London (UK)

Following the recent delays at the Port of Felixstowe we wanted to update you on the situation.

These delays are mainly being caused due to reasons such as lost working days due to recent storms and high winds, productivity not fully back due to new hygiene guidelines (COVID-19), empty containers build up which is congesting the port, delays of up +/- 4-5 hours to load/unload even with a booking in place and staff shortage across the Port’s many different departments and activities.

This is added to the on-going problems with vessels being diverted to other UK ports, shortage of HGV drivers and the non-acceptance of empty container returns at FXT due to the congestion which is causing the Lines to request diversion of empty returns to other port locations across the country. Unfortunately these actions will regretfully generate extra costs that we will have to pass on to you.

Our team is working tirelessly to minimize the delays and extra costs for your company’s operation.

Felixstowe Port Authority is regularly being pressured by forwarders, hauliers, shipping lines, Port Users Association and BIFA in a combined effort to push for an urgent solution to the problem.

Should you have any doubts or questions please feel free to contact the CGATE Logistics UK team at any time.