EUROPE’S PORTS EXPERIENCE ONGOING CONGESTION
Port congestion remains a factor across Northern Europe’s container hubs, including Antwerp, Rotterdam, Hamburg, and London Gateway. While backlogs persist, logistics teams are adapting—adjusting routings, timelines, and transport strategies to maintain freight movement in a tight operating environment.
GROWING IMPORT PRESSURE IMPACTS EUROPEAN SUPPLY NETWORK
Containerized imports into Northern Europe have climbed steadily since January, but export volume and inland transport capacity haven’t kept up with demand. Although yard utilization is high, dwell times are stretching, and infrastructure limitations—many of them longstanding—continue to constrain turnaround times, operators are working to balance volume while managing equipment, space, and labor demands.
WHAT IS DRIVING EUROPEAN SUPPLY CHAIN COMPLEXITY?
Several factors are influencing volumes, capacity, and freight movement throughout Europe, including:
- Service realignments from alliance reshuffling and new standalone rotations have disrupted terminal schedules and introduced port call mismatches.
- Labor disruptions and holiday workweeks have interrupted operations at multiple both maritime and airport
- Barge transport remains limited due to low Rhine River levels
- Rail traffic near Hamburg faces detours exceeding 125 miles after infrastructure incidents
- Truck appointment access is inconsistent, particularly in Belgium and the Netherlands
- Weekend vessel and air schedules remain tight, adding pressure to time-sensitive shipments
- Airfreight demand is holding steady, offering a workable option for urgent cargo, especially midweek
STAYING AHEAD IN AN EVOLVING SUPPLY CHAIN
Forecasts suggest current pressures may last through mid-year. However, carriers and supply chain professionals are adapting—planning proactively, monitoring regional conditions, and adjusting as needed. While challenges remain, freight continues to move across the region.
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