After a week the Ever Given is sailing again, but that does not mean that the problems are over. The ships that docked in the Suez traffic jam last week are likely to arrive at their destination too close together from next week. For example, sixty ships that are currently still on the south side of the canal are heading for the port of Rotterdam, says port spokesman Leon Willems. It concerns 56 container ships, three tankers and a ship with cars.
It is still unknown how many ships will have to unload and how many containers will then have to be reloaded. This determines how much time is needed per ship, but it is certain that logistics in the port will come under great pressure. “We are used to solving puzzles, but this is a very big puzzle,” says Rob Bagchus of container transhipment company ECT.
Still weeks behind
ECT’s terminals have recently been running at almost full capacity, says Bagchus. “If there is a much calmer week in between and those ships are coming later, then you don’t just catch up.” He assumes that it will take weeks for terminals to clear up the backlog. “If you are one of the first to arrive, there is sufficient capacity. Not if you are among the last.”
All this uncertainty makes it difficult to estimate the ultimate consequences. There are many different products in the containers on the Ever Given and all those other ships. Think of clothing, electronics intended for consumers, or parts that – if they do not arrive on time – can shut down entire factories.
“I think it is still reasonably manageable for consumers”, says Rogier Spoel of shippers organization Evofenedex. “I think it is especially difficult for entrepreneurs.” There are several steps between a container ship and delivery in the warehouse, he explains. “If that operation is not properly coordinated, it can take an additional weeks.” According to Spoel, it is also exciting which ships will be handled first and whether shipping companies will skip a port where it is too busy.
Certainly a ton of damage
Co-owner René van der Borch of a solar park under construction in Amersfoort is anticipating more delay. His panels are on the Ever Given. “After the ship has been detached, the situation is the same, because that ship still has to go to Rotterdam. We do not yet know what misery awaits us there. It is so busy there. There will also be traffic jams there.”
–
