Restitution Problems Again At Felixstowe

The volume of containers at the congested Felixstowe port has once again led to some carriers insisting on empty containers being returned to other ports.

The port issued the following statement:

As a consequence of exceeding their allocated storage space for empty containers, the port will be unable to accept empty container returns via road for the following carriers on the advised dates/times:

CMA CGM. Closed from 08:00 Hrs on Tuesday 14th December until further notice.

MSC. Closed from 07:00 Hrs on Wednesday 15th December until further notice.

These restitution issues mean that empty containers must be returned to other ports, with an extra journey being incurred during the round trip process.

Unfortunately, this is currently resulting in additional costs being incurred for container transport on imports with both of these steamship lines, and other carriers could follow.

Both lines are reportedly working with the port to come up with solutions, with a view to reopening their Felixstowe restitution soon.

The Atlantic Pacific team are continuing to monitor the situation closely. If you require further information, or are concerned about current shipments, then please do not hesitate to contact one of the team.