
As has been widely reported, we are seeing massive issues still on the movement of container shipments into the UK. Initially, the main problem was focused on Felixstowe, but we are now seeing delays being reported in London Gateway and Southampton.
Part of the issue is a Worldwide one with a shortage of ships, with some being taken out of service, combined with empty containers being in the wrong place. This has all resulted in prices for containers increasing massively with some reports showing rates have quadrupled.
UK ports are currently trading up by 15% year on year according to Government Departments which appears to be a mix of PPE movements, peak seasonal trade and stock build ahead of Brexit. Delays in unloading is also impacting the loading of empty containers although we have information this has improved in the last couple of weeks.
There is concern that if vessels change unloading to other European ports we may see them coming back into the UK via road placing increased pressure on the short sea routes just as we will possibly see pressure on these routes with the end of the Brexit Transition period.
If members are experiencing issues with containers, we are suggesting they write to their local MP to highlight the issue, here is a link to a letter we have drafted.
Also, please let the Federation know so we can ensure issues are raised with Government Departments during our regular contacts.