indian Subcontinent with South Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.
The revised Maersk S5S surcharge will apply from the Price Calculation Date of 1 November 2026.
The surcharge will increase from US$500 to US$1,500 per container for both 20-foot and 40-foot dry equipment.
| Equipment type | Current ECS | New ECS |
|---|---|---|
| All 20-foot dry | US$500 | US$1,500 |
| All 40-foot dry | US$500 | US$1,500 |
All amounts apply per container.
Maersk S5S surcharge scope
The revised charge covers shipments from India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to South Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.
Maersk said the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden situation continues to affect global supply chains. The carrier attributed the increase to deteriorating operational conditions, market developments and network costs.
The rates also apply to reefer, special equipment, out-of-gauge, non-operating reefer and shipper-owned containers unless otherwise specified.
The revised surcharge will apply to bookings with a Price Calculation Date on or after 1 November. The change remains subject to applicable regulatory approvals and notice periods.




