Many sea freight ports in Northern Europe have been impacted by delays during recent weeks due to congestion, which has intensified this month following a series of port strikes.
Below summarises the situation :
France
The largest container port in the counry, Le Havre, has been suffering from a series of strikes and four-hour stoppages in opposition to the national pension reforms, which has led to disruption and congestion. The labour disputes have impacted several French ports.
Netherlands
An ongoing dispute at Rotterdam port, between unions and one of its terminals over port automation, led to strikes on February 9th and 10th. Further action is expected, with the port already congested.
Germany
Congestion has impacted both Bremerhaven and Hamburg, which is causing delays to vessel unloading times.
Belgium
Due to issues at other ports, frequent vessel diversions to Antwerp port have taken their toll, leading to congestion delays of its own.
United Kingdom
The Port of Felixstowe has probably witnessed the worst congestion issues during the past year and continues to experience delays. London Gateway and Southampton are also experiencing delays in vessel unloading times.
A break in arrivals towards the end of next month, following the lack of departures during the Chinese New Year holiday period, should give ports some respite.The congestion issues highlighted refer to ocean freight and not road freight.
Should you require further information, then please do not hesitate to contact a member of the Killick Martin team.
