Situation in China
Sea freight
Capacity and equipment availability remains tight.
Port congestions and vessel delays particularly in Europe and North America are causing reduced capacity and delayed arrival back to Asia leading to delays in most ports.
While power restrictions in certain provinces in China may slow production, the demand remains very strong.
Air freight
The markets are likely to tighten from October. The rates for lines from China to North America and Europe remain elevated, probably until the end of this year. Rates have increased by nearly 30 percent in the last two weeks, according to major carriers.
Rates are predicted to remain high due to huge demand growth against limited capacity, and demand is expected to increase even more as the upcoming peak season approaches.
Also, upgraded sanitizing processes and strict operation restrictions due to Covid-19 limits operational capacity thus follows the increased rates.
Rail freight
Rail rates remain stable but are subject to the capacity and equipment availability in general.
Congestion and equipment shortages often lead to delays in departure and transit time. Covid-19 also causes delays in some areas, such as Shaanxi. For instance, given the current circumstances the departure time is usually delayed by 7 days at Xi'an station.
Situation in India
Please notice:
All ports of India are closed 4th - 7th of November due to Diwali celebration.
Except for the closure due to Diwali and other festivities around it, all the ports, factories, and offices are full-time operational with no closure or restrictions due to Covid-19. But India suffers from the same situation as the rest of Asia - lack of containers and capacity, delays, and high rates.
Moreover, in addition to the sea ports; the container shortage is being experienced on inland ports as well within India. Given the current circumstances, urgent shipments are not being carried out - so there is no extra service for express shipments or urgent matters.
In addition, India experiences a disconnect with the port authorities to secure bookings, as answering calls and responding to emails is delayed.
Sea freight is especially troubled with lack of equipment.
Our recommendation is to take precautions in order to reduce the impact on your supply chain
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share your logistic needs and shipment deadline enabling us to offer you the most suitable solution
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communicate with your suppliers and customers to avoid possible delay
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place booking in advance and as early as possible
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prepare the accurate shipment plan and indicate the most urgent shipment if possible