TRANSATLANTIC: AN UNIQUE SITUATION

The situation is getting worse over the weeks for maritime transport on the France - US trade (East and West). With ever increasing demand and limited capacity, prices are soaring to reach $ 5,000 / 40 ’dry. The main shipowners who share 86% of the capacity from France to the USA will soon formalize soon their GRI announcement (General rate increase), which could reach $ 500 / TEU (amount given as an indication) for March and more for April.

Some shipowners are starting to implement a "Sea priority" surcharge which would be around 1000 Usd / 40 H.C in order to guarantee shipments.

Maritime transport still suffers from Covid -19 on American soil. A large number of American transport companies as well as handling companies have their workforce affected by covid-19 which induces a congestion of ships at the entrance of ports (waiting time at sea around 15 days)

Also, a minimum of 15 days are necessary before filling the containers with the terminals. We must also expect to see significant increases in delivery rates on American soil as well as an extension of lead times.

Depending on the evolution of the situation, whether in terms of availability of equipment than of ship space, it is probable that we will arrive at the situation we have experienced in Trade Import from Asia, to know a booking = a price.

Port congestion around the world foreshadow pressure on prices, space and equipment until the end of the first half of 2021

It is essential to anticipate as much as possible the exact volumes that will be shipped in order to limit congestion and to secure the vessel spaces.

We will have to be patient and more than ever anticipate reservations! Our teams remain at your disposal and available to support you as closely as possible.