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Matson Inc. announced that on Sunday it will decrease its fuel surcharge by 3.5 percentage points to 36.5 percent from 40 percent for its mainland-to-Hawaii route.
The state’s largest ocean shipper said it has seen a moderation in bunker fuel prices, the oil it uses, for the second consecutive month.
For most customers, the move represents a reduction in shipping costs ranging from $80 to $140 per container, said Dave Hoppes, senior vice president of ocean services, in a press release.
"We have been 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," he said. "Matson has made a practice of giving 30 days 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."
Matson’s most recent adjustment to its fuel surcharge was also a decrease of 3.5 percentage points on March 17.
City Mill Ltd. President and Chief Executive Officer Steven Ai said the decrease will bring some relief to the high cost of business in the islands.
"The fuel surcharge definitely impacts the cost of doing business in Hawaii, and any relief we can get we’re very happy," he said.
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