Key container ports in Northern Europe are struggling to meet deadlines. There are many important logistics hubs here, such as Rotterdam, Antwerp, Hamburg and Bremerhaven. As reported, they are experiencing a serious operational crisis due to delays and congestion. The publication informs about this Gazeta.
Pl .The last time the situation was so difficult was during the COVID-19 pandemic, plus, even worse, it could last until August of this year. There are many reasons for this state of affairs. Strikes and closure of railway lines due to repair work have had their impact. These are also natural causes, such as the record low level of inland waters on the Elbe and Rhine. Changes in shipping alliances have also had a significant impact on disruptions in port logistics.
The waiting time at the berth in Antwerp was 44 hours in June, which is 37% more than in March (32 hours). The terminal's capacity has reached its limit. In addition, it was announced that a strike would be held on Belgian railways on June 25, which could exacerbate the crisis.
The situation is no better in Rotterdam, which is the largest European container port for transshipment and one of the largest in the world. Although the Dutch port staff tries to unload the largest shipments within 48 hours, smaller feeder vessels and barges wait up to 76 hours.
Both Antwerp and some Hamburg terminals have a load level of more than 90%, and the average for German and Dutch ports is about 85%. Some companies are changing their plans and introducing additional congestion charges as a result.
The world's second largest maritime container operator, Danish Maersk, has decided to skip Rotterdam on its transatlantic TA5 service from June 25. Delays have a huge impact on global supply chains, and taking special measures (for example, changing berth priorities or restricting the reception of empty containers) does not lead to a significant improvement in the situation.In addition to all this, there is also a geopolitical situation. Tensions in the Middle East and the trade war between the United States and International maritime trade is further aggravated by China. Analysts say that the consequences of the current crisis will affect not only Europe, but Asia and North America. Current problems may worsen when the peak shipping season arrives. This will increase delays and increase freight costs.