Capacity and equipment shortages have returned for Asia ocean freight movements, with current market conditions beginning to look a little similar to those that followed the pandemic.
Far East and Southeast Asia services currently have widespread capacity issues, which is being attributed to;
- increases in demand ahead of the traditional peak season.
- journeys times being extended further.
- schedules being delayed.
- carrier’s blanked sailing programmes.
Unsurprisingly, this had led ocean freight rates to start spiralling upwards and despite already implementing a GRI this month, carriers are applying further sporadic increases to accept bookings.
Equipment shortages are also being witnessed in some origin points, which is contributing to very challenging conditions.
It is difficult to predict whether this is just a short term blip or whether this will lead to disruption further down the line. However, our recommendation is that customer’s provide us with as much notice as possible ahead of bookings.
Westbound are monitoring the situation closely and will continue to work hard to try and avoid supply chain disruption.
If you have any questions regarding the above, then Westbound are here to help. So, please do not hesitate to contact us.
