As we enter the 3Quarter of 2011 the shipping line industry is facing doom and gloom with rising fuel costs and over capacity on most trade lanes leaves the shipping lines with a problem, however things should start to improve during the last quarter, with Christmas peak season kicking in and leading to a possible increase in ocean freight rates.
It is more than likely that capacity will outstrip demand for the next two to three years, leading to speculation that freight rates will remain at a historically low level for next six months to one year, however the industry will try to push a series of GRI (General Rate Increase) to cover rising costs, probably using “back door” methods such as increases to CAF, BAF and other surcharges.
For more information on Freight Forwarding, Ocean Freight Rates or other Import and Export requirements please call our dedicated team of professional freight forwarders on 02392 75 65 75
Freight rates in the Far East/Europe trade have been falling for the past 6 months or so and are currently 40-50% lower than November 2010. Carriers have tried to increase freight rates in 2011, but the hikes have failed to stick. This is bad news for shipping lines as they enter peak season, traditionally the time of year when demand for shipping space is high resulting in firmer freight rates. The causes are weaker than expected demand linked with new, bigger vessels entering service.
For more information on this, or any other international shipping, freight forwarding, import, export and international trade requirements call our freight forwarding experts on 02392 75 6575
The port of Tyne is undergoing major dredging works to allow ever larger vessels to call at the multi function berth at the Riverside Quay.
The dredging forms part of a major £4 million investment in the port infrastructure.
This will open up the North East port as more and more carriers and Importers use the port for Northern delivery points. Mercator cargo have been using this and other ports in the north of the UK for some time, cutting down on UK haulage prices, with the added benefit of reducing carbon footprint.
The port will now be able to accomodate the larger vessels, upto and including the current largest “Panamax” range.
The move follows the increase in orders from many carriers, such as Maersk who have recently ordered TEN 18000 TEU Vessels for delivery in 2013, they are also expected to take the option to increase the order to a further ten vessels for delivery in 2015-2015. With the possibility to order a further ten in addition.
EMC (Evergreen) has ordered thirty five 8800teu vessels, twenty or so of which are scheduled for completion in 2013.
CMA CGM has increased the capacity of three ships in production from 13800teu to 16000teu.
To discuss this, or any other Import, Export or Container shipping please contact a member of our experienced freight forwarding team on 02392 75 65 75
Starting 10th May EU has imposed trade sanctions against Syria, an asset freeze against certain individuals and an arms embargo. UK Export Licences will be considered on a case by case basis by the Export Control Organisation. Any company holding an existing OGL permitting export to Syria should check the Licence validity. If you require further information on Import, Export or General Freight Forwarding please telephone this office on 02392 75 65 75 or mail info@mercatorcargo.co.uk
10, St George’s Business Centre,
St Georges Square,
Portsmouth, PO1 3EZ, UK
Mercator is a family-run, UK based independent freight forwarder, offering highly effective sea, road and air freight services around the world.
