Clogged Ports

Nhava Sheva Port, which is also called Jawaharlal Nehru Port, deals with more ocean freight containers at their port than any other port in India. Because of this, there is a large amount of cargo at the port. The amount is so great right now, that there is a massive jam of containers that is slowing the shipping at the port. This jam is clogging the port. As a result, the transit times are slow and it is more costly for shipping companies. Recently, agents in India requested the expanded usage of intermodal to help relieve with the massive amount of cargo that is still stuck at the port. If intermodal steps up, congestion might decrease at this port.

India is not the only nation with a congest port. Ports throughout Asia, Europe and North America report this problem from time to time. The problem is that some major US ports, like the port of Long Beach, the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of New York and New Jersey, endured terrible traffic delays. Containers were stuck in terminals and there was long line of truck drivers stuck as well. The reasons for clogged ports include fewer uses of a chassis at the port, because of their high maintenance fees, and weather delays. When delays strike, shippers might have to pay a congestion surcharge in addition to paying their ocean freight rate.

To avoid the problems of clogged ports, shippers should speak to a trusted freight forwarder who can develop a plan that is focused on efficiency in shipping.