EUROPEAN UPDATE
European trade, post Brexit, continues to be extremely challenging. We are consistently witnessing issues with customs, low equipment levels, a lack of drivers willing to come to the UK, covid tests and increasing rates.
Additionally, the trading situation for Northern Irish products moving within the UK is clearly not working right now.
Unfortunately, we need to advise importers and exporters to be prepared for potential delays at the moment. If you require further information, then please do not hesitate to contact one of our team.
US PORT CONGESTION IMPACTING ASIA/EUROPE EQUIPMENT
The worsening port congestion in North America, particularly the US West Coast, is putting further pressure on the Asia/Europe trade.
The increasingly slow movement of containers through US terminals, along with the number of vessels sitting idle outside of West Coast ports, is further delaying the return of empty equipment to Asia.
UK WEATHER IMPACT
Snow and ice this week have resulted in treacherous driving conditions in some parts of the UK and therefore some delays.
The Port of Felixstowe was closed for the beginning of this week and this has impacted container collections and deliveries. These backlogs could continue to hinder container transport next week.
