The situation in Asia-Europe Trade is currently extremely difficult. This is due to the cancellation of services from shipowners' schedules at the beginning of the Corona Pandemic at the start of 2020 and the increasing demand for imports by sea freight from Asia since late summer 2020. At the same time, the equally high demand in the Trans-Pacific trade is causing a large amount of container equipment to migrate to North America.
The bottlenecks in terms of available container equipment and loading facilities are therefore becoming more acute every day. Based on the imbalance between supply and demand, shipowners are increasing rates weekly and/or introducing massive surcharges (Peak Season Surcharge, Rate Recovery Surcharge, Equipment Imbalance Surcharge etc.). The prices are at a level not seen for years. In view of the market development, rate adjustments are therefore unavoidable, also on our part.
Early planning is of utmost importance so that we can master this difficult situation together with you. We recommend that you make your bookings as early as possible (at least 3 weeks before shipment). However, even then there is no guarantee for a smooth shipment.
Of course, we do our very best to maintain our usual quality of service for our customers. If you have any questions about your transports or the current situation, please contact your known contact person.