Ocean & Air market insights – September 2021

Ocean: distribution networks remain congested by Covid-related port closures and equipment shortages

• Knock-on effects caused by Covid-related port closures have continued fuelling bottlenecks, delays and container shortages this month. The two-week shut down of the Meishan terminal in Ningbo during August was the latest in a string of port closures to impact already constrained supply chains. In this instance, carriers diverted ships and suspended bookings while nearby ports did their best to support re-routed cargo.
• Capacity: upcoming peak season is set to compound these disruptions, causing capacity to struggle against rising demand. A new round of blank sailings from Asia is being considered by carriers as a means to manage China’s Golden Week holiday (1st – 7th October).  
• Rates: increased demand and capacity shortages are keeping spot rates high at $17,000 per FEU (8xYoY). These are expected to remain elevated through the peak season, up to Chinese New Year.

Air: freight rates set to increase as Covid-related restrictions compound upcoming seasonal demand

• Air capacity and rates have faced challenges over the last month, as Covid outbreaks amongst ground handlers in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and Xiamen airports caused a flurry of flight cancellations and uncertainty. In addition to this, lengthy quarantine restrictions for airline staff in China resulted in mass resignations, and further delays.
• Capacity:  upcoming seasonal peaks combined with last month’s delays (which contributed to a 10% drop in volumes from China to Europe¹) are set to keep capacity tight through Q4, 2021. There is no sign of this abating in the short-term.
• Rates: air index rates on the Hong Kong-Europe westbound remain elevated (up 44% YoY) with a small increase of 1% MoM in August², This can be attributed to the capacity reductions mentioned above, airport closures and the increased demand caused by severely distressed sea freight.

Q4 2021> plan ahead and prioritise before seasonal peaks start  

• Prioritise shipments: Be flexible where you can, and consider prioritising essential cargo in the run up to peak season. Visibility platforms can help enable prioritisation, spreading shipments, and converting modes.
• Book ahead: Continue to book well in advance of Cargo Ready Dates (4-6 weeks), and encourage suppliers to support departures from different origin ports if possible.
• Other options: As well as planning ahead, supply chain finance could be another option to help bridge cash flow gaps and shipment delays. Contact finance@beacon.co.uk to learn more.

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