MSC Restores Direct China Service to Port Everglades

MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has restored a direct connection between Asia and Port Everglades, strengthening cargo options for importers and exporters throughout South Florida.

The updated MSC Empire Service made its inaugural call at Port Everglades on July 17, 2026, marking the return of direct Far East service to the South Florida port.

Under MSC’s revised Asia–U.S. East Coast network, the Empire Service now follows the rotation:

Shanghai – Ningbo – Busan – New York – Baltimore – Norfolk – Port Everglades – Rodman – Shanghai

The service provides direct connections from Shanghai and Ningbo, China, as well as Busan, South Korea, to Port Everglades. As part of the network change, Norfolk and Port Everglades replaced Jacksonville and Miami on the Empire Service rotation.

MSC announced the changes as part of an effort to improve schedule reliability and consistency across its Asia-to-U.S. East Coast network.

For South Florida importers, the addition provides another direct ocean freight option for cargo originating in key Chinese markets while reducing reliance on alternative U.S. gateways or transshipment routings.

Port Everglades previously had a direct Far East connection through MSC’s Santana Service. The return of direct Asian service further strengthens the port’s position as a major international container gateway serving South Florida and the broader Southeast.

For businesses importing from China or evaluating routing options through Port Everglades, Miami, Savannah, or other East Coast gateways, Radius International can assist with ocean freight, customs clearance, and complete international logistics solutions.

Radius International will continue monitoring ocean carrier service changes and developments affecting U.S.–Asia trade lanes.