Container Transit Times Skyrocket Amidst Red Sea Crisis

A report by Project44 has highlighted the significant disruptions in international shipping routes in the Red Sea region due to escalating conflict, leading to longer transit times in container shipping. Since attacks by the Houthis in Yemen began in November, many major shipping companies have altered their routes to avoid the area, impacting the world’s busiest maritime route, the Suez Canal. Traffic through the canal has seen an 80% drop in transit compared to the previous year, with no signs of improvement expected soon.

Carriers are now opting for alternative routes around Africa or through the Panama Canal, resulting in an average increase of 10 to 14 days in container transit times for key routes. These longer transit times are being seen as the “new normal” as shipping companies continue to avoid the Red Sea region, affecting transport times in the United States and Europe. Despite initial disruptions, transport companies have now adapted to the new routes, with delays reducing to 4 to 8 days.

Project44 advises shippers to consider these additional transit days when planning freight shipments to ensure timely delivery during the upcoming peak shipping season. The report suggests that the conflict in the Red Sea region has had a lasting impact on international shipping routes, emphasizing the need for flexibility and awareness of alternative routes to navigate through the disruptions effectively.

Source .