As we ease into 2026, the team at IN Freight Solutions has had an exceptionally busy start to the year. We continue to support businesses across the Midlands and beyond with reliable, strategic, and responsive freight solutions across sea, air, and road.
This month brings important regulatory updates for UK exporters, along with fast‑moving developments in global sea and air freight markets. Here’s what you need to know.
Major Change for UK Exporters: France Updates DDP Regime 4200 (Effective 1 February 2026)
From 1 February 2026, France is tightening the rules for UK exporters shipping under Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) using Customs Procedure Code 4200 (Regime 42).
France is ending the use of limited fiscal representation for non‑EU businesses importing under Regime 42. This means UK companies can no longer rely on a French fiscal agent’s VAT number to import goods without registering locally. To continue shipping DDP into France:
- UK exporters must register for French VAT and obtain a French EORI number
- Ongoing monthly VAT returns and reporting will be required
- One‑off or “ad hoc” DDP imports without VAT registration will no longer be allowed
France is making these changes to increase transparency, align VAT compliance across the EU, and reduce fraud. These updates affect any UK business sending B2B or B2C DDP shipments via French ports, airports, or logistics hubs. [exporter-s…ices.co.uk], [customscomplete.com]
If your company currently relies on routing through France, now is the time to evaluate alternative EU entry points or adjust Incoterms. IN Freight Solutions can help you navigate the transition smoothly.
Sea Freight Market Update – January 2026
The global ocean freight landscape remains volatile and capacity‑sensitive as 2026 begins.
Red Sea Risk & Capacity Challenges
Uncertainty around Red Sea transits continues to shape global shipping. Analysts warn that any early return to the Red Sea route could add excess capacity and disrupt an already fragile market. Despite a tariff truce between the US and China, trade activity remains subdued and a meaningful rebound in volumes is unlikely before mid‑2026. [logupdateafrica.com]
Congestion & Uneven Capacity Deployment
Global container capacity is expanding, but not evenly. Growth is concentrated on Asia–Middle East/Africa/Europe routes, while transpacific capacity has actually declined. Port congestion especially across Asia and Europe continues to disrupt schedules and push up regional rates. [logupdateafrica.com]
Ongoing Suez Disruption
Carriers are still routing around the Cape of Good Hope, increasing sailing times and reducing effective capacity. Even if Suez routings resume in 2026, experts predict short‑term upheaval including vessel bunching, port congestion, and equipment shortages. [logupdateafrica.com]
Overall, sea freight conditions remain tight on key lanes, with weather‑related port disruptions in Asia adding further strain. Businesses should expect prolonged volatility through the first half of 2026.
Air Freight Market Update – Strong Start to 2026
Air Cargo Volumes Rebound
Global air cargo saw a sharp 26% week‑on‑week rebound in early January, with volumes sitting 5% higher than 2025 levels. Growth has been driven by Asia Pacific, Middle East, and North America markets. Freighter capacity has improved by 15% from late‑December lows, though it remains slightly below peak. [aircargoweek.com]
High‑Tech and AI Shipments Driving Demand
Across Asia Pacific, airfreight demand remains elevated due to strong exports of semiconductors, servers, and AI‑related equipment. Northeastern Asia, particularly Taiwan and South Korea, is seeing space tighten and rates rise on both US‑bound and intra‑Asia routes. [stattimes.com]
Pre‑Lunar New Year Pressure
Demand is expected to spike again in late January as shippers race to move goods before factory shutdowns in China. Capacity constraints, backlogs, and weather‑related delays across Southeast Asia are already driving longer lead times and higher rates. [chrobinson.com]
Air freight remains resilient despite global manufacturing softening making it a vital channel for time‑critical and high‑value cargo this quarter.
How IN Freight Solutions Supports You Through 2026
Amid regulatory changes and a turbulent freight landscape, IN Freight Solutions remains committed to delivering clarity, stability, and personalised support. Whether you ship by air, sea, or road, our team ensures:
- Expert guidance on regulatory and customs changes
- Route optimisation to avoid congestion and delays
- Transparent pricing and capacity planning
- End‑to‑end freight management across global networks
If you’d like help preparing for the upcoming French VAT/Regime 4200 changes or need support adjusting your logistics strategy for early 2026, we’re here to assist.
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