Congestion in Northern Europe

Congestion in several ports in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands has led to an increased risk of delays. Several ports have been affected, including Antwerp, Hamburg, and Rotterdam.

Longer transit times are a result of the congestion. The main cause of the congestion is driven by delays in berthing, with some ships experiencing a waiting time of 7-10 days for a free berth. Several factors have contributed to the current situation, including labor shortages, low terminal capacity, strike activities, and limited inland transport together with the implementation of the new shipping alliances.

Emergency measures against the congestion, such as adjusting the prioritization of quay spaces, have been implemented. These measures also result in extended transit times of 10-14 days. As a further consequence, the transit time from Northern Europe to the Arabian Gulf will increase from the usual 40-45 days to 55-70 days, and in some cases up to 90 days.

Belgium

Antwerp is still experiencing significant after-effects following a nationwide strike. Several of the quays are critically overloaded. The waiting time for barges is on average 103 hours. Truck spaces are also limited. The container opening has been reduced from 7 to 5 days before ETA, requiring interim storage of containers. Antwerp is heavily disrupted due to the congestion, delayed vessels and the reshuffling of the new shipping alliances.

Germany

German ports are affected by ship delays and delivery restrictions, but Bremerhaven and Wilhelmshaven are operating relatively well. In Hamburg, MSC's move to CTB has created complications with waiting times and high load as a result. Eurogate has had a positive effect from the change, but there is still some waiting time.

Netherlands

Rotterdam is struggling with staffing shortages, creating bottlenecks at Delta II. APM Terminals Maasvlakte is functioning well despite high load. RWG is experiencing delays due to congestion.

For questions or more information, please contact your contact person here at FREJA.

We apologize for the inconvenience this causes and hope for your understanding.