The non-availability of containers in Asia is becoming a major problem for the sea freight. The main cause of this shortage is the coronavirus, which resulted in a series of events.
Activities in Asia were highly reduced from April to June. Shipping lines have therefore reduced the number of their ships, so as not to travel almost empty.
Since July, demand has increased again in Asia, especially in China, which have been able to resume their activities before other countries. This results to an increase in exports from China.
Every year, a huge quantity of goods are sent from China to North America for Christmas items. But this year there is a shortage of drivers, manpower and chassis in North America. As a result, empty containers are not returned quickly to the port, and are stagnant inside the country.
Many shipping lines already had to cancel the voyage of some of their vessel to some destinations in Asia, due to the lack of containers at the port.
According to experts, the situation is not expected to improve until March 2021.
We are monitoring the situation very closely at ATM, and have regular contact with shipping lines and with our offices in Asia to find solutions and alternatives.
If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us !