Matson says dip in fuel prices prompts lowering of surcharge

Matson Navigation Co. said a drop in fuel prices has allowed it to lower its fuel surcharge by 2 percentage points.

The state’s largest ocean shipper is decreasing its fuel surcharge to 25.5 percent from 27.5 percent for its Hawaii service, and to 27 percent from 29 percent for its Guam/CNMI and Micronesia service, effective July 18.

"Matson is very pleased to make this downward adjustment to its fuel surcharge," said Dave Hoppes, senior vice president, ocean services. "For most customers, this decrease represents a reduction in shipping costs ranging from $55 to $85 per container. We will continue to monitor fuel costs and adjust the surcharge accordingly."

Matson said its last adjustment to the fuel surcharge was an increase of 3.5 percentage points for its Hawaii, Guam/CNMI and Micronesia services, effective Feb. 7.

Horizon Lines, the state’s second-largest ocean shipper, could not be reached for comment while Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines, which carries vehicles between Honolulu and San Diego, said it likely would lower its surcharge but was still reviewing the situation. Both Horizon and Pasha are currently at 27.5 percent.