The cost of everyday goods, especially computers and machinery, could rise this year due to climbing shipping costs. An industry group has pointed out that “cracks are forming in the global trading system.” This means we might see more unpredictability in prices as we move through 2026.
A recent study by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) shows that the costs of transport, energy, and raw materials are still increasing. This suggests consumers could feel the pinch soon. Concerns about supply chain disruptions are at their highest in two years, especially among procurement teams. CIPS represents around 64,000 organizations worldwide in the procurement and supply chain sectors.
Procurement professionals noted they often notice rising costs and difficulties in acquiring goods before other parts of the business do. They worry that current price fluctuations may become a long-term issue rather than a temporary setback. The challenges triggered by the pandemic are now compounded by various global tensions.
Shipping and logistics are expected to bear the brunt of significant price increases this year. About 22% of procurement leaders reported that shipping costs could rise by more than 10% by the year’s end. Nearly 18% reported similar increases for computers, 15% for transport equipment, and 14% for electrical machinery.
This upward trend in prices has already started affecting shoppers. For instance, companies like Lenovo and Dell have hiked prices by up to 15%. Reports from December indicate that Dell laptop prices increased between $130 and $765 based on the model.
Shipping rates have surged. Between late December and early January, the average cost for transporting a standard 40-foot shipping container from Asia to the U.S. West Coast jumped nearly 30%, reaching $2,145, according to the Freightos Baltic Index.
Ben Farrell, CEO of CIPS, stated that procurement experts are often the first to see issues in the global trading landscape. He noted that fluctuations in logistics costs, which can swing by 20% to 30% in just a few weeks, ultimately affect both businesses and customers.
The rising shipping costs are not just a passing phenomenon. Historical data reflects similar patterns during times of geopolitical tension, such as the trade wars of the last decade. Notably, the U.S. tariffs on various imports sent many businesses scrambling for alternative suppliers and increased prices across the board.
As ongoing U.S.-China tensions and discussions around tariffs persist, we might continue to see these ripple effects throughout various industries. Social media reactions reveal a mix of frustration and concern among consumers as they anticipate further price hikes and seek alternatives to manage their budgets.
In today’s volatile market, it’s clear that both consumers and businesses need to stay alert. With evolving trade rules and global tensions, the landscape of purchasing and supply could change dramatically in the coming months.
For more information on the impact of these dynamics, you may refer to insights from CIPS or recent reports from the World Trade Organization WTO.
