We are about to witness the biggest shake up in the ocean freight alliance structure in a decade, as carriers apply the finishing touches to their new or existing vessel sharing arrangements.

Old partnerships are being dissolved and new partnerships will form when the new structure goes live from February 1st 2025.

The reshuffle got started when MSC and Maersk, the world’s two largest carriers, announced they would be ending their longtime agreement as partners in the 2M Alliance and going their separate ways.

MSC decided to operate within their own network and Maersk were expected to do the same. However, the Danish carrier then surprised the shipping industry when announcing they would be forming a new partnership with Hapag Lloyd, who in turn would be leaving The Alliance (THEA).

While that covers the highlights, the remaining members of THEA have rebranded to become the Premier Alliance from February and to ditch the name ‘THE’, which is just about the most confusing name they could have picked for an alliance. HMM will also re-entering the TransAtlantic trade for the first time in six years.

It’s difficult to predict the immediate impact of this on the market when the new structure gets under way following Chinese New Year. One school of thought is that rates may be more competitive to start with, as carriers try to maintain or increase market share, especially during a period where demand traditionally dips.

So, here’s an overview of how the global carrier alliances/ networks will look from February:

Independent:

MSC*

*MSC will be slot exchanging with Premier Alliance on some Asia-European services and with ZIM on some transpacific. 

Gemini Cooperation:

Maersk Line
Hapag Lloyd

Ocean Alliance:

CMA CGM
Cosco
Evergreen
OOCL

Premier Alliance:

HMM
ONE
Yang Ming

If you have any questions regarding the above, then Westbound are here to help. So, please do not hesitate to contact us.