The operational situation at China’s main ports continues to show high levels of congestion, with potential repercussions for shipment schedules, transit times, and space availability in international maritime transport.

According to recent industry reports, the ports of Shanghai and Ningbo are handling significant volumes of accumulated cargo, with delays in port operations, difficulties in inland transportation, and changes to shipping companies’ schedules.

The situation is also affecting other major Chinese ports, including Qingdao, Tianjin, Xiamen, Yantian, Shekou, and Nansha, due to disruptions to schedules and the availability of vessels and equipment.

The consequences currently being observed include:

• Shipment delays and rescheduling.
• Reduced space availability on certain services.
• Increased transit times.
• Changes to or cancellations of port calls.
• Potential additional costs associated with storage and delays.
• Pressure on ocean freight rates.
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In addition, some market reports indicate significant increases in spot rates for certain services, with prices potentially exceeding USD 10,000 per FEU as of September, depending on the route, destination, and conditions of each operation.

This situation is further compounded by the proximity of China’s Golden Week in October, a period that could place additional pressure on available capacity and service schedules.

Given this scenario, we recommend planning ahead for space availability, potential itinerary changes, and additional buffer time in estimated transit times.

At Estudio Aduanero Bertorello y Asociados, we continue to monitor developments in the international logistics situation in order to keep our clients informed and support them in planning their foreign trade operations.