United Cargo is set to implement a market disruption fee on freight shipments from May 1, 2026 amid increased operating costs tied to the ongoing Middle East tension.

The Chicago-headquartered carrier said this fee will vary by region, and United Cargo will continue to evaluate conditions closely and communicate any adjustments to this fee as conditions evolve. 

“The Market Disruption Fee reflects United Cargo’s increased cost of doing business globally,” it said in a customer advisory.

“United Cargo faces the challenge of rising costs imposed on us by our suppliers, partners, and by the market,” it added.

United Cargo told its customers that their local sales teams will provide further details on the new market disruption fees, including specific rates and affected trade lanes. 

The carrier also encouraged shippers to contact their Cargo Sales representatives with any questions, adding that it “values your support and appreciates your business.”

United Cargo is introducing the new market disruption fees in response to mounting cost pressures across the airfreight sector, driven by ongoing geopolitical instability, vessel diversions, elevated fuel prices, and tightening capacity on key trade lanes. 

Airlines have faced higher operating expenses and irregular demand patterns as shippers shift cargo from ocean to air to avoid delays, prompting carriers to add surcharges to offset volatility. The fees reflect a broader industry trend as cargo operators attempt to stabilize revenue and manage rapidly changing market conditions.

Air cargo isn’t the only sector responding to volatile market conditions. Major container shipping lines have also introduced a wave of new surcharges in recent months — including war‑risk premiums, congestion fees, and emergency cost‑recovery charges — as geopolitical tensions, vessel reroutings, and elevated fuel prices drive up operating expenses across global supply chains.