Ongoing Port Challenges
Continued Disruptions at Northern Europe’s Ports
Northern Europe’s major container ports – Antwerp, Rotterdam, Hamburg, and London Gateway – continue to face serious disruptions. The problems are caused by full terminals, staff shortages, strikes, limited inland transport, and changes in alliance networks, while the import flow from Asia remains strong.
The situation is described as systemic, meaning that these issues are expected to recur. The new Gemini cooperation between Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk is also creating new challenges.
In addition, low water levels on the Rhine have reduced barge capacity and put extra pressure on rail and road transport. In Hamburg, rail deliveries are delayed by up to 10 hours, and strikes continue to cause problems, most recently in Antwerp in April.
All ports in Northern Europe are struggling with similar issues, leading to delays and as a consequence changed arrival dates for your inbound shipments.
We will provide updates as soon as new information becomes available.
Call +46 31 733 34 00 or email scanlink@scanlink.
