Container lines have resumed transpacific service contract negotiations after Walmart finalised its 2026-27 agreements with six carriers, reports New York's Journal of Commerce.

Walmart's move is expected to trigger other major retailers, smaller importers and non-vessel operating common carriers to sign contracts that typically take effect May 1. Carriers say big-box retailers want to secure vessel capacity despite uncertainties from the two-week-old Middle East war.

Walmart, the largest US importer, has completed talks with its core carriers, sources told the Journal of Commerce. Carriers and forwarders are urging customers to act quickly rather than delay amid global trade volatility.

A carrier executive said beneficial cargo owners who signed early accepted higher rates to reduce risk. He noted that analyst forecasts have often missed reality due to geopolitical shocks, tariff changes and weather disruptions.

Rising bunker fuel costs, driven by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, are also influencing talks. Shippers are reluctant to pay higher surcharges for a trade lane not directly affected, said consultant Kevin Parkerson.

Capacity on Asia-US West Coast routes is not seen as a problem, but East Coast routings from the Indian sub-continent could face congestion if the war drags on, a second carrier executive said.

Importers are advised to secure minimum quantity commitments quickly. A third carrier executive warned that those delaying negotiations in hopes of lower prices may see the strategy backfire.