In response to port congestion, U.S. port operators extend operation time

Time:2021-09-23 Publisher:Kevin Num:3721

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Now the global epidemic has rebounded. This is a huge blow to the shipping industry.


The consequence of this is that the congestion of global ports continues to deteriorate, and the maritime supply chain suffers an unprecedented crisis.


At the same time, the rise of container price greatly increases the transportation cost of cargo owners.


Now the Sino US route is a typical representative. A large number of goods poured into American ports, which made them unprecedentedly busy.


The number of ships waiting for unloading outside the port has reached record highs. So far, 73 container ships have been waiting outside, with a total traffic volume of more than 430000 TEU.


According to the data of the Southern California Maritime exchange, the number of containers handled in September was more than that in August, which was equivalent to the import container handling capacity of Savannah port in two months.


With supply chain disruptions becoming more and more serious, port operators and the U.S. Department of transportation issued a joint statement. The statement pointed out that the opening hours of truck gates will be extended at night and on weekends.


The purpose of picking up containers during off peak hours is to improve throughput by serving trucks during off peak hours.


Port operators said that the extension of opening hours meant that it would be possible to handle containers without rest all day to cope with the rising cargo volume.


In addition to extending the operation time, the port also called on terminal operators to encourage truck companies to pick up containers late at night.


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However, some freight forwarders believe that this is not a feasible method. It pointed out that few truck drivers and customers pick up containers late at night. Therefore, truck drivers need to store the containers in the warehouse if they transport them out of the container in advance. It will cost more money.


And who should bear the cost? If the shipping company is unwilling, it may have to be borne by the terminal operator.


With the arrival of the peak season, the import freight volume will continue to increase. The problem of port congestion will not be solved for a while, and may even be further exacerbated.


GLA Family reminds freight forwarders and shippers that there are goods passing through American ports recently. It is necessary to pay attention to the latest port conditions in time and make adequate preparations.