Maersk has started production of new containers and leasing of containers in response to a shortage of equipment resulting from higher than expected growth on Asia – Europe trade.
Lars Reno Jakobsen, head of network and product, said: “The present market situation is unique. We are experiencing a demand surge in most trades, which is a development that is both unprecedented and unexpected by us and our customers.
“For example, the Asia – Europe trade is growing by 23 per cent compared to the market’s single digit expectation just six months ago. Therefore, we already see a very tight equipment situation. And we expect an even more pronounced and serious shortage of containers in the coming months as we enter the peak season.”
Maersk has also re-activated laid-up container ships to assist in repositioning containers as fast as possible from, for example, the east coast of North America and Latin America to Asia. The line expects the equipment shortage to last into the third quarter of this year.
Earlier this month Maersk announced a Peak Season Surcharge for the Far East – Europe trade applicable from 15th July which it said would enable it to recover the higher costs caused by the increased volumes and equipment shortage.
