Steamship Container Availability

 

In today’s transportation market, changing industry factors may affect the ability to service US export full container shipments.  Freight forwarders in the U.S. are currently experiencing significant delays in obtaining space on board vessels.  

Often, the first available vessel space is not for three or four weeks.  This may result in warehouse handling and storage charges.  Gone, for now, are the days when we can call and expect to make a sailing in the same or next week.

Why is there a vessel space shortage?

Steamship lines adjusted schedules to increase capacity in the Asia to Europe trade lane, thereby reducing capacity in other routes.

California’s Port of Long Beach - one of the key US ‘barometer’ ports - has reported a 13.8% drop in import container throughput for January 2008, resulting in export container shortages.

The decision by ocean carriers to cut service speeds on many routes to reduce bunker (fuel) costs, represents a significant step forward in responsible ship management, though slows transit times and reduces frequency of port calls.   Railroads, truckers, airlines, and steamship lines have all increased fuel surcharges.

Meanwhile U.S. exports have picked up due to the weakening dollar, which also puts downward pressure on capacity. In combination, there is more demand for vessel space, rates are increasing, and the leverage lies with the steamship lines as they choose not to satisfy this burgeoning volume. 

How we can succeed together

1)   As a member of the OSA (OMNI Shippers Association), one of the strongest worldwide associations for steamship services, we believe we can work together to reduce the amount of delays if we get plenty of advance notice. 

2)   AIReS checks different port sailing situations to offer options.  Consider higher trucking costs to a further port in order to make an earlier sailing to offset transferee temp housing costs in the long run.

As with any challenge in international logistics, clear open communication is key to success.  There is no foreseeable end to the current environment.  This is an industry reality which we can bear together.  Please rest assured that AIReS is doing all possible to secure the soonest vessel sailing possible and continues to look out for your best interest.