| Its been a few weeks since we provided a detailed update on the COVID-19 and its effects on business.
Airfreight – still very patchy and currently there is talk from Canberra of International passenger flights to be curbed further. If this is the case, air freight on passenger flights will also cease. This will influence space and rates, albeit that most airfreight is currently being uplifted on cargo aircraft, and we have seen rates stabilise, any small reduction in space will be detrimental to the market.
We will provide an update as more information comes to hand.
Seafreight – we are starting to see substantial space issues on vessels from Asia to Australia. Companies that have traditionally moved via airfreight are now relying on seafreight, along with shipping companies reducing capacity, this has also caused the reduction of space. Space will continue to tighten as we get closer to peak season and we recommend forward planning where possible to secure space and alleviate delays.
The Victorian lockdown of Melbourne will not affect arrivals, availabilities and unpacks of containers in the general sense. Interstate deliveries may be delayed purely due to delays at border crossings, but international trade will continue to move.
If you have issues with storage, unpack facilities or any special requirements please speak to our team and we will provide solutions for you.
General Rate Increases (GRI)
We have received several notifications of GRI’s being introduced by the shipping companies. We are continuing to negotiate with the individual companies to reduce the increases as much as possible, however with space tightening up and vessels being close to capacity the shipping lines are in a position where they will try to push through increases.
VoxGroup will continue to provide updates on negotiations and applicable rates as they become available.
Be safe, have a good day and if you have any queries on the above information please give us a call. |
