The global shipping industry continues to face challenges brought on by the pandemic, even as we enter the late Fall 2021 season. Container shortages, port delays, and hauler issues have been ongoing obstacles, but they are now further complicated by a rise in driver shortages in Europe. We are now experiencing additional pressure due to the vast increase in demand for goods and services caused by the release of pent-up demand as the re-opening and easing of many pandemic restrictions occurs.
Longer booking and delivery times, delays, cancelled services, last-minute schedule changes and increased pricing continue to plague the industry and present challenges for the mobility industry. As it continues to battle the high demand for containers (with a lower capacity), the industry also faces the shortage of vessels due to port and staffing issues. The pressure continues to increase with the priority given to (and the continued high demand for) consumer products, new Brexit regulations, and continued pandemic-related regulations. It is speculated that for every one container currently available, there are multiple containers waiting.
The global shipping industry continues to work to resolve the issues. Sourcing additional vessels, reducing the number of empty containers being shipped, and attempting to resolve driver and staffing issues continue to be a focus to help ease the situation. While effort is being made to remedy the issues, the anticipated and continued demand for global shipping is expected to continue to outweigh the supply for the foreseeable future into 2022.
With knowledge of the challenges and understanding of the longer booking and delivery times, Aires has been, and continues to be, well positioned with our partners and our clients to address these issues and set the correct expectations for our clients.
Keeping the following tips in mind, when shipping internationally, will assist in creating a positive and successful household goods move experience:
- Book your dates as early as possible
- Initiate new relocations as early as possible (4-6 weeks prior to start date is ideal)
- Avoid date changes and cancellations
- The first and last weeks of the month are the busiest
- Be available by phone for updates and delivery confirmation
- Be available on each day of your delivery spread
For additional information, please contact your Aires representative to develop a solution right for your company’s needs.