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June 17, 2010
The global shipping industry is now entering the peak season, with its traditional increase in cargo volumes. Peak season always puts pressure on container supplies, but this summer we expect even greater availability constraints, as global markets recover and the demand for shipping continues to rise.
Container production and leasing halted
The background to the current container shortage lies in the onset of the global recession at the end of 2008. Starting then, many companies halted their sourcing and production of containers, leading to a supply stoppage that has lasted 12 to 18 months.
Compounding matters, the industry did not foresee the surge in demand we are currently experiencing. Lars Reno Jakobsen, who heads Maersk Line’s Network and Product department notes that “the Asia-Europe trade is now growing by over 23%, compared to single-digit projections just six months ago”. Consequently, many shipping companies have waited until now to start placing orders for new containers.
What we’re doing about it
At Maersk Line, we are working hard to make sure we’ll be able to meet our customers’ demand for containers this summer. We have initiated the production of new containers and are stepping up our container leasing activities. We have also re-deployed ships that have been laid up to help move containers to where they’re needed most – such as from the east coast of the Americas to Asia.
Peak Season Surcharge
To help cover the costs of these unexpected volumes and container needs, Maersk Line has announced a Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) on our Asia-Europe trade, which goes into effect on 15 July. The surcharge will help make sure we can maintain the reliability and service you’ve come to expect from Maersk Line.
If you have any questions at all regarding container availability or the Peak Season Surcharge, please don’t hesitate to contact your local Maersk Line representative.
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