Global Shipping Update – Navigating International Moves in October 2024
When planning an international move, staying informed about current shipping conditions is essential. The latest update from the British Association of Removers (BAR) for October 2024 outlines key challenges that may impact your move. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
Current Market Conditions
North America (USA, Canada, Mexico):
A strike by the USA Longshoremen is currently causing severe delays and disruptions at East and Gulf Coast ports. Shipping lines have responded with a Work Disruption Surcharge, adding up to $1,000 per TEU to freight costs. Furthermore, the Trans-Atlantic trade is now oversubscribed, meaning securing space on vessels is increasingly difficult. Hapag-Lloyd’s Peak Season Surcharge, which took effect on 1st October, adds $300 per 20ft container and $400 per 40ft container. If you’re planning a move to North America, early booking and flexibility with dates are essential to navigate these challenges.
Eastbound Routes (Asia, Oceania, Middle East):
Eastbound shipments continue to be diverted around the Cape of Good Hope, leading to extended transit times. Ports in the Middle East are facing significant congestion, and some services have been omitted, causing backlogs and delays. Additionally, shipments to Oceania are experiencing congestion at transhipment ports in Asia, resulting in container rollovers and further delays. We recommend planning your move in advance and staying flexible with your moving dates to accommodate these conditions.
Southbound Routes (Africa):
There have been no major changes to services to Africa. Shipping remains generally reliable where available, but some inland destinations have been removed from schedules due to port congestion and infrastructure issues. For moves to remote areas, there may be additional handling steps that could affect timelines.
Latin America:
Shipping to Latin America remains consistent; however, clearance and release times at ports can be lengthy. This may lead to storage charges if containers are not cleared promptly. We advise customers to prepare for possible delays in this region.
Important Considerations for Your Move
Plan Ahead:
Due to the ongoing challenges in global shipping, it’s crucial to plan your move well in advance. Early booking is key to securing space on vessels and ensuring timely arrival of your belongings. Sharing your moving schedule with us allows for better coordination and helps mitigate disruptions.
Be Flexible:
The fluid nature of global shipping means delays and changes can occur unexpectedly. Having flexibility in your moving dates will help manage potential increases in transit times.
Avoid Shipping Lithium-Ion Batteries:
Shipping items containing lithium-ion batteries poses significant risks and complications. Due to the associated fire risks and strict shipping regulations, BAR strongly advises against including these batteries in your shipment. Misdeclaration can result in hefty fines and potential legal issues. If you must ship items with lithium-ion batteries, consult with us first to ensure compliance with all regulations.
Container Quality:
Recently, there has been a decline in container quality, increasing the chances of delays if a container is deemed unsuitable for household goods. In such cases, a replacement container may need to be sourced, possibly missing the intended vessel and incurring extra costs. Our team is on hand to manage these challenges efficiently.
Our Commitment to Transparent Service
At John Mason International, we pride ourselves on providing honest and realistic timelines based on current shipping conditions. The industry-wide challenges outlined in BAR’s October update affect all moving companies. We aim to offer the most transparent guidance, ensuring you are fully informed every step of the way. If you encounter companies that promise specific transit times, we recommend getting these assurances in writing.
With our award-winning service, recognised with the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, we continue to manage international moves with care and professionalism. Whether you’re heading to North America, Asia, Oceania, or beyond, our experienced team is here to support you.
Contact us today to discuss your move and secure your place on the vessel. Together, we’ll ensure a smooth journey to your new home, no matter the challenges. For further details on the current shipping conditions, you can also visit the full update on the BAR website.
