Global Shipping and Delivery Updates – September 23, 2026

Potential delays may affect parcels travelling to New Zealand on 24–25 September 2026 due to possible industrial action involving Qantas Ground Service (QGS) and Australian Air Express (AAE) employees across several Australian ports. While airport terminals are expected to remain operational, transit delays may occur.

International Parcel Disruptions – Middle East Conflict

Following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East, SEKO Logistics is closely monitoring international operations. E-commerce parcels continue to move through the SEKO network, though minor delays may occur due to airspace restrictions. Most major lanes, including shipments bound for the UK, remain within SLA.

Impact on E-commerce Shipments:

• Some international flights are experiencing delays due to airspace restrictions and airline rerouting.

• Major trade lanes remain largely operational, with minor additional transit time of 1–2 days on affected routes.

• EU-bound shipments may see minor ripple effects across APAC due to flight rerouting.

Operations teams are actively working with airline partners to secure space and reroute parcels where needed. Overall, delays are expected to remain minor across international services.

Upcoming Public Holidays Delivery Schedule

Customers are advised of the upcoming public holiday in Australia.

On Friday, 25 September 2026, in observance of the Friday before AFL Grand Final (VIC), SEKO Melbourne will not be performing pickups, deliveries, or return processing. Retailers located outside Victoria that are serviced through SEKO Melbourne operations may also experience service impacts.

International Delivery Performance – Canada & United States

Peak Season Surcharge – US Lane:
To support carrier partners during peak season, a temporary surcharge of USD 0.75 per parcel applies for all shipments to and within the United States, covering final-mile deliveries and U.S. returns first-mile services. Effective: 1 November 2025 – 17 January 2026.

Australia → Canada:

• Deliveries remain within SLAs.

• Minor delays (~2%) may occur in regional/remote areas affected by Canada Post industrial action.

• The average delivery time from Sydney to Canada is under 6 days.

Australia → United States:

• Deliveries remain within SLAs.

• No expected impact from U.S. federal employee unpaid leave; Customs and Border Protection remain operational.

• The average delivery time from Sydney to the U.S. is under 6 days.

Compliance Reminder:
Retailers are responsible for ensuring all shipments meet the import regulations of the destination country. Non-compliant shipments may be held mid-transit. For the U.S., products such as sunglasses and eyewear must comply with FDA registration, labelling, and quality standards.

Emergency Fuel Surcharge – SEKO Logistics Australia

Due to ongoing fuel volatility, SEKO Logistics Australia has implemented an Emergency Fuel Surcharge (EFSC) across applicable services.

For the most up-to-date EFSC rates and applicable trade lanes, please refer to this reference page. Updates are published on a weekly basis.