COVID-19 (Coronavirus) update – 2^nd April 2020

There has not been a great deal of change in the logistics area in relation to the coronavirus.

We are seeing a number of strategic places around the world arranging charter flights to get airfreight moving, if you have any urgent air freight required into Australia please let us know and we will work with our partners to make sure we get the best rates and options for you.

For oceanfreight, outside of a vessel not being unloaded in Melbourne, there has been the continual movement of shipping lines in relation to blank sailings. This has caused supply and demand for space tightening up and allowing freight rates to be relatively stable for this time of year.

Like everyone, we await to see if any State or the Federal Government implements a full lock down over the coming weeks and what that looks like. We will keep you updated as more comes to hand.

Freight Rates

There has been continual notifications of General Rate Increases (GRI) being implemented by the shipping lines throughout April. These notifications have been wide and varied in relation to the shipping line, the value of the increases and when they might be implemented.
We will continue to provide up to date market information to our clients as orders are placed or quotes are requested, so that we assist and provide some certainty with costings.

Infrastructure fees

Interestingly whilst there are many people being stood down, companies closing and businesses tightening belts, DP World has decided to implement another increase in their infrastructure fees for importers.

Needless to say there is both levels of Government, industry associations and all matter of people coming out to protest this incredulous approach by this company.

The increase is due to be implemented from the start of May and represents another impost on importers by this stevedore. We will provide more detail as it comes to hand however the increase amounts to a substantial hike in the fees and unfortunately will need to be passed through to our clients.

We hope everyone is staying safe and should you be working from home and just need to catch up, don’t hesitate to call one of our staff as we are also working from home and happy to help.