Matson Fuel Surcharge Declines

Declining fuel bunker prices has led Matson to lower its fuel surcharge by four percent in Hawai’i from 35.5 percent to 31.5 percent.

According to Matson, other effects of the decreased prices in fuel is a four percent decrease in surcharge to Guam/CNMI, from 36 percent to 32 percent, and Micronesia services, from 41 percent to 37 percent.

“We are pleased to be able to make another downward adjustment to our fuel surcharge, which for most customers represents a reduction in shipping costs ranging from $80 to $140 per container,” Dave Hoppes, senior vice president, ocean services, said following Monday’s announcement.

Hoppes continued, saying “this is the third consecutive decrease we have made to our Hawai’i Guam/CNMI fuel surcharges; with the latest reduction, our fuel surcharge for those services will have dropped 11 percentage points since November 2, 2014.

“We continue to be encouraged by the recent moderation in bunker fuel prices, and remain focused on diligently exploring ways in which we can maximize fuel efficiency for our fleet. Matson has made a practice of giving 30 day notice for upward rate adjustments, but passes on downward adjustments to our customers as soon as possible. We will continue to monitor fuel costs and adjust the surcharge accordingly.”

The surcharge changes will take effect beginning Sunday, Jan. 18.