Port Congestion on the rise

11th June, 2024

In amongst the other sea freight issues, we have outlined recently we are now seeing an increase in port congestion globally.

Whilst this does impact transhipment cargo significantly it also impacts direct sailings as well.

Vessel arrivals are delayed due to the congestion, and this ultimately affects the schedules.

For cargo in and out of Australian the port of Singapore is our main transhipment hub, vessels are currently experiencing delays of 7-10 days.

Several shipping lines have been quick to react to the congestion and have implemented port congestion surcharges, you might recall these were also implemented during the many shipping challenges during covid.

As mentioned in earlier bulletins the below other sea freight issues are still in play.

• Blank sailings continuing.
• Container availability issues, particularly access to empty 40’ containers.
• Red Sea issues remain pivotal to the challenges.
• Further rate increases announced.
• For those on fixed rates you may find your bookings moved to the back of the line, with the gap between fixed and market rates widening shipping lines are prioritising the higher yielding market rate bookings. 

We continue to recommend allowing for a longer lead time and please share your orders with our team well in advance of the goods ready date.

If you would like to meet with or have a call with one of the SCC team, please reach out to us on sales@sccargo.com.au