The shipping industry is currently facing a range of major challenges worldwide, resulting in restricted capacity for International Container shipments. This is likely to have two major impacts on Corporate Employee Relocations and at Bournes we have been providing advanced warning to help our customers prepare as follows:
1) Book as far ahead as possible
Limited capacity means that booking ahead as far as possible is advisable to give your relocation company the best chance to secure space on the preferred sailing to avoid delays.
2) Be prepared for an increase in freight rates
We have been informed by the Movers Trading Club (MTC) that we will see a significant rise in our freight rates for departures from March. In some cases (depending on origin/destination) we are expecting anything from 15% to 130% increases as a guide. Freight rates have not been finalised with shipping lines yet, however we are providing this early notification to all customers to ensure they are aware of the risk of additional charges where this cost increase will unfortunately need to be passed on if higher than estimated at the point of quoting.
As members of the MTC, Bournes are pleased to confirm that negotiations are ongoing to secure the most competitive rates possible.
If you have any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to get in touch.
