Ever Given Partially Refloated
Many sources are suggesting that the Ever Given vessel, which has been blocking the Suez Canal for almost a week, has been partially refloated and could be freed in the next few hours.
The stern of the ship was moved 100m from the bank during the early hours of this today. Rescue operations are due to commence again this morning during the next high tide, with the hope that the canal can be cleared soon.
Even if the rescue attempts are successful today, there is likely to be major disruption to Asia ocean freight during the next few weeks, which will include some or all of the below.
- Delays on vessel’s caught up in the blockage – east and westbound.
- Slow passage through the canal due to congestion of over 300 ships queued.
- Delays as some vessels have already committed to journeys around Africa – transits are usually 9-10 days longer.
- Delays unloading vessels as many arrivals in a short space of time.
- More congestion pressure on ports and container transport.
- Potential for vessels to be redirected and omit scheduled ports.
- Further container equipment shortages in Asia, as hundreds of thousands of containers have remained static on ships during this time.
- Longer term impact on schedules, as many vessels are now out of position and this could result in further blanked sailings.
- Short term spot rate increases.
- Potential for further surcharges.
We will keep you advised of any major developments.
